[SimonT]

Once again, the Onslow rally out performed all expectations and amply satisfied the varying needs of the family. There was sufficient coeliac food (and plenteous cups of tea) for SWMBO and a large, quiet working field for my anxious, autistic eldest to escape to (tannoys and en-mass whistling are not for him). No siginificant queues to get in and toilets even cleaner than previous years...

However it was William, my youngest, who had been most looking forward to Onslow. He usually seems to start mentioning it about 10 months in advance, with a steady countdown through the season as the highlight of the year approaches. Special thanks is due to Doug Milns for organising the SAC 'Driving Day' which took place on the Saturday. I am also very grateful to the many others who made us so welcome and went out of their way to accommodate William and make those 3 days the stuff of dreams. Whilst everyone else were beside the dynamometer, watching how many BHP were needed to burn all the paint off a chimney & smokebox, I could relax & see my Chief Engineer have the time of his life.











'Please Mister, can I polish your waggon?'








The future of the hobby is in the coalbox...