New miniature railway has the ‘x’ factor
VIPs, including huge railway fan and music industry stalwart Pete Waterman, are to descend on Kingsbury Water Park for the launch of a new miniature railway.
The country park in north Warwickshire is the venue for the official launch of the Echills Wood Railway (EWR) Society’s 7¼ gauge miniature railway.
Two railway enthusiasts from very different areas of work will be making the trip to Warwickshire County Council’s country park to lend their support, as the first two-mile circuit of the miniature railway is officially opened.
Pete Waterman, famous in the pop world but also well known for his passion and large collection of railway locomotives, will join Adrian Shooter, Chairman of Chiltern Railways, to cut the ribbons across the track, enabling two locomotives to steam their way out of the Harvester’s Station, with carriages full of VIPs.
Jeff Stevens, Secretary of EWR, said: “We want this to be a truly memorable day, not only for all the visitors to the park but also for the members of our group who have worked so very hard over the last two years to get this circuit up and running.
“It’s great that we’ve been able to attract some big names along for the day and I think their presence shows they like what we’ve created.”
The celebrations will continue throughout the afternoon with cavalcades of miniature steam engines and traction engines making their way around the site; there will even be two steam powered launches on the nearby Bodymoor Heath Water to give rides to the public. There will be plenty of static displays for visitors to admire and games for children. The Anker Morrismen from Nuneaton will be adding to the fun and the Burbage Silver Band will be playing for visitors’ entertainment.
Cllr Martin Heatley, Warwickshire County Council’s Portfolio Holder for the Environment, said: “Kingsbury Water Park last year saw record visitor numbers and a great new attraction such as this will surely strengthen the park’s reputation as a wonderful family day out.
“When other sections of the proposed track layout are completed, the rail network within the park will be one of the largest and most scenic in the Midlands and be able to accommodate virtually any 7¼ gauge locomotive regardless of scale.”
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For further information contact Sally Silk, Country Parks Visitor Manager, on 01827 872660.