Editorial

More good news in this issue of Phoenix. Let’s hope we can keep this up all year!

Not only is RVR the proud owner of a steam locomotive, Charwelton - see page 9 - but we now understand that work is in hand on new detailed drawings for tackling the bridges that lie between Robertsbridge and North Bridge Street, signalling again the Trust’s aim of making this stretch the next planned extension of our railway. We understand too that work is planned to shot-blast and paint the old Staplehurst bridge sections remaining at Robertsbridge, so that they are ready to be used when needed. What is more, promising discussions have been held with the Railway Inspectorate about our requirements for road crossings. No further details are available just yet, but these new initiatives show the head of steam building up these days, and the tantalising prospect of a start to some significant new work before too long, authorities permitting.

KESR continue with plans for what is now being called the Junction Road weekend. The dates now are 19 & 20 March 2011, and special KESR trains will run along the RVR eastern extension near to Junction Road, bringing passengers there for the first time since the enthusiasts’ specials of the 1960s. See below.

It looks as if KESR are taking quite an interest in us these days, with a positive tone evident in both the Terrier and statements from the management. For example the new KESR chairman Geoff Crouch said on being elected “...I also look forward to future developments which in cooperation with the RVR will one day see services extended to Robertsbridge, thus completing the work started so many years ago by our founding fathers”.

We’re delighted to welcome four new regular volunteers to the RVR fold this autumn, namely Jack and Bob, David and Mark. We will try and hang on to them.

This issue includes a short piece about proposed changes to the RVRSA constitution to add two new classes of membership. Our AGM is now set for 28 May 2011, and we are hoping for a good turnout.

May I wish all our readers a happy New Year. It promises to be an exciting one.

Steve Griffiths (editor)