December 5th 2021 PRA Board Report
Board meetings have been held monthly in the museum room at Darley Dale Station since the AGM. In June the directors published a list of objectives for the coming twelve month period. To date the following progress has been achieved:
• Banking. A new bank mandate has been processed which was necessary due to the change in directors either side of this years AGM. The next step is to establish internet banking thus making membership subscriptions and donations accessible on-line. This should be in place early in 2022.
• Steam Crane. A news item reporting progress appeared on the website in mid November.
• Social Media Policy. This was published on 24th August and can be found on the website under Policies and Documents.
• Volunteering. A Volunteer Policy for those 18 years old and above has been finalised and will be published in the near future. Two directors have been appointed as Volunteer Liaison Officers to oversee the implementation of the policy and induction of new volunteers to Peak Rail Plc. These are Jacob Short and Jack Thompson.
• Work is currently progressing on a Safeguarding Policy for young people volunteering aged 16-18.
• Steam Crane. A news item reporting progress appeared on the website in mid November.
• Social Media Policy. This was published on 24th August and can be found on the website under Policies and Documents.
• Volunteering. A Volunteer Policy for those 18 years old and above has been finalised and will be published in the near future. Two directors have been appointed as Volunteer Liaison Officers to oversee the implementation of the policy and induction of new volunteers to Peak Rail Plc. These are Jacob Short and Jack Thompson.
• Work is currently progressing on a Safeguarding Policy for young people volunteering aged 16-18.
A revised membership and volunteering leaflet is to be ready for beginning of the 2022 operating season.
Roger Hallatt
Chair.
Some of the work will obviously need to be outsourced whilst a lot can be covered by the support of volunteers. One of the first things to be done will be the removal of the boiler to allow for an independent inspection. This first report will allow for non-destructive testing of the boiler to be carried out. The results of this testing will allow us to invite boiler specialists to quote for the work identified in the report and the lead-time to complete.
The complete crane will require cleaning, rust removal and priming as a first stage to its restoration. It is here that the PRA volunteers can help. Already several volunteers have expressed interest but if you would like to get involved in this phase of the project could you please let me know. g.caro@btinternet.com
As each phase is identified it will be costed out and we will start fund raising to meet these costs. I will also be contacting various associated companies to see if any sponsorship is available. Again, more details to follow in the magazine. If you would like to start supporting us in the restoration of the steam crane, donations may be sent to: -
Peak Railway Association Ltd
Steam Crane Appeal.
C/O P H Waller
Fern Cottage,
Main Road,
Eyam,
Hope Valley,
S32 5QW
Or by bank transfer to: -
Peak Railway Association Ltd.
Sort Code: 16-25-21
Account No: 10052927
Please use the reference "Steam Crane"
Recent activity:
Roger Hallatt
Chair.
November 15th 2021 Steam Crane
Since I reported that the PRA had bought the steam crane from Peak Rail last year some of you may be wondering what has been happening. This is a brief report of actions to date. A more detailed article will appear in the next edition of Peak Express magazine
In July I met with Roger Hallatt and Andrew Civil for an initial walk around the crane. The sidings were overgrown and the crane surrounded by other carriages. To make further inspection viable it was decided to relocate the crane to a more accessible area, this was done a few weeks later. Through Andrews contacts he proposed that he would contact Mark Sealy from Chasewater Railway for his advice as he has two operational steam cranes. This meeting was arranged for early October.
In July I met with Roger Hallatt and Andrew Civil for an initial walk around the crane. The sidings were overgrown and the crane surrounded by other carriages. To make further inspection viable it was decided to relocate the crane to a more accessible area, this was done a few weeks later. Through Andrews contacts he proposed that he would contact Mark Sealy from Chasewater Railway for his advice as he has two operational steam cranes. This meeting was arranged for early October.
Some of the work will obviously need to be outsourced whilst a lot can be covered by the support of volunteers. One of the first things to be done will be the removal of the boiler to allow for an independent inspection. This first report will allow for non-destructive testing of the boiler to be carried out. The results of this testing will allow us to invite boiler specialists to quote for the work identified in the report and the lead-time to complete.
The complete crane will require cleaning, rust removal and priming as a first stage to its restoration. It is here that the PRA volunteers can help. Already several volunteers have expressed interest but if you would like to get involved in this phase of the project could you please let me know. g.caro@btinternet.com
As each phase is identified it will be costed out and we will start fund raising to meet these costs. I will also be contacting various associated companies to see if any sponsorship is available. Again, more details to follow in the magazine. If you would like to start supporting us in the restoration of the steam crane, donations may be sent to: -
Peak Railway Association Ltd
Steam Crane Appeal.
C/O P H Waller
Fern Cottage,
Main Road,
Eyam,
Hope Valley,
S32 5QW
Or by bank transfer to: -
Peak Railway Association Ltd.
Sort Code: 16-25-21
Account No: 10052927
Please use the reference "Steam Crane"
November 15th 2021 P-WAY REPORT
Recent activity:
• B&R Track Services have tamped the main line, all loops and associated points in the early part of October. The cost of tamping was part of the Cultural Recovery Grant (CRG). This has corrected track cross level and alignment as well as eliminating track voids beneath sleepers. Tamping does not however solve the problem of dipped joints caused by the crippled ends of a length of rail. This problem will need to be dealt with in the near future.
• Tamping causes a loss of ballast from between the sleepers. This occurs as the track is lifted to give the correct cross level or when voids are filled. The CRG allowed for the purchase of 80t of washed recycled granite ballast. This was dropped using ballast hoppers before and after the tamping. Two further deliveries of 40t at a time have been dropped. A Temporary Speed Restriction has been imposed until the ballast in the track formation has been sufficiently replenished.
• Tamping can damage sleepers and unfortunately the poor quality tanalised softwood sleepers in the Down Line at Darley Dale have predictably taken a hit. This type of sleeper was purchased in 2007 for the extension of the Down Loop at Darley Dale to allow two train operation and 27 need replacing. Luckily the Dept had this number of new creosoted softwood sleepers in stock. These have been dropped into position ready for replacement before the end of the month. Two crossing timbers at Rowsley were also damaged and again there are new replacements in stock.
• Tamping causes a loss of ballast from between the sleepers. This occurs as the track is lifted to give the correct cross level or when voids are filled. The CRG allowed for the purchase of 80t of washed recycled granite ballast. This was dropped using ballast hoppers before and after the tamping. Two further deliveries of 40t at a time have been dropped. A Temporary Speed Restriction has been imposed until the ballast in the track formation has been sufficiently replenished.
• Tamping can damage sleepers and unfortunately the poor quality tanalised softwood sleepers in the Down Line at Darley Dale have predictably taken a hit. This type of sleeper was purchased in 2007 for the extension of the Down Loop at Darley Dale to allow two train operation and 27 need replacing. Luckily the Dept had this number of new creosoted softwood sleepers in stock. These have been dropped into position ready for replacement before the end of the month. Two crossing timbers at Rowsley were also damaged and again there are new replacements in stock.
Tamper at Matlock Riverside – R HallattThe CRG funded the visual inspection of all the bridges on the line plus the one on the access road to the Rowsley site. This was undertaken by the company involved with Bridge 35 and took place before the reopening of the railway. The CRG also funded the inspection of all the lifting jacks in the P-Way Department.
In late Spring work commenced on replacing rotten or damaged crossing timbers in the point work at Rowsley. This is ongoing using new creosoted timbers already dropped off at the locations they are required.
From Spring onwards, the P-Way team have been involved in trackside vegetation control. This was greatly aided when contractors MLP Rail weed killed the track formation. Again, this was funded through the CRG. In September the P-Way team worked with the Lineside team to cut back overhanging branches between Rowsley and Darley Dale. These had been scratching the paintwork of rolling stock. Last week the team cleared trees leaning towards the line in Red House Cutting. This was with the help of a qualified chain saw operative without cost to the railway.
Roger Hallatt
P-Way Dept.
November 15th 2021 Chesterfield Branch
The Chesterfield Branch secretary David Granger has decided to stand down at the end of 2022. Whilst he is currently preparing the meetings for 2022 he is asking if any Peak Railway Association member world like to come forward and take over for the subsequent seasons. The incoming secretary will have a full handover from David to ensure a seamless transition. Please contact David on 01246 236749.
August 24th 2021 Social Media Policy
Peak Railway Association in line with other Heritage groups is issuing its Social Media Policy. This applies to all members of the Association.
The document can be found in the Policies and Documents section
☛
HERE August 2nd 2021 PRA Sheffield Branch
The first meeting since March 2020 took place last night. A superb opener from Ted Hancock with a close look at Sheffield Midland station and its environs in the Steam era. As usual Ted’s research had unearthed some incredible images and factual information with plenty of interesting stories. A brilliant ending with a photo and story of George the station cat who sadly met his demise under the wheels of the Scotch Express.
This was also the first meeting at our new venue of Farm Road Sports and Social Club. The room being spacious and recently decorated provided a pleasant environment for the twenty two people attending.
Huge thanks to Dave Sharp for all his efforts in organising and promoting the Sheffield Branch programme.
The next meeting is on Monday Sept 6th with a digital presentation by Frank Greaves entitled ‘ Trains, Trams, Trolleys and Trivia’. Look forward to welcoming you especially if you’ve not been to one of our meetings before. Non members most welcome.
Roger Hallatt.
July 8th 2021 New board member
The directors of PRA are pleased to welcome Jacob Short to the board. He has a wealth of experience from volunteering at Peak Rail and has a full-time career in the mainline railway industry.
“I've visited peak rail since I was 3 years old and I started volunteering in May 2012 when I was 13. Due to my age, I shadowed another volunteer until I was old enough to take on duties by myself. My first volunteer position was in the ticket office and as ticket inspector, I also worked on the narrow-gauge railway.
When becoming old enough I passed for station master at all the stations and still do this today. I also do all manner of other jobs such as signalling, buffet car, ticket inspector, ticket office and steam loco fireman. Behind the scenes I work on the lineside trying to keep on top of the vegetation. Since the age of 18 I've worked on the mainline railway as duty manager and now a train service controller.”
Jacob will take on the role of Volunteer Liasion Officer working together with Jack Thompson.
June 10th 2021 Election of officers
Following the AGM on 14th May the following officers were elected.
Chairman Roger Hallatt
Vice Chairman Gordon Caro
Archives Mick Bond
Company Secretary Richard Johnson
Membership Pete Waller
Treasurer Roderick Lees
Peak Express Editor Pete Waller
In addition to the general activities, the PRA board identified the following objectives for the year as follows: -
Banking - establish on line banking facility for membership and donations
Steam crane – prepare list of works required, quotations and fundraising
Social Media Policy – prepare and publish policy to members and volunteers
Volunteering – nominate liaison officer, publish policy
Young members – investigate safeguarding and identify activities for young members
Social events – organise member and volunteer events
Steam crane – prepare list of works required, quotations and fundraising
Social Media Policy – prepare and publish policy to members and volunteers
Volunteering – nominate liaison officer, publish policy
Young members – investigate safeguarding and identify activities for young members
Social events – organise member and volunteer events
June 6th 2021 FRIENDS OF PEAK RAIL 100 CLUB
by Colin Peskett, Trustee
A total of 342 members were eligible to take part in the First Draw of 2021. As we were in lockdown for the Covid-19 crisis the draw took place in the street outside my house with witnesses. The results of the draw were as follows:
1st £256.50 (329) R Turner, Sheffield.
2nd £102.60 (256) M Lewis, Heathfield, East Sussex.
3rd £51.30 (221) J Hawes, Sheffield.
3rd £51.30 (322) M Hadwin, Sheffield.
3rd £51.30 (132) A Cull, Sheffield.
A total of 329 members were eligible to take part in the Second Draw of 2021. As we were in lockdown for the Covid-19 crisis the draw took place in the street outside my house with witnesses. The results of the draw were as follows:
1st £246.75 (024) D Mason, Arnside, Cumbria.
2nd £98.70 (204) E Hancock, Sheffield.
3rd £49.35 (001) I Cosford, Sheffield.
3rd £49.35 (365) G Smith, Colwick, Nottingham.
3rd £49.35 (245) Mrs V Grainger, Chesterfield.
The 100 Club is administered by Sheffield Branch and licensed by Sheffield City Council. If you would like to join the 100 Club then contact me for an application form by either writing to me at 10 The Ridge, Sheffield, S10 4LL or phone 0114 230 7740 and give me your address. The minimum cost is just £1 per month, payable quarterly by standing order. If you are an existing member then you might want to increase your number of entries – just give me a call or write to me for a new mandate. If you move home please advise me, as well as the PR Membership Secretary, otherwise it causes me problems sending your prize. Don’t forget the odds are better than the National Lottery.
June 1st 2021 Paul Tomlinson’s retirement from the Peak Railway Association Board
The board would like to show its appreciation for the major contribution that Paul has made to the Peak Rail project since it started in 1975. Paul along with colleagues in Derby City Council first formed the Peak Park Railway Society in the autumn of 1975. They took the brave step of organizing its first public meeting in November that year. This was well attended and the Peak Rail project was underway. Since then, Paul has played an active role in Peak Rail almost continuously and is going to continue his role as Project Director for Peak Rail plc working on the re-opening consortium proposals. It would be difficult to mention all Paul’s contributions to the membership side of Peak Rail but one key one will suffice. In 1994 he along with Geoff Turner and a number of others re-established the membership organisation after a prolonged spell where this function fell entirely under the plc who as the operating company had other priorities. The membership organisations have over time established or re-established branches in Chesterfield, Derwent Valley and more recently Buxton. These groups have remained actively involved in fund raising and recruiting volunteers to run the railway. Paul played a major role in restarting the Buxton branch and supporting the branch to clear the site which had been derelict for 30 years. So, thanks to Paul for all his work and we hope he continues to play an active role in the Peak Rail project for many years to come.
June 1st 2021 PRA AGM
Minutes of the Annual General Meeting held on Friday 14th May 2021 at 18.30hrs
Directors present Roger Hallatt (chair), Mick Bond, Gordon Caro, Richard Johnson, Jack Thompson & Pete Waller
Apologies were received from Harrold Davenport
Chairman’s welcome and introduction, and declared the meeting as quorate, and referred to article 9 of the Company’s Articles of Association which reads :-
“No business shall be transacted at any General Meeting unless a
quorum of members is present at the time when the meeting proceeds
to business; save as herein otherwise provided, forty members present
in person or voting by proxy shall be a quorum, or three per cent of the
membership, present in person or voting by proxy, whichever shall be
the smaller, shall be a quorum.”
The chair stated that 122 valid proxy votes had been received, also that the meeting was a formal meeting with a set agenda and general discussion under Report on association matters. The company is a private company limited by guarantee, with no shareholders – members only.
Voting is to be by proxy, 124 proxy forms were returned of which one was invalid and one received after the deadline. This meeting is quorate as those present plus proxies exceed our minimum quorum requirement as set out in the Articles of Association which is 40
Proxies nominated are as follows
Chair – 108
Pete Waller – 10
Gordon Caro – 3
Richard Johnson – 1
Ordinary business today to be carried by a simple majority of 51%, with chair to have any casting vote.
The minutes of the AGM held on 8th February 2020 had been sent to all members with the papers for this meeting, they were proposed by Gordon Caro, seconded by Jack Thompson, and approved on a vote of 118 in favour, 0 against and 9 abstentions.
Appointment of Directors. The Director resigning by rotation this year is Roger Hallatt. ( Jackie Statham and Paul Tomlinson having resigned prior to the meeting ) Gordon Caro was co-opted onto the board on 14th August 2020 and members are being asked to ratify his appointment,
The Re-appointment of Roger Hallatt was proposed by Richard Johnson, seconded by Mick Bond and approved on a vote of 125 in favour, 1 against and 1 abstention.
The Re-appointment of Gordon Caro was proposed by Jack Thompson, seconded by Mick Bond and approved on a vote of 124 in favour, 1 against and 2 abstentions.
To consider the accounts for the year ended 31st May 2020 which were sent out all members in full as part of the AGM notification and agenda, the accounts were proposed by Gordon Caro, seconded by Richard Johnson and approved on vote of 121 in favour, 3 against and 3 abstentions.
Mills and Black were re-appointed as examiners of the accounts, proposed by Pete Waller, seconded by Roger Hallatt and approved on a vote of 119 in favour, 6 against and 2 abstentions.
Report on Association matters
Mick Bond reported on Archives including his cataloguing of items, also an agreement to purchase block instruments from Rowsley North signal box. Preparatory work for a Heritage Lottery Fund application has also being carried out, to fund the digitisation of the archives collection.
Pete Waller reported on Membership stating that membership fees received for June 2020 to May 2021 totalled £11,594, plus additional donations from members of £4446, grand total £16,040
The directors then considered written questions from members and discussed answers.
The meeting closed at 20.30hrs
June 1st 2021 AGM Question & Answers
The board received a number of questions from members. Several related either wholly or in part to Peak Rail plc matters and the PRA directors have no authority to answer these on its behalf. Questions on finance will only be answered for the financial period under review in the published accounts.
1) Will the AGM will be quorate this year? Yes, as a result of the attendance of directors plus proxy votes from members.
2) Can members vote upon the AGM minutes from this year? It will be difficult for members to vote on minutes from this meeting as they were not present at this year’s AGM.
3) What is the minimum number of directors? Three
4) What forms a quorum for meetings? Three or one third of directors, whichever is the greater.
5) Why is there no sum shown for insurance costs in the accounts? One reason is that all PRA members who volunteer on Peak Rail are covered by the PLC’s insurance whether on or off site. Future PRA accounts will record insurance for directors and items like the steam crane separately.
6) What did the expenditure upon professional fees recorded in the accounts cover? The vast majority of these fees were for legal advice relating to a claim against the PRA and its directors by three members. This claim has now been settled by mutual agreement in full and final settlement which included an agreement for neither party to comment further on the settlement. Throughout the resolution of this issue PRA directors have sought appropriate legal advice and acted accordingly.
7) Why was PRA money spent on the Buxton site? There was a very well attended meeting at Buxton in June 2019 which led to re- establishment of a Buxton branch of the PRA. At this meeting there was overwhelming support for the proposal and to develop the Buxton Site, therefore the PRA has facilitated a clean-up of the site.
8) Should PRA should revisit its current aims? The aims are to reopen the former Midland mainline through the Peak from Matlock to Buxton. The PRA has no reason to re visit its aims at the current time.
9) Why had PRA had funded the hire of D8 Penyghent for use on the works train? The railway has been closed during the Covid 19 pandemic, and therefore the plc had minimal income. PRA took the decision to hire the locomotive D8 for 10 days use to enable the P-way Dept to carry out essential engineering works.
10) Has PRA given sufficient notice of the AGM to enable nominations to be submitted for members to become directors? An undertaking by the chairman at a previous AGM to give such notice. The board honoured its undertaking by giving advance notice of its AGM on the PRA website on 26.2.21. An earlier message on the website in January 2021 also referred to a May AGM. The board also pointed out that to have given advanced postal notice would have cost approx. £700.
11) Is there an estimate of costs to return the steam crane to service and a timescale? Gordon Caro has volunteered to project manage this. The amount of work needs determining, then costing, and once these are known we can start fund raising. Until the scope of the work is identified it is not possible to determine the timescale. Once the crane is operational it will be a visitor attraction and is hoped to bring in additional funds.
12) Has PRA got a risk management policy and if so, is a PRA director is responsible for health and safety of members? Health and Safety is a responsibility for any organisation. PRA members who volunteer for Peak Rail plc come under their safety Management System. The Peak Rail plc rules and regulations clearly state how volunteers can raise their health and safety concerns.
13) What is PRA’s policy on recruiting young members? PRA intend to develop a younger person’s policy, although there are some legislative restrictions at the current time on them taking on volunteer roles
14) What are the duties of each PRA director? Mick Bond is responsible for archives, Pete Waller for membership/Peak Express and will soon to be responsible for finance, Richard Johnson is the Company Secretary, Roger Hallatt is the chairman, and Harold Davenport is vice chairman. All directors have volunteered for their role and there are no unfilled roles at present.
15) Is there too much of an overlap of PRA/PLC directors? PRA no longer has any PLC directors on its board The PRA will consider future means of communications with Peak Rail PLC.
16) Are there any plans for the PRA to offer any refund/membership extension due to lack of Peak Express over the last 12 months? PRA have no such plans, and note that many members have made addition donations over the last 12 months, which indicates members’ recognition of issues caused by Covid 19. The board would like to thank members for their support they have shown for the PRA.
17) Is there is a legal reason why they ask members not to record the AGM? The board have no intention of altering its’ policy on this point, which is in line with most organisation’s AGM’s.
18) What plans does the board have to develop a social media presence? The board feels that this would be of limited use considering the current demographic of the membership, and Peak Express is still a valid means of communication, along with the PRA website.
19) Will PRA accept online payment of membership fees? Online banking is being actively pursued to enable online membership renewal.
2) Can members vote upon the AGM minutes from this year? It will be difficult for members to vote on minutes from this meeting as they were not present at this year’s AGM.
3) What is the minimum number of directors? Three
4) What forms a quorum for meetings? Three or one third of directors, whichever is the greater.
5) Why is there no sum shown for insurance costs in the accounts? One reason is that all PRA members who volunteer on Peak Rail are covered by the PLC’s insurance whether on or off site. Future PRA accounts will record insurance for directors and items like the steam crane separately.
6) What did the expenditure upon professional fees recorded in the accounts cover? The vast majority of these fees were for legal advice relating to a claim against the PRA and its directors by three members. This claim has now been settled by mutual agreement in full and final settlement which included an agreement for neither party to comment further on the settlement. Throughout the resolution of this issue PRA directors have sought appropriate legal advice and acted accordingly.
7) Why was PRA money spent on the Buxton site? There was a very well attended meeting at Buxton in June 2019 which led to re- establishment of a Buxton branch of the PRA. At this meeting there was overwhelming support for the proposal and to develop the Buxton Site, therefore the PRA has facilitated a clean-up of the site.
8) Should PRA should revisit its current aims? The aims are to reopen the former Midland mainline through the Peak from Matlock to Buxton. The PRA has no reason to re visit its aims at the current time.
9) Why had PRA had funded the hire of D8 Penyghent for use on the works train? The railway has been closed during the Covid 19 pandemic, and therefore the plc had minimal income. PRA took the decision to hire the locomotive D8 for 10 days use to enable the P-way Dept to carry out essential engineering works.
10) Has PRA given sufficient notice of the AGM to enable nominations to be submitted for members to become directors? An undertaking by the chairman at a previous AGM to give such notice. The board honoured its undertaking by giving advance notice of its AGM on the PRA website on 26.2.21. An earlier message on the website in January 2021 also referred to a May AGM. The board also pointed out that to have given advanced postal notice would have cost approx. £700.
11) Is there an estimate of costs to return the steam crane to service and a timescale? Gordon Caro has volunteered to project manage this. The amount of work needs determining, then costing, and once these are known we can start fund raising. Until the scope of the work is identified it is not possible to determine the timescale. Once the crane is operational it will be a visitor attraction and is hoped to bring in additional funds.
12) Has PRA got a risk management policy and if so, is a PRA director is responsible for health and safety of members? Health and Safety is a responsibility for any organisation. PRA members who volunteer for Peak Rail plc come under their safety Management System. The Peak Rail plc rules and regulations clearly state how volunteers can raise their health and safety concerns.
13) What is PRA’s policy on recruiting young members? PRA intend to develop a younger person’s policy, although there are some legislative restrictions at the current time on them taking on volunteer roles
14) What are the duties of each PRA director? Mick Bond is responsible for archives, Pete Waller for membership/Peak Express and will soon to be responsible for finance, Richard Johnson is the Company Secretary, Roger Hallatt is the chairman, and Harold Davenport is vice chairman. All directors have volunteered for their role and there are no unfilled roles at present.
15) Is there too much of an overlap of PRA/PLC directors? PRA no longer has any PLC directors on its board The PRA will consider future means of communications with Peak Rail PLC.
16) Are there any plans for the PRA to offer any refund/membership extension due to lack of Peak Express over the last 12 months? PRA have no such plans, and note that many members have made addition donations over the last 12 months, which indicates members’ recognition of issues caused by Covid 19. The board would like to thank members for their support they have shown for the PRA.
17) Is there is a legal reason why they ask members not to record the AGM? The board have no intention of altering its’ policy on this point, which is in line with most organisation’s AGM’s.
18) What plans does the board have to develop a social media presence? The board feels that this would be of limited use considering the current demographic of the membership, and Peak Express is still a valid means of communication, along with the PRA website.
19) Will PRA accept online payment of membership fees? Online banking is being actively pursued to enable online membership renewal.
April 12th 2021 PRA director resignation
Following the PRA board meeting on 9th April 2021, the first for over 6 months due to Covid restrictions, Jackie Statham offered her resignation from the board with immediate effect. Due to other directors work commitments the meetings have to be held in an evening and this is something Jackie could not commit to on an ongoing basis. Jackie has served as a director of the Association and its predecessor the Peak Railway Society for approaching 25 years. All the directors join in thanking Jackie for her invaluable support of and contribution to the PRA.
April 2nd 2021 Culture Recovery Fund for Heritage award
Peak Rail plc has been awarded a grant of £114,000 from the Governments Culture Recovery Fund phase 2 organised through the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
The grant application was led by members of the PRA on behalf of the plc.
The grant will be used to restart railway operations from Rowsley to Matlock implementing Covid 19 social distancing guidelines and practices. More information to follow.
Gordon Caro
March 28th 2021 PRA funding
Recently the PRA has funded the purchase of a pedestrian flail to assist with the lineside maintenance. It will be used to cut down on the amount of strimming needed, as it is very manoeuvrable and cuts 3ft at a time, therefore speeding the process up. It is also particularly helpful when the grass is very long and full of brambles, due to lockdown last year impeding efforts to look after the lineside.
February 26th 2021 Peak Railway Association Annual General Meeting
The AGM will take place on Friday 14th May at 18.30 Darley Dale Station. Unfortunately, due to ongoing Covid 19 regulations, members will not be able to attend in person. Members will receive their AGM papers in mid April. Voting will be by Proxy. Members will be able to put forward questions for the Directors to consider and responses will be posted on the PRA website.
February 20th 2021 Membership News
I imagine that by now many members will be wondering why no issues of Peak Express were published last year. Well the good news is that I am in the process of putting the next issue together and it is currently two thirds done. I had hoped to have it finished by now but unfortunately most of the time I have had available over the last two months has been taken up with membership renewals. A more complete explanation will be included as my editorial in the forthcoming magazine. An editorial that has had to be re-written several times as the situation has evolved through the various lockdowns and restrictions brought about to control Covid-19. However it is membership that is the focus of this update.
Most members, other than life members, will know that their renewal notices have for many years been sent out with the edition of Peak Express nearest to their renewal date. This was followed by a reminder letter, where necessary, sent with the following edition, a system that has worked reasonably well in the past. Sadly the past bears little resemblance to the much changed world we now inhabit.
In early May last year (2020) when it became apparent that it was not going to possible to publish Peak Express for the foreseeable future the decision was taken to send out the membership renewal notices separately. The renewal letter was first rewritten to take account of the situation and it was decided I would print them as required rather than having them printed commercially as we had done previously. This presented no problem as I have a high output laser printer, a relic from when I ran my own business, and it meant the letters could be amended at short notice as situations changed. I recall making five minor updates during the year. Then I ordered 300 second class stamps from the Post Office online shop at a total cost of £195 and was disappointed to be charged £5 plus vat for delivery of an order of that value. Incidentally the Post Office closed their online shop, which had an amazing range of stationary and office equipment, at the end of August last year. With ample stock of paper and envelopes I began printing and packing the hundreds of letters as a backlog of renewals had built up since the last edition of Peak Express had been sent out. This was followed by a late night trip to the local post box. I had been unable to decide if this was classed as essential travel during the lockdown, perhaps it could have been classed as my permitted daily exercise, all 300 yard there and back. The postman was certainly in for a surprise the following morning when he emptied the village post box.
While I waited for the inevitable deluge of membership renewals to return I made some changes to the thank you letter that is sent with the new membership card.
A letter I have always printed myself since taking over as membership administrator.
When the renewals started arriving, in large batches sent on from the office in Matlock, the results were amazing both in the response and that many members had made very generous donations over and above their membership fee. There were a couple of members who did not wish to renew and took the time to return the form giving their reasons, for this I thank them and for their past support.
For the remainder of the year and into this year I have continued sending out renewal notices at roughly eight week intervals followed by reminders where necessary a few weeks later. This arrangement does have the advantage of spreading the workload more evenly throughout the year rather than having a few hectic periods processing hundreds of renewals and then a lull until the next magazine is sent out.
The following table shows membership receipts and donations by month from the start of the financial year.
Month
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
January
Total
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
January
Total
MembFees
£2,963.00
£981.00
£805.00
£375.00
£1,005.00
£370.00
£190.00
£1,639.00
───────
£8,328.00
£2,963.00
£981.00
£805.00
£375.00
£1,005.00
£370.00
£190.00
£1,639.00
───────
£8,328.00
Donations
£709.00
£253.00
£728.00
£90.00
£203.00
£173.00
£37.00
£971.00
───────
£3,164.00
£709.00
£253.00
£728.00
£90.00
£203.00
£173.00
£37.00
£971.00
───────
£3,164.00
Total
£3,672.00
£1,234.00
£1,533.00
£465.00
£1,208.00
£543.00
£227.00
£2,610.00
───────
£11,492.00
£3,672.00
£1,234.00
£1,533.00
£465.00
£1,208.00
£543.00
£227.00
£2,610.00
───────
£11,492.00
The directors of the Association wish to thank all the members who made such generous donations. Our current thinking is that the donations should be held in a ring fenced fund for a future project that will acknowledge our members generosity.
Finally, in our renewal letters we ask members to consider including a stamped addressed envelope, to be used for the return of their membership card, with their application. A good many members do enclose one and while this may seem to be a small gesture on the part of the member it does save us a considerable amount in postage. I counted the number that sent an SAE in January and can report that it saved us £42-90 in postage alone along with a saving of my time processing each renewal.
My thanks go to all those who were kind enough to take the time to do so.
Pete Waller
Membership Administrator
February 20th 2021 Rowsley South Signalbox
When Darley Dale signalbox was relocated to Rowsley South we were privileged to obtain, from the National Railway museum, the very rare LMS turnover style lever frame which came from Barrow Hill South Junction signalbox when it was closed back in the late 1980s. The lever frame also came with some point operating boxes and the self balancing weight gear which keeps the tension in the wire driven signalling system. The two pairs of weights originally came from Sandy on the Eastern region of British Railways. All of the above has been supplemented by other items found as far away as Cumbria.
Once we had both the lever frame and the majority of its operating equipment we were ready to put together the only working example of its kind in the United Kingdom.
The turnover system uses smaller levers, with 180 degrees of movement, to operate both points and signals using a system of wires that allow equipment to be worked at far greater distances than rod worked systems. This double wire system is still in use throughout much of Asia, Australia and Europe.
With the unique lever frame and the location of the signalbox being near the entrance to Rowsley site it made sense to design the signalbox to have some limited access to visitors, allowing them to see what signalling is about and how it works.
To this end the upper operating floor of the signalbox is separated into the working portion which also has a display block shelf to show the layout of a traditional signalbox. In the public area there are associated information panels describing the equipment, and how it works. There are also some displays of the previous signalboxes that existed here to control the once extensive Rowsley freight yards. A signaller’s block bell has been provided for visitors to try and there is also one lever set aside from the main frame which operates a ground signal outside. This has been designed so that very little effort is required to operate the lever meaning that even children can try their hand and be a part of the experience.
We were also very lucky in obtaining the ex British Railways Darley Dale signalbox diagram and this has been mounted up in the roof space of the public area as an interactive illuminated exhibit.
In the ground floor of the signalbox some interactive signalling displays have been provided of both modern and old signalling equipment. A colour light signal has been installed that can be operated by visitors along with a large fish tank type relay, themselves now rare. This enables the interlocking aspect of railway signalling, normally hidden from view, to be seen.
The design of the signalbox is driven around allowing visitors to see how the signalbox functions, how it’s worked and give them the opportunity to have a go under supervision.
The experience would not have been possible without the help of the Peak Railway Association who raised the funds through the annual raffle. Our special thanks go to Ben Riley and Jacob Short who obtained much of the original heritage furniture and fittings such as the wall block, the large LMSR stove, the signallers lockers and various signalling instruments. Thanks go to Andrew and Rob for the design and construction of the framework that supports the signalbox, the weight supports, stairs, door and fencing, also to John, Dave, Rodney and Richard for fitting out the signalbox and installing the point equipment. A mention should also be made of the many individuals who made the missing parts for the outside equipment and helped to dig the many holes to mount it all in.
A short film of the signalbox interior can be seen on You Tube: Click Here
Dominic Beglin: S & T Dept Manager.
February 10th 2021
Buxton Site
We have had some enquiries recently about what is going on at the Buxton Site. The answer is short, nothing. I should expand on that a little. The neighbouring construction site has been very busy since the New Year. The developers have a lot of heavy construction equipment on site which can be seen from Station Road. To the north of our boundary the ground is elevated above the Peak Rail site and there has been a lot of work there recently Sometimes this looks like the diggers are on the Peak Rail site, but I can assure you that they are not. The most recent acquisition to the neighbour’s site is a tower crane. The developers have piled the ground and constructed a ring beam and are now completing the foundations. It is expected that they will be there for the remainder of this year.
I inspected the Peak Rail site earlier this week and all is well, covered in three inches (75mm) of snow. The work on the boundary fencing which the volunteers completed last year when work was allowed has stood up to its first winter. When restrictions ease, we will be back there starting the maintenance i.e., weeding.
Gordon Caro
January 26th 2021 Message from the Chairman
Dear Member.
All of our lives have been impacted to some degree or other by Coronavirus. Many will know of family and friends who have become seriously ill or sadly died after contracting the virus, including PRA members and volunteers.
The virus has had a dramatic impact on Peak Rail with no trains running from mid March 2020. This has had a huge impact on the finances of Peak Rail Plc especially with the cancellation of the 2020 Santa Specials. The target is to reopen for Easter though this is obviously subject to Government restrictions. Reopening will not be straightforward. There are guidelines from the Office of Road and Rail to be followed. All volunteers involved in the operation of Peak Rail services will need to be contacted beforehand. This will inform them of relevant Risk Assessments and mitigations regarding Coronavirus put in place by the Plc to protect both volunteers and the visiting public. On this basis and with an input into such practices volunteers will come to a decision on when they feel it is safe for them to return. The current vaccination program may have a considerable bearing on this. On returning volunteers need to have their competency for undertaking duties re-evaluated. Then, on a practical level, a practice timetable must be run to further reacquaint volunteers with their duties and to test the Coronavirus mitigations put in place to protect them and the public. The role of the volunteer is vital to the ongoing success of Peak Rail. Their support will be all the more vital not only for normal operating days but also the usual and new special events.
The activities of the PRA have also been seriously disrupted, not least in fund raising events such as the annual raffle and within the Branches. However, your continued support of PRA has been tremendous. This has been evidenced by the very high rate of membership renewals throughout 2020. These renewals have also been accompanied by a significant level of donations.
In the near future members will receive the next edition of Peak Express. Please accept the apologies of the Directors for lack of a magazine through 2020. With the Railway closed there has been little current news to publish in a magazine. However, I do hope that some members have seen the PRA Blog on the Plc website throughout last year. This was an attempt to keep members informed which will now be achieved through the PRA’s own website.
I’ve asked Mills & Black, the PRA accountants, to seek a three-month extension with Companies House for registering the accounts with them. This will enable the AGM to be delayed until late May. However, I doubt even by this date that Coronavirus regulations will have been relaxed sufficiently to allow meetings of large groups indoors.
The PRA has made a significant financial contribution to the Plc through the purchase of its Steam Crane. There is a need to do more as the Railway moves to reopen. However, with the finances of the PRA depleted, due to limited fundraising, this is difficult. Renewing your membership and with a donation included has helped to provide an income for the Association. Further donations will be gratefully received and put to good use.
The PRA Directors have also become involved in helping Peak Rail Plc apply for available grants. At the moment this is focused on the latest Cultural Recovery Grant with an application deadline of the 26th January. The PRA will be making an application for a Heritage Lottery Fund grant which opened in late November. Together with the Plc and DWVT attention will then focus on a much larger HLF grant opening in February.
Finally, could I draw your attention to Peak District Local Plan Survey from the Peak District National Park. Interested individuals can complete this survey by Sunday 7th February 2021. Question 24 asks for views about changing the current policy of safeguarding the Monsal Trail for future rail use to that of safeguarding for its current use. There is an opportunity at the end to add your views on any of the issues covered by the survey. Please note that you will have to complete the whole survey.
The survey can be found at Smartsurvey.
On behalf of the Directors of Peak Railway Association may I wish you all the very best for 2021. Echoing the sentiment of many let’s hope, in the end, it’s a much better one than 2020.
Roger Hallatt
Chair PRA.