Brinkly

As you say, John, a hard decision but the correct one based on the amount of work required to get the P4 version ‘complete’. Ulitmately, you and Rod had a lot of fun building the layout. Taking it to Scaleforum a few years ago was also a good experience (mostly 🤪 ). This MK2 00 version is a chance to start a fresh; correct errors in design, built it carefully and with precision, which should achieve the desired outcome far more easily: running long trains fast through a scenic landscape. As you said, the bulk of the stock wasn’t unconverted - adding cosmetic detail is much easier than trying to convert something that wasn’t designed to be in the first place. Regards, Nick

Has Hornby nothing to offer me but these Amazons…

I thought I would share some examples of my weathering. A selection of SR PMVs and CCTs - converted to P4 standards by the late, great Brian Pearce. Painted, lettered and weathered by myself. Ian Harrison provided the layout - his rather lovely, Dulverton. Best wishes, Nick

Hi Mark, Please could I purchase it? Best wishes, Nick

Lovely stuff, Tim. Will there be a young CK and friend 'spotting' behind the railings?

I'll echo what John said, Tim. It is really nice to see Callow Lane again. Keep up the good work!

Dear all, It is with great sadness that I write this. On the evening of Monday, 15th July, Brian Pearce passed away peacefully, having bravely battled cancer for several years. Brian made the best of every day he was granted since the diagnosis, and even when things were particularly difficult for him, he continued with life as best as he could. As many will know, Brian was a long-standing servant of the Scalefour Society, serving as the membership secretary for 25 years. His hard work and dedication enabled the society to grow and prosper. In later years, he was vice president, a post I know he was very proud to hold. Brian was an active member of the North London Group, contributing to the construction and operation of Heckmondwike and the group’s subsequent layout, Bodmin. The building and exhibiting of Heckmondwike demonstrated that P4 standards could work with larger layouts, with fast running and prototypical operation. In addition to these layouts, he also helped exhibit St. Merryn for several years. Until recently, Brian had still attended Devon Riviera Area Group meetings regularly bringing models he built or converted to P4. His knowledge of compensation was very extensive, and this could be seen in much of his work. Brian’s ability to bend and fit Alex Jackson couplings to stock, and their operation, was unrivalled locally. Brian actively supported the group in building our current test track, undertaking much carpentry work. His wood and metalwork knowledge was frequently sought. I feel that I undertook an apprenticeship over the past couple of years, initially under instruction and then under my own steam, using the skills he taught me. Brian also supported me enormously with my modelling projects, as well as being a wise older friend to seek guidance from. I will miss his little lean and words of approval when showing him models I had been working on. All will greatly miss him—my deepest condolences to Jane and his surviving family. Rest in Peace, my old friend. Thank you for all your support, guidance and friendship over the years. Brian’s funeral will be held on Thursday, August 8th, at midday at St. George’s Church, Holcomby. A wake will follow at the village hall. Nick

That really is quite stunning, John.

It’s also just struck me… I’m not sure if this is common knowledge, but I started with GWR in March 2022 as a Conductor, becoming a Train Manager last year and now I’m an Acting Guards Manager at Exeter. 😁 Quiet literally the best thing I’ve ever done was to leave teaching! I think I’ve spoken to a lots of people individually. So no secret! Regards, Nick.

It was definitely a Manor! Photos taken whilst following PTS and no safety critical duties being undertaken.

I didn’t see you on the footplate when I was down at Paignton South doing the barriers, Robin! 1630 departure. Photo taken whilst no safety-critical duties were being undertaken and following full PTS measures.

We refer to most of our routes now as ‘Green tunnels’ a term that was reserved for Okehampton only when I first started! The growth in some places in the South West is quite spectacular!

From what I understand, a body was discovered, and not caused by a train. Another body was found about a week ago in exactly the same place so I think BTP were very suspicious over the circumstances. I

I thought exactly the same thing when I saw Robins picture!

It certainly does have a rather unique aroma! It did make me smile as I'm sure my dad used to clean the rail on my childhood 00 tabletop layout with the stuff! Memories of Lima HSTs and 47s fitted with pancake motors, barrelling along at frightening speeds, came charging back!