This is another of those oddball ones that appeal to me - The Heatherfield Light. A Railway of the Month back in 1976... I can't see that happening now, no exhibition appearances and no commercial tie-ups... it was literally a jumble of ideas and failed experiments in various types of power; battery, overhead etc, and built by the delightfully named William B. Stocks who I assume is long dead now.
There was no defining link between anything save the track gauge of 32mm, just bits and pieces that the builder liked at the time. But what atmosphere. And something that we may have lost now - a railway built purely for the owners enjoyment without an eye on public scrutiny, articles, or the narcissistic needy desire for praise at an exhibition. I love it.
I couldn't agree more...I loved this when I saw it in the "Modeller". It's almost a work of art, done for the sheer love of it.
ReplyDeleteSame here. Heatherfield Light by Bill Stocks was also featured in Model Railways in the 70's or 80's with some colour photos and I think it was also earlier in the late lamented Model Railway News. I'll see if I can find the references.
ReplyDeleteOooh, I remember this. Most inspiring!
ReplyDeleteStuart
I was taken to visit the Heatherfield Light Railway before the Railway Modeller article came out. The character of the line was amazing and has been the inspiration for my modelling ever since.
ReplyDeleteSome of the models are in the Conway Valley Railway museum; worth a look if You are passing.