By Simon Bristow
Railway enthusiasts are being invited to celebrate a decade of mini-loco Ross next month when she has her final steaming before being withdrawn for overhaul.
Mini-railway Great Withernsea Railway (GWR) is inviting visitors to see its progress on November 4 and 5. As well as the chance to bid farewell to Ross, the two-day event will also see the introduction of another engine, Afon Glaslyn, while the Shay will also be running.
Work on the railway began in 2020 in the back garden of owner and enthusiast James Ardin, who lives at Comrie House, on the road from Withernsea to Holmpton.
James is employed as a train driver, tamper operator and asset supervisor for VolkerRail and in his spare time also drives steam trains for the North Yorkshire Moors Railway.
Speaking about the railway’s progress and next month’s event, James said: “The railway is constantly expanding. Work has been focused on double-tracking at the side of the field, along with extending the railway around the front of the property.
“The new station, Withernsea, will be where passengers can purchase their tickets and board the trains. Picnic benches and the main field will be accessible via the middle station Holmpton. Hot drinks, cakes and ice-creams will be available too.
“In November, we are celebrating ten years of our loco Ross – this will be the final steaming before overhaul. We will also be welcoming our new addition to the loco fleet, Afon Glaslyn; she joins us from Wales and will be a regular runner here.”
The railway was opened to the public for the first time in June, when the first train departed from Holmpton. James was able to draw on the expertise of fellow enthusiasts from across the country during its construction.
The railway will be open from noon to 4pm on November 4, and from 11am to 3pm the following day. A day rover ticket for all classes will cost £4. Light refreshments will be available.
