
Inspired by an historic photograph from Glossop Heritage Trust and expert advice from the Trust's Mike Brown, FOGS and Theo set about seeking a firm which could supply replica lanterns with LED filaments. The search led us to D W Windsor of Hoddesdon in Hertfordshire. Meetings took place last summer at the station to establish what could be done and costings. Our friends at The Railway Heritage Trust kindly stepped in with a substantial grant towards the cost and Theo managed to fund the remainder from within Northern - no mean feat in the closing months of the franchise!
The first two lantern lights were installed today by Robbie and Ian from Network Rail with the remainder due to be in place by Friday 1st April - not an April Fool's Day joke we hasten to add!! We are delighted with the results so far and the "Dixon of Dock Green" effect as someone humorously commented!
Our thanks to Theo who has pursued this project rigorously through some challenging moments and to Northern's MD Alex Hynes who has taken a personal interest in this project. Alex was able to view a prototype light when visiting the station last autumn. Our sincere thanks as well to Malcolm Wood at The Railway Heritage Trust for his patience and expertise. Coming so close to the end of the financial year and Northern's franchise has meant a number of problems have had to be overcome in recent weeks. We would also like to thank Euan Hilton, Northern Rail's Lighting "guru" for his advice, enthusiasm and support! And thanks of course to Peter Reid and his team at Network Rail for responding so positively to the installation of the lights!
Do come and have a look!