LIVING STEAM HISTORY

RMT helpline 0800 376 3706 :: november/december 2017 :: RMTnews 26 The history of the East Anglian Railway Museum is one of hard work as dedicated enthusiasts and volunteers continue to fight for the survival of an important piece of regional industrial and cultural heritage. The museum is based at the Chappel and Wakes Colne railway station, a working station through which trains pass every half an hour. This working line, which had been targeted for closure by Beeching’s axe, still runs across the famous Chappel viaduct, which has 32 arches and stands 23 metres high, one of the largest brick-built structures in England. Museum volunteer Peter Robinson explains that the threat from Beeching to shut the entire line over the iconic viaduct was lifted just two days before its imminent closure and plans for a heritage line had already been put in place. The Stour Valley Railway Preservation Society was initially formed in 1968 with the aim of preserving the recently closed stretch of line from Sudbury to Long Melford, a distance of some three miles. However, lack of funding meant this project was unsuccessful and the line was lost. The following year the society re-established at Chappel and Wakes Colne station after securing a lease from British Rail for the derelict goods yard, goods shed, signal box and station buildings. Members were faced with a daunting task – the site was without electricity and the track had been dismantled LIVING STEAM HISTORY The East Anglian Railway Museum is drawing in ever more visitors for its legendary steam days and beer festivals