New miniature railway is a hit with music mogul
Railway fan and music industry stalwart Pete Waterman took to the driving seat as the new miniature railway steamed ahead at Kingsbury Water Park.
The country park in north Warwickshire is home of the Echills Wood Railway (EWR) Society’s 7¼ gauge miniature railway, and Pete Waterman was among a number of VIPs attending the official opening.
Famous in the pop world but also well know for his passion and large collection of railway locomotives, Pete Waterman enjoyed the first two-mile circuit of the miniature railway at Warwickshire County Council’s country park.
Jeff Stevens, Secretary of EWR, said: “This was 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.”
Celebrations continued through the afternoon with cavalcades of miniature steam engines and traction engines making their way around the site, music and entertainment from the Anker Morrismen, static displays and other 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.”