Quote:
Originally Posted by tonyh-uk
I went to the Epsom Model Railway exhibition a few weeks ago and the Bluebell had a stand there.
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It's a small world. I was the Bluebell Stand Manager for that particular show and was there on both days. I'm also passed out as a Signalman (Kingscote) and a Passenger and Goods Train Guard.
Quote:
Originally Posted by tonyh-uk
As I thought the train would be static while they filled the wagons I wrote to Bluebell and asked if I could photograph the loco in return for a reasonable donation to their Waste Clearance fund. However, they refused saying it was too busy around the loco (?).
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The whole northern section is treated as a "construction site" (including the Bluebell platform) particularly when waste trains are being loaded. The contractor's health & safety regime is in place with the result that nobody who has not been assessed and approved is allowed on the site. This even includes the likes of me.
Nonetheless there are three excellent vantage points for photography:
(a) Sainsbury's car park which is immediately adjacent to the Bluebell station;
(b) Hill Place Farm Bridge as mentioned above by 'colchesterken'. The parking restrictions are applicable only to the builders merchants, but through which is a public footpath that extends through their car park and then upto and across the railway bridge. It is essential that you park YOUR car out on the road.
(c) On the Network Rail platforms when the waste train arrives and departs at East Grinstead (about 1pm and 9pm respectively each day, Monday to Friday).
Chris