Brian Mercer

Railway Times Brian Mercer

RAILWAY TIMESIt's the mid nineteen-fifties. Archie Charlie, a steam engine commissioned in nineteen forty-seven, is busy traveling the rails in the expert hands of his driver, Fred Hoxton. Fred is a confirmed bachelor who has decided to make his home in a cozy corner of the engine shed. The two of them have developed such a close relationship that they are able to work together without the need for a fireman on the footplate. A number of happenings enliven the drab British Railways scene at this time, all involving this engine and his driver. These include the setting up of a social club for locomotives, an impromptu picnic; drama on a bank holiday, the unexpected appearance of romance, plus the rendering of a song or two. All these events and more are chronicled here. So why not step back to a time when balloons of smoke heralded the arrival of a train and compartment windows were opened with a strap. Please show all tickets at the barrier.