Words and pictures
by Stuart Chapman
Where in the UK can you find a standard gauge railway inspired by the light railways of Colonel Holman F Stephens? While the Kent & East Sussex Railway, Rother Valley Railway or even the East Kent Railway may spring to mind, there is a small standard gauge railway tucked away in the quiet countryside of the East Riding of Yorkshire, not far from the small historic market town of Howden.
In a remote and tranquil location you’ll find an attractive little station, a short running line, a locomotive and stock where a small but dedicated group of friends meet most weeks to work on the railway.
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The East Wressle & Brind Railway was the dream of the late Colin Shutt who sadly passed away in 2016. It all started back in 2004 when Colin decided to build a replica Ford railbus to enter into a competition.
Colonel Stephens introduced two Ford railbuses into service on the KESR in 1923. The vehicle interiors were very much the same as a standard rural bus and could carry around 20 seated passengers. After a few minor teething problems, they proved relatively successful and were introduced to other lines, including one on the nearby Derwent Valley Light Railway near York.
With the help and support of the Colonel Stephens Society, Colin built his replica railbus using some original components at his Yorkshire home, winning a commendation for his work.
The railbus obviously needed to run and that was the start of the East Wressle & Brind Railway. Having gone to great lengths to build the railbus, the attention paid to the railway was no less detailed, with a beautiful small station and supporting infrastructure.
Read more and view more images in Issue 246 of HR – on sale now!
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