[DSY011]

Most of the rolling stock in Africa is in very poor shape. When I think back to the days when I was on the railways, and how the stock was looked after in those days, it makes me want to weep. In all the years I traveled on the Rhodesian and South African Railways, I never had a dirty coach. In S.A most crews had their own loco or sheared one between 2 or 3 crews. They took a pride in the loco and even went to the repair sheds when the loco was due in. That way they knew every thing that was done and the firemen learned all about the workings of his loco. It was great to see a spotless loco come out of the shed to take on our train with all brass shining and a cheerful 'Hello' from the crew.