Coo I bet you had to sit down and take a breather after that mate
- careful now, don't you overdo things - you're nearing that ten post mark remember
Whiskey - you are so right there - truly wonderful work but what a project
I don't think I could ever take something like that on so my hat is well and truly off to those that do
Jo we had a - ahem! - 'mini-MEM' turn out
Chris, Simon, Rod (Tangler) and myself. Rod called in with Sally on his way back home from a holiday in Norfolk - you and Jason should have been here
Unfortunately Sue (and I) overlooked the 'requisite' group shot
Here are the pics as promised - we (Sue took them all for you) are quite disappointed in that most appear to have suffered from camera shake due to those low light levels (you'll see just how bad on a separate post later) and they really aren't suitable. Even some of these exhibit it in areas but here's the best of them.
Despite attempting to clear the pond the week before the steam boats were beaten by the weed however these two stalwarts made an attempt
Most of the boats were displayed inside - these are pics of the same boats from last years show
The event is often blessed with the arrival of several classic cars which adds yet another flavour
Virtually all of the engines are steamed at intervals throughout the day - this engine originally powered the hydraulic accumulators on Tower Bridge
and this lovely little engine tucked in a corner behind would make a lovely model. Nicknamed the 'vinegar' engine it allegedly ran continuously for twenty five years in a pickling factory.
And so to the upper floor display .......
This small area above the main engine shed, usually given over entirely to the tea room, is taken over for the air running exhibits. With compressed air to all outer tables the center area is given over to static display. Not so populated as in days past due to steep stairs and declining years!
This little fella was intently looking at the model but turned at the last second - best pic of the day
Even his sister was interested
A good interest in the MEM area ....
and yours truly talking first time exhibitor Martin into becoming a MEM member
Though fundamentally a small event the atmosphere never the less has the place buzzing at times with constant interest from the visitors
Downstairs another surge of interest was being shown in the newly installed Victorian workshop - lathes, mill, shaper, drills and endless amounts of belting
all in the capable hands of 'Andy B'
And this little chap - all of nine years old - and a potential candidate for the future had brought his Lego mobile crane along but had left it in the car. Encouraged to display it by one of the exhibitors it was proudly presented for all to see. Fully working including the out riggers he told us he had disappeared into his bedroom at Christmas and emerged three days later with it completely finished. The image shows Dr Rowan Francis the museum owner (in blue) and Bill Starling the event organiser getting details of this potential candidate for future events
Well that's it I'm afraid, another year when pics have not lived up to expectation but we did our best - we'll try harder next year
Hope you've enjoyed your 'visit' to this charming and lovely little event
Regards - Ramon
