NEWS AND DISCUSSION

Latest news, announcements and discussion will appear here. Archive news on the Beavertail project appears on the BEAVERTAIL page. Note that more detailed updates on the Mountsorrel Railway project will appear on the Mountsorrel Railway website.
If you are an RVP member this is your page - I welcome comments, messages, news items, project updates, pictures and will publish (almost!) anything - e-mail me web@rvp-ltd.org.uk. If you're not a member (why not?) then questions and queries are welcomes.
NOTE: The website is now hosted on a new server - it is hoped all previously unavailable photos are now back on-line. If you find any errors while browing the site please let us know (e-mail above)

• 26th JULY 2010 - 1V86 MAKES ITS DEBUT! - The complete mark 1 TPO set, immaculate in 1960s Royal Mail red, made its debut as planned during last weekends gala event. Photo HERE shows 26007 bringing the set into Loughborough prior to the first run. Unfortunately the 26 had a minor brake problem and it was quickly replaced by D8098 for the first mail exchange on the Saturday. Nevertheless the delay was minimal and the TPO crew (and restoration team) are seen HERE prior in Loughborough yard. Other than this minor loco change all 8 of the mail exchanges ran as planned, with locos 1744, "Pitchford Hall", and (most appropriately) 1960s liveried Deltic D9009, laying its own smokescreen over the exchange equipment. Our thanks to all who have supported our appeals to get the mark 1 TPO set to this stage; it really does make a striking sight and will no doubt become an increasingly popular part of GCR events. Our thanks also to the GCR operating team for putting on another magnificent display of a busy main line railway. Finally thanks to our young assistant , who single handedly wheeled the mail bags back to Quorn station after each exchange, and who refused all offers of assistance from the regular team! (Seen passing the LNER TPO set in Quorn yard, which was open for display throughout the weekend).
• MAIL BY RAIL 2010 - LAUNCH OF THE COMPLETE "1V86" MARK 1 TPO SET - July 24th/25th sees our major gala on the Great Central Railway. This year is particularly significant as the complete mark 1 TPO set will make its debut; all four coaches are now repainted in 1960s livery (but we're deliberately not putting a photo of them together on here until after the gala!). They will perform four mail exchange runs each day, with an extra one on Saturday night. Locos used will include a visiting Deltic and "Pitchford Hall". The GCR will be operating an intensive passenger service and our LNER TPO set will also be on display at Quorn. For full details of train times and fares see the GCR WEBSITE.
• 30th MAY 2010 - BEAVERTAIL ON TOUR 2010 - Our Beavertail Observation Car 1719E has gone on its summer holidays; this year to the neighbouring BATTLEFIELD LINE. It left the GCR this week and is expected to operate every weekend until 6th September (see the timetable on their website). The Battlefield line is home to LNER B1 1306 "Mayflower", which was resident on the GCR in the 1980s and ran with the Beavertail last year at Llangollen. If you are visiting the GCR this summer do also consider making the short trip across Leciestershire to see some different scenery out of the observation windows.
• 25th MAY 2010 - TPO UPDATE - We are pleased to report that the appeal to purchase Post office Sorter No.80301 was successful; the vehicle is now in RVP's ownership and its continued service in mail exchanges on the GCR is assured. Our thanks to those who have donated, Museums, Libraroes and Archives (Science museum; who provided £4,000 towards the purchase), and to Alan & Tracy Lear (who initially bought the vehicle for use on the GCR and placed it on loan to us 10 years ago). BUT DON'T PUT YOUR CHEQUEBOOK DOWN YET! As you may know, our other three TPO vehicles (80349, 80438 and 80458) have all recently recieved repaints in 1959 Royal Mail livery (see below). While 80301 has carried this livery since 2001 it was overdue for a repaint. To maximise the impact of the whole train appearing in ex-works condition the decision has been taken to repaint 80301 too, before the July gala. We therefore need to raise a further £2,000 to cover this - work has already started in anticipation. The complete set will make its debut in the Mail by Rail gala - JULY 24/25th - at which there will be frequent mail exchanges using the Mark 1 set. The appearance of a complete ex-works TPO train will be striking (and a first in preservation); make a date in your diaries, but also consider sending a cheque to help out (payable to RVP Ltd, with 80301 on the back, to 26 Cliff Park Avenue, Wakefield, WF1 2DW).
• 14th MAY 2010 - THE MOUNTSORREL BRANCH IS BACK!!! - We don't generally post updates on the project to restore our section of the former Mountsorrel Railway on this page now - leaving it to the team running the project to provide comprehensive news on the project's web page at MountsorrelRailway.org.uk. However we can't not report news as significant as this - THE BRANCH IS BACK! During the workweek this week the junction point at Swithland, the associated trap point, and the first section of the branch itself has been relaid. As these photos HERE and and HERE this is an impressive junction involving a specially constructed curved point nose and associated constant curve as the branch sweeps away. The track now extends over the GCR / RVP boundary, with approx 150ft of track now laid ont he RVP section - the first time in RVPs 42 year history that we''ve had our own stretch of railway!! Of course this is just the start - we urgently need more funds as this is now the only thing stopping the branch from reaching the end of the prepared formation 3/4 mile away. See the Mountsorrel Railway page for full details or just send a cheque payable to RVP Ltd (with Mountsorrel Rly on the back) to 26 Cliff Park Av, Wakefield, WF1 2DW. We must record our sincere thanks to the GCR Permanent Way team who masterminded the relaying of the junction and have provided considerable assistance and guidance this week.
• 11th APRIL 2010 - Restoration progress - The heavy restoration of Gresley buffet car 24278 is now approaching completion. The interior is the focus of intense activity and is now taking on an appearance similar to its original 1937 styling - as these photos HERE and HERE show. The decor gives an clean and open look to the saloon, if somewhat cold. The similarities with the original interior colour scheme of the Beavertail cars built at about the same time is also clear. Obviously Mr Gresley liked blue! Work is now focussed on the kitchen. It is expected the completed vehicle will makes its passenger debut later in the year, and the GCR's teak carriage shed will slowly start to take shape (Brake pigeon van 4050 already running in this style).
  SECOND TPO COMPLETED - the restoration of Mark 1 Brake Post Office Tender No.80458 is also now complete, and it has emerged from Rothley shed in full 1960's red livery to match 80438 (see below). It is seen stabled at Swithland HERE . The third repiant, 80349, is now well underway. The first appearance of the complete train in this colour scheme will be in the July Mail by Rail gala (24/5th) - when the four coaches in this livery will make a striking site. To keep this special we're deliberately not showing a photo of the vehicles together until that weekend!
• 28th MARCH 2010 - 1960s GALA - This weekends GCR gala saw mail exchanges with "Tornado", but also saw the first runs of all three restored Mountsorrel Granite wagons in a freight train. The photo HERE shows 47406 picking the wagons up from the siding at Quorn for a trip up the line.
• 26th MARCH 2010 - DAVID MOULDER - It is with sadness that we have to report the death of Dave, earlier this month. Dave was one of several RVP members who were real TPO men, having spent his working life on the mail network until it ended in 2004. He then joined RVP and continued to work our TPO trains with some of his former colleagues. We are proud of the fact that those involved with this unusual line of work in their careers are able to consider our current recreations sufficiently close to the real thing to be able to feel fully at home. Dave was able to describe TPO work in the way that only those closely involved could do; this helped immensely in making our TPO trains the important part of living history that they are. Dave was due to be on duty during the mail exchanges taking place on the GCR this weekend so the loss will be particularly felt this weekend. Our sympathy to his family at this difficult time.
• 20th MARCH 2010 - URGENT APPEAL - Post Office Sorter 80301. This Travelling Post Office vehicle has been in our care for ten years and is an essential part of our "1V86" Mark 1 TPO train; it has the exchange equipment fitted and has been in its original 1959 livery since 2001. OIt was purchased for preservation by two RVP members and placed on long term loan to us. Unfortunately one of those owners is now seriously ill and the vehicle needs to be sold. RVP was offered first refusal and we have reached an agreement to buy. Furthermore we have successfully obtained a sizeable PRISM grant through the Science Museum towards its purchase. However we nedd to raise the rest of the purchase monies (and hopefully some excess to fund a repaint now due) immediately. We need £4,000 to ensure 80301 remains with us in full operating condition on the GCR. If you have enjoyed watching it perform mail exchanges please make a donation - cheques payable to RVP Ltd and with 80301 written on the back; sent to 26 Cliff Park Avenue, Wakefield, WF1 2DW (please indicate if you want a receipt).
• 6th MARCH 2010 - 80438 Ex-works HERE, and round the other side the team adding the Finishing touches.
• 24th FEB 2010 - 80438 COMPLETED - the first of our mark 1 TPO repaints is now fully complete. Tender vehicle 80438 is seen outside Rothley shed completed with lettering and lining HERE. Sister vehicle 80458 is now in the shed recieving the same treatment.
• 10th FEB 2010 - UPDATE - The first Mark 1 TPO to recieve its repaint, 80438, is now virtually completed as this Photo Shows. Final varnishing will be complete shortly, but the intention is not to return the vehicle to traffic until the full set of four vehicles is ready for unveiling together at the July "Mail by Rail" gala.
  Next vehicle into the shed for a quick repaint will be six wheeled brake van (BZ) 70654E - expected to take only a couple of weeks, after which the TPO repainting will continue with 80458.
  Also very near completion is teak buffet car 24278 - this is now outside the shed - Photo, but will go back in again shortly for final lining and varnishing. The interior work is also rapidly taking shape and the vehicle will return to service by this summer.
• 2nd FEB 2010 - UPDATE - The gala weekend was very successful; the two mail trains each day operating without problems (and with spectacular perfromances from locos Leander and Oliver Cromwell). The train operated with just three carriages; 80438 being on display in Rothley shed in its new coat of Royal Mail red livery. This had been completed the week before and is now having the lining and lettering completed. The next TPO vehicle in for a repaint is expected to be 80458. The Beavertail car operated on a total of 11 round trips; all but the first and last each day being full to capacity as this Photo shows.
  Also at Rothley over the weekend and visible from passing trains (but sadly not accessible to those visiting the shed) was teak buffet car 24278. This is now rapidly nearing completion and interior work on the bar and buffet counter is now progressing well - Photo here. This vehicle is almost certain to enter service this year.
  Finally our annual meal was held at the GC Hotel on the Saturday night; 40 members joining us with several doing their best to drink the bar dry!
• 24th JAN 2010 - GCR WINTER GALA 30&31st JAN - this coming weekend sees the GCR winter gala, with an LMS theme. As usual the TPO set will be out; mail drops at Quorn at 10:33 and 4:33 each day. The BEAVERTAIL will also be in use - supplement of £3 per round trip to use it. Rothley shed will be open, and contains the first of our repainted TPO vehicles, 80438, currently awaiting lettering and numbering to complete it. Also in the shed is the third Mountsorrel Granite wagon undergoing restoration. The sales and display stand will also be out.
• RVP ANNUAL MEAL - Our annual meal will be held on Saturday 30th Jan 2010 at the Great Central Hotel, Loughborough - £17 per head for the three courses and coffee. Places are limited so please contact darren@rvp-ltd.org.uk as soon as possible if you wish to reserve a place. This is the Saturday night of the GCR winter gala - at which there should be two TPO runs each day, the Beavertail running and probably Rothley shed open for visitors.
• 19th NOVEMBER 2009 - Branch Ballasting Completed! - The laying of ballast on the final 300 yard part our section of the Mountsorrel Railway was completed yesterday. This completes the ballasted trackbed from the junction with the GCR at Swithland, throughout the whole of our section, ending 3/4 mile away on Lafarge property just short of Wood Lane bridge. As these photos HERE, HERE, andHERE, show this creates a most impressive sight as the formation curves away from the GCR main line.Our sincere thanks to McCanns of Nottingham, who generously provided the plant used to lay the ballast at no cost. Our thanks also to Steve Cramp and the large volunteer team who have created not only this transformation, but also successfully encouraged the local community to get fully involved. The result is remarkable and as the SIGN SAYS the Mountsorrel Railway is indeed coming soon! WE NOW NEED FUNDS - there is now nothing but cash stopping this becoming an operational branch off the GCR. We need between £60,000 and £80,000 to pay for track materials to lay track on the RVP section. The goodwill we've had so far has seen the project cost very littel to get this far, but we are unlikely to get track materials to this value donated. Please consider making a donation which can quickly be turned into real progress. Donations can be sent by cheque (payable to RVP Ltd, but write Mountsorrel Railway on the rear) sent to 26 Cliff Park Avenue, Wakefield, WF1 2DW or see the Mountsorrel Railway website for more detail on this project and ways to support it.
• 9th NOVEMBER 2009 - RVPs AGM was held in the Beavertail Car at Loughborough on Saturday. Many thanks to the members attending (and apologies for not having enough seats). Points of note include:
  NEW DIRECTOR Robert Parker was elected to the board. Robert joined us about a year ago and has assisted greatly in increasing the progress rate on buffet car 24278s restoration. He offered to join the board to improve communication with the regular volunteer teams at Rothley, something which is always difficult in volunteer groups made of individuals able to give differing amounts of time. We are sure Robert will be able to greatly improve this and his practical experience should also ease the pressure on other members of the team.
  NEW TREASURER Our long term treasurer, David Petterson, resigned from the board last year and progressively wishes to transfer his duties to others. Nick Mawby, an accountant by profession and previous volunteer with us, has kindly offered to take up the treasurers role and the process of transferring that responsibiliy has now begun. There should be no interruption as far as our ongoing activites are concerned. Donations will still be received in the usual ways and expenditure made through the established procedures; only the person behind the scenes will change. For the time being David Petterson retains his role as company secretary, and will continue advising us on legal matters. Of course, if anyone wants to take over these duties please step forward!
  We welcome both to the team and many thanks to our membership for the continued support and interest over the past year.
• 25th OCTOBER 2009 - SECOND MOUNTSORREL WAGON COMPLETED - the second (of three) Mountsorrel Granite Co Wagons has now been completed. As this PHOTO shows this is a three plank and therefore has a slightly revised livery. Full detail and history of the wagon will follow in due course. Behind the wagon (in the photo) buffet car 24278 continues to take great strides forward, now recieving coats of varnish. Also Rothley shed now has a fully functional CCTV system using the equipment donated by Loughborough University.
• 6th OCTOBER 2009 - GCR STEAM GALA - The GCR's major steam gala takes place this weekend (9/10/11th October) with an impressive line up of predominantly freight motive power and the usual intensive timetable. RVP plays its part with three TPO mail exchanges on the Saturday (10:30, 16:30 and 18:30 at Quorn), and two on the Sunday (times as the first two on Saturday). The BEAVERTAIL car will also be in use and available to passengers throughout the event. See www.gcrailway.co.uk for full details. We will also have the LNER TPO set open for display at Quorn, the Mountsorrel Railway wagon on display at Quorn, and free bus connections for walking tours of the Mountsorrel branch. Finally our sales stand will be out - but we'd really welcome some help with this - any RVP members able to man the stand for a few hours over the weekend please contact info@rvp-ltd.co.uk.
• 16th SEPTEMBER 2009 - Detailed history of the Mountsorrel Granite wagon (B477060) is now on the vehicle history page. (Scroll to the bottom of the page when you reach that page).
• 5th SEPTEMBER 2009 - MOUNTSORREL GRANITE WAGON COMPLETED! - The first of three open wagons being repainted into Mountsorrel Granite Co. livery has been completed, as this photo SHOWS. These wagons are being repainted to promote the project to rebuild the branch line; for the time being they will displayed around the GCR, but we obviously hope to use them on the branch they refer to in the not too distant future! The livery details are accurate, based on photographs and the recollections of local people, and the quarry had many similar wagons in this livery which would have operated along the branch during its working life. However we should point out (for the historians out there) that the wagon itself is BR example which never carried this livery until now (details of the history of the wagon will follow shortly). Many thanks to the team of volunteers who produced this result, and also to the wagon owner for agreeing to its repainting.
  NEW WEBSITE - As you will see the new website is now fully up and running, and can be accessed by www.rvp-ltd.org.uk as well as ww.rvp-ltd.co.uk. There may still be a few photos and archive pages missing; hopefully these will be corrected shortly, but if you spot any errors let me know (rvp_ltd@btinternet.com)
• 4th SEPTEMBER 2009 - The tidying and re-organisation of Rothley yard took a major step forward today with the delivery of our new 40ft Container. This will be used to give us more working space, and we intend to repaint it to something a little less conspicuous! Various stores vans and containers were also moved both for RVP and the GCR - our thanks to all those involved for their co-operation in getting the site tidied.
  Meanwhile work continues on 24278 - the interior seeing great activity with the Ceiling Panelling now being fitted.
• 3rd AUGUST 2009 - WELCOME to the new updated website; it should look much the same as before, but will no longer have adverts on it and has a lot more space. It is hoped to add many more photos in the coming months and reinstate those that had to be removed because of space constraints.
• 2nd AUGUST 2009 - 1V86 TPO COMPLETED!! The Mail by Rail gala last weekend included the speical diagramming of Peak D123 to work the four vehicle Mark 1 TPO set. This was to mark the return to service of the complete train, a significant milestone in this important project. As you may know the group restoring the vehicles chose the title "1V86 TPO Group" in memory of the overnight Newcastle - Plymouth mail train of the recent past. Peaks were regularly diagrammed for this train which was, of course, formed of Mark 1 TPO vehicles (In particular 80349 was certainly used on this route recent past). To mark the event the Peak ran with the headcode 1V86 on the Sunday morning of the gala - as the photos HERE, HERE, and HERE show. Congratulations to the team involved in getting the train to this stage and our thanks to those donors who made it possible. The work isn't quite complete, and work to repaint the three vehicles currently carrying faded red livery will start shortly. The finished set is expected to be unveiled in early 2010.
  After the gala the Mark 1 set was added to the LNER pair for a shunt move to Swithland yard. As far as we know this is the first time all of our TPO vehicles have been formed into one train (and this is not likely to occur during any event since LNER and BR TPO vehicles would never have run together in normal service). It does make an impressive sight though as these photos show - 80438 nearest, 70294E nearest.
  Finally we must acknowledge our thanks to LOUGHBOROUGH UNIVERSITY who have donated a complete security camera system; we intend to install this at Rothley shed in due course.
• 5th JULY 2009 - MAIL BY RAIL - 25 and 26th JULY - This will feature the first runs of the complete 1V86 Mark 1 TPO set; the only time they will run together in their current liveries before repainting in 1960s style. 4 TPO drops each day, and an intensive passenger service including the Beavertail. LNER TPO set and museum on display at Quorn. More details on the GCR website (see links page).
  WEBSITE DISRUPTION - Yahoo are no longer providing free webspace from the Autumn. As a result (and as we don't want to pay!) the web site has to be moved to a different supplier. Updates between now and October will be limited to just this news page. However the site should continue to function and, after the move to a new host, will retain the same web address. Hopefully we'll then have space to add a back log of photos which we've not been able to use because of lack of space.
• 22nd JUNE 2009 - WORK WEEKEND has just passed and successful achieved its main aims - 24278 now has a new roof canvas fitted and painted. BZ 70654E has also had its roof repaired and repainted ready for a bodyside repaint shortly. Finally some tidying of Rothley yard as completed to allow some work to begin to improve the facilities there.
  Meanwhile, at Barrow Hill, the contractors have now finished re-assembling the bogies as part of the major rebuild of our second Beavertail car no.1729. This has led to it making its first mobile appearance in the open air for many years as this picture proves. The restoration now moves on to the body rebuild...
• 7th JUNE 2009 - WORK WEEKEND 2009 - We are holding a work weekend at Rothley on Saturday / Sunday 20/21st June. This is primarily to get 24278s roof canvas fitted to allow it to go outside for a while. This is important since we need shed space to clear a backlog of other work. We really do need as many volunteers as possible to achieve this, and a host of other work. If can make it please turn up; there will also be a social event on the Saturday evening - contact Darren for details.
  GCR "Mail By Rail" gala - is this year on 25/6th July. The complete 1V86 Mark 1 TPO train should make its debut at this event, with four mail exchange runs each day. LNER TPO set also on display at Quorn, and a frequent timetable of passenger trains. More details to follow, but put the date in your diary.
• 28th APRIL 2009 - BEAVERTAIL ON HOLIDAY - 1719E had its working holiday last week, working at least three round trips on the Llangollen railway each of the 9 days of the major "Steel, Steam and Stars II" gala. Despite some stiff competition from various visiting locos I think it is fair to say it was one of the stars of the show, being full to capacity on virtually every trip and attracting almost as much attention to the rear of the train as the loco on the front. Of course, the Llangollen railway is located in scenery somewhat more spectacular than Leicestershire and this no doubt help it attract good custom. Nevertheless it was pleasing to hear many complimentary comments on the quality of the restoration and the comfortable ride (also quite amusing to see how many people nodded off during their ride in it - not actually seeing much of the view they'd paid the supplement to see!). No problems were encountered during its use there and it is exepected to be back on the GCR this week. Photos of the visit:
  At Llangollen with "Morayshire"
  Standing in Llangollen station
  Interior view with a full load watching black 5 44801
  Leaving Carrog
  On the rear of the Jacobite leaving Fort William (not really - but at first glance it could be!)
  Our thanks to the Bretton Grange society and the Llangollen Railway for making this trip possible and for their hospitality during the week. Thanks also to those RVP members who helped with the sales stand, and those who supported the event by visiting as paying customers (and one who did two days working in the beer festival rather than drinking in it!).
• 16th APRIL 2009 - MOUNTSORREL GRANITE Co WAGONS - The first of three wagons have arrived at Rothley for rebuild and repaint into full Mountsorrel Granite Co Livery for use as part of the rebuilding of this branch line. The first wagon is 5 plank B477060. This is a BR built wagon resident on the GCR for some time, but selected because of its similarity to those which ran in this livery in earlier years. The wagon is owned by Nick Tinsley, who has kindly agreed to its use for the project. It is hoped that the costs of the work will be covered by a grant application. As the pictures HERE and HERE show the work is extensive and is being carried by the branch restoration team.
• 9th APRIL 2009 - BOOKS WANTED! - Our sales stock is getting low. The one thing that sells very well is second hand railway books. If you have any you no longer need and would be willing to let us have please get them to Rothley or e-mail rvp_ltd@btinternet.com and we'll see if we can arrange collection.
• 5th APRIL 2009 - BARROW HILL GALA - 1729 made its guest appearance at this LNER themed event - showing the original Beavertail end shape for the first time in 50 years. The photo HERE is the only place you will see a clear shot of the end, showing the impressive end framework made from solid teak; if only we had a pound for everyone who stroked it! This is the view from INSIDE showing just how restricted the view from the end was compared to the rebuilt version - within a few years passengers will be able to compare the two! For the loco fans we came across an old friend; "Butler Henderson" posed in the shed alongside "Blue Peter". Our thanks to Barrow Hill for inviting us to what appeared to be a hugely successful weekend.
• 2nd APRIL 2009 - THE RVP ROADSHOW sets off this Saturday for Barrow Hill. Beavertail Car 1729 will be making its first public appearance for well over 20 years at the major gala event there this weekend 4/5th April. The coach framework to the original shape is now complete and the vehicle should be back on its bogies just in time for the event. It will be accompanied by our new display boards and sales stand. If you are visiting this high profile event please do come and see the progress on what must rank amongst one of the most striking carriage rebuild projects ongoing at the moment; and highly appropriate to an LNER themed event.
  The following weekend (Easter) its sister vehicle, 1719E, will be in use on the GCR. Immediately after that it leaves for its holiday in wales.
  1719E will be appearing at the "Steel, Steam and Stars" gala on the Llangollen railway from 18th to 26th April. In regular use on this stunningly scenic line the Beavertail is expected to be a very popular addition to an impressive line up of locomotives. Expected to be in use every day (except Monday and Thursday) our display and sales stand will also be accompanying it during the weekends (probably at Llangollen station). We still need volunteers to man the latter, contact us if you can help out.
  Meanwhile work continues apace on the GCR. Buffet car 24278 has taken several leaps forward, the first of three "Mountsorrel Granite Co" wagons has arrived for a restoration and a repaint, and there is some important progress on the Mountsorrel Branch project. Full updates coming soon....
• 22nd FEBRUARY 2009 - RVP ON TOUR 2009! - This year we are pleased to be involved in two events away from the GCR. Firstly our second BEAVERTAIL car 1729 is located at Barrow Hill Railway Centre (Chesterfield), where its major restoration is ongoing. This is progressing well (although far from complete!) and the vehicle will be on display to the public (for the first time in well over 20 years) at the major LNER Gala event on 4th/5th April. This gala features many well known LNER locomotives including "Tornado", and 1729's appearance there will be highly appropriate. We will have a display stand alongside the vehicle, and volunteers are needed to staff this (there may be a limit on numbers - if you are interested please contact Darren asap). Two weeks later (starting 18th April, and running for 10 days) our other BEAVERTAIL, restored number 1719, will be having a working holiday at the Llangollen Railway steam gala. More details of this to follow shortly.
• 12th FEBRUARY 2009 - MOUNTSORREL RAILWAY UPDATE - Its been a while since the last update on this project, but this doesn't mean nothing is happening. Over recent months the trackbed has seen continued preparation ready, which has culminated recently in the removal of the top surface of accumulated mud, revelaing the original ballast base beneath. This now gives the trackbed its final appearance before the laying of some additional ballast and then the track. So determined are the volunteer team that the work continued throughout the recent bad whether - and here's the evidence!. A novel development for the project is the involvement of local schools in some elements of the work - culminating shortly in an "Archaeological" dig in an area where we believe some original rail chairs are still located. While this is unlikely to find any valuable treasure (as far as we know!) it does serve a real purpose in bringing local history to life for the children. This, and the involvment of local ecological groups, has led to the project taking an increasing importance in the local community. We have always been determined to demonstrate that the branch does not conflict with the desire of the local community to see ecology preserved and hopefully direct involvment will ensure that aim is met (a large part oft he site being undisturbed by the works and consisted of ecology rich woodland).
• 9th FEBRUARY 2009 - NEW MAIL POUCH - Anyone who has seen a mail exchange at Quorn will know that the leather pouches used take quite a pounding. Our collection of six were original ones used in BR days, and we've now used them for 27 years on the GCR. They are therefore very tired and have been constantly patched up to keep the show on the road. Looking ioncreasingly tatty we have tried for several years to find leather workers willing to make a new set, but our efforts always came to nothing because of the one off nature of these items. Now however we have found a saddler willing to make not only the pouch, but also a full set of straps. Furthermore a prototype has now been made and tried out with no problems at all - as this PHOTO shows. The cost is not cheap; the prototype cost �750 paid for by donations to the collecting bucket at Quorn and a grant from Leicestershire County Council (to whom we record our thanks for their continued support). We can now announce that a further five pouches have now been ordered to make a complete new set. The cost will largely be covered by a grant from the GCR's supporting charity, the David Clarke Railway Trust. Once again we record our thanks to the DCRT for their support which will allow us and the GCR to continue these spectacular demonstrations for many years to come.
• 3rd FEBRUARY 2009 - WINTER GALA - The weekend past saw the first runs in preservation for our Brake Tender 80458, and therefore the first time an entire Mark 1 TPO vehicle train has operated on the GCR (although only three vehicles at this stage). It also saw the debut of "Oliver Cromwell" on TPO's - as this photo shows, with the train racing along the Quorn straight. By monday, with heavy snow, the stabled set presents a christmas card scene at Rothley yard. Our thanks to all involved in rescuing and restoring the mark 1 TPO vehicles, and those who donated to the appeal two years ago. Donations are still welcome to assist with the cost of repainting the set in 1960's livery.
• 25th JANUARY 2009 - NEW SALES ITEMS - we have two new items available for general sale:
  BEAVERTAIL 1719 BADGE - This a quality enamel badge featuring the Beavertail in its Maroon livery as currently running. These really have turned out very well - available at �3.50 (inc postage).
  STOCKBOOK - A glossy 40th Anniversary reprint of our stockbook - fully updated and in full colour (for the first time ever) - �5 (inc postage).
  Both items available by post - cheques payable to RVP Ltd (sent to 26 Cliff Park Avenue, Wakefield, WF1 2DW), or payment can be made by Pay-pal (e-mail rvp_ltd@btinternet.com with your order and payment details will be come by return). Both items will also be on the sales stand at Rothley next weekend.
• 23rd JANUARY 2009 - WINTER GALA - The GCR winter gala takes place this year on 31st Jan / 1st Feb. There will be two mail exchange runs each day (late morning and late afternoon), including the debut of "Oliver Cromwell" on a mail train. Rothley shed will be open for visitors and the sales stand will be out.
• 11th JANUARY 2009 - HAPPY NEW YEAR - Our annual dinner will take place this year on Sat 31st January (8pm) at the Great Central Hotel, Loughborough. If you wish to join us the cost is �15 and the menu is Attached Here. Please e-mail rvp_ltd@btinternet.com before 21st Jan if you want to reserve a place. This date is the Saturday of the GCR winter gala, during which our TPO set will be performing mail exchanges and Rothley shed will be open to the public.
• 17th DECEMBER 2008 - MERRY CHRISTMAS! - Santa does exist (see the gallery page for the proof!). As the end of the year approaches it is worth looking back on our quite remarkable 40th Anniversary year. In the past 12 months our membership has:
  • Staffed the LNER TPO set, and sales / promotion stands, at three major GCR galas with many thousands of appreciative visitors
  • Returned a second mark 1 TPO to service (80349), and is well through major work to return a second to use (80458)
  • Operated TPO trains on nine seperate dates (with a quite remarkable array of motive power, ranging from City of Truro to Tornado, provided by the GCR)
  • Formed a six coach set of RVP vehicles, including three TPO sorting carriages - two of which exchanged mail, for two round trips on the GCR (again hauled by impressive motive power in the form of Lord Nelson)
  • A largely new volunteer team suceeded in clearing not only our 3/4 mile of branch line formation - but carried on for a similar distance again beyond our boundary! (With thanks to Lafarge for their permission to do so). The funds to do this were also raised by the same team.
  • Fitted a bar to the Beavertail (1719)
  • The second Beavertail (1729) is now well into its rebuild, away from the GCR
  • Resumed restoration in earnest on teak 24278, such that it is fully panelled by the ned of the year.
  • Repainted Motorail Van 96202
  • Part repainted the body and roof of Post Office Sorter 70294E.
  • Revarnished Pigeon Van 4050, and returned its roof to white! It was then purchased by RVP following a successful grant application and appeal.
  • Considerably improved the appearance of our stored stock, with major work to make the "Flying Scotsman" coach (18033) presentable from passing trains, and taupaulins fitted to all of our other stored stock.
  • Won the quiz at the Steam Railway gala!
  • Assisted Santa to deliver presents for Christmas...
  All of the above was completed by our membership (with minimal contractor assistance where appropriate), fuunded only by donations, a few grants, and money the membership are happy to trust us to spend on their behalf. To all involved, whether directly, through arm-chair support, or in the wider GCR community, many thanks and we hope you consider it well worth the effort. There are more highlights to come in the not too distant future (the first train on the Mountsorrel branch, a complete Mark 1 TPO set in original livery, a second teak coach in service, the Beavertail at Llangollen, etc, etc). Please continue to support us into 2009.
• 30th NOVEMBER 2008 - SANTA RECIEVES FIRST PRESENTS - by mail train! In an unusual event, as part of a photo charter, the mark 1 TPO set performed two mail exchanges at Quorn hauled by 3440 "City Of Truro". During these the first Christmas presents for Santa were dropped as this Photo proves. Santa has now taken the presents to his secret store, but it has been reported that someone bearing a striking resemblance to santa has been seen volunteering at Rothley shed this weekend.....
• 14th NOVEMBER 2008 - 40th ANNIVERSARY TRAIN - the PHOTO HERE shows our 40th Anniversary train approaching Rothley behind "Leander". The newly varnished pigeon van 4050 is the front vehicle. The photo was sent annonomously - if the photograph would like to get in touch I'll credit it appropriately.
• 2nd NOVEMBER 2008 - UPDATE - Yesterday's AGM was the best attended for many years, with the majority attending then going on to join the anniversary dining train. 73 members and guests travelled, and prior to the departure a short ceremony was held to mark the transfer of ownership of Pigeon Van 4050 to RVP Ltd. This vehicle has had an internal plaque fitted to commemorate its former owners Ted and Doll Maslin - who did much to ensure RVP survived through many difficult years in the past. 4050 then formed the front coach of the anniversary train, hauled by "Leander" with appropriate headboard - some pictures from the day are HERE (In word format). A group photo of part of the group is HERE - there were many who didn't fit in this picture (I'd welcome further photos of the day - please e-mail them to rvp_ltd@btinternet.com).
• 28th OCTOBER 2008 - 40th ANNIVERSARY - ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING AND ANNIVERSARY DINNER. This years AGM is this Saturday. Members and Sahreholders should have recieved the notice of the meeting - it will be held in the function room of the Great Central Hotel. On the same day, at around 12:30 we intend to complete the purchase of Pigeon Van 4050 at Loughborough Central. This should be formed as the first vehicle in the dining train, which will then leave for our anniversary dinner at 13:15. Only members and guests pre-booked will be able to travel on this service. The Beavertail car is expected to be ont he other GCR trainset that day for the use of AGM and dining train guests, and the general public.
• 7th OCTOBER 2008 - PIGEON VAN - Our varnished teak pigeon van is due maintenance this year. Because of the busy program of events on the GCR recently it has not proved possible to move it to Rothley until last weekend - and then for only one weekend as it is required for use in the Autumn gala on Friday! At short notice a team of volunteers came forward to repair, clean and repaint the roof on Saturday, Sunday and Monday. The work is shown in progress HERE, and completed HERE. The result is magnificent and restores the roof to its bright white again (which will be grey again by the weekend - thats the problem with steam locos!). Many thanks to all who responded to the call for help on this work. The coach will return to Rothley after the gala for bodyside revarnishing. This vehicle is being sold to RVP by its owning family. To do so we need to raise �3000 to complete the purchase and ensure it remains on the GCR. If you would like to donate please send cheques to 26 Cliff Park Avenue, Wakefield, WF1 2DW with "BGP" on the back.
• 6th OCTOBER 2008 - AUTUMN GALA - The forthcoming GCR gala this weekend (10/11/12th) will feature two TPO runs each day using the mark 1 TPO vehicles. In addition the LNER TPO set will be on display and open for visitors at Quorn. Apparently there are also some impressive locos in use too! On the saturday night the GCR will stage another of its excellent night events at Quorn, with an intensive service at dusk including a "Night Mail" TPO.
• 24th SEPTEMBER 2008 - PROGRESS UPDATE - Recent volunteer activity at Rothley has concentrated on tidying the appearance of our stored stock there. This has included fitting taupaulins to the roofs of 62565 and 9116 to keep the worst of the weather out while they wait their turn in the restoration queue. Meanwhile last week saw a concerted effort to tidy the appearance of "Flying Scotsman" train survivor no.18033. This has had new panelling fitted to make it presentable, and is currently painted in primer. It will go maroon shortly, thus significantly improving the view from passing trains. Pictures HERE and HERE . This work is mainly cosmetic, but it will also help keep the vehicle watertight until the day we are able to start the major restoration this historically significant vehicle requires.
• 23rd SEPTEMBER 2008 - MOUNTSORREL RAILWAY - The volunteer team have achieved a significnat milestone; the removal of the final tree in the way of the formation. This now means the trackbed is essentially clear from the junction with the GC line at Swithland through the RVP boundary to the edge of the Lafarge quarry around 1.5 miles away. The PHOTO shows the team resting on the tree, just short of Wood Lane bridge. It is important to note that this location is on Lafarge property, RVP / GCR members should not access this area unless as part of an organised working party. The volunteer team will now move back to the RVP section to complete some tidying of the site as we move towards the track laying phase.
• 12th AUGUST 2008 - MOUNTSORREL RAILWAY - Clearance continues on the formation of this former branch line. The volunteer team have concentrated recent efforts on the section beyond RVP's boundary, running past Nunckley Hill quarry itself, under Wood Lane, and ending at a point just short of the main (working) quarry at Bond Lane. This is the section of formation referred to in the 15th June press release (see below) - it is owned by Lafarge, but they have granted permission for it to be cleared to make the formation available for future use. This work is not funded by RVP (donations to the project are applied only to our section), but the volunteer teams willingness to work with Lafarge on this no doubt encouraged the significant donation of ballast which RVP will recieve in due course! With clearance work nearing completion on the Lafarge section, the team will return to RVP property to continue preparation of the trackbed. In the meantime track design is being finalised ready to move forward.
  Photo showing the view from the RVP Boundary looking along the formation to Nunckley Hill
  Photo showing Wood Lane bridge from Nunckley Hill quarry
  Photo showing the end of the formation at Bond Lane bridge (formation ends at the bank beyond the bridge - about 1.5 miles from Swithland sidings).
• 28th JULY 2008 - MANY THANKS... to all who helped with the "Mail by Rail" gala just passed. This includes the volunteers who staffed both TPO sets and the stand at Rothley for us (see below), but also the GCR operations staff who worked in very high temperatures to complete some awkward shunt moves to allow the various trains to run. All the mail exchanges were completed as planned; the Mk1 set (including 80349 making its GCR debut) performing three round trips each day, the LNER set (with pigeon van 4050) doing the final run each day. The Saturday night train combined both sets making a six coach TPO set with no less than three sorting coaches in the train. LNER set to the Front , and BR vehicles to the rear. Hauled by "Lord Nelson", both vehicles fitted with exchange equipment were used; the LNER sorter dropping two bags and picking two up, 80301 (three coaches further down the train) dropped two more bags. Some last minute changes to the timetable, because of the restricted space available for shunting, gave a bonus appearance of the two sets also combined during the afternoon for a run from Rothley to Loughborough - and on the Sunday the final run of the LNER set saw the Mk1s taking for the ride as well (although not exchanging mail on that ocassion), making quite a load for 2MT 78019! On the down side, the shunting constraints meant Motorail van 96202 couldn't run - but it was displayed in Rothley yard throughout the weekend. All in all a successful weekend and a great display to mark our 40th anniversary. To finish a couple of group photos
  The team at Leicester North after the saturday night trip - (L to R) Darren Martin, Dave Moulder, Paul Harrison, Bob Hall, Les Martin, Neil Boden, Phil Hetherington, Dave Thomas, Richard Proudman, Richard Drew and Mick Yates.
  The TPO crew for the final run of the LNER TPO Set on Sunday afternoon - (L to R)Dave Moulder, Dave Thomas, Mick Dickman, Brian Hallett, Richard Drew and Jane Martin.
  Not shown on the above pictures (because they were either on the ground equipment at Quorn or actually doing some work) but also helping us that weekend were Tim Pryce, Tony Bennett, Bill Kinnear, Jim Thompson, Phil Warren, Gordon Maslin, Mike Lang, Nev Goodman and Paul Johnson. I have no doubt I've missed at least one person of the list - apologies in advance for this, but let me know and I'll add you.
• 22nd JULY 2008 - FINAL RUNS FOR LNER TPO SET / FIRST RUNS FOR 80349 - the timetable for the forthcoming Mail by Rail gala (this weekend) is now shaping up. There will be four TPO mail exchange runs each day, with an extra on Saturday night. The expected formation of trains (subject to availability on the day) means that the first three TPO runs each day will be the Mark 1 TPO set, featuring 80349 making its preservation debut in its polished red livery. It will be joined in that train by 80301 (with the exchange equipment), and two other vehicles from our collection. The LNER TPO set will operate on the final (late afternoon) train each day - performing its final mail exchange at Quorn on the Sunday afternoon around 4.15pm.
  The Saturday evening sees a unique and very special event for RVP to mark our 40th anniversary - both TPO sets will be combined for a full round trip of the line, including a mail exchange at Quorn (around 7.10). In this it is expected that 80301 will drop bags while 70294E will pick them up. This train will represent the longest formation of serviceable RVP vehicles we have been able to assemble and (with the withdrawl of the LNER TPO set immediately after this gala) it is likely to remain a one-off. The vehicles in that train will be a rather colourful(!) representation of the significant investment in time and money made by those who have supported RVP over our 40 years. If you have been one of those supporters and can be at Quorn that night please do come and see what your support has achieved. We also record our thanks to the GCR for arranging for this train to run.
• 12th JULY 2008 - WORK CONTINUES in preparation for the forthcoming gala (26/7th July). LNER sorter 70294 is now having a coat of gloss on the West side - looking much better for it. New acquisition, Mark 1 sorter 80349, has had vacuumm brakes fitted - the underframe is having a quick repaint and an attempt will be made to polish the nodysides in the exisiting Royal Mail red livery. Meanwhile long stored "Flying Scotsman" coach 18033 is having some basic body side repairs to make it more presentable from passing trains. The roof had some taupaulins fitted to it a few weeks ago to keep the worst of the weather out.
• 30th JUNE 2008 - TPO WORKS - In preparation for the forthcoming Mail gala (see below) we are currently busy preparing the vehicles at Rothley. LNER 70294E has had various mechanical defects attended to and is having a quick repaint - as this attractive (!) Photo shows. Its partner 70268E has also had minor mechanical repairs and both now awaut a fitness to run exam by GCR staff to determine if they are fit to run at the gala. Meanwhile new Mark 1 TPO , 80349, is now at Rothley. This is the best of the new arrivals and is having vacuum brakes fitted to allow it to operate in the gala with 80301. 80349 is the best of the new arrivals and we are confident it will be fit to operate in the gala (taking the place of 80458 which needs more extensive body work).
• 19th JUNE 2008 - MAJOR GALA COMING SOON! - Its our 40th Birthday this year and the Great Central Railway are helping us celebrate it in style - as this recent press release shows (hit BACK to return after reading it). The gala on 26/7th will see all of our operational stock in use including two seperate TPO sets (Mark 1 and LNER) performing a regular demonstration of the exchange equipment. The weekend will see the last runs of the LNER TPO vehicles in public service; they will then return to semi-retirement in view of their frail condition. We will maintain them for display purposes and the GCR will continue to move them around as required, but we don't expect to be able to use them for mail exchanges in the future. We intend to run all of our operational vehicles in one train on the Saturday night, completing a mail exchange on the way. If you've donated to any of our appeals do come along and see what your money paid for. The GCR will, of course, provide the usual excellent setting and motive power and it promises to be an excellent weekend. In the meantime pictures of the interior of our two newest acquisitions sorter 80349 and tender 80438 show the excellent condition these vehicles were recieved from EWS in.
• 15th JUNE 2008 - BRANCH UPDATE - Some significant news regarding the rebuilding of our branch line is contained in a GCR press release available on our Progress page.
• 31st MAY 2008 - MOUNTSORREL BRANCH UPDATE - Clearance in the last six weeks has seen virtually all the trees that need to be removed taken down. Pictures have been added to the Photo Page The formation is now largely clear and awaits the next major phase - the levelling and laying of ballast. More news coming shortly.....
• 28th MAY 2008 - NEW TRAVELLING POST OFFICE VEHICLES ARRIVE - Our two "missing" TPO vehicles have now arrived on the GCR. These are mark 1 sorter 80349 and tender 80438 - shown at Swithland today. The former is owned by RVP, and paid for by the proceeds from the 1V76 TPO appeal, while the latter is owned by a member (but intended for use with the other amrk 1 TPO vehicles). These two vehicles were purchased from EWS in 2006, but kindly stored by them until the GCR was able to accept them. They represent the completion of the collecting phase of mark 1 vehicles, and we now have four vehicles on the GCR to make a full representative train set up. These vehicles are:
  Sorter 80301 - built 1959 to the original style (with larger windows), now fully restored to 1959 condition with exchange equipment.
  Brake Tender 80458 - built 1967 to the later (small window) style. This arrived ont he GCR earlier in the year and is now having vacuum brakes fitted, and may enter service in July.
  Sorter 80349 - representing the later style of sorter, with smaller windows and no exchange equipment - now on the GCR and to be vacuum braked over the coming year.
  Tender 80438 - a later style tender (the more common type without brake) - again to be fitted with vacuum brakes int he coming year.
  These vehicles, together with the serviceable LNER pair, give us the most comprehensive collection of working TPO vehicles in the UK - something we hope to demonstrate extensively at the forthcoming "Mail By Rail" gala on 26/7th July (more detail to follow).
  The journey of the last two from Euston to the GCR has involved a few twists and turns, with periods stored at Euston and Wembley before finally moving to Old Oak Common last week. This final move (perhaps the last ever TPO movement on the national network?) had a reporting number of 6V67 (fittingly close to the appeal title!) and apparently involved more locos that coaches! If any one has a photograph of this movement we would love to see it. The coaches are now safe on the GCR and it only remains to thank those involved; Paul Harrision for arranging the move (and negotiating a reduced fee), Nigel Harris (GCR) and EWS for getting a storage location agreed, and (of course) all who donated to the appeal to save them.
• 11th APRIL 2008 - NUNCKLEY HILL PROJECT - BADGER PROBLEM SOLVED - It is very pleasing to report that, following a further survey of the site and subsequent visit by DEFRA officials, a licence for the closure of the badger sett has now been issued. This means that clearance work can now proceed in the badger sett area, thus completing the basic clearance of the whole of our section of the formation. It should also be pointed out that the badgers will not be harmed by this work; the sett was being used only by visitors and these will simply use other setts elsewhere on the site. With all obstacles and planning issues legally dealt with, THERE IS NOW NOTHING TO STOP THE BRANCH BEING COMPLETED AS QUICKLY AS TIME AND FINANCE ALLOW. The group of volunteers is now well into double figures most weekends and the progress is very clear to see from passing GCR trains. The fund raising to date will be spent when we order a large quantity of track materials (by the time you read this). This will represent just a fraction of the total materials needed to complete the branch � we urgently need more funds. If you were waiting for an assurance that the project would be completed then I can happily give that assurance. PLEASE MAKE A DONATION!
• 8th APRIL 2008 - BEAVERTAIL AWARD PRESENTATION - The Heritage Railway Association will be presenting the "Small Group Award" for the restoration of the Beavertail Car to us at Loughborough station this coming Saturday 12th (10am). All are welcome to see the award presented, particularly those involved in the funding and restoration of this vehicle.
• 7th APRIL 2008 - Sadly we have to report another death - ROBIN DOUST died at 2am on the 12th March 2008 at Mater Dei Hospital, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. Robin was our second chairman resigning when he moved to Africa in 1975 on medical advise. He was instrumental in obtaining the LSWR milk van no 5025 and helped in its restoration at Quainton Road. A practising christian, an extreemly successful and able librarian, owner of a Southern electric coach, co founder of the Kent and East Sussex Railway Preservation Society, an avid collector of 0 gauge trains and enthusiastic film maker. Whilst in Africa he became Commanding Officer of the Air Cadets, Chief Librarian of the Bulawayo Public Library, Librarian at the National University of Science and Technology and was current Magazine Editor for the Friends of the Bulawyo Railway Museum. Robin made regular trips back to the UK and managed to vist GCR last in 2002 seeing the progress on our stock and TPO activities. He was buried on the 17th March at Bulawayo and a comemorative service was held in Ashford, Kent on the 31st March 2008.
• 16th MARCH 2008 - JOHN KENT - Sadly we have been informed that John died suddenly at home last week after a short illness. Although not actually an RVP member John was well known to many at the GCR through his manning of the buffet cars during gala events and regular visits to Rothley shed to check on progress. His conversation and interest in our work will be sadly missed.
  .
  BEAVERTAIL BAR - The bar is now complete as the Photo shows (prior to the application of the final coat of varnish. As can be seen, although not original, the bar blends in well with its surroundings, and has a rather more practical use that the mail compartment that previously stood here.
• 2nd MARCH 2008 - NEWS UPDATE - Recent weeks have seen a very high level of activity. The rebuilding of the Mountsorrel railway continues to make excellent progress. A further donation of track materials from Snibston have been received and last weekend saw the first visit of a JCB to start preparing the formation for track laying. Pictures can be found on the NUNCKLEY HILL project photo page.
  Meanwhile at Rothley this photograph perhaps best sums up the level of progress being made there - all three roads of the shed with RVP vehicles in, all of which were being worked on simultaneously yesterday. On the left Motorail van 96202 is part way through its repaint, the roof and underframe complete, the bodysides to be done shortly. In the centre BEAVERTAIL 1719E was having the finishing touches put to the bar and some small tables fitted. On the right our current long term restoration 24278 sees sustained activity, with roof work and frame repairs ongoing at present. Not in the picture work is also taking place of TPO vehicle 80458 to fit it with dual brakes (to say nothing of the small team of members rebuilding a mark 1 buffet car - 1962 - as a privately funded project). All in all there is probably more going on now then ever. As the weather gets better why not come and join us? We should, of course, acknowledge the assistance of the GCR in allowing these vehicles space in the shed.
• 3rd FEBRUARY 2008 - BEAVERTAIL AWARD PRESENTATION - Yesterday saw the presentation of the Heritage Railway Association "Small Group" award to RVP Ltd for our restoration of Beavertail car 1719E. The award was presented by HRA president Dame Margaret Weston at University College London as part of the HRA's annual general meeting. The "trophy" is a coat of arms from a Royal Carriage, in a display case. The picture shows Alan Voase, Gordon Maslin and Darren Martin after recieving the award. As can be seen it is a rather large and heavy item (as was proved when four of us carried it back to Kings Cross to put on a train:-)). Because of this, and insurance limitations, RVP are not able to house the trophy so it was returned to the care of the HRA after the presentation. However we hope to arrange a presentation ceremony at the GCR in due course, and (hopefully) it will then be displayed at Loughborough for the year. Many thanks to the HRA for the award, and congratulations to all who involved with this fitting end to a very successful project.
• 22nd JANUARY 2008 - GCR WINTER GALA 26/7th JAN - The timetable for this event has now been confirmed. There will be two TPO runs each day, passing Quorn at around 11:20 and 16:20; mark 1 TPO 80301 will be in action on these trains. At Rothley the LNER TPO set will be on display and open for visitors, as will the Beavertail. The newly installed bar in the Beavertail will be christened by being used as the sales stand for the weekend. The shed will be open, with the increased progress on buffet car 24278 now very apparent. As usual the GCR will be operating an intensive service, details at their website www.gcrailway.co.uk.
  In addition visitors riding trains at the gala will be able to view the rapid progress on our NUNCKLEY HILL PROJECT, which is now actively rebuilding the Mountsorrel Railway from North of Swithland sidings out towards Nunckley Hill. The track bed and sidings area is now largely clear and it is hoped signs of progress will encourage a flow of donations to this important project.
• 5th JANUARY 2007 - NORMAN QUILTER - Sadly we have to report the passing away of Norman at the end of the last week. Very well known to all volunteers at Rothley, Norman was our oldest regular working member being in his mid-eighties. Despite this he turned up every Monday for the full day, and many Saturdays; being remarkably fit for his age his death has come as a surprise. During his working life Norman was an engineer for the gas board, and had been working for RVP for many years since his retirement. His ability to offer advice and guidance on virtually any problem, in a relaxing manner that made him very easy to talk to, means he will be sadly missed. Our sympathy to his family at this difficult time.
• 27th DECEMBER 2007 - ANNUAL MEAL - RVP's annual meal will this year take place on Saturday 26th January (the Saturday evening of the GCR winter gala) at 7:30 pm The location is the Griffin Inn, Swithland - http://www.griffininnswithland.com/
  This an Everard's pub with an excellent restaurant which we have block booked for the evening (it's also good beer guide listed with four proper beers:-)). Apologies for those who would have preferred it in Loughborough but we have (again) been unable to find anywhere available that night.
  Cost is �20 per head for the three course meal.
  Menu's will follow, but at this stage we need an indication of definite numbers so we can confirm by 15th January. If you intend to join us please let me or Mike Lang know as soon as possible - payment is to be made on the night so we don't need any cash yet!
  Please pass this invitation on to those whose e-mail I don't have (or who won't see our January newlsetter). The invite is open to all RVP members and shareholders plus those who've assisted us in the past year.
  As ever, for those further flung, the date coincides with the GCR winter gala and we will need TPO crews and people to staff Rothley shed. If you are able to help us out over the weekend please do come to the meal as well - if you need accomodation let me know.
  Darren Martin
• 24th DECEMBER 2007 - MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR - to all of our members / shareholders / supporters and readers. Many thanks for your help in making the past year a very good one for RVP - hope to see you all in the New Year.
• 20th DECEMBER 2007 - CHRIS PRIOR - It is with sadness that we have to report the premature death of Chris, who passed away last night after a illness with lung problems. Chris was our TPO manager for several years in the 1990's - a larger than life character with a style that made our TPO operations on the Great Central highly entertaining for all involved! His working life was with the Royal Mail, originally at Peterborough station, but becoming their manager at Stanstead Airport prior to his early retirement. This background benefitted RVP considerably behind the scenes with comprehensive reviews of our TPO working procedures and risk assessments (which greatly assisted in getting the speed limit for TPOs on the GCR raised above the usual 25mph limit). In addition Chris also gave practical help on the initial restoration of 80301 in 1997/8. Chris resigned from RVP a few years back after changes in his personal life (and increasing comittment to the Royal Mail) made it difficult for him to get to the railway - but he continued to take an interest and (had severe illness not intervened) was intending to return. Our sympathy to Chris' family at this difficult time.
• 15th DECEMBER 2007 - UPDATE - The heavy restoration of Buffet Car 24278 is now making significant progress at Rothley. As this picture shows one side is now fully panelled and fitted with beading. The other side has had the panels cut ready for fitting as soon as a few outstanding frame repairs are complete. There is much more to do, but it is beginning to look like a coach again after a long period in the wilderness! Meanwhile things are starting to happen on our "Nunckley Hill" Project - a full update and details to follow after the Christmas break....
• 28th NOVEMBER 2007 - NEW ARRIVALS - After a long wait the three new additions to our Mark 1 TPO set are now on the move. The first, brake tender 80458, arrived at Quorn today as shown HERE (with 80301 in the background). The other two (Sorter 80349 and tender 80433) will follow shortly. This makes our Mark 1 TPO set four vehicles, covering all four vehicle types. Restoration work will take place as soon as possible, with vacuum baking a priority (together with air brakes for 80301, to make the whole set dual braked). A repaint will follow in due course and the whole train will no doubt appear at a gala event in the not too distant future. The acquisition of these vehicles has been funded and co-ordinated by our "1V86 Mark 1 TPO fund"; the fund remains open to pay for the restoration work. Donations should made payable to RVP ltd, with Mark 1 TPO written on the back - all funds raised for this appeal go directly to the restoration and maintenance of these vehicles thus helping us to guarentee the continued operation of mail exchangeson the GCR. The address for donations is 26 Cliff Park Avenue, Wakefield, WF1 2DW. Our thanks to EWS for storing these vehicles for the past year, and to the GCR for making the space to allow them onto the railway.
• 12th NOVEMBER 2007 - AWARD WINNERS AGAIN! - It is very pleasing to report that RVP Ltd have won the Heritage Railway Association 2007 "Small Group" award for the restoration of BEAVERTAIL car 1719E. The full press release from the HRA is HERE. As can be seen the judges were impressed by the excellent standard of restoration achieved. The recognition this award gives is greatly appreciated - it is a considerable morale booster to the volunteers who freely give so much time (often in less than ideal conditions and with little or no immediate reward). Although much of the work on this particular vehicle was completed by contract labour the detailed interior restoration was carried out by volunteers - who were absolutely determined to replicate the original interior as closely as possible. This proved to be a frustrating task with little information to work from and few remaining original fittings. The end result is magnificent and we are glad this has now been recognised through this award. This is our second national award, the first being for 6 wheeled brake van 70654E from the Transport Trust.
• 15th OCTOBER 2007 - GCR Gala - As those who attended the GCR over the weekend just passed will know, the GCR put on a show which would be very hard to beat. Six locos in steam with a very frequent service on the double track. For our part six TPO runs were made over the weekend using 80301, Rothley shed was open with the LNER TPO on display and the Beavertail was in use.
  RVP would like to thank all who were present over the weekend. Aside from the (usual) very good reception for the mail exchanges, the TPOs at Rothley attracted another large stream of visitors, as did the sales stand and shed. Alan had no shortage of company acting as steward in the Beavertail (full and standing on most trips), and we also had some volunteers doing real work rather than train riding!
  We had a total of 22 volunteers working at the railway this weekend - certainly a record for the recent past. Financially the large increase in donation rate we have seen at GCR events this year was sustained - and this goes some considerable way to making sure we are able to continue to add to the overall GCR scene.
  To finish the weekend we accompanied the Chairman of Leciestershire Council and other invited guests on a tour of the railway (and specifically our projects) Sunday afternoon. The general impression the railway gave was excellent - the mail exchange was superb, the information and discussion they got from those at Rothley about the buffet car and TPOs fascinated them, and the final ride back in the Beavertail in beautiful sunshine finished it off nicely. They were extremely complimentary about their visit and asked that thanks be passed to all involved - there is no doubt the impression given will assist us greatly in future local grant applications and, I'm sure, will help the wider GCR build its relationship with the local councils.
  Many thanks to all involved (and do come again for the next event:-))
• 29th SEPTEMBER 2007 - Work week report - last week was work week. The intention had been to re-roof short brake 62565, however the position of the vehicle made this difficult so instead the interior was cleared out (no small task as it was crammed roof high with a set of seats) and the battery box metal work installed - picture HERE. However main focus of activity was buffet car 24278 which had new teak panels laid out for measuring and cutting, prior to fitting. There is still much more to do, but the sight of new panels going on after so long is a great motivator! At the end of the week 80301 also saw some work as did the ground net at Quorn (pictures to follow hopefully). Many thanks to all involved - the week has knocked several jobs off quicker than would otherwise have been the case.
• 25th SEPTEMBER 2007 - AUTUMN GALA TPO TRAINS - This years GCR winter gala is on Sat/sun 13/4th October. It features two TPO runs each day (using 80301), plus an additonal "Night Mail" on Saturday evening. There is also a mail train on the Friday night to open the event. In additon the BEAVERTAIL car will be is use and open to the public, the LNER TPO set will be open for visitors at Rothley and the shed will also be open. The GCR are also bringing in two visiting locos - full details can be found at www.gcrailway.co.uk.
• 30th AUGUST 2007 - BANNER DISPLAY AT SNIBSTON - Leicester Museums Forum, with support from the County Council, have arranged a display of professionally produced banners at Snibston Discovery Park. The banners detail each of the forum member museums of which RVP is one - our banner is shown HERE. As can be seen the banners are to a high standard and will be donated to us for future use after the display ends in October. This is very welcome free publicity for us.
• 21st AUGUST 2007 - WORK WEEK 2007 - the work week makes a return this year running from Monday 24th SEPTEMBER to Saturday 29th SEPTEMBER at Rothley shed. This years aim is to strip, repair and recover the roof of Gresley Brake Third 62565E. This vehicle was a forgotten member of our collection until Tim Pryce took it on as a personal project a couple of years ago. He has achieved much on the underframe and (after a break working on Mark 1 TPOs) is now looking to move on to the bodywork. Before he can do so the roof needs to be watertight and the workweek should achieve that key stage in its restoration. With this done the restoration to full varnished teak condition can continue as a background project - but the vehicles future will be assured with a watertight roof. If you fancy spending a few days in the Leicestershire countryside doing something completely different then please contact Tim (timpedigree@aol.com).
• 10th AUGUST 2007 - NUNCKLEY HILL PLANNING APPEAL - Unfortunately our appeal against the refusal of planning for the relaying of the former Mountsorrel Branch has re-affirmed the refusal. This is clearly bad news and a major disapointment to us. While the appeal inspector accepted many of the points we raised with regard to the schemes compliance with local planning policies she did not feel our case was sufficient to ignore the landscape and ecological issues. In particular we are very surprised that the prescence of the badgers is again cited as a reason for refusal of permission to lay track - we are well aware that many other railways (and other developments) have badgers present. There are recognised ways of dealing with them without causing undue stress to the badgers and RVP have always given a strong comittment to make whatever mitigation measures are deemed appropriate. It is of considerable concern that these have been deemed to not be practical despite having been used succesfully elsewhere many times. Nevertheless we have to accept the decision as final - it is beyond our resources to challenge the decision at any higher level - so this particualr planning application is now closed. However this IS NOT THE END OF THE PROJECT!!. We have now started discussions on ways forward - at this stage we can say little more until we have appropriate advice, but it remains firmly our intention to get our vehicles stored undercover and we'll continue to vigorously pursue that aim. More news as we get it - but for now another frustrating delay.....
• 3rd AUGUST 2007 - DOROTHY (DOLLY) MASLIN - it is with sadness we have to report the passing away of Dolly, mother of Gordon (RVP's founder and current Trustee). Along with her late husband (Edward) she was heavily involved in RVP's work not just through their son, but also active volunteers in the past and the owners of the fully restored teak pigeon van 4050 (which has operated on the GCR for the last 8 years). In more recent times many of us working at Rothley will remember the huge tub of sweets that used to appear periodically - sent by Dolly as a token of thanks for the work carried out by our volunteers. Our sympathies to the Maslin family at this difficult time.
• 2nd AUGUST 2007 - RAFFLE WINNERS - during the very successful gala last weekend our 2007 "teak appeal" raffle was drawn: The winners were
  First Prize (�150) 14810 Ms L Lovegrove,Kirkby In Ashfield
  Second Prize (�100)11020 Stan Taylor,Willenhall
  Third Prize (�50) 8407 Bob Hall
  Ten Prizes of �20 18718 Mr Wyeth,London
  12710 Dr Jamieson,Dumbreck,Glasgow
  11788 W Newbold,Leicester
  12689 I Douglas,Kilmarnock
  13188 S Beattie,Kendall
  1003 B Allbury,Pickering
  18694 Mr Turner,Rugby
  9039 T Varnum,Kettering
  16141 Mr Gregory,Wigston,Leicester
  1862 A Fillingham,Leicester
  The total profit exceeded �2700 - an excellent result and many thanks to all who supported it. The money has already been spent on various items to allow the restoration of 24278 to continue - a roof canvas, window glass and heater grills have all now been ordered. Hopefully this will produce a very visible outcome from the raffle for the end of the year.
• 27th JULY 2007 - AWARD WINNERS (again!) - It is very pleasing to report that RVP have again won an award in this year's "Leicestershire Heritage Awards" - The restoration of Beavertail car 1719E won the "Best Special Project" category at the ceremony last night. This year the categories had been altered to encourage a greater number of entries - despite this we were successful against competition from five other equally worthy local musuems.
  This is a magnificent result and reflects the massive amount of work which has gone into this vehicle over the past four years - both in terms of the fund raising effort, the contract work, and the final volunteer effort with the interior. As many of you have seen the end result is superb, and ,compared to many other carriage restorations, represents very good value for money. Of course we must also acknowledge the assistance of the GCR in providing facilities and a wonderful setting in which it can now operate. It is remarkable that the vehicle went on to win despite the judges not being able to view it on the inspection day because of a delayed arrival and the operational needs of the GCR. Instead they were taken through the restoration file, which obviously did a very good job of explaining the work done.
  This award reflects very well on RVP and those involved in the restoration - it should also bring a local publicity boost to the GCR and hopefully a stream of people to ride in the end product.
  Congratulations to all involved in its restoration - and for those who haven't seen it already 1719E will be operating on the GCR this weekend and at regular intervals over the year (please contact the GCR on 01509 230726 to check its operating dates if you intend to specifically visit it).
• 22nd JULY - 80301 NET COMPLETE - In preperation for next weekends Mail by Rail gala 80301's new net frame as now been roped up ready for use - pictures HERE and HERE. Subject to final checks the new net will see its first use next Saturday morning - and then seven more times throughout the weekend. The LNER TPO set will be on display at Rothley and the shed will also be open to visitors.
• 14th JULY 2007 - NEWS UPDATE - 80301 TO PICK UP MAIL BAGS AT JULY GALA! - The team working on the new exchange equipment for 80301 are now confident that the brand new catching net will be ready for the JULY 28/9th MAIL BY RAIL gala. 80301 should therefore be collecting and dropping bags at speed for the first time since 1971. The rapid progress has been made possible by the small team managing this project ensuring parts were made and available at the critical times. The timescale is tight, but barring any unforseen problems it will make the gala deadline. Also running in the gala should be the BEAVERTAIL, BZ 70654 and Pigeon van 4050. The LNER TPO vehicles (70294 and 70268) will be moving to Rothley next week and will be open (along with the shed itself) for visitors throughout the gala. We'll have a display and sales stand at Rothley, with full updates on all of our projects.
  OTHER NEWS - our intended shed site (Nunckley Hill project) should be visited by the planning appeal inspector this week - and a decision should be with us in five weeks time (fingers crossed:-)).
  WORK WEEK 2007 - will be from 22nd September. More details to follow but if fancy a few days doing something to really help us move one of our projects forward please consider coming to Rothley.
• 15th JUNE 2007 - MARK 1 TPO UPDATE - work on the fitting of a brand new catching net to Post Office Sorter 80301 continues. Rapid progress has been made in the recent past - photo HERE shows the new net frame from the outside. HERE shows the new lever in position on the inside. Finally HERE shows the external lights fitted in the bodyside for night time mail exchanging. The work is far from complete, but is progressing very well and a completion date should be predicted shortly.
• 25th MAY 2007 - UPDATE - the dining train referred to below is now full. On the work front the volunteer teams have now resumed work on the complete rebuild of teak buffet car 24278. Current work centres around making the roof fit to receive a new canvas, tidying of the interior to create workspace, and fitting of corridor connections. A picture of the cleared interior is HERE. Hopefully with a more concerted effort we can start to produce a visible result - and a second teak coach to match pigeon van 4050.
• 21st MAY 2007 - GCR DINING TRAIN BOOKING - the working members have a group dining train booking arranged for Saturday evening 16th June. Please e-mail Darren immediately if you would like to join us for this (spaces are limited and allocated on a first come first served basis).
• 5th MAY 2007 - LAUNCH DAY - The culmination of the four year BEAVERTAIL project, and the completion of the initial aim - 1719E returned to full service on the 10:15 Loughbrough to Leicester North service. A short speech and door opening ceremony at Loughborough (L to R - Nev Goodman, Dorothy Green, Darren Martin, Mike Lang, Gordon Maslin and Alan Voase) was followed by the trip to Leicester behind 78019 - 1719E on the rear of the train. This is the kind of view of the double track GCR passengers can now enjoy - the view through the saloon and out of the end windows as the train rounds Kinchley Lane curve. At the other end of the coach the seats laid out more in a lounge style. Finally, when the loco runs round at Leicester this is the scene, with passengers able to get a close up of the action. RVP would like to thank all who supported this project - and would also like to thank the GCR staff who provided refreshments on the launch trips. Please help support the GCR by making use of the vehicle - it is well worth the supplementary fare.
• 3rd MAY 2007 - 1V86 MARK 1 TPO PROJECT UPDATE - While the Beavertail project is this weeks star attraction our other projects have not stopped. The mark 1 TPO team have been very busy making a new catching net for 80301. This has been done away from the railway, but last Saturday it was brought to Rothley for trial assembly on the coach for the first time. It was long day for the four man team, but by 18:30 the net frame was on as this PHOTO shows. This is another key milestone in the project, but there is still much to do to fit the lever and operating mechanism to make it all work. So far the work on 80301 (including the body repairs necessary to refit the net) has cost over �2000. With the imminent arrival of the other three vehicles from EWS we urgnetly need more donations to enable the project to continue unimpeded. Donations to the usual address (see contacts page). Two TPO dates for your diary - JUNE 22/3rd we will be at the Nene Valley TPO gala with our sales stand. Volunteers are needed to man this - please contact Tim Pryce (Timpedigree@aol.com)if you are able to help out and wish to stay over in Peterborough. Secondly JULY 28/9th is the GCR Mail By Rail gala at which at least one of our TPO vehicles will be in action.
• 30th APRIL 2007 - BEAVERTAIL ON THE MOVE - The Beavertail left Rothley this morning for Loughborough ready for its saturday debut. More pictures HERE (showing it leaving), HERE (showing the interior looking back to the entrance vestibule), and HERE (showing it at Loughborough with members of the Monday team who were very heavily involved in the interior restiration, and who weren't in Saturdays photo).
• 28th APRIL 2007 - BEAVERTAIL READY TO GO! - The final preperations are now complete for the launch of 1719E into service next Saturday. The GCR staff have now completed their inspection of it and have passed it fit for service. Meanwhile our volunteers have now completed the interior restoration with final painting and setting out of the seats. For the first time the completed interior can now be seen - pictures HERE, showing what will become one of the most popular places to sit on a steam railway!, and HERE, showing the whole of the saloon. As can be seat it has a total of 24 seats; 16 tub arm chairs, 2 two seater settees and four of the original seats restored to their original condition (the green ones in the picture). All seating is loose and can be arranged according to the vehicles use; but generally twelve single seats are in the main part of the saloon looking out of the end windows, while the rest are at the inner end of the coach arranged for meeting use. The end result of the interior restoration is superb - a real credit to all who have worked on it and really gone to town to give it as near as possible its original appearance. Finally a photo for the dartboard! - those members of the restoration team that happened to be present (plus a couple of Mark 1 TPO interlopers!) line up in front of 1719. There are, of course, many people involved who aren't in the photo. Many thanks to you all.
• 26th APRIL 2007 - BEAVERTAIL LAUNCH - After a little scare when the seat supplier indicated they couldn't deliver the seats (happily now resolved) the launch date is now set for Saturday 5th May. Its first public passenger use will be on the 10:15 from Loughborough (for invited guests), followed by a round trip at 12:15 (for invited members of the restoration team). In the afternoon it will be used for a private charter. Full entry into normal passenger service will be from Sunday 6th May, when the GCR will run it on the rear of the RB set and charge a supplement for its use. It will also be available for charter use from that date. The GCR will have details of supplements and charter availability in due course (and all enquiries regarding its use should be directed to them). If you were a major donor to the scheme, or a member of the restoration team, you should have received an invite through the post for the first two trains - if you have not and believe you have been overlooked please contact us by e-mail. Those who participated in our "Buy a Seat" appeal last October should have recieved a letter from the GCR by now detailing their entitlement to use their seat - clearly you are welcome to use your seats from the 6th May.
• 14th APRIL 2007 - MARK 1 TPO UPDATE - The Mark 1 TPO project continues to make good progress. 80301 is currently at Rothley haveing a program of work undertaken to make it ready to receive the new net assembly (which is being manufactured off site). The work includes re-opening the Net Door for the first time since the 1970s. To make the door operational has required new steel to be installed. In addition the body framing is being strengthened to take the impact from the catching of mail bags (quite intense as anyone who has seen a mail exchange will know!). The aim is to have the work sufficiently advanced to allow 80301 to be available for a gala at the end of July. This may be to drop bags only (as last year) but a trial fitting of the new net in May will allow a decision to be made on whether this too can be completed in the same timescale. The work on 80301 is being funded by our "1V86 Mark 1 TPO fund", which has now raised nearly �6000. This has enabled not only the new exchange equipment to be made and fitted, but the purchase of another sorter carriage (80349). To this can be added the two other vehicles purchased by members to add to the train (80433 and 80458). All three of the new vehicles are kindly being stored by EWS at Wembley, but we hope to move them to the GCR in the summer. These will then need repainteing and fitting of vacuum brake equipment (80301 woill also have air brake equipment fitted to make all four dual braked). All parts for this work are in place, as is a willing workforce to see the project through. All we need is a continuing flow of funds!! Please consider supporting this appeal to ensure the creation of a new mail train for the GCR - donations payable to RVP Ltd (write 1V86 on rear of cheque) and sent to the address on the contacts page.
  Also at Rothley, BEAVERTAIL 1719E nears completion. The carpet was cut for fitting last weekend giving a very good idea of the final appearance. Chairs are expected this week and launch details to follow shortly.
• 26th MARCH 2007 - Update added to the Beavertail page. Very shortly we expect to be able to announce the launch date for the Beavertail - WATCH THIS SPACE!
• 3rd MARCH 2007 - UPDATE - The Nunckley Hill planning appeal has now been validated by the Planning Inspectorate and the timetable set. A decision is due around June, following the submission of the written evidence by both sides. Clearly in the meantime we can do little on the site, but we are continuing to source materials to progress the project. Work has continued recovering the track materials kindly donated by Snibston Discovery Park in Coalville. A large qauntity of rails has already been delivered to the GCR and we are now dismantling rail chairs for re-use on our branch.
  Meanwhile at Rothley work continues on the Beavertail, now moving into the final stage with the fitting of the original decorations. Four of the original seats have been re-covered and are now at Rothley, with the new seats ordered and expected to arrive shortly.
• 12th FEBRUARY 2007 - NUNCKLEY HILL PROJECT - PLANNING APPEAL - Our appeal against the refusal of planning permission for our project has nowbeen lodged with the planning inspectorate. The grounds for our appeal are shown here. We have requested that the appeal is conducted by the written procedure - therefore further exchanges of correspondance will take place as we seek to provide evidence for our stance, followed by a site visit. The outcome should be with us in around three months time. Until this stage is reached we can clearly make no further decisions on the site, but we are continuing to collect materials for the laying of the connection with the GCR up to the site boundary.
• 29th JANUARY 2007 - NUNCKLEY HILL PLANNING DECISION - Our revised planning application for the branch line and shed has been refused. This is clearly a major disapointment and something of a surprise. The reasons given relate primarily to ecological issues, which we believe we fully addressed in having a second ecological survey completed and the plans modified accordingly. For this reason we are now considering an appeal and will update progress here in due course. Needless to say the ongoing delay is frustrating - the formation was (after all) only ever built to be a railway! On the more positive side we have been donated a quantity of rail by Snibston discovery park. This includes plain rails, and several points. We intend to use this to get the point fitted on the GCR side of the fence and begin laying track towards the site boundary. Once we reach the site boundary we will re-assess the planning situation and go forward accordingly. The project remains very much alive!
  Last weekends Rothley shed opening, as part of the GCR winter gala, was hugely succesful. The TPO vehicles and Beavertail were all open and staffed, as was the sales stand. Several thousand people came round over the weekend and this was well reflected in the collecting tin. Many thanks to our volunteers who manned the vehicles for long periods with no breaks in the flow of visitors and wider thanks to the GCR for making the arrangements to get the vehicles into position. It was superb to see the GCR so busy and to see the interest our small collection can generate amongst the general public (now please all write and tell the planners!).
• 25th JANUARY 2007 - ROTHLEY SHED and TPO VEHICLES / BEAVERTAIL open for visitors this weekend (27/8th). The carriage shed will be open throughout the gala weekend. Our TPO vehicles and postal museum will be on display and open to visitors. The BEAVERTAIL will also be open to visitors, with its interior now nearing completion (see update on Beavertail page. If you find yourself at Rothley do come and see us. Our annual meal is on the Saturday night (details below) - start time 7:30.
• 18th JANUARY 2007 - *******ANNUAL MEAL CHANGE OF VENUE*********
  Unfortunately, for reasons beyond their control, the Black Swan have had to cancel our booking. The Annual meal goes ahead however, but now at THE CURZON ARMS, MAPPLEWELL RD, WOODHOUSE EAVES. This is in the village centre a coupe of miles from Quorn station, and still reachable (both ways) by bus from Loughborough. If you are not sure of the location please use Streetmap and enter the postcode of LE12 8QZ. The menu will be available by Saturday. One consequence of the change of venue is that we now have a definite upper limit on the numbers than can attend - currently I have four spaces left, please e-mail immediately if you intend to join us. Apologies for the confusion and changes of location - there really does seem to be a problem in the Loughbrough area these days in getting places to take bookings for large parties.
• 14th JANUARY 2007 - RVP ANNUAL MEAL - This will be held at the Black Swan, Loughborough Road, Shepshed at 19:30 on Saturday 27th January. If you wish to attend please e-mail me (above) - advance booking only as we need to confirm numbers. A menu will be available shortly - pay on the night. The Black Swan is in the centre of Shepshed (leave M1 at Jn 23, take A512 towards Ashby, turn right at first set of lights and follow road into village centre). Bus service is available to and from Loughborough. Apologies for the late notice (and change of venue) this year. We were unable to use our intended location as they were unwilling to take a reservation and expected us to turn up without one!
  This is the weekend of the GCR winter gala. We will be opening Rothley shed and the TPO set up for viewing throughout the weekend. We need volunteers to act as stewards / guides and man the sales stand. Further flung members who want hotel accomodation arranging should also e-mail me.-->
• 12th JANUARY 2007 - MARK 1 TPO FLEET ON THE MOVE! - our newly acquired TPO vehicles are on the move. 80349, the post office sorter purchased following the successful launch of the Mark 1 TPO project, and 80438 (a tender vehicle being acquired by a member) have moved from Euston to Wembley. Here EWS have kindly agreed to store them until the GCR can accept them (later in the year once additional siding space has been created). In due course they are expected to move to the GCR, have vacuum brakes fitted and be repainted, to run as part of a four coach Mark 1 TPO train (with 80301 - already on the GCR, and 80458 - on loan to us, but still at Euston at present). The Mark 1 TPO appeal remains open and we urgently need more funds to cover the work reauired to restore these vehicles to use on the GCR. Please use the general donation form on the "wants" page or e-mail me for further details. The appeal has successfully saved these vehicles for preservation - the speed with which they are returned to service is dependent only on the rate of donation!
• 2nd JANUARY 2007 - NEW YEAR, NEW DIRECTOR - Nev Goodman has been co-opted to the RVP board. As many of you will know Nev has been active for some years with both our Monday and Saturday groups of volunteers. Since the passing of Brian Green, Nev stepped up to co-ordinate the Monday team with impressive results. We have been seeking to recruit new board members to ensure those working at Rothley are properly represented and Nev's offer has been gratefully accepted. Nev's career was in the Royal Mail, and he therefore has a bias towards the postal side of our activities (and particularly the museum items). He's also active within the wider Leicester community and we are confident Nev can continue to develop our links with the local museums service.
• 30th DECEMBER 2006 - HAPPY NEW YEAR - some forthcoming events for your diary:
  Jan 27/8th - GCR Winter Gala - ROTHLEY SHED, TPO VEHICLES and BEAVERTAIL all open for viewing at Rothley throughout the weekend. The TPO includes the sorting carriage and extensive postal museum normally only seen as a blur at Quorn. The Beavertail interior is nearing completion and this will be the final opportunity to inspect it before it enters normal service.
  January 27th (evening) - RVP ANNUAL MEAL - location to be confirmed (Loughborough area). Please e-mail (above) for details of our annual meal. Advance booking needed.
  April 2006 - (exact date to be confirmed shortly) - BEAVERTAIL RE-LAUNCH - the conclusion of our three year project to restore this historic coach to use. Subject to final agreement with the GCR the first runs will be for major donors, followed by use in regular GCR service.
  July 28/9th - Mail By Rail - Our TPO vehicles doing what they were designed for!
• 19th DECEMBER 2006 - MERRY CHRISTMAS! and a Happy New Year to all who take an interest in our work. Your continued support is much appreciated and this website will reflect at least as much progress in 2007 as it has this year! Update added to the BEAVERTAIL page.
• 28th NOVEMBER 2006 - POSSIBLE E-MAIL DISRUPTION - The e-mail address used throughout this site (darren@rvp-ltd.fsnet.co.uk) has ceased working. Please use rvp_ltd@btinternet.com instead and disregard any automatic links from the site. If you have sent an e-mail in the last month please re-send as it won't have been received.
• 2nd NOVEMBER 2006 - RVP - THE MOVIE! - You've seen the website, read the news and probably seen the vehicles in action, now watch the film! GB Productions were with us throughout the Summer gala and have produced an 83 minute long DVD entitled "Rail Mail". The film follows the operation of the TPO vehicles during that weekend with comprehensive coverage of the mail exchanges from the lineside and on board the train. It concludes with a look at the mail vehicles in action with various locos over the past ten years. If you've seen the mail exchange for real this is a great reminder. If you've never seen it then this will show you what you've missed. Available at �10, plus �2 P&P please make cheques payable to RVP Ltd and send to 9 O'Grady Square, Leeds, LS9 8NJ. Order and pay directly from this website on the SALES page. Proceeds from the sale of this video go to the ongoing restoration of our TPO vehicles. GB Productions have a website at A HREF="http://www.steamingthroughbritain.co.uk/"www.steamingthroughbritain.co.uk/ for details of their other products.
• 10th OCTOBER 2006 - BEAVERTAIL RUNS! - 1719E successfully completed its "preview" appearance at the Steam Railway Gala. Starting with the 10:00 from Loughborough it completed 13 round trips during the gala with no mechanical problems. It created a great deal of interest from gala visitors with one notable line up of Photographers on the Sunday afternoon at Quorn all facing the wrong way and taking a picture of the back of the train! Inside a sales stand and display boards did a good trade and successfully raised funds for the seats. Members of the public could not be carried while on the move because of the lack of proper seats, however the use of garden chairs(!) did allow a few members of the restoration team to sample a preview. We can assure you the view is superb and are very confident it will be a great addition to the GCR when it enters service next Spring. Further updates over the winter as this project draws to a successful conclusion. In the meantime some photographs of the weekend are on the Gallery page.
  Meanwhile, elsewhere on the railway the two TPO vehicles operated five mail drops without problems during the gala (all with 45305 as motive power). Back at Rothley our repaint job for "Renaissance Railcars" was completed - their stores van 96187 now looks like this.
• 5th OCTOBER 2006 - BEAVERTAIL PASSES PRE-RUN CHECKS - 1719E had the final adjustments made to its spring settings this morning and is therefore fit to run during this weekends gala. Picture HERE shows it immediately prior to it leaving Rothley shed as a working vehcile for the first time, and picture HERE shows it back where it should be - on the back of a train! (at Loughborough this afternoon). Its debut appearance on a passenger train will therefore be the 10:00 from Loughborough on Saturday (and then every trip formed by the "RB" set). Visitors to the gala are welcome to view the coach internally while the train is stationary at Loughborough and Lecicester (and watch the loco run round from an unusual angle!), but because of the lack of seats passengers will be asked to return to normal carriages for the journey itself. The full launch (with seating) will be on a date to be announced next Spring, but in the meantime we hope you enjoy this preview appearance!
• 2nd OCTOBER 2006 - BEAVERTAIL TO RETURN TO USE! - subject to a few final checks on Thursday, BEAVERTAIL Car 1719E will be in service during the "Steam Railway" gala this coming weekend (7/8th October). This will be the first time this vehicle has ever operated on the GCR, the first use of a Beavertail in any form of passenger service for over 20 years, and the first use of one in a passenger train (i.e. going from somewhere to somewhere) since 1970. (Corrections welcome if anyone can be mopre specific!)
  Clearly this is big news and marks a very major step forward on our major project to get these historically important vehicles back in use. It represents the outcome of over �55,000 in funding and three years work (mainly by contractors, but virtually all undertaken at the GCR). The trips this weekend are part of the running in program for the vehicle following its complete mechanical overhaul- and we acknowledge the assistance of the GCR's staff at Rothley in getting the vehicle to this stage.
  BUT - and its a big but! - it will not be finished!. We are lacking one major item - the seats!
  There will be a final fund raising push during the gala - the Beavertail will be open for viewing and visitors will be able to get a taste of what a ride in it will be like, but we will be seeking 20 donations of �100 in a "sponsor a seat" appeal. Exact details that weekend but the GCR will offer an incentive in return for a donation of this size.
  We are confident the appeal will quickly reach its target and we'll buy seats over the winter. The final interior fitting out will also be completed and a full launch into normal service will take place in the spring.
  Do come and see the considerable progress made on this project - See how the cash which many of you provided has been spent!
  See the BEAVERTAIL page for full detail of the project.
• 14th SEPTEMBER 2006 - The repaint of our workshop van, CCT 94707, is now complete and it now carries full "Tartan Arrow" livery. This was a livery used on some CCTs used on Anglo-Scottish parcels traffic in the 1960's. While 94707 did not carry this livery in the past it is an accurate recreation of a lost livery appropriate to this type of vehicle and (as far as we know) the only vehicle in preservation carrying it - picture HERE. Our repainting team now move on to another project, this time to assist our colleagues in "Renaissance Railcars" (owners of the class 101 DMU vehicles on the GCR). Their stores van 96187 requires a repaint to make it more suitable for use on the GCR, and we are happy to assist. The picture shows its current state, I'll put the finished article up in a few weeks. Meanwhile further update added to the BEAVERTAIL page.
• 20th AUGUST 2006 - Update added to the BEAVERTAIL, and Nunckley Hill project pages.
• 15th AUGUST 2006 - ORIGINAL MOUNTSORREL BRANCH ENGINE AVAILABLE! - It has brought to our attention that an original industrial shunter which worked on the Mountsorrel branch is currently being offered for sale. Peckett 1759 "Elizabeth" was built in 1928 and worked at Enderby until 1957. However it was then transferred to Mountsorrel and would therefore would have worked on all / part of the branch which now forms the centre of our Nunckley Hill project. It remained there until the end of rail activites at the quarry site, and closure of the branch, in the mid sixties. The idea of shunting the revived branch with an orginal shunter is certainly one which appeals to us. However RVP no longer have the resources to maintain steam locomotives so we can't take ownership of it ourselves. We would be delighted to hear from anyone interested in purchasing the loco (or mounting a bid to do so) and would certainly seriously consider the basing of the loco on the restored branch. Anyone interested? - please e-mail me.
• 9th AUGUST - MARK 1 TPO's ARE BACK! - The break in web updates has been unfortunate with the most newsworthy event we've done for some time taking place in the interim. Mk1 TPO 80301 successfully dropped mailbags throughout the July 29/30th GCR gala. It therefore became the first Mk 1 TPO to exchange mail on the move since October 1971. Given the gap in reporting here I can do no better than refer you to our colleagues at the Nene Valley website HERE giving a report and photographs. I'd also refer you to the GCR website for some comment and a video. Pictures will be added to our gallery shortly. If you visited the gala we hope you enjoyed the show. Many thanks to our volunteers (and donors) who did so much to ensure this little piece of history could be (re)created. More generally our "1V86" appeal (see below)is making good progress with a deposit now placed on a sorting vehicle. We urgently need more funds to complete the purchase and allow the fitting of nets on 80301.
• 8th AUGUST 2006 - BACK AT LAST! - After a long delay the new site has finally appeared! Unfortunately there appear to be several problems with it, in particular pictures and forms may not appear. A full update and modifications will follow in due course, but holidays mean this may take some time to complete. In the meantime IF YOU CANNOT ACCESS THE PAGE YOU WANT PLEASE GO TO THE OLD SITE USING THIS LINK. Please be assured that it is only the website that is not functioning properly - all of our other activities are working as normal!!
• 21st JULY 2006 - Mk1 TPO 80301 now has a full set of traductor arms fitted and has moved to Quorn pending a test run to check it is in gauge past the exchange equipment. Assuming all the calculations and measurements are proved correct it will drop mail bags at speed for the first time since 1971 during the forthcoming GCR "Mail by Rail" gala on 29/30th July. This event will feature at least four mail exchanges each day using both of our TPO sorters. Full details on GCR website - see Contacts page. Meanwhile our friends in leciester Museums service have allowed a display board promoting our Mark 1 TPO project to be displayed at Snibston discovery park. This lets a new audience hear of our activities (and therefore the GCR) and should generate some interest. The appeal remains open - details below.
• 20th JULY 2006 - WEBSITE HAS A NEW HOME - The website has had to be moved to a new service provided. Unfortunately the adverts may be more prominent now, and there are some restrictionc on space so certain photos may not be available for a short while - until I get chance to have a clear up, The good news is the website continues to be hosted free so please tolerate the adverts! Full updates for all projects to follow at the weekend.
• 5th JULY 2006 - MAIL BY RAIL GALA - 29/30th JULY - This GCR gala will centre around four high-speed mail exchanges each day, For the first time since 1971 a Mk1 TPO (80301) will be dropping mail bags at speed. Both it and LNER 70294E will be in use with the usual variety of motive power on offer at the GCR. Further details nearer the time or from the GCR website (see contacts page). Further to this, picture here of 80301 complete with its four new traductor arms at Rothley this week. All that remains prior to the gala is a test run (see also appeal below to fund further work on Mk1 TPOs). RVP volunteers needed to man the TPO trains during this gala - please contact Darren or Tim if you can help us out. There will also be a social event on the Saturday night - accomodation can be found in loughborough for our further flung members - please contact Tim ASAP. Elsewhere work has continued to make good progress on LNER buffet car 24278. Picture Here shows it in Rothley shed with upper panels varnished and in place, and alongside identical sister 9124E. The bottom panels for it were retrieved from store last week and will be fitted shortly.
• 1st JULY 2006 - "1V86 Mk 1 TPO" APPEAL:
  RVP has launched a new appeal specifically to fund the preservation and recreation of a train of Mark 1 Travelling Post Office vehicles. RVP has operated preserved TPO trains for the past 24 years, in the form of the unique LNER 1937 built Travelling Post Office set which regularly provides the spectacle of a high speed mail exchange on the Great Central Railway. six years ago a 1959 built Mark 1 vehicle, 80301, was placed in RVP's care and restored to its original livery. It was always the intention to add an appropriate stowage tender to the collection and two RVP members duly acquired vehicle 80458 from EWS in January. This vehicle, now also on loan to RVP, will arrive at the GCR shortly. Work is therefore well advanced on this project. 80301 is now having exchange equipment refitted to enable it to drop mail bags. This work is progressing well as these photographs show: Here, Here, Here, Here and Here. The project is being taken forward by RVP Director Tim Pryce, with Paul Harrison and Mick Yates (who also own 80458) providing the engineering skills for drawing and manufacture of parts. Now an appeal has been lauched to add at least another one (maybe two) vehicles to the Mark 1 TPO set to make it fully representative of mail trains of the 1960 to 2004 period - the final chapter of main line TPO operation. The next vehicle to be added is sorter 80349 (the same basic type as 80301 but of the later batches with design changes). It is intended that this will join the other vehicles on the GCR in due course; negotiations to find a space for it on the line are taking place. To purchase this vehicle we need to raise �4000 immediately, plus additional costs for refitting vacuum brakes. The initial appeal total is therefore �6000. Ownership of the additional vehicle will be with RVP, a registered charity ensuring its future in active preservation. This also means donations qualify for gift aid adding an additional 28% to UK tax payers donations (at no extra cost to the donor). All monies raised in this appeal will only be applied to the preservation and operation of the mark 1 TPO vehicles in our care. PLEASE MAKE A DONATION - this is the last oppportunity to acquire these vehicles before they are scrapped. Donations can be made by sending cheques payable to "Railway Vehicles Preservations Ltd" to 9 O'Grady Square, Leeds, LS9 8NJ. Please write 1V86 appeal on the rear of the cheque. UK tax payers please also complete and enclose a gift-aid form, available on this website or by post from the address given.
  In case you are wondering - 1V86 was the reporting number for the nightly Newcastle - Plymouth mail (memories of which inspired the members involved to launch this appeal)
• 20th June 2006 - NENE VALLEY VISIT - The repeat visit of our TPO sorter carriage 70294E to the Nene Valley Railway took place last weekend. As ever this well organised event was well attended with the four daily TPO demonstration runs completed successfully. Locos used this year were 1306 and 73050. Pictures here, here, here, here, here, and here. 70294E returns to the GCR today, ready for use on the GCR on 28/9th July.
• 2nd June 2006 - Updates are a little scarce at the minute because of a house move. However work continues on all projects, with the Beavertail's progressing, the Nunckley Hill project plannning application being prepared for resubmission, and ongoing restoration work on 24278. In addition exchange equipment fitting on TPO 80301 is progressing well. Full details and pictures hopefully within two weeks. In the meantime don't forget the visit of the LNER TPO to the Nene valley on 17/8th June.
• 17th May 2006 - UPDATE - work continues on 24278, such that the upper panels on one side are now largely complete. These have had to be made from reclaimed teak - a very long and difficult process. Work continues on the end framing, and then the other side before fitting of the new lower panelling. FINAL CALL for our dining train booking on the 3rd June - anyone else inteding to come let me know now. WORK WEEKEND on 3/4th June at Rothley will see the painting of Motorail van 96202E - volunteers welcome.
• 17th April 2006 - SOME DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:
  • Sat/Sun 3/4th JUNE - WORK WEEKEND - No work week this year, but this weekend we intend to repaint Motorail van 96202 to remove the grafitti. Volunteers wanted. In addition we hope to have a dining train booking on the Saturday night at a reduced rate - price to follow, but e-mail me if you want a seat and / or accomodation for the weekend.
  • Sat/Sun 17/8th JUNE - TPO ON TOUR - THE SEQUEL! Post Office Sorter 70294E is off on its hols again - making a repeat visit to the Nene Valley "Mail by Rail" gala. Volunteers needed to go with it, and man the sales stand. As last year a large group of us expect to stay over in Peterborough on the Saturday night (including the boat pub visit:-)) - we must book the hotel early for this so please e-mail Tim Pryce as soon as possible if you intend to join us.
  
  Update added to the BEAVERTAIL, and Nunckley Hill project pages.
  Mark 1 TPO 80301 is now having its exchange equipment fitted - photo here. Keeping it company in Rothley yard is Beavertail 1719E - photo.
• 29th March 2006 - UPDATE - Work continues on buffet car 24278 in Rothley shed. It is now having panelling fitted to the upper bodysides. Each panel is being made from teak recovered from other vehicles. This is a labourious process which is taking a considerable amount of time, but is necessary in view of the very limited supply of new teak panelling. It goes without saying we'd welcome offers of unwanted teak if anyone has a shed full!
• 18th March 2006 - PRESS RELEASE: BEAVERTAIL� PROJECT: NOW THERE ARE TWO!
  
  Railway Vehicle Preservations, the historic carriage restoration group based on the GCR and who are shortly to successfully complete the restoration of BEAVERTAIL� observation car 1719E, today announces that a new agreement has been reached that will see the other Beavertail car (1729) also restored to running order. 1729 has been in long term store at Carnforth, but RVP Trustee Gordon Maslin has been negotiating its purchase for some time. The vehicle has now passed to RVP under an agreement which will see an RVP member fund its subsequent full rebuild. The project, and future use of the vehicle, will be managed by RVP Ltd. Detailed examination (and removal of asbestos) has already taken place and a schedule of work is now open to tender. 1729 is to be restored to its original 1938 condition with the original sloped end. It will be outshopped in the striking blue �Coronation� livery. This will be the ideal complement to 1719E which is being restored to its 1960 condition with modified observation end. In this way both phases in the life of these historic vehicles will be represented. Once complete 1729 will be available for use on suitable preserved railways. RVP�s existing appeal for 1719E guarantees its use on the Great Central Railway once completed. The operating base for 1729 is to be determined as restoration proceeds, but the possibility exists of bringing the two together on the GCR at some point in the future. While the rebuild of 1729 will be privately funded RVP�s Beavertail appeal remains open. To ensure the rapid conclusion of 1719E�s rebuild a further �2,000 needs to be raised to conclude the interior work. Full details of the progress of this project is on www.rvp-ltd.co.uk. Donations should be made payable to RVP Ltd and sent to 22 Grange Street, Burton On Trent, Staffs, DE14 2ES.
  
  
• 8th March 2006 - Update - Signifcant progress is now being made on the ongoing major restoration of buffet car 24278. This is now seeing teak panels prepared for the bodyside as well as renewed activity on the complicated carpentry necessary to complete the end. Meanwhile out in the yard a surprising development - long term storage candidate BTK 57451 has been receiving attention to make it more presentable. This was originally intended to be a quick repaint, but this has now become a practice vehicle for the scrumbled paint effect the LNER used on certain metal bodied coaches in the 1940's. The end result is quite impressive (given that it is on top of poor quality plywood). The first two panels have been completed and our volunteer expects the result to get even better as he continues to do the rest of the vehicle!
  Updates added to the BEAVERTAIL, and Nunckley Hill project pages.
• 1st March 2006 - Update - the Mk1 TPO sorter 80301 has moved to Rothley for the fitting of exchange equipment. Traductor arm components have been made elsewhere and will be fitted over the next four months. Meanwhile our stores CCT continues its repaint into a surprise new livery (deliberately not showing pictures of progress on this!). In the shed 24278 is seeing continuous activity on the top side panelling and the frame repairs at the North end. Work on the Beavertail continues with a full update to follow in due course.
• 7th February 2006 - Updates added to the BEAVERTAIL and BTK pages.
• 30th January 2006 - The LNER TPO set operated as planned last weekend, with no problems on any of the four drops and large crowds at Quorn. Following this the Mark 1 TPO 80301 is to be moved to Rothley next week for assessment prior to the fitting of traductor arms for mailbag dropping. It will be joined in due course by newly acquired Brake tender 80458 - the loan agreement for which was signed at our annual meal on Saturday night. The Photo shows (from right) owners Mick Yates and Paul Harrison taking the agreement from Bob Hall (who previously maintained them for Royal Mail), with RVP board member Tim Pryce officating.
• 25th January 2006 - TPO TRAINS THIS WEEKEND - The LNER TPO set is in action this weekend, performing two mail exchanges at Quorn each day at 11:56 and 16:11. There should also be the opportunity to view the interior of the sorter and postal museum for a short period at Loughborough Central before and after each trip. Those booked for our annual meal on Saturday evening this is at 7:45pm at the Toby Carvery, Forest Road, Loughborough. Anyone who asked for accomodation to be booked for the night should have been contacted by now; if not contact Darren.
• 17th January 2006 - NEW ADDITION TO THE COLLECTION - EWS have confirmed acceptance of the bid made for Mk1 Brake Post Office Tender No.80458. This is being purchased by two members and then placed on long term loan to RVP. The vehicle currently resides in Euston Carriage shed - picture here. It will need to be moved by rail to a loading point (probably with the other 5 TPO vehicles secured for preservation by other railways). Road transfer will then be made to the Great Central where it will join 80301 to represent 1960's mail trains; essential in completing our collection of TPO vehicles and the perfect compliment to the fully operational 1930's LNER TPO set. 80458 was built in 1967, and therefore becomes the youngest member of our collection. It represents the final development of TPO vehicles, with the smaller windows fitted after the 1963 train robbery. Originally built in Blue/Grey livery it currently carries the bright Royal Mail red livery of recent years. It is likely to retain this livery for a short period while work progresses on fitting vacuum braking. In due course it is expected it wil be restored to 1960's Royal Mail red - actually non authentic but matching 80301 and more appropriate to the GCR's period. We wish to record our thanks to Mick Yates and Paul Harrison in ensuring we were able to make this important addition to the collection.
• 12th January 2006 - Update added to the BEAVERTAIL page.
• 1st January 2006 - HAPPY NEW YEAR! = RVP's ANNUAL MEAL will take place on Saturday 28th January at the Toby Carvery, Forest Road, Loughborough at 7:45pm - cost to follow (less than �10). Please e-mail me (or see me at Rothley) if you intend to come so we can confirm numbers for the booking. This is the weekend of the GCR Winter Gala at which the TPO set is expected to be in use. Further flung members who wish to stay in Loughborough also contact me - I'll make a hotel booking nearer the time.
• HAPPY CHRISTMAS to all.
• 21st December 2005 - EBAY CHARITY REGISTRATION - For some time now various members have been selling all manner of items on E-bay and donating hte proceeds to RVP. Now you can do this automatically! E-Bay have introduced the facility for sellers to automatically donate all or some of the proceeds of their sales to a charity. RVP is now registered for this scheme (you'll find us under "Culture, sport and recreation"). Users of E-bay should go through the sell procedure in the usual way, but select a charity when you get to the pricing section. The chosen proceeds of your sale will then come automatically to RVP, and gift aid can be added if desired. If somebody would like to try this out I'm curious if it works!
  Update added to the Nunckley Hill project page
• 9th December 2005 - Long stored BTK 57451E is receving a tidy up. The old rotten paneling is being removed, and new plywood cut to replace it. This will then be painted to make the vehicle much more presentable (It is likely to be in store for a few more years). Update added to the BEAVERTAIL page.
• 20th November 2005 - NUNCKLEY HILL PLANNING application has been submitted - see progress reports .BEAVERTAIL page also updated.
• 17th November - UPDATE - the repainting of the roof on GUV 93579 was (finally!) completed on Saturday - picure of expert roof painter here . In the background welding work on our CCT is now underway and this will receive its own repaint shortly. Work on 24278 roof continues. Update, and significant news, on the Nunckley Hill project should follow on Sunday.
• 15th November 2005 - BURTON RAIL FAIR - The sales and display stand will be at Burton Railway Society's annual Rail Fair, this Sunday 20th Nov (Town Hall, Burton from 11am). Do come and see us; volunteers also welcome to man the stand.
• 8th November 2005 - UPDATE - work is currently focussed on buffet car 24278. This is having the ceiling formers cut and fitted - picture here. Work has also started on the fitting out of the Beavertail interior, with the ceiling started. Meanwhile, on the Nunckley Hill project, the surveying is now complete with the plans being drawn together for the planning application next week. Full updates on all of this to follow next week.
• 20th October 2005 - STORES VAN REPAINT COMPLETED - the repaints of both our own GUV (93579) and the adjacent GCR owned one, on the stores siding at Rothley, have been completed . The result is shown here and has smarten the view from passing trains up considerably.
• 5th October 2005 - MAIN LINE STEAM TRUST GRANT - MLST, the GCR's main supporting charity, have confirmed the award of up to �25,000 in match funding for our Nunckley Hill project. MLST will match, pound for pound, every donation to this appeal up to a maximum of �25,000 thus significantly helping us achieve the appeal target. This significant assistance is very welcome. The appeal has got off to a good start, but we'd clearly like to raise the rest as soon as possible. Use the link below to reach the Nunckley Hill pages and see a current update on progress.
• 4th October 2005 - TPO TRAINS and MUSEUM OPEN this weekend - The LNER TPO set will operate mail exchanges at Quorn during the GCR gala weekend. Friday night sees one trip in the dark at 18:50, while Saturday and Sunday see one train each morning at 09:30. Following this the museum inside the vehicles will be open for viewing at Leicester North. The full museum display has now been set out for the first time since the overhaul. Pictures here and here. Also in the recent past the repaint of GUV 93579 has been completed, work has now transferred to the adjacent GCR GUV which is being given a quick tidy up to match ours - in undercoat yesterday. Finally the CCT on the same siding is receiving body repairs before its own repaint picture.
  Updates added to the BEAVERTAIL, and Nunckley Hill project pages.
• 27th September 2005 - Out of the wilderness! - Apologies for the lack of updates recently, because of prolonged problems with the PC - and a major PC retailer (probably best not to mention them!). Aplogies also to anyone who has had e-mails ignored for the same reason - please resend anything that has not been responded to. Normal service will resume shortly. Loads has happened since the last update; the Nunckley clearance and surveying has progressed, the Beavertail has taken several significant steps forward and restoration work has continued. Full updates will follow next week, but in the immediate future (7/8/9th October)the LNER TPO set is running on the GCR. An evening run on the Friday at 18:50, with one run a day Saturday and Sunday at 09:30. The rest of the weekend the set and musuem will be open for viewing at Leicester North. We need staff for these trains - TPO crew members please contact Darren.
• 9th August 2005 - "RAILWAY LIVES" - 6pm Sundays, ITV Midland's region, will this week feature the story of TPO's and should include a significant section filmed aboard our TPO set during the recent summer gala.
  Monday group update - having completed the TPO set work has moved on to repainting the workshop and stores vans - This is the CCT in undercoat. A surprise in the finished livery is possible - keep an eye on it!
• 5th August 2005 - Update added to the BEAVERTAIL page
• 28th July 2005 - TPO SET RELAUNCH - The LNER TPO set was relaunched on Saturday as part of the very successful GCR summer gala. A short ceremony was held on Loughborough station prior to the departure of the first TPO run to dedicate the Tender vehicle to Brian Green. Ken Hathaway, the final District Head Postmaster at Leicester, delivered a speech recalling Brian's long working life in the Post Office followed by his considerable dedication to preserving that history with RVP. Pictures here and here. Following this the set went on to operate four mail exchanges over the weekend with some very large and appreciative audiences at Quorn (happily reflected in the collecting Tin). In addition on the Sunday a film crew joined us making a further episode in the series "Railway Lives". This is currently showing in the Central region at 6pm on Sundays. This particular episode is expected to appear in around three weeks time. Many thanks to all those who staffed the TPO over the weekend and, of course, all the GCR staff who operated probably the most punctual gala I can remember seeing anywhere.
  ECOLOGIST NEEDED - we need a qualified ecologist to complete a survey at our shed site as part of the planning application. If anyone is willing to carry this out either voluntarily or at a reduced rate we'd love to hear from you!
  TELEPHONE NUMBER CHANGE - the phone number for general enquiries (Darren's) has changed to 0113 248 8804. Mail sent to the Burton address will continue to reach us.
• 20th July 2005 - POSTAL MUSEUM COMPLETED - Pictures here,here, here,here, andhere of the interior of the Tender vehicle (70268E). This was completed yetserday and is ready to re-enter service with the sorter (70294E) on Saturday.
• 17th July 2005 - RETURN OF THE GCR TPO - The complete LNER TPO set (sorter 70294E and tender 70268E) is now ready to re-enter service on the Great Central at the forthcoming Summer gala next weekend (23/4th July). Two mail exchange runs will take place each day (approx 11:50 and 16:20 at the exchange equipment at Quorn). Before the first run on the Saturday (11:30 at Loughborough station) there will be a short ceremony to dedicate the postal museum in the tender coach to the memory of Brian Green, who died last year while the set was stopped for maintenance. This will include the unveiling of a plaque marking the event inside the museum by Ken Hathaway, the final Head Postmaster at Leicester (and a work colleague of Brian's).
  The two TPO vehicles have been out of service since January 2004 (apart from 70294E's holiday at the Nene Valley below), during which time hundreds of hours of volunteer time and around �2000 has been spent making them fit for a period of further use. Principle amongst the work completed has been the re-covering of the Tender roof, new catching nets, new brake hangers and spot repanelling of bodywork. Further, much more extensive work, will be required in the future but in the meantime please do come and see it in action (and give generously in our collecting tin!)
  Update added to the BEAVERTAIL page.
• 10th July 2005 - NENE VALLEY TPO's - 70294E operated for the final time on the Nene Valley over this weekend. This included its first runs with newly restored Standard class 5 No.73050 - photo here. It has completed over 50 exchange runs during its four week holiday with no major problem, although (in an annoying demonstration of Murphy's law in action) after the final exchange run this afternoon one of the brake cylinders ceased on the final short run back to Wansford. This will now need rectifying before the GCR runs on 23/4th July.
• 3rd July 2005 - NUNCKLEY PROJECT - First update added to the project pages
• 27th June 2005 - NUNCKLEY HILL PROJECT LAUNCHED - Text of a press release put out today follows; new web pages for this project HERE.
  HISTORIC CARRIAGE FLEET TO GO UNDERCOVER
  Award winning railway carriage preservation group announce major new project at the Great Central Railway. Lease signed on land.
  Railway Vehicle Preservations Ltd, the award winning charitable historic carriage group based on the Great Central Railway, today announces the launch of a major project to provide covered accommodation for their collection. Excitingly the project will also lead to the recreation of a typical branch line scene to compliment the railways main line.
  A lease has been taken on the first half mile of the former branch line from the Great Central Railway at Swithland. This track bed, which has been disused since the mid sixties, curves away from the preserved section of the GCR and formerly ran through to the quarries in the Mounstsorrel area. The section that has been leased extends to the boundary of the former Nunckley Hill quarry site, a few hundred yards from Swithland Lane.
  Track is to be re laid on the branch and sufficient space is available to build a shed to house the majority of RVPs historic collection which includes some unique survivors; two wooden bodied traveling post office vehicles amongst others. The shed would be on a site adjacent to (but largely shielded from) the Great Central Railway. Informal planning advice has been positive and a formal application will follow in due course. However the signing of the lease is a major step forward and signals the start of �Operation Nunckley�.
  It is envisaged that the project will be funded by a mixture of grant funding and public appeal; specific grant applications will be made under the Land Fill Tax Credit scheme (for clearing and relaying the branch) and Heritage Lottery Fund (for the shed). The project has the full support of the Great Central Railway, but will not draw on the GCR�s financial resources.
  The chairman of RVP, Darren Martin said, �Getting our award winning fleet undercover will be a vital step to ensure its survival. To boot - successful completion of the shed will promote a step change in our ability to complete the restoration of the remaining un-restored vehicles in our collection. The icing on top of the cake is the chance to recreate the branch line scheme by relaying a portion of the disused line. The initial stages of the project (site surveys, drawing production and planning applications) must be funded by RVP itself. Hence we are simultaneously launching an appeal for �50,000 to get the project off the ground.�
  The railways chairman Tony Sparks said, �This is an important step forward for Railway Vehicle Preservations. We�re tremendously proud to have them as part of the GCR. Their work brings prestige to the railway. We�ll be working closely with them to develop the scheme which will help protect heritage for generations to come.�
  RVP is a registered charity and donations under this appeal are eligible for �Gift-Aid�. Donations should be made payable to �Railway Vehicle Preservations Ltd� and sent to 22 Grange Street, Burton On Trent, Staffs, DE14 2ES.
  

  APPEAL LEAFLET

  
  
• 21st June 2005 - NENE VALLEY TPO - Sorter 70294E operated as planned over the past weekend as the star of the Nene Valley's Mail by Rail gala. As in previous years this was a very well organised and well attended event and it was a pleasure to be more involved this year. 70294E had no major problems and operated 8 round trips to the exchange equipment over the weekend, as well as a trip to Peterborough at the end of each day as part of the passenger set. Add in superb (if a little hot!) weather, very well turned out locos (especially 1306) and plenty of interest at the sales stand and this was a very good weekend. Pictures added to the gallery page. Our thanks to the NVR, and its TPO crew, for inviting us and the hospitality extended to us during our visit. 70294E will be operating again on 9/10th July - RVP members available to help out on this occassion please contact Darren.
• 15th June 2005 - TPO ON TOUR! - Post Office Sorter 70294E left Rothley on Saturday bound for Quorn. From here it left by road yesterday for the journey to the Nene Valley. It will be operating there this forthcoming weekend (and again on 9/10th July) - do come and see it on its first working holiday away from the GCR in the 23 years since it first returned to service. To mark the occassion commemorative covers will be available. This year these are in full colour and feature the "Trooping the Colour" stamps just issued. Limited numbers are available and these will only be sold at the Nene Valley events and the GCR gala (23/4th July). They will be carried on the TPO and cancelled with our own date stamp with either "Nene Valley TPO" or "Great Central TPO" as appropriate. Sneak preview here.
  Picture added to the BTK page.
• 5th June 2005 - WORK WEEK REPORT and pictures added here
• 29th May 2005 - BEAVERTAIL bogies back - update on BEAVERTAIL page
• 22nd May 2005 - TPO NEARING COMPLETION - The exterior work on our LNER TPO set is now nearing completion, pictures here and here; the brake cylinders on Tender 70268E are the only significant outstanding outside. A general tidy up of the interior of 70294E is underway, more extensive work on the museum interior of 70268E will then follow. The first appearance on completion will actually be at the Nene Valley Railway. This is however a brief visit and the set will be operating on our home railway at the summer gala on 23/24th July. Meanwhile our next maintenance project, BGP 4050, arrived at Rothley shed on Saturday for a revarnish and roof paint. Work started immediately and will be the major focus of our work week next week (starting 30th May) - fancy a few days in the Leicestershire countryside varnishing coaches??
• 15th May 2005 - SLEEPER CAR SOLD - LMS design sleeping car 380M has been sold to Raileisure Limited, based at Louth station on the Lincolnshire Wolds Railway. It's interior will be restored to near original condition and used for accomodation as part of this business venture. Its long term future is assured and we wish its new owner well.
  NENE VALLEY GALA - is getting nearer (18/19th June). Members of our TPO / sales stand crew who haven't already spoke to me should e-mail me, particularly if intending to book hotel accomodation in the area.
• 8th May 2005 - WORK WEEK 2005 starts on Monday 30th May and runs through to Saturday 4th June. We'll be at Rothley all week and the main aim is to revarnish pigeon van no.4050, but also conclude any finishing touches on the TPO set before it departs for its visit to the Nene Valley. We also have a host of other tasks to keep us occupied. WE NEED HELP! - If you can spare any time that week please come along. Most of the work is not particularly difficult but there is lots of it! Basic accomodation can be provided for further flung members if required. What could be better than a week (or part week) spent in the Leicestershire countryside restoring coaches? Further details - e-mail me.
• 26th April 2005 - Updates added to theBEAVERTAIL, TPO overhaul and BTK pages.
• 18th April 2005 -

  24278 APPEAL CONCLUDED

  - It is with pleasure that we can announce that the �5000 appeal to buy the teak panelling for this vehicle has been successfully completed. As a result its owner (Mike Lang) has now donated the vehicle itself to RVP Ltd. Heavy restoration work started on 24278 (BR no.9122E) six years ago funded by Mike. To date its underframe and bogies have been extensively restored, the wooden framing reapaired and new roof boarding fitted. In total it has had in excess of �10,000 spent on it and we wish to express our gratitude to Mike for donating the vehicle to us. In the recent past work on it was placed on hold while the TPO set took priority, but with the TPO nearly completed and the teak panelling purchased work will start almost immediately in getting it externally complete. 24278 is a key part of the intended teak train for the GCR, being the catering vehicle. The intention is now to continue working on it as a volunteer project with a new aim of having at least it and a companion vehicle completed for RVP's 40th anniversary in 2008. While the teak appeal has been successful (and our thanks to those who responded so generously) we do still need to maintain the flow of funds to ensure the teak set becomes a reality in a realistic timescale. Please continue to support us through donations and membership. Photos of 24278 are here (at the time of its purchase for preservation in 1973) and here (its current condition).
  ROTHLEY shed was open yesterday and a large number of visitors took the opportunity to have a look round, with good trade at the sales stand.
  
  TROLLEY DEPARTMENT - regulars at Rothley shed will also know we've had a one man trolley dpeartment repairing various station barrows and trolleys. The first result of this has now been returned finished to Quorn station. This large barrow has had extensive wood repairs - pictures here, here and here. Its restorer declined to be photographed posing by his handiwork, but well done Danny!
• 10th April 2005 - MLST Members day - Sunday 17th April. We'll be opening Rothley shed throughout this day so visitors can view the Beavertail and ongoing work on the TPO and other vehicles. Please come and see us if you're visiting the railway on that day. Update added to the TPO overhaul page.
• 3rd April 2005 - The sales and display stand was at Abbey Pumping station today - the number of visitors amazed me (the queue for the train rides was most impressive!), and a very healthy amount of cash crossed our stall:-)) This is an excellent museum; the beam engines are magnificent and the steam event was very well organised. It is pleasing to see a museum packed with smiling faces - I can highly recommend a visit. Our thanks to the museum for inviting us.
• 31st March 2005 - Our sales stand will be at Abbey Pumping Station museum, Leicester (next to the space centre and a short walk from Leicester North station) on Sunday from 1 to 5 pm. This is part of an event held there to mark the first steaming of their 2ft gauge loco "Leonard" on the railway system there. Please come and see us, and we can use extra help on the stand; please contact Darren if you are able to help out.
• 27th March 2005 - Update added to the TPO overhaul page, including list of outstanding work (working members please note:-)))
• 20th March 2005 - Chris Prior resignation - Because of changed personal circumstances, Chris Prior has decided to resign as TPO manager. Chris has been doing this for nine years, and anyone who's travelled on our TPO vehicles will appreciate Chris's ability to keep everything under control, as well as the behind the scenes work to get trains formed as required and staff to man them. We'd like to thank Chris for his dedication over the years and wish him well in the future. The position of TPO manager is now vacant and we intend to appoint a replacement in due course. Suggestions / offers are welcome from amongst our membership.
• 13th March 2005 - Visit to North York Moors gala - at this stage we're not sure whether the sales stand is going or not, however a group is going to visit anyway on 30th April/1st May stopping overnight in Whitby. If anyone (RVP members only) wants to go and requires accomodation please e-mail me by the end of this week.
  SALES STAND - Leicester Abbey Park museum 3rd APRIL - we have been offered a sales stand here, volunteers needed to man stand, again e-mail me please.
• 27th February 2005 - Link to the Nene Valley "Mail by Rail" gala page HERE - at which our very own 70294E is the guest star!
• 20th February 2005 - Updates added to theBEAVERTAIL, TPO overhaul and BTK pages. page
• 12th February 2005 - Update added to theBEAVERTAIL page. Summary of the diary of events for 2005:
  • 30th April / 1st May - Sales stand at Gresely Gala on North York Moors (to be confirmed)
  • Monday 30th May to Saturday 4th June - WORK WEEK at Rothley. Volunteers needed!!!
  • 18/19th June - LNER Sorter 70294E operating on Nene Valley - Mail by Rail gala (Staff needed for TPO and sales stand)
  • 9/10th July - LNER Sorter 70294E operating on Nene Valley.
  • 23/4th July - Complete LNER TPO set re-enters service at GCR Summer gala (TPO crews needed).
• 2nd February 2005 - TPO ON TOUR! - The LNER post office sorter has been invited to visit the Nene Valley Railway for their "Mail by Rail" gala on 18/19th June. We are also able to take our sales stand over the weekend. Any members of our TPO team able to make themselves available for this weekend please contact me as soon as possible as we intend to book convieniant accomodation at the earliest opportunity. The sorter will return to the GCR in July and be reunited with the tender, and is likely to re-enter service as a complete set at the GCR summer gala (July 23/4th). At this time an event to mark the re-entry into service will take place and the postal collection dedicated in Brian Green's memory. Update added to the BEAVERTAIL page.
• 24th January 2005 - BEAVERTAIL BODY REBUILD COMPLETED - John Robinson expects to complete the body and roof overhaul of Beavertail car 1719E on schedule for this coming weekend. It will therefore be on display at Rothley shed during the Winter gala weekend. At this stage it is not known whether the Beavertail will be inside or outside the shed (waiting for a weather forecast - we don't want to get it dirty:-)), but access to it will be provided and photography should be possible. We'll also have a sales and appeal stand both days to raise funds for the interior fitting out. The end result of the body rebuild is superb and a credit to John's abilities. I'm not going to post a photo in advance, you'll have to come and and have a look, its certainly worth the trip. This marks the completion of the first major stage in the restoration project and a very visible demonstration of where the money raised so far has been spent. We now urgently need to raise the outstanding �15,000 to complete the underframe and interior fitting out. Please come and have a look at it, and if you agree it represents money well spent please consider making a donation. A range of incentives provided by the GCR remain available for larger donors. The final completion date is now solely dependant on funds flow and is well within grasp.
  Update added to the TPO overhaul page.
• 20th January 2005 - Update added to the BEAVERTAIL page.
• 3rd January 2005 - ANNUAL MEAL - RVP's annual dinner will this year be held at the Toby Carvery, Leicester Rd (B4114 - just off M1 Jn 21, south of Fosse Park), Enderby. 8pm on Saturday 29th January 2005. This is a carvery style meal and the price is �7.99. We need confirmed numbers and payment as soon as possible. The booking is being handled by Mike Lang so if possible please see Mike at Rothley shed. For our further flung members please e-mail me. As in previous years this meal is being held on the Saturday evening of the GCR Wintetr gala. The TPO will not be operating this year, but the Beavertail will be on display and we do need volunteers to man a sales and information stand to promote the appeal (to say nothing of the ongoing work on the TPO set!). Anyone wishing to stay over for the weekend e-mail me.
• 1st January 2005 - HAPPY NEW YEAR! Some dates for the 2005 diary:
  • 29/30th January - GCR Winter Gala - with Beavertail 1719 on display at Rohtley on completion of its body work.
  • 29th January (evening) - Annual Meal - location and price to follow shortly, but will be in Leicester area. Please e-mail me or speak to Mike Lang.
  • 30th May to June 4th (provisional) - Work week at Rothley
  • The TPO set is expected to be ready for service in April, GCR galas following this are July 23/4th and October 8/9th. Confirmation of TPO operation on these (and possibly other) dates will follow when known.
• 24th December 2004 - HAPPY CHRISTMAS to all our volunteers, members, shareholders and general supporters. If anyone suffers railway withdrawl symptons I'll be at Rothley on Monday 27th, do join me if you had enough of the Turkey sandwiches by then:-))
• 12th December 2004 - Updates added to the BEAVERTAIL and TPO overhaul pages.
• 7th December 2004 - RAFFLE WINNERS - The prizes were won by the following:
  First Prize - Silver Driving Experience - Mr S.Evans, Aylesbury.
  Second Prize - 2x Charnwood Forester tickets - Mr B.Bass, Barnet.
  Third Prize - 2x South Yorkshireman tickets - Mr F Martin, Burton.
  Runners up prizes (GCR round trip tickets) to M.Dickman, G.Maslin, D.Maslin, M Nutbeem, A.Jones, L.Edwards, C.Daly, C.J.Perkins, M.J.Foreman.
  If you are one of the winners you should receive your prize shortly. Thanks to all who supported this raffle.
• 29th November 2004 - NEW PRESIDENT - Dorothy Green was successfully elected to the position of President at the AGM.
• 28th November 2004 - TPO roof continues to progress well and the new canvas is scheduled to be fitted on 11th December - any extra help will be appreciated (Rothley from 10am onwards). Raffle was drawn on Saturday - list of winners to follow. Further updates added to the BTK page and photo of stand at Burton Rail fair in the Gallery.
• 23 November 2004 - AGM and RAFFLE DRAW - both take place at Rothley this Saturday (27th). The AGM will be held in a carriage at rothley shed starting 14:30 - all RVP members and shareholders are welcome to attend. The raffle draw is scheduled for 3pm (may be slightly later if AGM overuns) and will also take place at Rothley. Stubs for the raffle can be accepted at Rothley until the time of the drawer itself. This is particularly important for MLST members as "Main Line" has been mailed out late. Please get any stubs and cheques to Rothley either by delivering them to the shed or asking the guard to give them to rothley station staff on morning GCR trains.
• 7th November 2004 - BURTON RAILFAIR - Burton Railway Society's railfair takes place on Sunday 21st Novemeber at Burton Town Hall. We have been invited to take a stand and will have a sales and display stand. Donated items to sell are welcome (particularly videos) - either bring to Rothley shed by Saturday 13th or e-mail me (above). If you are in the Burton area do visit us at what is normally a very well attended event. BEAVERTAIL bogies were swopped as planned yesterday, see Beavertail page.
• 3rd November 2004 - MORE ARCHIVE PHOTOS ADDED- some better quality archive photos of our early years have been added to the gallery, showing the LTSR coach, LSWR milk van and 7597. Thanks to Dave Thomas for these. Further update added to the Beavertail page.
• 18th October 2004 - HRA WEBSITE COMPETITION - it is pleasing to note this website came fifth in our category in the Heritage Railway Association website competition - not bad for a relatively new site (and, yes there were more than 5 entries:-)). Updates added to Beavertail and TPO overhaul pages.
• 23rd September 2004 - BEAVERTAIL - Update added to the Beavertail page. If you are an RVP member you should have received some raffle tickets with the current newsletter. Please support this raffle if you can, we need to keep the funding flow in place to see the work continue as rapidly as it has to date. MLST members should receive raffle tickets with the next "Main Line". If you fall into neither of these categories please consider making a donation or contact me for tickets - again refer to beavertail page. A picture of the BZ and pigeon van running as part of a parcels rake at the diesel gala last weekend is now in the gallery.
• 20th September 2004 - TPO SET RE-ROOFING - Work on the recovering of the tender roof has started - see the TPO overhaul page.An update on the Beavertail will follow later this week.
• 11th September 2004 - CHIP & BEER TRAIN - The working members wil be comandeering a coach on the evening "BEEREX" as part of the GCR diesel gala next Saturday(18th). Train leaves Loughborough at 6:50 and returns around an hour later. For RVP members free beer will be provided, and chip orders taken (please order by 4pm Saturday, please e-mail Darren for further details). The free beer offer is for RVP members only, but the train is open to the public at standard GCR prices.
• 11th September 2004 - TPO overhaul page updated - see special features page.
• 4th September 2004 - TPO set overhaul - The overhaul enters its next significant stage shortly when the tender (70268E) goes into Rothley shed to have the roof canvas renewed. This is a major job that is expected to occupy at least 6 weekends of volunteer time. The old canvas has to be completely removed, the sprung boards pulled back into position and bolted, roof sanded and filled and the new canvas fitted. It is our intention to concentrate all volunteer activity on the roof to get it completed as quickly as possible, but WE NEED HELP!. If you can spare any time over the next six weekends (from 18th Sept onwards) please contact me (or turn up at Rothley 9-5 Saturdays). It is hoped that the bulk of the bodyside repanelling can also be completed while in the shed - thus taking the overhaul a considerable step closer to completion.
  
  
• 19th August 2004 - BRIAN GREEN - It is with considerable sadness that I have to report the sudden death yesterday of RVP President, and former Chairman, Brian Green. As many will know Brian was very active within RVP for many years. With his background as former Chief Inspector at Leicester Head Post Office his particular interest was the postal side of our collection and, of course, the Travelling Post Office vehicles. He was instrumental in raising RVP's profile amongst the local museum community and forming our own collection of postal history within the LNER TPO set. This went on to win our first award for restoration in 1998.
  For several years Brian formed and run our regular Monday group of volunteers at Rothley - his ability to produce results from the absolute minimum of materials gained much light hearted banter, but respect and loyalty in far greater measures. He had taken the reluctant decision to retire from active volunteer work in April, but was still very much involved and continued to visit Rothley and the railway regularly.
  Brian cared passionately about both RVP and the GCR in general, and would promote both whenever the opportunity arose. I personally will miss his enthusiasm and advice. Our sympathy goes to his wife, Dorothy, and the rest of the family at this difficult time. Details of the funeral arrangements will follow when known. There will also be a card for Dorothy at Rothley shed on Saturday 21st for anyone who wishes to sign it.
  Darren Martin Chairman RVP Ltd.
  
  
  
• 17th August 2004 - NEW MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY - Tim Pryce has been appointed Memebrship Secretary, replacing Mike Lang. Tim can be conatcted by E-mail or by post at 203 Shobnall Road, Burton On Trent, DE14 2BE. The membership forms have been updated and new versions will appear on this site shortly. We'd like to thank Mike for administering the membership scheme over the past two years.
• 2nd August 2004 -

  24278 APPEAL LAUNCHED

  RVP are today launching a �5000 appeal to fund the purchase of teak panels for 1937 built Gresley buffet car No.24278, as part of an arrangement that will see ownership of this vehicle transferred to RVP. 24278 is currently owned by Mike Lang, who has funded most of the extensive restoration work it has received to date (with some grant assistance from Main Line steam Trust). To date the underframe has been fully restored, the roof completely renewed and the fire damaged framework replaced. To complete its restoration it requires only the fitting of teak panelling and interior fitting out. The intention was to fund this through the rolling program of fund raising for the teak train. However Mike has now offered to donate 24278 to RVP, and we (of course) intend to accept! However if we are to maintain progress on the restoration we must quickly raise �5000 to purchase the teak panels for this vehicle. We therefore hope that those who wish to support our aim of seeing a train of teak vehicles running on the GCR will respond to this appeal to enable us to quickly progress the transfer of ownership and secure its future with us. The rest of tis restoration will then be funded through our normal rolling fund raising program as originally intended.
  TO DONATE either donate on line using the button below, or print and post the gift aid form with a cheque made payable to "Railway Vehicle Preservations Ltd", with 24278 appeal written on the rear. All donations will be acknowledged.
  
  
  
• 3rd August 2004 - Update added to the TPO Overhaul page.
• 8th July 2004 - LEICESTER HERITAGE AWARD CEREMONY - At the awards this evening we recieved a Commendation for the restoration of RB 9124E. Congratulations to all involved in the rebuild and recent repaint of this vehicle. 9124E was beaten in the restoration category by Appleby Magna museum, which looked a worthy winner from the photographs shown.
• 2nd July 2004 - TRANSPORT TRUST AWARD - Picture of Chris Lang receiving the Transport Trust award from HRH Prince Michael of Kent in London for the restoration of the BZ added to the gallery.
• 22nd June 2004 - CCT 94125 LEAVES - This vehicle is expected to the leave the GCR today en-route to its new owners, the North Norfolk Railway.
• 20th June 2004 - NENE VALLEY "MAIL BY RAIL" GALA - Our sales and display stand attended as planned. In fact we were generously allowed space both inside and outside the waiting room on the main platform. Tim and Claire manned the inside stand, while Les and Tony looked after the outside. Mick Yates, Chris Lang and Paul Harrison also helped out to provide cover for meals and train rides. The stand raised just under �300 towards the overhaul of our TPO set. Many thanks to the Nene Valley Railway for inviting us to this very well organised event. And finally I can't resist a picture of the best loco there (with the possible exception of "Dora") standing with Didcot's TPO 814
• 7th June 2004 - AWARDS - Last week the presentation was held for the Transport Trust Award, received for the restoration of BZ 70654E last year. The event was held in London and Chris Lang (who managed this project) collected the certificate for us. This will be displayed in an appropriate place in due course. This year we have entered 9124E in the Leicestershire Heritage awards. The judging party visited it today and took a round trip while having a GCR breakfast cooked in its kitchen. Finally we have entered both 9124E and 70654E in the Heritage Railway Association carriage awards - judging for these will take place over the summer and the results will follow here when known.
• 10th May 2004 - NENE VALLEY TPO GALA - The NVR have invited RVP to take a sales and display stand to their gala on 19/20th June. We will have a stand there both days and, in addition, those manning the stand have been invited to a buffet on the Saturday evening at Wansford. Approximate numbers of volunteers are needed, so if you're an RVP member and want to help out please e-mail me (above). I'll need to know if you intend to stay at Wansford for the Saturday night (If numbers are sufficient I'll try and find local accomodation for those who need it). Please respond by 9th June. We would like to record our thanks to the Nene Valley Railway for their inviting us along to what promises to be a very good gala.
• 7th May 2004 - HERITAGE RAILWAY ASSOCIATION - We are pleased to announce that our application for membership of the Heritage Railway Association has been successful.
• 2nd May 2004 - WORK WEEK REPORT - a report on the TPO overhaul and our activities during the work week is now on the special features page. Including in here are pictures from Brian's retirement meal.
• 24th April 2004 - PIGEON TRAIN 3rd MAY - As part of the GCR's 1950's gala Pigeon van 4050 will be carrying pigeons again on the bank Holiday Monday. The pigeons will be loaded at Loughborough at 12:00 and travel to Leicester and back on the 12:15 round trip. The pigeons will be released at Quorn on the 15:00 from Loughborough.
• 17th April 2004 - BEAVERTAIL WORK STARTED - see Beavertail page
• 13th April 2004 - EVENING MEAL - BRIAN GREEN RETIREMENT - The meal to mark Brian's retirement will again be held at the Rose and Crown, Zouch (near Hathern) on THURSDAY 29th APRIL, 7.30pm. Bookings are now being taken - please E-MAIL using the link above. A �5 deposit per head is required (to be paid by Saturday 24th April). As in January we will need to pre-order the meals. Menu's will be available from Saturday 17th. I must have these back by the 24th. MENU AVAILABLE - if you've reserved a space you should have recieved it by e-mail (if not let me know) - Please choose your starter and main course, and pay the deposit by 24th April.
  
• 12th April 2004 -WORK WEEK 2004 - This years work week starts on Monday 26th April and runs to the following Saturday. This year work will be focussed on the LNER TPO set. We need a good attendance as we have a very heavy workload. The main tasks will be sanding and painting togehter with repairs to woodwork, brake rigging, corridor connections and exchange equipment. This requires a variety of skilled and unskilled work but certainly requires plenty of volunteer labour. Please consider coming along - for our further flung members some accomodation will be available. Note also that Brian's retirement meal is being held on the Thursday night of the work week.
• 2nd April 2004 - BRIAN GREEN RETIREMENT: It is with some sadness we announce the retirement from active RVP service of Brian Green, director and former chairman of RVP Ltd. Brian is retiring as he feels no longer able to actively participate through advancing years. However Brian has asked to remain as President, a position we are more than happy for him to continue holding. He will therefore continue to attend social events and write in our newsletter. As many members will know Brian was instrumental, as former Chief Inspector at Leicester Head Post Office, in developing the postal side of our collection. The collection of items displayed in the LNER TPO set was largely the result of Brian's hard work (ably assisted by his colleagues in our "Monday Gang"). The collection was built up from 1980s to date as the post office embarked on the closure of Sub Post offices and also sorting offices with the introduction of mechanised sorting. As equipment became surplus and obsolete it would have been scrapped had not Brian had the foresight to beg and scrounge items which were gladly donated to Brian for the museum by Head Postmasters. This display won the Leicestershire Heritage Award in 1998, and went a considerable way to raising RVP's profile in the local museums world. The RVP board would like to record our thanks to Brian for many years of hard work, and we wish him well in his (second!) retirement. To mark his retirement a evening dinner will be held in late April. Members and friends of Brian should contact me for details.
  
  
• CCT SOLD - One of our CCTs, No.94125, previously used for storage space, has been sold. It was made surplus by the donation of GUV 93579 by Fragonset Railways, and a major sort out of our spares has followed. 94125's new owner is the North Norfolk Railway, where it is to be overhauled and returned to service for the carriage of bikes. Of our two remaining CCTs one will become the workshop (a project that has become more urgent after our current workshop van lost its roof in last weeks storms), while the other will be retained for now. Not such good news on the expected transfer of our sleepr car 380M elsewhere - unfortunately its expected new owner cannot now take it for reasons beyond our control. We therefore remain open to offers for this vehicle.
• FILMING CONTRACT - Post Office Sorter 80301 was today (11th March) used for a small filming contract. Its not exactly clear what the filming is to be used for (some kind of publicity film?) but it apparently involved an inflatable sheep as well as people sorting mail. If anyone does see this footage crop up somewhere do let us know! A donation has been received from the company involved and thanks to Tim Pryce for staffing the vehicle for us.
• SOUVENIR COVERS - through the generousity of Benham Ltd and Great Central Railway PLC we have been given 50 of the souvenir covers produced for the launch of the railway stamps in January. These are very nicely produced limited edition covers featuring the O4 stamp and a photo of "Kohlapur". Picture here. These are now for sale on our sales page at �4 for RVP members / shareholders or �5 otherwise (post and packing included). ALL proceeds from the sale of these will go to the work currently being undertaken on the TPO set.
• PRESS COVERAGE - We feature in three current railway magazines this month. Firstly "Steam Railway" carries a picture of 9124E and brief report (in which it states its an RVP owned vehicle - in fact its is owned by a member, apologies to its real owner!). Secondly "The Railway Magazine" carries a photo of the TPO set and staff posed at Loughborough on 23rd January (we have also been sent a different photo taken on that night and this is now in the gallery on this site). Lastly this website gets a brief mention in "Heritage Railway" in the regular column on websites - a special welcome to anyone who has followed their advice and is visiting this site as a result!
• TPO SET ARRIVES AT ROTHLEY - The LNER TPO set was moved to Rothley shed at the end of last week in readiness for its overhaul. Work will hopefully start this weekend (6/3) with a coat of roof paint (weather permitting), but the main period of activity will be our work week starting 26th April when the work will start in earnest on overhauling the brake rigging and exchange equipment, and repainting the bodysides, To complete this (and a host of other work) we need as many volunteers as possible - can you spare a few hours (or days!)?
• SHUNT AT ROTHLEY - The major shunt at Rothley took place today (20th Feb). this released two CCTs, put the third in place for conversion to a workshop and put the new stores van (93579) on the storage sding. The GUV is now resplendant in a full coat of maroon - photo here.
• ADDED TO THE SPECIALS PAGE - The story of our first ten years, as reproduced from our newsletters in 1978. This is fascinating reading; if you've ever wondered how we came by the stock we owned this provides many of the answers....
• SALE OF SPARES - As part of the re-organisation of our stores stock we are now disposing of several items relating to mark 1 coaches, steam and diesel locos and a host of miscellaneous stuff. These items have been lisetd on our sales page for some time. Details have now been added to some items and others are being auctioned through E-bay. Please view the list and make an offer. Sales will continue on a rolling basis until all items are sold.
• THOMAS POST TRAINS - As part of the GCRs Thomas event running from this Friday through to Monday our Mk1 TPO 80301 will be on display in Loughborough station coupled to "Thomas" himself. We'll be staffing the TPO Saturday and Sunday to demonstrate sorting and for sales of souvenir covers. The GCR would also like to have it open on the Friday and Monday - if any RVP member is able to staff this vehicle on these days, even if just for a couple of hours please contact me.
• 9124E COMPLETED - The overhaul, repanelling and repaint is now complete and it is now back in GCR service. This time it has been outshopped in full blood and custard livery - the only serviceable Gresley carrying this livery in the UK. The result is magnificent as these pictures show - kitchen side, corridor side.
• MORE PHOTOS ADDED TO GALLERY - Pictures of our early years have now been added to the gallery. Many of these are fascinating showing our earliest vehicles and the purchase of what are now some of our best known vehicles (e.g. the pigeon van at Loughborough in blue livery, 24278 in blue/grey as purchased at Leeds). The quality of some of these photos is poor as they have been scanned from very early editions of our newsletter - I intned to add extracts from these early newsletters as they tell the story of how the group evolved in those early days. There are however many gaps - does anybody have a full set??
• MAYOR OF ASHBY VISIT - The mayor, Mr Gerry Pointon, visited the Mail set during the winter gala as our guest. Mr Pointon previously worked for the Royal Mail in Leicester and therefore has an interest in our efforts to recreate mail history. He travelled with us during a mail exchange and tried his hand at sorting mail on the move. He then viewed the next exchange, joining the large crowd at Quorn. I understand he was most impressed with his visit and I would like to thank all for the professionalism both us and the GCR are able to display on these occasions. Pictures here, here and here.
• GALA REPORT - The "Mail on the Rail" gala was hugely successful. All 8 mail exchanges went smoothly. Many thanks to all of the TPO crew, the GCRs staff and volunteers and the visiting TPO crews off the North Eastern TPO for making the event such a success. Large crowds were at Quorn for each drop and this is reflected in the takings from the collections made there - which will go some considerable way to paying for the vehicle's overhaul this year. In addition we were visited by the Mayor of Ashby on the Sunday morning. Photos of the event are now in our gallery, also have a look at the news page on the Great Central site. The LNER TPO vehicles have now been withdrawn for mechanical overhaul and are expected back in service early in 2005. In the meantime our other TPO (80301) remains in service and will next be in use as part of the "Thomas" gala on 14/5th february.
• "MAILS ON THE RAIL" GALA - PREVIEW OF COVERS. For this years gala (24/5th Jan) a cover has been produced using the "steam loco" stamps that the Royal Mail launched last week, plus the "pub sign" stamp from last year. For a preview of our covers CLICK HERE. These will be carried on the first TPO run of the Saturday of the gala and then cancelled with our own GCR TPO date stamp. After this trip these covers will be available at the gala. The number of covers is limited to the following numbers:
  • "The Station" pub sign stamp - 92 produced - �1 each
  • "Dolgoch" steam loco stamp - 100 produced - �1 each
  • Caledonian 439 steam loco stamp - 96 produced - �1 each
  • GCR O4 steam loco "E" stamp - 50 ONLY - �2 each
  • GWR Manor (42p) steam loco stamp - 8 ONLY - �2 each
  • SR West Country (47p) steam loco stamp - 8 ONLY - �2 each
  • BR standard 4 (68p) steam loco stamp - 8 ONLY - �2 each.
  • FULL SET - one of each of the above covers for �10 (first come first served).
  Once these numbers have sold out no more will be produced, and our date stamp for 24th Jan will not be used on any other covers. Demand for these covers will be high (particularly the GCR O4 stamped one) TO RESERVE ANY OF THESE COVERS e-mail me. Reserved covers can be picked up at the gala (after first TPO trip) or posted out (for an extra 20p postage). Please note these covers will be cancelled on the TPO they cannot then be sent on through the post. We can however provide uncancelled versions of the covers on request. ALL PROCEEDS FROM THESE COVERS GO TO THE OVERHAUL OF THE TPO SET LATER THIS YEAR.
  UPDATE - 28/1/4: Only 6 of the "Dolgoch" stamp covers are left. In addition just ONE of the GCR O4 stamp covers remains (having got lost in the box!). Contact me immediately if you want any of these - first come first served.
• MORE PICTURES ADDED to the gallery, particularly from the eighties. Some of these are of poor quality but are fascinating. There are also some mysteries - are you the star of some of these pictures or do you know the date? In addition a "special features" page has been added and Mick Dickman kicks this off with the story of the BZ restoration. Anyone want to contribute an article on any other subject?
• TPO IN EVENING PHOTO SHOOT - 23rd January - The TPO set will be playing a prominent role in the evening photography session at Loughborough on the evening prior to the Winter gala. We have been asked to open the set up for photography so a few TPO staff are required - if you are able to attend please contact me. You will need to be dressed in full TPO uniform for the benefit of the photographers.
• "CHRISTMAS" MEAL Sat 24th Jan 7.30pm - NOTE CHANGE OF VENUE:
  Now at Rose & Crown 6, Main St Zouch Loughborough Leicestershire LE12 5EQ
  This is about 5 miles from Loughborough (near Hathern). Unfortunately the GC Hotel no longer do evening meals so we've had to go elsewhere and this place was recommended. We have an absolute maximum capacity of 30. Please let me know immediately if you want to attend and how many places. I also need a �10 deposit per place - I must receive this by January 13th at the latest (ideally at Rothley on the 10th). Make cheques payable to me please (not RVP) - if I do not receive the deposit in time we will not be able to confirm your places. At the moment we don't have a total cost - Mike Lang will be getting menu's on the 14th and we are suggesting that you select whatever you wish. We will ask for a fixed price three course option and I'll let you know if they can do this. In any case your �10 deposit will (obviously!) be deducted from the cost of whatever you choose.
• LOCOS THAT HAVE WORKED THE TPO SET over the last 22 years on the GCR- This list has been compiled by Tim Pryce and makes interesting reading - many of the most famous locos in preservation have hauled our TPO set (perhaps a record for a set of preserved carriages?). Anybody want to correct / add to the list or send photos?
  STEAM: 46229, 1264, 1306, 5080, 7821, 6990, 45231, 45305, 48305, 48151, 34039, 63601, 92212, 78019, 506, 4498, 71000, 90775, 69523 4472, 4771, 5593, 60523, 44767, 75014,
  DIESEL: D4067, 40106, D5830, D123