Runswick Leamside

[@axelusul]

Great work, played on and around railway at Leamside, West Rainton and Drank at the "The Leamside" or "The Station". Allot of family history with this to this day. Got the "concrete sleepers" right, the one thing that did interest me was the actual Railway Station at Leamside before it was demolished in the 1970`s. It sat between the two lines one going to Fence Houses(North-ish) and Sherburn(South-ish). To gain access to this Island you had to cross two big access stairways, plus in the centre were two Passing Places( North /South) where the line ended and would allow shunting and extra capacity upon the layout. There are photos of it, I found it fascinating as I`d never seen anything quite like it. Unfortunately like allot of Pubs, The Station closed about 10 years ago, which was such a shame. My mother worked behind the bar at one time, some its "exploits" are legendary as are the regulars who drank there, The "Adventure" drift mine had fed coal onto waggons there for at least 200 years, I believe it was established in 1777-1979. My family worked there amongst other pits locally, my Grandfather had both the Pit and The Station within 1/2 mile so work and play were always near home.

[@andrewf9041]

Nice one bonnie lad.

[@Wessexshire]

What ever became of this layout? Is it still operating as is or has it been updated? (Hope not if still around) I did hear it had been bought by a model shop, is that true?

[@Wemblesden]

It's currently owned by Shildon MRC and has been in storage for the past few years. I'm not sure what condition it is in but it may be up for sale again if anyone is seriously interested. ;)