OFFICIAL OPENING OF

THE DISCOVERY CENTRE 

Dick with Audrey Gebbie.

You should all be aware by now that many people have been working very hard on the new Discovery Centre (Education building) at the signal box. Saturday the 14th September 2024 was the date for the official opening. Several dignitaries were in attendance.

I think it is safe to say that Audrey Gebbie was very proud to have the Discovery Centre dedicated to her. It was Audrey who, after all, was the instigator in saving the signal box for future generations to enjoy and learn from.

Group photo of all in attendance at the opening.

Another great achievement by our hard working volunteers at Romsey Signal Box Working Museum.

As with any museum there are always things to do and things that perhaps can be improved upon, but we have come a very long way from our humble beginnings.

WELL DONE EVERYONE! ALL YOUR HARD WORK IS VERY MUCH APPRECIATED!

Dave

COWLEY BRIDGE MODEL

 For those who didn't know, we have a very detailed model of Cowley Bridge junction. It stands just in front of our scale lever frame, which is operated on open days.

The illumination for the model failed recently and so new lighting has been installed.

Hayden and James working Cowley bridge.

I personally have been having some training on Cowley Bridge. This was provided by Colin Varney, who very generously gave up two days to guide me through the intricacies of this lever frame. I'm sure there were many other hours taken up with planning the training sessions. I would like to thank Colin for his very much appreciated help.

I have since returned to "have a go" on my own on two or three occasions when we were closed to the public. I was very pleased and have to say that something must have sunk into the old brainbox!

Cowley Bridge can be quite involved and at times there are trains running all over the place, but it is quite rewarding, although concentration is required at times, especially when you are still a novice.

More practice required I think!

Dave Trewern

 NEW SLEEPERS BEING INSTALLED...

Work on installing the FPL (Facing point lock) progresses.

Ballast was moved out of the way and the rails lifted clear of the rotten sleepers.

Old sleepers removed and new ones installed.

Progress is definitely being made and it's no mean feat. Rails and sleepers are extremely heavy objects, and all this work is being carried out manually.

Well done team!

A NEW BOOK WRITTEN BY COLIN VARNEY

Colin is a valued member of the Friends of Romsey Signal Box. He is regularly there on open days and working days. He spent several decades as a signalman and is therefore full of useful knowledge.

Colin has published this book which promises to be an excellent read. It is 285 pages long and no doubt packed with interesting facts and stories. He has also very kindly donated many copies to the signal box. The profit from these books goes directly towards the signal box funds.

My British Rail Life normally sells for £13.99 but is a bargain at just £10.00 at the signal box.

The queue of volunteers for a signed copy at the open day on 2nd June.

If you would like a copy please ask on your next visit, or contact us on info@romseysignalbox.org.uk.

If you would like it signed I am sure this could be arranged. 

Your support is always greatly appreciated.

DISCOVERY CENTRE DEDICATED TO AUDREY GEBBIE

Dick showing Audrey the temporary new sign.

For those who perhaps are not aware Audrey Gebbie was the headmistress of the school on what is now the housing estate adjacent to the museum. It is thanks to her that the signal box was saved all those years ago. The discovery centre, being our main education building is the obvious place to dedicate to this lovely lady. 

 

Audrey showing Colin and Chris how it's done in the signal box.

COWLEY BRIDGE IS ON THE MOVE... 

Haydon and James working Cowley Bridge on an open day.

Our "mobile" Cowley Bridge junction exhibit has not been out for a long time, but is now about to have a weekend away at Southampton Solent Sky museum. The date is the 8th and 9th June, which coincides with the Southampton Tram Society open weekend at the same museum.

Do come along. The museum itself is a hidden gem with plenty to see, and the weekend has the added bonuses of Cowley Bridge and the trams. Well worth a visit!

More Interesting Objects... 

This is a short section of third rail.

Pick-ups on the train run along this rail to collect the 750v DC electricity to power the train. There are gaps in these third rails at various places, such as level crossings. The train having several pick-ups ensures there is always one or more in contact with the rail.

Obviously this rail is purely for demonstration and is not connected to anything.

With the rail carrying 750v DC it would not be a good idea to get near or touch it.

Dave