Abbey Pumping Station railway 2011.wmv

The 2 foot gauge line at Abbey Pumping Station, on the banks of the River Soar in Leicester, isn't especially well known in railway circles, perhaps because it's owned by the council, who focus their marketing on local families - fair enough, they're paying for it!
Though short, I feel it has character and there's the added attration of four enormous beam engines in the pumping house itself, which offer a unique experience in themselves, especially when in steam.
Most of the trains are worked by 'Leonard', an 0-4-0 Bagnall, originally used at Minworth sewage works in Birmingham. A Simplex diesel, ex Severn Trent Water, also appears, much to the excitement of my three year old son who can be heard in the background as it arrives. Diesel in the blood that boy! I think the Simplex was covering whilst Leonard was coaled and watered, they were certainly operating a very intensive service (it was a family beach day, complete with portable beach and irritaing compere, who can be heard in the background occasionally).
The video finishes with a complete trip back down the line. A short trip, but at only £1.50 for a family to ride, good value (extra admission charge on a few special days). Remaining operating dates this year are 1st Oct, 5th Nov and 4th Dec.

Category:

Autos & Vehicles

Tags:

• abbey
• pumping
• station
• narrow
• gauge
• bagnall
• simplex
• leicester

[mollsmyre]

Excellent video. I haven't heard of this railway. It looks great, Thanks for posting and bringing it to my attention. Must try and pay a visit.