The first quarter of the new year is generally a pretty quiet time for COVGOG. The demise of the Bristol show and the winter closure of heritage lines means that there are few opportunities for outings. The flip side of the coin however is that there should be plenty of time for modelling.
We did take the opportunity one Tuesday in February to collectively familiarise ourselves with the scenic section of the test track. As well as learning how to safely remove the baseboards from overhead storage ie the loft we were shown how to erect and then plug them together. The purpose of doing this was to ensure a spread of knowledge thus reducing an over-reliance on a couple of club members. Many thanks to Roger for leading this session and indeed for being pivotal in the success of the scenic section.
March brought Kettering a key event in our calendar. Being just over half an hour or Coventry means we often get a good turnout for the Guild. This year 28 of our members attended. Members commended the quality of the layouts and the demonstrators are always a welcome addition. One thing that was noted was a shortage but not total absence of traders selling smaller items such as castings. Many thanks to those who are continuing to sell smaller items to those of us who need them for our loco builds. Prices of second hand goods seemed to be all over the place. This was the case with the bring and buy where for a lowly £35 one of our members bought a very nice (assembled and painted) GWR four wheel brown van. Roll on Kempton Park and Stafford.
By the time you read this update we will have held out AGM. We’re not expecting any nasty surprises but that is down to the committee doing such good job.
Paul Williams
