Jack’s back in Scotland
Centenary Steam at Leadhills
22 July 2001
The annual walking trip had taken us to
Scotland - and before leaving home, I
had noted that the weekend of 21/22
July would be the Leadhills and
Wanlockhead's annual steam event. So,
on our return journey, It became
necessary to persuade my (non-railway) walking companions
that a short diversion to Leadhills ("we'll probably be able to
get some lunch there") could be useful...
Visitor for the event was "Jack", who worked originally at
Granton gas works. The diminutive locomotive, built by Andrew
Barclay of Kilmarnock (1871 of 1925) is very similar to the better
known "Dougal" on the Welshpool and Llanfair Railway. Normally
resident in Berkshire, Jack had made the trip on a low loader for
Geoff’s Rail Diaries
the occasion.
My companions were impressed, despite
their initial misgivings, and enjoyed the
short ride to the summit, though
admittedly their impressions were helped
by the meal we had shortly afterwards at
the Hopetoun Arms in the village.
I would have enjoyed a longer stay, but the remainder of the
journey home beckoned - the southbound M6 is not a pleasant
prospect on a summer Sunday evening. Nevertheless, the
recommendation goes out again - if you're passing on the M74,
on a summer weekend, call in at this friendly little line - you
won't be disappointed.
Link:
Leadhills and Wanlockhead Railway
