13APR24
A final reminder has been sent to the few members who have not yet renewed. If there is no response received, they will cease to be members on the 30th of April. Please check your spam or junk folders just in case.
09APR24
Feldbahn fun
Brian and Mike learning the loco.
If you are interested in learning to drive this loco, contact
feldbahnusergroup at ndsme dot org
04APR24
Please note that there is currently a fault with the members area. This has been reported to the dev for investigation.RESOLVED
The new membership year has started. Those that have not renewed will have a period of grace until the end of this month. After that their membership will cease and any unrenewed will be required to reapply to join as new probationary members. To maintain your existing membership status, please renew asap.
02APR24
Gudbye T’Tod.
After eight faultless years of service, Tod the Tug has left Eaton Park for good. This loco has performed faultlessly since new in 2016 and has enabled ndsme to provide public service when no others were available. The society could really do with a loco of this calibre, simple to drive, powerful, popular with the public, easy on/off, no electronics/batteries to malfunction and no need for a drivers trailer.
Some of you will recall Tod pulling seven fully laden passenger cars at a BBQ a few years back, a tribute to the makers skills.
30MAR24
Dates for your Diary
Special days 2024
Mon 6th May EACH 100% day
Mon 27th May Friends of Eaton Park fundraiser day
Mon 26th Aug Lord Mayor’s Fund 1000% day
In addition, there will be some Saturday Specials.
BR Blue Day
Priscilla Bacon Lodge Day
N&N Neurosciences Unit Day
These are awaiting confirmation of dates
28MAR24
A reminder to drivers
There is a red dot stop board at the field exit.
It is mandatory to come to a dead stop, whistle and then proceed at 1mph
This photo shows why.
This procedure was confirmed at a Board meeting on 3rd July 2019
23MAR24
Maxitrak Owners Club visit to EP is confirmed as Saturday 6th July
09MAR24
The date for the ndsme summer BBQ is fixed for Weds 17th July.
08MAR24
Dates for your diary
This year we celebrate 65 years of railways in Eaton Park. In 1959 the original raised track opened to members, and later the public. Whole generations of local residents have grown up with this, and the later ground level, railway.
We are planning activities for the weekend of 13/14July. On Saturday the 13th, we invite private locos from outside the society to come along and use our extensive track. This will be a private session, not carrying the general public.
On Sunday the 14th we plan another dual track day, replicating what we did in 2019 for the 60th. This is an opportunity for members to bring their 5” locos and pull the public, just like the pioneers of 65 years ago. There will in addition be a display of model engineering for the public. We also hope to have some of our members traction engines in steam too.
Good times lie ahead.
25FEB 24
This loco, Sophie B, constructed by Peter King, has just completed 1000 miles since new in 2018. That’s Norwich to Vienna miles!
Well done!
19FEB24
At the Forum Science Week
By 10am the display was ready
Robert Bailey’s small stationary engineswere as popular as ever.
As was Brian Sayer’s Gauge 1 display.
If these four can’t sort it, nobody can!
Thanks are due to all the members who came along to spend time behind the tables. Especial thanks to Philip Moore and Brian Sayer who organised, and to Jim McDonell who transported everything to and from.
14FEB24
The meths burner for the Sterling engine has gone missing. If anybody knows where this is please contact Philip Moore. This is needed for the Forum next Monday.
13FEB24
Shredder activities continued with Brian Jacob’s shredder, more suited to light foliage. Here, Brian has the required number of observers.
Meanwhile, Philip Moore was applying preservative undercoat to the new footboards for the passenger stock
06FEB24
Today a team, directed by Brian Sayer, used a hired chipper to dispose of large amounts of waste foliage and branches at the site. The task went well and everybody came away with their limbs intact! Thanks are due to The Two Barrys, P King, B Jacobs, A Mann, C Shingles et al.
30JAN24
The Tuesday Gang have today installed a new device to drain the pit when it floods.
Under this plate is a sump into which water will drain and be removed with a pop-in bilge pump.
A team comprising Brian Sayer, Peter King and Richard Spalding carried out the work.
Brian Parker provided the inspiration for this work.
19JAN24
Expressions of interest are now being sought from members who wish to become trainee drivers of the Feldbahn (Stafford) loco. Check you email for this message with instructions as to how to apply.
12JAN24
Two of the team clearing foliage away from the raised track.
Thanks to all who attended on Tuesday, this job is now complete.
08JAN24
Tuesday 9th Jan will be a special hedgetrimming session for the Tuesday Gang. If you have shears, trimmers or pruners, please bring them along and take part. Brian Sayer is organising this so please coordinate with him.
03JAN24
Just a reminder that the Science Festival at the Forum is happening during the February half-term. Ndsme will have a display on Monday 19th and we are looking for both volunteers to help and also exhibits (working or static). If you can help please contact Philip Moore.
01JAN24
Some pics from the members day today.
With lush foliage and people on the tennis courts, this could be any summer day but it is in fact Jan 1st 2024. Chris Shingles with the Feldbahn.
The Yarhams with their recently completed Imp.
Brian Jacobs takes Pete Kings Romulus for a trip.
Simon Reed testing out the late Malcolm Pertitt’s Titan loco.
Peter Willis learning the intricacies of the Feldbahn. A different firing terchnique is required for this loco.
All in all, a successful New Years Day session. Thanks due to Ann and Mike Fordham for organising the catering.
31DEC23
A scene from the New Years Eve pop-up. The token has just been deposited on the post as the train passes. But there is something else interesting here. Sitting on this train is the grandson, and family, of Driver Ben Gimbert GC, who with Fireman Nightall GC Posth, were heroes of the Soham explosives train incident in 1944.
17DEC23
After two consecutive Sunday washouts, December 17th proved to be our busiest day of the year. Thanks are due to all the members who came along to make it happen. Special thanks to Pete King and Brian Parker who brought their locos long distances to take part, to Mike Fordham for the idea and to Steve Adams for an effective publicity campaign on local and digital media.
16DEC23
Tuesday 19th is the final Tuesday gang before the Christmas hols. This day will feature a special hedgetrimming session. If you have shears, trimmers or pruners, please bring them along and take part. Brian Sayer is organising this so please report to him.
15DEC23
Didn’t we have a lovely time...
…the day we tried out Richard W’s new 3-seat driving truck.
13DEC23
This Feldbahn loco, delivered yesterday, replaces the Stafford which was deemed unaffordable. Brian Baker will be forming a team to operate and maintain this loco. Look out for invitations to be considered for the Feldbahn Group. In the meantime the loco is not to be steamed and may only be displayed cold.
09DEC23
It was mentioned at the recent AGM that males had been seen using the ladies restroom at Eaton Park. We would ask that this practice ceases and males use the correct facility at all times.
03DEC23
Coming up on Jan 1st is the traditional New Years Day members private steam-up. From 1030.
Not just steam though, electrics also.
18NOV23
Andrew Pettitt has informed us that the funeral service for his father, Malcolm, will take place at St Faiths Crematorium on Friday 1st December at 13:30 at St Faiths crematorium. This will be followed by a wake at the Bure Valley Railway station in Aylsham. Andy Barnes (BVR) has offered to show interested parties around the shed. Although there are no public services that day, one loco will be steaming up for an evening charter, so there will be something to look at.
Members are invited to attend to commemorate his life.
Malcolm is also commemorated here
where you may also leave any messages of sympathy
14NOV23
It is with great sadness that the society has learned of the passing of member Malcolm Pettitt. Although Malcolm had only joined in November 2021 he became a friend to all who met him and he will be very much missed. An obit will be published in due course. We will notify of any arrangements when they are made known.
08NOV23
The final new model point lever, number 17, has now been completed.
The moving frogs have been removed and modified to make them permanently fixed.
It has been tested in both directions using 5” and 7.25” passenger trucks.
29OCT23
We’ve not seen queues this long for a few years. This was the Halloween Scream Day. At one point the queue was close to the level crossing!
When there’s something strange in your neighbourhood, who you gonna call?
Norfolk Ghostbusters who came along to entertain!
Big thanks to members Steve Adams and Lynsey Cooper who organised this highly successful (until the rain came!) day.
22OCT23
The insidious effect of hard water in boilers.
An mug full of tap water was boiled away in a saucepan and compared with a mugful of rainwater
No prizes for guessing which is which, but imagine what hundreds of litres of tapwater do to your boiler during a Sunday session.
The society is seriously investigating a soft water supply for locos.
18OCT23
Recent pics from the park
Senior Gardener Richard Crook
Richards Spalding cutting something…
Raised track action with Adrian Mann and Brian Jacobs
Brian Jacobs welding a r/t bridge
Chris Shingles and Brian Sayer with the A3. What could possibly go wrong?
07OCT23
At the training session today. Brian Sayer is shown the controls of a narrow gauge steamer.
He then took if for successful trips arouind the circuit.
Another similar session is planned for November 4th.
05OCT23
This is well-known local wit and raconteur Brian Sayer who has just installed a new post.
Brian is available for radio/TV/caberet and other public performances. Book him via his agent!
What could possibly go wrong…
This is the point lever outside the double gates. Note that during public hours it needs
to be padlocked. This is to prevent members of the public “accidentally” changing the
point while trains are running.
29SEP23
The formal “running season” has ended and we now run public trains on a pop-up basis. The emphasis has changed, from members being expected to attend if they can, to members coming along if they want to,
If you would like to to be involved in this activity you should get yourself on the pop-up mailing list. To do this, make contact with the society via the contact page on the website and select the option for Eaton Park Miniature Railway. You will then receive a weekly emailing detailing what is happening.
27SEP23
A number of members have been asking after Robert. We have heard from him and the good news is that his surgery was successful and he is out of hospital and recuperating. However, he doesn’t expect to be mobile for at least a month.
25SEP23
A quiet moment from the last day of the formal season featuring the Cl.37 driven by Richard Wells.
We now revert to pop-up mode, i.e. subject to sufficient volunteers and the weather.
Counter-intuitively, January to March is now more popular with park visitors than the summer months and contributes a sizeable chunk to society income
19SEP23
Repairs to aged chain link fencing by Brian Jacobs and Philip Moore
18SEP23
There will be a large amount of coal being delivered at 0930 Tuesday 19th. Help needed to unload and stack please.
13SEP23
Science Week at The Forum 2024
ndsme will be attending this on Monday 19th Feb 2024. We invite any members that have working models, suitable for table-top display, to consider entering them for this event. Volunteers will also be needed to transport, set-up, staff and tear down .Contact philip Moore.
12SEP23
Some action from the park today.
Progress on the raised track…
Left – strip lights are being installed in the loco storage are
Right – The turntable refurb is finished. Brian Jacobs is about to levitate off…
Meanwhile, Pete King and Brian Sayer were checking their credit scores with Clearscore.com!
04SEP23
Three pairs of ndsme ticket nippers have gone missing at EP. A member has also lost his own personal nippers. Would the Sunday participants keep an eye out for these please…
04SEP23
Members learning about the A3 in a group headed by Chris Shingles and Barry Fane
Members later took a trip around the circuit. A second such day is planned for Autumn.
26AUG23
An important email consultation is underway.
Please check your inbox (or spam folder).
You are asked to respond by end of Tuesday 29th August.
Your prompt reply would be appreciated.
25AUG23
From the archive – a look back at our recent past through old posters.
Featuring Philip Moore and a now departed Clayton in 2011, Brian Baker and his GER tank,
Bill Rout and the Cl.42, Mike Riches and the two Sentinels in 2014, Richard Wells on the raised
track, Pete King and Elidir in 2019, Ian Carter and the Cl.42 also in 2019, unknown and a Cl.66 in 2014 and,
lastly, Richard Wells with his 5″ Cl.66 in 2018.
23AUG23
Reminder.
Junior members aged under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
They must not be left in the care of an unrelated member.
23AUG23
The A3 undergoing steam cleaning by custodian Chris Shingles
20AUG23
On Saturday 19th August, we ran trains for Great Ormond St Hospital.
Here’s just a few of our members who were involved…
Thanks are due to all the members who came and helped , including steam drivers Brian and Peter who both travelled long distances for this.
12AUG23
Reminder – 1
This gate is to be kept closed when stock movements are taking place or when trains are running. This is to prevent any “little accidents” between trains and vehicles. If, as an essential vehicle, you pass through this gate, re-close it afterwards. Do NOT hook it up against the wall. Only essential vehicles should park in the area behind the clubhouse. This space is to be kept clear of non-essential cars and vans for two principle reasons
1) To allow vehicles with trailers to manoevre easily
2) To keep a clear line of sight between the station and trains on the curve to the tunnel
An essential vehicle is one carrying a loco, with or without a trailer. For general parking please use the main parking area.
Reminder – 2
When opening the tunnel, be sure to remove this component from the ground
If this is not done it will collide with axleboxes and may cause damage. If, when riding on a vehicle, you notice a distinct knock at either end of the tunnel you should report this to the station immediately – it may be that this component has not been removed.
07AUG23
Richard Wells’ new Cl.37 in use on Sunday 6th August. A fine heavy duty loco.
04AUG23
Please note that due to a perfect storm of confounding variables, the BR Blue Day has been cancelled.
04AUG23
26JY23
Two views of a mystery loco that visited Ep for trials today.
Can you guess what it is?
21JY23
NDSME in the community
Today we ran a pop-up to benefit Colman Schools, one of the four schools we support.
This was a first revenue earning day for Richard Wells new Cl.37.
Trains ran from the pop-up station in the former heather beds.
Thanks are due to the small number of volunteers who came along to support this.
17JY23
NDSME in the community.
Today we entertained a group organised by Friends of Eaton Park. These children from a local school had been undertaking projects in the park.
(Photos by Stuart Beard Photography )
11JY23
The loco lift is fit for use again after a minor defect was corrected.
The long awaited Cl.37 arrived today and may be in service on Sunday.
10JUL23
The loco lift has developed a fault and should not be used until it has been repaired.
08JUL23
Today we hosted members of the Maxitrak Owners Club
including this 5″ model of an 1898 Hunslet 18″ gauge 0-4-0WT
The original is preserved in Bradford Industrial Museum.
07JUL23
Some pics from the BBQ
30JUNE23
A email consultation is currently underway.
Please respond by ranking the three options 1,2 or 3, ie your first, second and third choice.
29JUNE23
NDSME in the Community – A local Beaver troop were in EP today and as part of their activities visited our railway.
Above , Pete King is showing the beavers how a steam engine works. They were quite fascinated, as were the adults.
Robert Bailey put on a display of his stationary engines.
Thanks to everybody who took part
28JUNE23
A reminder that all steam locomotives must have a spark arrester fitted.
In their June meeting of 2019, the directors of ndsme determined that
“all steam locomotives, both ground level and raised track, must be fitted with suitable spark arresters.”
This applies to both public and private operations at Eaton Park.
27JUNE23
On Thursday 29th June we are hosting a party of Beavers. Pete King has offered to bring his engine for this and also to give some informal tuition to any members that are interested. This will be from approx mid afternoon until sometime around 6:15pm. If you’re interested, contact Pete to let him know you’d like to take part.
26JUNE23
1) Just a reminder that all steam locomotives intending to haul the public must have evidence of boiler certification when asked for by the duty officer (stationmaster). It is the driver/owner’s responsibility to provide this when asked.
2) The society is considering a coach to the Midlands Exhibition. Check your email and respond if you are interested.
25JUNE23
Coming in August…
15JUNE23
Just under three weeks to the ndsme summer members BBQ. We need insulated bags or containers to keep drinks and food cool. If you have any you can lend to us can you bring them along on a Tuesday or Sunday.
The weekend after the BBQ we entertain the Maxitrak Owners Club on Sat 08 July. Do come along and meet them.
In August, two dates are now confirmed, BR Blue Day on Sat 05 August and Great Ormond St Hospital benefit pop-up on Sat 19 August.
06JUNE23
Some recent action from the park.
Philip up a ladder adding gutter brushes at Parkside.
Four members stare into the turntable pit. Brian, meanwhile, is pointing at something!.
Pete King installing New Model point levers at the signal box.
Footways taking shape on the turntable.
And, from the recent Hemsby Week, two of our younger members, Oscar and Charles drive Pete King’s Romulus
24MY23
Qualifying members will have been sent an email consultation document.
Please check your inbox for this. Consultation closes in seven days time.
23MY23
Three of the New Model point levers were installed by Peter King Today. They are a great improvement over what was there before.
New style signage is gradually appearing. Of all metal construction and permanantly installed, these should prove more durable that their wooden presecessors.
Not seen very often, Mike Fordham tries out the A3
03MY23
Maxitrak Owners Club have confirmed a visit to Eaton Park on Saturday 8th July 2023.
Further details to be confirmed.
02MY23
This is the gatepost, seen being fabricated on 25APR23, finally being installed at the gate.
Thanks are due to Messrs Jacobs and Hendrick who spent most of the day on this.
A brace will be installed later.
Monday 1st was the EACH day.
Here Pete King takes a train round for a photo-op.
Mike Fordham collecting fares
Busy scene at Parkside.
The society raised £381 for EACH, despite the mediocre weather!
25APR23
Estates Officer Philip Moore is organising a replacement post for the sliding gate, the old post being near point of failure.
Here Brian Jacobs is fabricating the new post.
A reminder that on Mayday Bank Holiday we will be running trains to benefit EACH.
We expect two steamers and a diesel or two for this day.
Members are invited to come along and take part, or just observe the proceedings.
19APR22
A batch of New Model point lever mechanisms under construction
by member Pater King.
18APR23
Our accessible carriage No7 carried its first guide dog last Sunday.
The completed accessible exit being tested by the Reeds. Verdict – all fit for purpose!
Now this is a mystery! A strange apparition captured on film in the new workshop extension.
Better call Mulder & Scully. Or Ghostbusters!
11APR23
Some recent action at the park
Messrs Henderick and Jacobs working on the workshop extension.
Improving the exit gate area. Barry Futter laying slabs.
Nice new red discs on the gates, fixed by Steve Battle
02APR23
We were visited today by Henry’s Adventures. Henry is a prolific youtube videographer, visiting locations all over Europe, and filmed us for a future episode in the series Miniature Railway Britain which will air in around a fortnight. Keep an eye out for this. His channel can be found at https://www.youtube.com/@HenrysAdventures/videos
27MAR23
Two shots from the pop-up action of 19MAR23.
Above, Driver McDonell receives the green light from Guard Moore, under the supervision of Dispatcher Battle
Below, Driver Riches with a trainload of visitors in a parkscape devoid of foliage.
Regular maintenance continues too, during the pop-up season.
Here, Brian Sayer services a bogie from one of the passenger cars
15MAR23
The 2022-23 membership year is drawing to a close. To remain a member of ndsme, please renew before the end of the month. A renewal has been sent out by email. A small number of members may find this, and other communications from ndsme, has ended up in spam so please check there. If you are a regular at the park you may also obtain a hard copy from the clubhouse.
Ndsme has received an invite from the Brundall & Acle Lions to attend their summer fair on Sunday July 16th. This is an opportunity for members to show off their items of model engineering and also to promote the society. If anybody is interested please contact Philip Moore.
07MAR23
A message from the membership team.
Where a sae is not supplied with your renewal your card may be collected from EP on a Tuesday or Sunday after midday.
01MAR23
New member Nina Baisley is seen here operating ticket sales inder the tuition of Brian Sayer at a recent pop-up. Ms Baisley picked this up very quickly and can now staff the position solo.
Now, a question,
Does anybody know who made/makes these pressed steel chairs?
Email via the contact page if you have any info on their makers.
21FEB23
Progress on the raised track.
Here Chris Poore continues with sleeper renewal.
A timer now limits charge to loco batteries. Take care not to disturb tjhis when removing locos
15FEB23
ndsme announces the following special charity days for 2023
Monday 1st May – 100% day for EACH
Monday 28th August – 100% day for the Lord Mayors Charity.
Other days will be announced when details are known.
13FEB23
Ndsme at the Forum Science Week. Philip Moore organised a team to take part in this. Many interesting conversations were had and once again we were lucky to have Ivan Watts delightful showmans engine.
Other exhibits included 5″ and 3.5″ locos
07FEB23
The section of track mentioned below has now been realigned back to its original position of 2011. Here the railhead is being ground to profile where it has been welded. The result is that long wheelbase locos should now be able to pass over this section with no trouble
02FEB23
This section of track is to be slewed back to its original 2010 alignment.
This should remove the problem being caused to long wheelbase locos. Preparation work by Oscar Battle.
Harrogate trip – closing date for bookings is Saturday 11th Feb. Don’t leave it too late!
19JAN23
Harrogate Trip
Please note that there will be a cut-off date for booking in early Feb. By this time, any intending visitors must have completed the booking process specified by Barry Fane in the posting of 7th Jan (below).
Pop-ups
Since 2021, the society has been running highly successful pop-up public services during the months of October to March. If you would perhaps like take part, you are invited to join the pop-up mailing list. Please contact the society secretary via the contact form on the website. You will then recieve weekly emails on the subject. (If you already receive these you need take no action.)
07JAN23
COACH TRIP TO THE MODEL ENGINEERING EXHIBITION AT HARROGATE, SATURDAY 11th MARCH 2023.
Due to the poor uptake in the past and the fiasco of the last trip the booking arrangements have been amended for the next outing.
The initial requirement will be for a sixteen passenger coach driven by one of our members and booking will require a deposit of £10.00 with an overall cost of £25.00 to be paid when the booking is confirmed.
If the 16 seats are oversubscribed a waiting list will be started and if the list gets anywhere sufficient a larger coach may be considered.
If the sixteen seats are filled but the waiting list is insufficient to require a larger vehicle then the deposits will be refunded to those on the waiting list.
If you wish to travel, please pay Barry Fane your deposit, cash on Tuesday or cheque made out to NDSME by mail (preferred), without delay.
Also please provide a stamped addressed envelope to cater for any refund.
02JAN23
A very busy pop-up today
Today was the busiest day since Sept 2014!
Brian Parker awaits departure with one of many full trains today.
01JAN23
The A3 came out for a test steam today. Chris Shingles has made splendid progress with the regulator mechanism and looks pleased with the result.
28DEC22
Coming up on Sunday Jan 1st is the return of the traditional New Years Day Steam-up. It’s also for electric and other forms of traction too. A chance for suitable new members to maybe take a society loco around the circuit under supervision. BF will also be organising soup for everyone too. 1000 onwards.
15DEC22
Progress on the workshop extension
Richard Henderick installing the roof support beam.
A prototype New Model point lever assembly is now undergoing practical trials.
It is situated here. If anybody has any comments or suggestions on this new style lever please contact Peter King (email is in the Special Notices section of the members area)
13DEC22
The sub-zero temperatures mean that ice is forming on hard surfaces at the site.
Philip Moore has delivered two bags of brown rock salt for de-icing. Use them – dont take a risk!
Temperatures are not expected to return to normal much before the end of the month.
06DEC22
Philips team have repaired the fence that was destroyed by intruders last year.
This will once again prevent people from taking short cuts by jumping over the raised track.
04DEC22
The first Christmassy Trains day was busy, thanks to the good weather.
Tunnel of Lights popular, as it was last year.
Full trains most of the day
29NOV22
The last lighting net for the tunnel being prepared by Brian, Philip, Barry and Peter.
The finished result, ready for Sunday
27NOV22
Mike Riches loco Tod, away for rebuild, returned to EP today in its new form, wider, longer and with other modifications
now – 2022
22NOV22
Anybody know anything about this?
20NOV22
Member Peter King is creating a prototype for new point lever mechanisms. The existing levers throw at 90 degrees to the track. The New Model Point Lever will, in prototypical style, throw parallell to the rails. Astonishingly, there are now 17 points, many of which do not have levers , and there will be two more required for the new g/l storage tracks. Once the prototype is tested and approved, the society will have the required number laser cut and a small select team will assemble them.
19NOV22
Science Week at the Forum.
On Monday 13th Feb 2023, the society will have a stand at the Engineering Day during the Science Week. Needed are exhibits, transport and members to help staff the stand during the day. If you can help, contact Philip Moore. Don’t leave it to The Few as happened with the recent Lowestoft Exhibition!
15NOV22
In the tunnel, a team of Brian Sayer, Philip Moore, Brian Jacobs and Barry Futter have been installing supports for Christmas lights, prior to the Christmassy Trains in December. These new plastic arches replace the former wooden wedges, which were not really satisfactory. The Tunnel of Lights will run through December into early January. This was hugely successful last year and we hope to make the tunnel even more colourful this year, generating significant funds for ndsme and the charities we support.
08NOV22
Guards on trains at EP – the rules
During private member time.
Light engines on the circuit are not required to carry a guard EXCEPT when
(a) The driver is a junior member that requires supervision by a full member, OR,
(b) when a train is carrying any non-members (including family)
In these two conditions a guard MUST be carried.
During hours when the railway is open to the public,
A guard MUST be carried on all trains. A light engine is regarded as a train.
Permission to light run must be sought from the stationmaster or signalman, as appropriate
Junior members requiring supervision are not permitted to drive light engines.
01NOV22
Activity on the raised track. Here, Mike Fordham, Barry Futter and Chris Poore continue replacing wooden sleepers with plastic
Up to date info is now available to park users via QR code. Not for dogs though, they don;t have thumbs
28OCT22
Please note that the deadline for nominations and resolutions for the AGM has now passed and any received after this date will be regarded as invalid. Those already recieved will form part of the AGM.
21OCT22
ndsme in the community
Today we entertained a party from Clare School who were learning about evacuation of children during WW2.
(Photo credit Clare School)
The students all had a great time, with lunch “out in the countryside” with Spam sandwiches and ginger beer!
It was a pleasure to do this for the school. Thx to all the volunteers involved.
19OCT22
The AGM will be on Saturday 3rd December at the URC. Members should look out for email or postal communications on this matter.
18OCT22
On Sunday 16th we had a rare visit from the unique 7.25 gauge Duke of Gloucester.
This model, owned by ndsme members, is believed to be the only model of this famous loco in 7.25 gauge. The level of detail is exquisite!
14OCT22
Peter King is a member of the 7.25 Gauge Soc. and is exhibiting his most recent build on their stand at the Midlands Exhibition
07OCT22 (1)
ndsme members were invited to tea in the Lord Mayor’s parlour yesterday, where they presented a cheque to Homestart Norfolk, following the charity day for the Lord Mayors Fund on the 29th August. (photo credit Norwich City Council). Laura Forster, Civic Officer, commented, ” Thank you for … organising the day to raise the funds. The Lord Mayor and the charity very much appreciate everyone’s efforts at the railway.” (photo credit Norwich City Council).
07OCT22 (2)
Members who bring locos to the park are reminded that, when using the lift,
06OCT22
A message from Pete King.
These levers have not been vandalised but have been angled deliberately to allow for potential wider stock.
Don’t attempt to bend them back!
29SEP22
A list of charitable donations for 2021-22 is now available in the members area.
28SEP22
The formal public operations season has finished and we now resume the pop-up mode. This means that the emphasis shifts from members being asked to attend if they can, to members attending if they want to. For some members this will give a welcome break from trains every Sunday and for others it will mean being able to attend train sessions during the close season when they could not during the summer. Winners all round really.
27SEP22
Todays action at EP
The main water valve has been repaired, the new brass handle was fabricated by Brian Jacobs…
…and the void was promptly filled and concreted by The Two Brians.
Meanwhile, Chris Poore made adjustments to the raised track to accommodate
the new plastic sleepers.
And at Parkside, Chris Shingles and Mike Fordham wewre reinstalling S&T fixtures.
In Other News
On Monday 26th, ndsme said goodbye to Corby, off to a new home “somewhere in England”.
Although appearances at EP were uncommon, this loco was alway welcome as a reliable and powerful puller.
The open footplate gave it a distinctive industrial look too.
23SEP22
The society will be holding an EGM on Saturday 01 October at noon. This will be to approve the updated Articles of Association. In the interests of covid safety, this EGM will be held outdoors at Eaton Park. Seating will be limited and allocated on first come, first served basis.
22SEP22
A recent water leak has caused a hole to be dug.
Here, The Two Brians look into it!
The redundant plastic fence from Larch End could be repurposed at Parkside.
Mocked up here, what do people think?
Peter King attended the recent 7.25″ Soc. AGM at Echills Wood.
His photos can be found here
13SEP22
Plastic battens were delivered today for the raised track repairs which Philip Moore is overseeing.
Meanwhile, platform repairs were being undertaken by Peter Davies.
11SEP22
Steam returned to EP today, after an absence of some two months.
Present were Paul Sherwood’s and Pete King’s locos, seen here towards the end of the day. Brian Parker also attended for the first half of the session. A welcome return to normal autumn weather has considerably eased the motive power situation at EP.
03SEP22
Would members please note that the use of steam engines (other than oil or gas fired) is currently prohibited at EP due to the continued enhanced fire risk. There is only one permissable exception which is that a steam engine may be fired, in the pit only, for boiler testing purposes.
This situation is reviewed weekly.
03SEP22
The chuck guard on the lathe has now been repaired. Members are reminded that they should use the chuck guard at all times. It is there for users protection. Remember, accidents do not just happen, they are caused! Please report any defects in safety equipment to Estates Officer Philip Moore.
30AUG22
Peter Davies and Brian Jocobs working on track maintenance during the running season.
Temperatures are more reasonable now.
Here, they are correcting damage from a contractors grass cutter strike.
The Jim crow in its original form wasn’t going to work so Brian modified it.
Meanwhile, James was testing his new LBSCR E2 loco
29AUG22
The Lord Mayor visited EP for the charity day in support of the Lord Mayor’s Fund
With the Lord Mayor and Consort are, l-r, Richard I, Philip, Tom, Richard IV, Andrew, Malcolm, Steve ,Barry.
Brian Parker brought hs 5″ A4 specially for the day and it ran faultlessly for four hours.
Thanks also due to the Coles, Richard the Gardener and Brian Sayer for providing other traction.
28AUG22
Ben Fraser prepping his 14xx for a boiler test, which it successfully passed.
Boiler tests can be arranged by contacting Barry Fane, Chris Shingles or Brian Baker,
24AUG22
Please note that the lathe is currently out of use pending repair to the chuck guard..
Where a safety defect is found, on any item, please inform the Estates Officer, Philip Moore
17AUG22
We have opted to maintain the moratorium on steam for the 21st August. We review this on a weekly basis and the time is still not right to resume steam.
16AUG22
One of our current projects is making progress. Here Philip Moore shows the new (reclaimed) canopy support that has just been installed. It will replace the one on the far right which will be removed and associated wiring re-routed. This is to facillitate the realignment of the track from the turntable to the station throat. The concrete work was done by, inter alia, Brian Jacobs and Richard Crook
12AUG22
A question often asked by new members and prospective applicants is, “Can I run my loco at Eaton Park?”
Well, here are the current regulations
1) Members may run their locos at Eaton Park on any day as long as there are at least two members present. An under-16 must always be accompanied by an adult
2) During hours when public trains are running, a second crew member must be carried and the driver must be aged 16 or over.
3 Signage protecting the level crossings must be put out and recovered after cessation.
4) Steam locos must have in-date certification and be fitted with a spark arrestor.
11AUG22
Although the field has now been cut and all the scorched growth removed, we have opted to maintain the moratorium on steam for the 13th and 14th August. We review this on a weekly basis and the time is still not right to resume steam.
We have not run coal fired locos for a month now. Oil or gas fired locos might be a possibility for the future, or even a necessity, as these scorching summers become the norm.
08AUG22
This pic shows why we currently have a steam ban in place.
We are reviewing the situation on weekly basis but, looking at
the forecast, it doesn’t look good for the next few weeks.
06AUG22
On Saturday Brian Parker gave us a very interesting talk on the adaptions he has made to his loco.
Who else might like to do similar? Contact Mike Fordham if so.
Head Gardener Richard was, however, equally interested in motor bikes!
02AUG22
Peter Davies renewing track fixings. Track maintenance takes place every Tuesday throughout the year. This track was laid in 2015 and secured with 5mm screws. These are now being replaced with 6mm screws which will be less prone to failure. In the background is the very useful flatbed wagon, it is far easier to transport large items on this than on wheelbarrows.
New point lock mechanism devised by Pete King.
Please do not step on this as it is not designed for carrying weight!
26JY22
Some pics from the action at EP today, when temperatures were more reasonable
Richard Hendrick works on the PW hut extension
Malcolm Pettitt investigates why the Cl 42 is still not working
Brian Sayer repairs his Cl.66
Chris Shingles works on the A3 while Brian Jacobs poses nearby.
24JY22
Today saw a welcome return of the Cole’s Class 70 model. Believed to be around 40 years old, here it poses with what, at first glance is a double stacked container train, but in reality is passenger cars stacked 1 on 1.
Complete with driver!
24JY22
Please note we are not using steam locos today, due to the fire risk to the park
21JY22
19JY22
Due to the predicted high heat today, members attending EP should consider this advice from gov.uk
Why this is important
The heat can affect anyone, but some people run a greater risk of serious harm. Remember to think of those who may be more at risk from the effects of heat – these include the following:
- older people [ie most of us!”], especially those over 75
- people with a serious chronic condition, particularly heart, breathing or mobility problems
- people on certain medications, including those that affect sweating and temperature control (for example, diuretics, antihistamines, beta-blockers and antipsychotics
- people who are already ill and dehydrated (for example, from gastroenteritis)
- people who are physically active (for example, manual workers)
What you can do
Stay out of the heat, cool yourself down, keep your environment cool or find somewhere else that is cool.
Avoid being out in the sun during the hottest part of the day (around midday) and plan your day to avoid heavy activity during extreme heat.
Bring everything you will need with you, such as a bottle of water, sun cream and a hat.
If you have to go out in the heat, walk in the shade, apply sunscreen, and wear a hat and light clothing.
Drink plenty of fluids: water, low fat milks and tea and coffee are good options.
Look out for signs of dehydration such as increased thirst, a dry mouth, dark urine, and urinating infrequently or small amounts.
Avoid extreme physical exertion. If you can’t avoid strenuous outdoor activity,, keep it for cooler parts of the day – for example, in the early morning or evening.
If you intend working in the field – don’t go alone!
Be on the lookout for signs of heat related illness
Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are two potentially serious conditions that can occur if you get too hot:
- heat exhaustion is where you become very hot and start to lose water or salt from your body. Common symptoms include weakness, feeling faint, headache, muscle cramps, feeling sick, heavy sweating and intense thirst
- heatstroke is where the body is no longer able to cool itself and a person’s body temperature becomes dangerously high. Heatstroke is less common, but more serious. Untreated symptoms include confusion, seizures and loss of consciousness
- Severe heat exhaustion or heatstroke requires hospital treatment.
- Call 999 if you or someone else have signs of heatstroke including:
- fast breathing or shortness of breath
- a fit (seizure)
- loss of consciousness
- not responsive
17JY22
Please note that, due to predicted extreme temperatures today, trains will not be running. Apologies for any disappointment. We hope to be back on Friday 22nd with trains for Bluebell Primary and Colman PTA. Normal service should be resumed next Sunday.
16JY22
Today was BR Blue Day, with all trains pulled by locos in the BR livery of the mid 60s to early 90s.
We’re thinking of expanding this idea for next year.
15JY22
This has just been forwarded to the website and may interest those with steam engines and even those who don’t. It is the 2005 IMLEC competition (International Model Locomotive Efficiency Competition). It comes in two parts with the second part showing Pete King competing at about 40 minutes in.
12JY22
Even in the relentless heat, basic site maintenance continues.
Brian Jacobs trims the hedges (above)
while Richard Crook deals with all the trimmings (below)
09JY22
Members of the Narrow Gauge Railway Society who visited Eaton Park this afternoon.
An NGRS special train.
In the afternoon, after our guests had departed for Yaxham,
Pete King gave some of the newer members instruction on his engine.
It augers well for the Stafford project later this year
08JY22
07JY22
A very successful BBQ took place yesterday, at which Janet Steel dedicated the bench she has provided in commemoration of her late husband and long term member Barry Steel, fondly remembered as a kind and gentle soul who was always willing to help others.
In this pic, Mrs Steel, her daughter and grand-daughter.
Many thanks are due to The Two Richards, Wells and Hendrick , who cooked the food. Also thanks to Mrs Moore who organised the provisions, and to Philip who helped eat them, as well as starring as The Pub Landlord. Delicious cakes were supplied by Mrs Hendrick and also by Ms Karim.
More pics in the gallery
06JY22
The members BBQ is today. Weather looks set to be warm and dry. Site opens 1830 for members and their families. Burgers, hot dogs, drink, the usual goodies, plus trains and cake. It doesn’t get any better than this! Forget the pizza zone, enter the burger zone!
05JY22
Fishplate greasing today. An important if unexciting task. Here Peter Davies is slackening fishplates and then using spray grease to lube the fishing surfaces. This is important because the rails must be able to slide in the plates when heat lengthens them.
03JY22
Not seen at EP for a while is Paul Sherwoods Iceni.
It’s had its tyres reprofiled and was at EP for dual testing, which it passed.
Also enjoying the dog days at EP today was Ben and Bob’s Corby, a powerful and popular engine.
01JY22
On Saturday 9th July, we are hosting a party from the Narrow Gauge Railway Society. Members are invited to come and meet them and also to take part in the private members session in the afternoon. From 10am
30JN22
Coming up at Eaton Park…
Sat 2nd July – First Saturday of the month, private members day
Sun 3rd July – public trains
Weds 6th July – society BBQ, from 1830
Saturday 9th July – private members session from 1300
Saturday 16th July – BR Blue pop-up.
29JN22
One week to go to the,
SOCIETY SUMMER BBQ
at Eaton Park on Weds 6th July.
All members and their families are invited.
Guests from the NRS will be amongst us.
Arrive from 1830. Food from 1900 by the Two Richards
0% alc. and other soft drinks at Phil’s Bar…and Pimms too!
There may also be trains!
Covered accommodation if showers.
29JN22
From the park...
Malcolm Pettitt”s 5″ gauge GER T26 2-4-0 No 490. The original is in the Science Museum collection.
Scamp receives attention to improve performance
26JN22
Following the Narrow Gauge Rly Soc visit on Sat 9th July, the rest of the day will be taken up with a private members play/training session.
14JN22
The summer BBQ is just three weeks away. We need some items to assist the catering/bar team.
If you can spare any of these please bring them to the clubhouse on the Tuesday before
1) cool bags or insulated buckets, to keep drinks and ice chilled on the day
2) a nice pitcher to mix Pimms up in
14JN22
Works at the park today,
Pete King is working on a new design of locators for the turntable.
Philip treating woodwork under the supervision of new member Barry Futter
Richard Crook doing his thing with the strimmer. Things are growing fast now!
13JN22
A second lightweight battery drill has been burnt out by drilling into concrete, this is beyond the capacity of these drills. For drilling into concrete please use the SDS drill, which was acquired for just this purpose
13JN22
Prerparations are at an advanced stage now for the society BBQ on Wednesday 6th July. This will happen come rain or shine as we have plenty of undercover accommodation available if required.. All members and their nuclear families are invited.
09JN22
Spotted at EP recently
This is ListerMan.
A descendent of Ned Kelly.
Probably.
08JN22
Public services this Sunday 12th will be all electric.
The following Sunday 19th will be a douible bill fea. Maid Marion and Corby
On Monday 29th August we will hold a train day for the Lord Mayors charity, which this year is Home Start
28MAY22
Please note that the sliding gate requires using with extra care pro tem, as one of the structural members has failed.
28MAY22
Three Class 66s at the members day today. A fourth joined after this pic was taken.
27MAY22
Good News! After only three months, Sweet Briar Road is open again. Journies to EP should be considerably easier now.
22MAY22
This is why…
there is a compulsary STOP at the field exit!
22MAY22
New resident at EP is this AME Class 66
08 May 22
Two members engines enjoying a quiet smoke in the pit today.
A member’s new “Scamp“, a diminutive yet interesting petrol-electric.
05 May 22
Some action from the recent B/Hol Monday,
Brian P pulling a 5-car public train. His engine just gobbled it up!
DieselMike doing the yearly oil/filter change on his Lister.
03 May 22
Following extensive electrical and mechanical work by Ian Carter and Malcolm Pettitt, the Class 42 is now fit for service again.
Here, Malcolm gives it a test. (Pic P King)
29 April 22
A Saturday members meeting has been arranged for August., See events page for details.
28 April 22
Ndsme is considering laying on a coach to the Midlands Exhibition in October.
If you are interested, please reply to the email you should all have received.
The cost will depend on the numbers travelling.
23 APR 22
Sweet Briar Road remains closed and Anglia Water indicate that it will not reopen until late May. In the meantime the official diversion has huge tailbacks so it is probably easier to travel via the Inner Ring Road and exit via Unthank Rd or Earlham Rd, both of which will regain the Ring Road near the park.
Covid.
A reminder that, if anyone in your family feels “under the weather” or “not quite right”, these could be early warnings of a covid infection. In this case you should NOT attend EP until it is resolved as you risk bringing the virus to EP. Covid is highly infectious and is likely to transmit from one family member to another easily. Covid symptoms include,
- a high temperature or shivering (chills) – a high temperature means you feel hot to touch on your chest or back (you do not need to measure your temperature)
- a new, continuous cough – this means coughing a lot for more than an hour, or 3 or more coughing episodes in 24 hours
- a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste
- shortness of breath
- feeling tired or exhausted
- an aching body
- a headache
- a sore throat
- a blocked or runny nose
- loss of appetite
- diarrhoea
- feeling sick or being sick
If you have COVID-19, you can pass on the virus to other people for up to 10 days from when your infection starts.
You should:
- try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people for 5 days
- avoiding meeting people at higher risk from COVID-19 for 10 days, especially if their immune system means they’re at higher risk of serious illness from COVID-19, even if they’ve had a COVID-19 vaccine
This starts from the day after you did the test.
12 APR22
1)…For those trying to view the EPMR facebook page (or any other public page such, as 7.25″ railways), facebook is currently throwing up a log-in wall which means you won’t be able to view unless you have an account. Whether this is a permanent feature or a temporary glitch remains to be seen. UPDATE 15/4/22 SINCE RESOLVED
2)…The society is actively investigating setting up a dedicated raised track group to oversee the refurbishment. Those members who expressed interest in this project will be contacted shortly with a view to arranging an initial meeting, possibly on a Tuesday, possibly at the Eaton Park Community Centre. Once a viable structure is in place then the membership can be consulted for approval for the expenditure.
3)…Public trains running on Easter Sunday and Monday. Interested members are invited to assist.
31MAR22
The membership renewal cycle is now complete. Members who have not renewed will be sent one final reminder.
Membership cards will be retained at EP for those members who did not provide an sae. These cards will be available for collection on Tuesdays or Sundays.
22MAR22
Membership Renewals
The 2021-22 membership year is drawing to a close. Over two thirds of members have successfully renewed so far. In order to retain your member privileges, do please renew by 31st March, after which date your membership will cease
19MAR22
Renewal forms are available in the clubhouse for those that need a hard copy.
15MAR22
At Eaton Park today we...
…took the white fence down at Larch End
to create space for a storage siding…
…and replaced a drive chain on the Class 42…
…the other bogie will also be done
13MAR22
Pics from the DEC Ukraine Appeal benefit day. Just over £1500 was raised.
One of our busiest days in recent years, with a unique Hunslet double- header.
More pictures in the Gallery.
08MAR22
Preparatory work for new raised track storage.
Clearing away two years of organic matter
The new covered raised track storage siding will go here. The white fence will be relocated.
05MAR22
Temporary duckboards installed in the pit pending a more permanent solution to the flooding problem. These have been made from recycled plastic pallets.
01MAR22
Pete and Jim repairing the turntable
27FEB22
Two pics from the pop-up action today. Jim McDonell’s Glen class and Brian Parker’s Maid Marion, pulling busy afternoon trains. Brian’s loco ran for a full five hours and was still going strong at the close of play!
22FEB22
Pete King and the track team resleepering in the field today.
This is the last point to be done in the field
22FEB22
The Sweet Briar Rd closure looks like it may be for some time.
https://www.eveningnews24.co.uk/news/
21 Feb 22
Raised track (refurbishment) consultation
If you have a view on this subject then please respond asap. The consultation closes in a few days.
21 Feb 22
ROAD CLOSURE
Please note that the ring road is closed between the Dereham Road roundabout and Hellesdon Hall Road. This is likely to remain closed for up to 14 days. Diversion in place but expect significant queues at all times during the day
19 Feb 22
Storm Eunice caused some degree of difficulty in Southern England but at EP this was the only thing of note. We got off lightly!
17 Feb 22
Phil doing some painting during “play hour”.
17 Feb 22
Hello Hello I’m back again!
Excalibur arrives back at EP after a spell at the manufacturers for fitting of upgrades.
Any day now…back in service! Seen here with the owners.
17 Feb 22
Mystery pair of gloves
Who has left these behind?
16 Feb 22
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