watercress line run autumn.

[Toby]

Is anyone interested in going on the watercress line on a sunday in autumn? This is a follow up to our innaugral spring do. It was decided a trip on a steam train AND lunch would be nice, especially after seeing the line. The staff suggested eating in Arlesford rather than Alton and to avoid crowds catching the 11am train was suggested. How about meeting at 4 marks station then going up to Alton and back to Arlesford, eating then steaming back to 4 marks at some point? Any ideas/dates? Simon, how does this work for train times. Highlander any preferred dates!?....

[Toby]

Anyone out there?! Simon has sent a timetable and it looks like sunday 20th, 27th sept or 4th 11th 18th October but I think we'd be pushing our luck for weather? Have not confirmed or checked dates yet with mrs Toby! Trains from Arlesford leave 11.00 11.43 1.00 1.43. Leave Alton 10.50 11.55 12.50 approx 35 mins between Alton and Arlesford.

[Toby]

Have checked our availability... 18th or 25th October seem to be our only free dates 25th is a special event day on the line with a special timetable.

[Ian Grace]

Sounds good. So would 25th be a better day to visit?

Have you had any response from anyone?

[Highlander]

18th October Ok my me. We will be running out of light so an early start a must. Highlander.

[Simon]

I would be on for 18th October. How about meeting up early at the Windmill (Four Marks) where could pre-arrange with the pub to park and also have lunch between rail trips, which we know is good food (carvery) and good value. I know that there is parking available at Alresford as I have been there on a "Morris Day". I will find out when the engine sheds are open to visitors.

[Simon]

25th October is not a good day as it is part of Wizard Week (school holidays).

[Ian Grace]

Sounds like the 18th to me guys, shall we go for it?

That means we probably need to schedule the Hatchgate for the Sunday before?

[Toby]

18th looking good then, Simons idea sounds good, meet 4 marks windmill or station go to one end of line, Arlesford sounds nicest, back for lunch and then to Alton? Not sure if we can buy tickets at 4 marks or how much use the ticket covers? Do you know Simon?

[Simon]

I think it says in the leaflet that I sent you that the ticket covers one for the whole day.

[Toby]

Excellent, so thats Toby, Simon & Alistair. Any more? Ian, can you publicise for us, please.

[Ian Grace]

Will do, of course. I'll also set the dates/venues for the other meets.

Thanks for suggesting and planning what should be a delightful day of vintage motoring, steaming and libation.

[WallyM]

We will endeavour to attend. Have written it on the Calendar. Wally and Rosemary

[Ian Grace]

So Wally, would you like to join the VMR, or would you like me to extend a special guest invitation to you?

[WallyM]

Sorry, been away a lot with the M. I will print off an application form and send it in the next couple of days