27th March 2019 · Strictly Freight Only Part 2

Presenter: Brian Ringer

For our well attended March meeting, The Chichester Branch welcomed the return of Brian Ringer, with the second part of his ‘Strictly Freight Only’ presentations, the title being a nod to both his Railway Career (mid ’70s- Mid 2000’s) in the Freight sector, as well as to fellow Edmonton lad, Brucie. Naturally, from that locale, The Spurs got a mention too!

Given our local dearth pf freight workings (other than the Chichester Stone), Brian broke us in gently, on the Southern Region, with an image of a Sulzer Type 2 at St Mary Cray Junction, heading for the Train Ferry.

Starting then, on relatively familiar turf, Brian took us through much detail, sharing operational perspectives, starting with pre Channel Tunnel Freight working, and shunting on to moveable 1 in 30 Link spans.

We moved on to sectorisation, rotting coal wagons, and post- Speedlink Wagon Load Freight, up to the present day, as well as being given handy domestic tips regarding covert gricing (we all do it!), whilst on Holiday with ‘Herself’, in this instance at Cockwood (as you do)….

We learned that the CTRL has never realised its potential to carry freight, and nor has it ever exceeded the level of freight carried aboard the ‘Nord Pas de Calais’, (a French Vessel, which included a Chef on the staff!), and that bicycles were provided at Dollands Moor (reminds me of passing loops in Portugal)!

A fascinating evening, although, sadly, as with so many things ‘Railway’, also an opportunity to reflect on politics and multiple missed opportunities.

The forensic detail in Brian’s analysis of his own images was fascinating: a very enthusiastic and informative presentation, we strongly recommend that other Branches consider making a booking!