Well, it’s high time for an update in these challenging times. As the nine month gap in posts shows, we’re still looking for a publicity officer. Regrettably, due to multiple family members’ serious ill-health, this role is not something I can deal with now or for the foreseeable future. If this is something you could help with, do please get in touch.
The autocar has returned from the Great Central and is available to run services, though with current public health restrictions, we’re uncertain how many it will operate this year. The Embsay & Bolton Abbey Railway has recommenced running both ordinary steam and dining services and would be glad of any support and patronage you can give. Our work continues on the trailer autocoach, being compartment stock, this is more suited to operations under Covid restrictions and we hope to get it into full service asap.
Rails of Sheffield have shown us samples of their 1:76 scale model autocar and it does look impressive. They have also kindly agreed to stock our DVD about the restoration and they have listed it on their web-site: https://railsofsheffield.com/products/41141/unknown-autocar_dvd-any-scale-a-pioneer-restored-the-story-of-the-north-eastern-railway-1903-electric-autocar-dvd We are still looking for a fundraiser/mail order salesperson (and in happier, less restricted circumstances, stewards for on-board sales) but at least now Martin Sunderland’s work can be purchased and enjoyed via Rails.
The AGM is currently scheduled for 10.30 Saturday 7th November 2020. It will be held at Bolton Abbey, with a relay service from Embsay available to those pre-booking a seat. We had originally intended to have a full members day, with members being able to travel freely on the autocar up and down the Embsay & Bolton Abbey Railway. Maybe next year… The paperwork for the AGM will be issued shortly – the key message is if you plan to attend, please notify us asap so we can make arrangements.
Meanwhile, stay safe and best wishes to everyone.
