John Oxlade

Where exactly? I am in Whatawhata. 10 mins out of Hamilton on the road to Raglan.

Has anyone seen or heard of Colin?

I know this is a very simple question (not sure if it is a simple answer), but at a quick glance, how can you tell MN from a WC/BB? Ignoring the original/rebuilt question obviously. I have noticed that there's a huge number of minor variations (smoke deflectors, etc.), but IN GENERAL what are the spotting differences between the heavy and light pacifics? Thanks

I'm a Southern man through-n-through.

Hi Colin, Not visited this page for a while so wondered how you were getting on? Also, I am now in the UK and have totally forgotten the details of the show you WERE going to until your health news made you pull out. Hoping all is well, John

It was a brave man who took a 47 down there, it could've easily spread the rails and ended up in the dirt.

Oh boy, when you see it like that, that is a HUGE number of windows to cut out and get straight/even/equal. I take my hat off to you Colin!

I always thought that Redhill would make a nice prototype to model, the only problem would be its size and modelling both Tonbridge and Reading lines would make it a rather "odd" shape.

OK, I must admit I missed the Tin HAL post :-( and to be honest the DD was more of a cheeky comment than anything :-) The trouble is, you are such an accomplished modeller, *I* feel you need to take on a challenge, and a DD would most certainly be that. Do you think you'll make it to the expo this summer? We'll certainly be over in July / August - you'd previously said you cancelled your attendance. Best wishes. John

I was just going to post a "How are you getting on Colin?" (not meaning modelling), but the post above shows you seem to be doing pretty well! When you are finished (whenever/whatever that means), why not a Tin HAL or a DD for something a little different? Best wishes for your ongoing speedy recovery. John in NZ

Beautiful work Colin - as I have come to expect :-)

I'll not base my trip on the show, it is mine and my wife's 50th this year so will be coming back around then anyway. BUT, it'd be foolish to pass up an opportunity to see the layout and your stock. When you live in NZ distance is relative. We have a visitor here and I took him out for the day today. I drove 400km and didn't bat an eyelid. Oh, and visited the Driving Creek Railway ( http://www.drivingcreekrailway.co.nz/ ) while I was at it. :-)

10th August? I might actually be in the UK! Whats another few hundred miles after 11,000? Would I qualify as the longest distance visitor? :-)

Yes, but think of the satisfaction it has given you, not to mention having something unique that not every other SR electric layout has. Hats off to you for your outstanding work. Kind regards John

I see no door handles?!