OK, there is a bit more. This latest version of the guide, at 70 pages, is far more than a simple stock list. The text takes the reader from the earliest days of the Glen, and then the railway at the end of it. It introduces the steam locos, then their electric replacements, and exactly how badly those worked out.
We go through dereliction, and gradual restoration before coming up to the present day.
Only after this, do we cover each locomotive, including a few no longer on the line. All the stock gets a moment in the sun too, and that includes the all-important working wagons.
My only worry, is that this is such a good history, it negates the hardback history that is also an impressive read. That said, it's perfect, and well priced at under a tenner, for the normal visitors the line attracts. If they read the contents, a little of the magic of my favourite railway line will be revealed.
Only available from Flavel's Emporium on the line, so go pay a visit!
I've still not managed to go to the Isle of Man, hope to finally do so as I transition into retirement. Of all the railways there, this is the one I really want to visit. I have the Plateway Press book, this new one looks good too. As is the hardback, but postage on that is crazy.
ReplyDeleteThe hardback book is superb, and when I was there, only a couple of copies remained. A new edition is likely, which of course, I'll have to buy! The Groudle is well worth the visit, a truly special little line, on an island of fascinating railways.
ReplyDeleteI think I’m right in saying the last two copies of the hardback book were sold during the Transport Festival. That just leaves the display copy at Sea Lion Rocks. Rosemary has decreed it will remain on display for visitors to browse. It may or may not be actioned off to the highest bidder at the end of the season.
ReplyDeleteChris TGG