It has been announced that Bluebell stalwart Clive Groome has passed away.
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid...51604347005654
Clive was a former Nine Elms driver, working Bulleid pacifics on the South Western main line in the dying days of steam on the BR Southern Region.
He later became a driver on the Bluebell & was tutor to many (including myself in 2005) on his 'Footplate Days & Ways' steam loco driving courses. When talking to him he had some fascinating stories from the days of BR steam, as well as the Bluebell days including being the driver who was stopped by Bobbie & her red petticoat in the 2000 remake of The Railway Children.
His daughters, Liz and Ruth, are now also footplate crew at the Bluebell.
He will surely be missed by everyone who knew him & I wish to send my condolences to all of his family & friends.
Tony