Railway Club of the New Forest 

A jolly crew of members and guests assembled at the quayside in the early morning, anxious to embark on the short voyage across the Solent waters to the verdant Isle of Wight.  Thankfully the waters were calm, and though the start was stalled by a vehicle breakdown, it was not serious, and time was soon made up, arriving promptly at Yarmouth harbour for the Island buses to convey us to the Steam Railway.

The travellers being of a Certain Age managed to travel on the Island buses for free with their Senior Citizen Passes.  Before long, the transport took us to the Wootton station, where we were soon  provided with tickets, and the ex-Army Saddle tank puffed in at the head of a vintage train of coaches, two carriages being reserved for our party.  

The engine ran round to head up the train and take us on to Havenstreet, the main station on the line, where we alighted to savour the assorted stock and buildings, a picturesque layout appreciated by the photographers in our midst. We also savoured some refreshments to sustain us for the 3 hour session, before the train took us on to the far end of the line at Smallbrook Junction, a link with the main island line. A quick run-round, and the engine hauled us back to Wootton, to connect with the Island buses and the ferry terminal.

We had an hour in hand , and appreciated the harbour views while awaiting the final sailing back to Lymington. All in all, a Great Day Out, and many thanks to our Social sec who had organised yet another successful Event. Even the British weather smiled upon us, bright, sunny and warm - most enjoyable!

Click on the images below to see them full-size.  Contributions by AP, DM, JY and CW