Railway celebrations in Sale (From Messenger Newspapers)

Sale Area Model Engineering Society and the Friends of Walton Park mark miniature railway anniversary

9:30am Wednesday 19th September 2012 in News

PEOPLE flocked to the 40th anniversary celebrations of the miniature railway in Walton Park, Sale, at the weekend.

The railway, run and maintained by Sale Area Model Engineering Society (SAMES), marked the event with its usual weekend of rides and a children’s fun fair organised in co operation with the Friends of Walton Park committee.

Over the past 10 years the railway has seen an increase in profits, often completing some 600 rides between its 12noon to 4pm operating times.

SAMES chairman Roger Thornton said: “Our fares have been 30 pence for the past 10 years and in these difficult times we want families to have a fantastic day out for not a lot of money.”

Talking of the park and its newly built children’s play area and sports courts he stated: “Alongside the new features in the park, the railway takes it that step further; it is something special, a real hidden gem.”

Commenting on the hundreds of people who attended, Roger said: “It is a wonderful day, it is a real community event and we are very proud.”

Brooklands resident Julia Markey said: “It is brilliant to hear the trains whistle and the railway is a much loved feature of the park.”

The railway is completely self funded with the fares used to maintain the track and engines. Trains depart from Walton Park station, every Sunday all year round.

Anyone who would like further information please contact Ian Stephens on Aptx50@aol.com