© Geoff’s Rail Diaries 2013 The Industrial Railway Society’s AGM was at Chasewater this year. The meeting would take place after lunch (which was excellent) - for the morning’s entertainment, a “1960s style railtour” would take place, topped and tailed by two steam locomotives 1960s tours of industrial systems didn’t generally involve such luxury as covered accommodation. Forty years ago, I took part in an IRS-organised railtour, which was great fun - see Farewell to Steam at Corby. We travelled in open wagons, provided with bales of straw (or was it hay? I do remember lots of sneezing) as seats. Most participants stood around the edges of the wagons, to gain a better view. No standing allowed today, though, as we’re now safety- conscious. (I don’t remember anyone falling out of the train at Corby) With the hefty Nechells No. 4 (RSHN 7684 of 1951) at the front, and “Colin McAndrew” (AB 1223 of 1911) at the rear (completely hidden by the brake van), we trundled off around the lake, and given the pleasant weather, had a most enjoyable trip. At Chasewater Heaths and Chasetown, No. 4 uncoupled, allowing Colin to shunt the short train into sidings and through the loco-release side of the loop - rare track for those remaining on the train, and photographic opportunities for those who got out. Lastly, a rare delight - a non-stop run back to Brownhills West. “Colin McAndrew” was now at the front of the train, and though we still couldn’t see him, he was given a chance to show what he could do - much steam and smoke! Links: • Chasewater Railway • Industrial Railway Society