Wednesday 17th - Ah, I have another job for you

 Although the work on the coaches in the work and paint shops is now reducing, especially for the metalwork team. There seems to be no shortage of other jobs, I say this because the list gets longer rather than shorter.

To start with, a number of us are trained to do Buck eye inspections ..... so Bryan (wooly hat) was requested to assist the team inspecting what I think is the third rake. This is all in aid of that bearded chappie who visits all good children around this time of the year.

Meanwhile the PAT testing team were busy in the barn, and dancing by the look of it.

Steam heater getting TLC from Phil.

Ainsley is busy sorting a box of assorted drill bits.

Stephen is wearing the mask to prevent ingesting dust etc. on the seat back ...... as always when it's finished it will look like new.

Robert is putting the finishing touches to some of the final bits to go in 34929.

34929 is getting closer, with the doors finally getting conquered. I have to say they really do look superb.

Our new grit blaster now has its very own bench, just another little job.

A lick of paint before its installation by Ken.

Ah, another little job. One of our pickups suffered tailgate damage ..... I couldn't find the pickup, so I hope it fits.

Such a lovely day, and no trains ......

Finally the TOAD, Paul is removing the planking and managed to undo the nuts holding it all together. As the metalwork team descend on it, we need all surrounding woodwork removed.

Much discussion had taken place about the 'Ballast' box, which has been bolted together since this vehicle was built. We need it empty so as to get at the end panel work which will be replaced, Paul removed the fixings and lo and behold a very rusty collection of railwayana was lurking in there. The team have started removing it all so fairly soon we will start removing the steel and rust panels. Happily the main structure is beefy enough and should need nothing more than a good clean up. Watch this space!

When our work is done, you could be enjoying this view at future Galas.

Lastly Roger is admiring the on going work on the ‘MINK’.