Miniature train back on the tracks at park

By The Newsroom
Published 16th Feb 2016, 10:18 BST
Updated 17th Feb 2016, 08:10 BST
Mini train 5 SUS-160216-095256001Mini train 5 SUS-160216-095256001
Mini train 5 SUS-160216-095256001

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The miniature railway in Alexandra Park was reopened last Saturday after being restored by an enthusiast.

Hastings Mayor Cllr Bruce Dowling and Cllr Warren Davies, lead member for the environment, were on hand to perform the honours for the opening ceremony.

The railway was originally opened in 1980, with a second loop built in the late 1980s. Originally mixed gauge (3 ½”, 5”, and 7 ¼”), the line was operated on an occasional basis by local model engineers, but their use stopped early last year, and the track and buildings fell into disrepair.

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The operation was taken over late last year by Dan Radcliffe, who runs Hastings Miniature Railway on the town’s seafront. He has completely overhauled the line, re-ballasting and relaying the track, to 7 ¼” gauge.

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Mini train 3 SUS-160216-095232001

The double loop layout remains, complete with tunnel. The line now operates petrol and battery electric locos.

The first train to operate on the line’s reopening, a VIP special conveying Cllr Davies, the Mayor and other guests, was pulled by an 0-6-0 petrol loco built by RVM Engineering, Dan Radcliffe’s own company.

Cllr Warren Davies said: “I was very pleased indeed to be able to re-open this railway. Alexandra Park is a real jewel in the town’s crown, and the railway will attract even more visitors to it, which is wonderful.

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