General Discussion

I just want to congratulate Chris Oakes on his dedication and his ever expanding expertise in sorting out he problems these ever aging machines have. He is a wonder. It has been a privilege to have had the opportunity of having personal conversations on his the skills he is mastering, and of the club in general, in the meanwhile of him sorting one of my engines out.

In September 2022, I finally placed the Flying Scotsman Double Tender on the rolling road for its first steaming, years after being in storage from when bought from Hornby. Nothing happened other than blow-off from the safety valve. My ignorance of its mechanics, trying to force some movement and reduction of contrary glueing resulted in slight damage. I failed to get any motion, and sought the help of Chris Oakes by phone in October. A flying visit to deliver it ensued.

This day I finally took delivery of a perfectly working steaming model, with its rake of 4 heavy coaches that seemed to go round the test circuit for ever. Yes, it seems the original oiling of the working parts with associated preservatives had broken down over the years to effectively form a solid 'glue' that defied remedy other than replacement of parts. What a surprise, but mine was not the only example in the workroom. A dozen or so others both with similar and not so similar problems were on their respective trays on his workshop shelving - with months of delay to any newcomer seeking similar service.

There is no doubt the club policy of providing guidance for self-service of maintenance is correct; the knowledge that has accrued from Hornby expertise has diminished is invaluable and will be needed as the engines get passed on to the following generation.

Chris, I thank you so much for the magnificent and most educative help you have given me.

My very best wishes, Charles Pickles.