Northiam Station

Another day on the Kent and East Sussex Railway. This time as Crossing Keeper at Northiam where I was training a volunteer on how to operate the Level Crossing Gates here. The chap is learning Wittersham Signal Box so you have to pass out at Northiam Gates as when the Northian Signal Box is shut the gates come under the control of the Wittersham Signalman.

This shot is taken from the Crossing Keeper's hut alongside the gates and the main road. When working the gates there is little opportunity for taking photographs but when training someone you have a little more time.

Here, the train on the left is the Norwegian engine at the head of a rake of Victorian coaches waiting to depart for Wittersham, Rovenden and Tenterden. While on the left is the old favourite, the Pannier Tank resting after completing the Wealden Pullman turn and awaiting return to Tenterden as Empty Carriage Stock.

The Norwegian, the only tender loco on the KESR, re-entered service last year after an extensive overhaul. For my 50th birthday present I was given a railway experience day on this locomotive driving within the station limits at Rovlenden.