Even though the weather forecast was not looking good at all, eight willing Permanent Way volunteers turned up as promised, meeting in the shelter of the Mess Van, which had previously been strategically positioned just South of the Aviemore Station Pedestrian Level Crossing. The task was to change 8 Switch Timbers, which had been individually identified by Georgie as life expired. They were purchased cut to measure from Raddery Sawmill on the Black Isle.
Above taken by Mike Tough in early 1998, when our track alterations took place in the former Back Platform and yard at the recently refurbished Mainline Aviemore Station.
Again from Mike's 1998 collection (a Sunday at 1008ish, I guess), showing a younger looking Andrew McCracken in foreground and others? possibly preparing way for the catch points.
Anyway back to yesterday....
An older Andrew (not sure about the wiser!) casting an eye over Fergus.
The longest Timbers were 16 foot, may have been a bit awkward getting them in, due to proximity of fence and of course the platform.
Did someone say tea?
Possibly thankful that there was a Private Photo Charter running Saturday & Sunday, giving them a break when the Loco run round, the photos don't convey the horribleness of the weather. Thanks to John Wood for last three photos and info.
Sincere thanks to Andy McClintock, Bruce Buswell, Jim Clark, Angus MacPhail, Martin MacLeod, John Wood, Andrew McCracken and Fergus for enduring the extremely wet and cold conditions for the entire day (weather looked better in 1998!) and as always completing the task set. Again thanks to Bruce, A.McClintock and Georgie for tidying up the site today.
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