Project volunteers build an accommodation crossing!
Track now extends along the branch for over 500m (550 yards) from the junction with the GCR. This takes track past the point where a private farm track crosses the railway, meaning that volunteers have needed to construct an accommodation crossing, so that the farmer can access his fields beyond the railway. An accommodation crossing differs from a level crossing in that it is provided only for private use as opposed to a public highway to cross. Nevertheless, construction standards and rules for use remain pretty much the same.
Our volunteer team were aided by student volunteers from Loughborough University who came along to lend a hand.
Work progressed rapidly and by mid December the crossing was complete. Safety signage will be erected in the New Year. Thanks to material donations by Murco Petroleum, Lafarge, local people and loan of tools from within our volunteer team, the crossing was constructed for less than £250. We think that the end result looks very good indeed!
Local groups raise money for the project
A local group who runs vintage tea parties with a 1940s theme, in aid of local charities, very kindly chose the Mountsorrel Railway as the good cause for their Christmas event. The party was held at Mountsorrel Memorial Hall and was very well attended indeed. There was live entertainment, vintage and craft stalls, scrumptious cakes and of course plenty of tea! The event raised a remarkable £250 for the project.
Members of a railway heritage group, who meet once a month at Quorn for slide and film shows, have also kindly raised £300 for the project.
Both donations are very gratefully received and will be used to help fund materials for phase 3 track laying, which when complete should bring track to within view of the bridge at Wood Lane.
Wood Lane to Bond Lane cutting progress
Work continues to progress in the cutting between Wood Lane and Bond Lane. A new track side drainpipe is being laid to replace the original which had collapsed. Pipe materials have been donated by Lafarge, the GCR and Cleanaway and the digger work itself is being sponsored by Lafarge. We are very grateful for this assistance which has saved the project over £10,000. The pipe run is now 60% complete and should be finished early next year with base ballast laying to follow.
The Wood Lane end of the cutting is already complete and ready for ballast to be laid.
At Bond Lane the pipe run can be seen on the left side of the cutting. It is hoped to build the Mountsorrel halt platform on the right side of the cutting in the foreground of this view.
Merry Christmas!
Project volunteers would like to thank you for your support over this past year and to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a happy new year!
