Stapleford Miniature Railway is a historic steam locomotive-hauled 10.25in gauge railway at Stapleford Park, Stapleford, near Melton Mowbray in Leicestershire, England.[1]
The ridable miniature railway began life in 1958 as a short line to carry visitors from the car park, to Lord Gretton's stately home. Due to its popularity, the railway was quickly expanded, running down to and then eventually around the lake in the landscaped parkland.
It featured in a 1960s episode of the television show The Avengers called "The Gravediggers", where Emma Peel was tied to the railway track, before Steed rescued her just in time.
After the estate closed its doors to the public in 1982, the railway was mothballed. It was restored by the newly-formed friends supporting group FSMR under Baroness Gretton's stewardship during the 1990s and opened its doors to the public again in 1995 and is now a regular feature on the steam scene calendar. The railway opens twice per year as part of steam rallies in mid June and the August Bank Holiday weekend, in aid of LOROS, the local hospice.[2][3]
The route is nearly 2 miles in length over an extensive scenic line, and with a fleet of 6 steam locomotives including two mighty North American examples and East African and Harbours 31 Class added in Oct 2008. This was unveiled in October 2008 at the new station opening by Pete Waterman OBE.
Considered as one of the finest examples, the railway attracts thousands of visitors from the UK and abroad.
Events[]
2009 public dates are;
- 13-14th June - When the Stapleforth Steam Rally is held
- 30-31st August.
See also[]
References / sources[]
Based on wikipedia entry
External links[]
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