It is sometimes unwise to plan too far ahead, especially in the rather uncertain economic circumstances we find ourselves in 2009 but human nature being what it is dictates we should be positive wherever possible, continuing to make plans and striving to attain goals as much as events allow.

So there I was, primed to take advantage of any fine weather between Christmas and New Year to produce a gallery of No.3 in action on the 11 o’clock and 2pm service trains when a variant of the ‘flu struck, essentially keeping me indoors for several days.  So no photographs in the cold sunny winter weather, unless you have some TTT can use on the website…Please resize to 800 pixels (longest side) and email one at a time to terrier.78@ntlworld.com

Trustee Ian Scarlett has confirmed the engine continues to be a joy to drive, providing more evidence of the massive impact their introduction to service must have had from 1872 onwards. 

Recent running repairs have focussed on the Westinghouse brake with the worn pump piston rod being built up.  Following reassembly, there are still minor issues with the packing to be resolved.

Another recent disappointment has been the news that K&ESR have been unable to obtain Inter-reg funding to take an engine and the Woolwich coach to the Baie de Somme at the end of April for their Fete de Vapeur.  Little “Marcia” had been provisionally pencilled in, but with that engine rebuild over-running, No.3 was duly earmarked to fulfil the role, even though it was the weekend before the May Gala.  So, as there is no money available, she won’t be going.

Provided you are a member of the railway, for insurance purposes, you are invited to come along to Rolvenden on Sunday 8th February from 9am to help give “Bodiam” a spring clean, in readiness for the new season.  Contact Matt Green on 07956-865319 if you are interested.  It is hoped that at least one Trustee will be available on the day to meet any casual visitors – providing more information about TTT and our plans for the engines, and also hopefully to encourage potential new members to consider joining the Trust.

The P-class, No.753 has already benefited from a similar process in advance of its trip to Bluebell in February to meet up with fellow SE&CR liveried engines No.65 and No.592 – more details available on the Bluebell website.

No.3 “Bodiam” runs round at Tenterden Town Station during its stint of daily running on 10th August 2008. Photograph © Keith Mapley.