The Dewsnap

[@Geo46115]

Hello Iain, Whilst browsing KZbin, for topics relating to the halcyon days of steam railways, I 'stumbled' across 'The Dewsnap'. As an ex: BR fireman based at Trafford Park MPD (9E) from 1964 to 1966, then I transferred across the city to Newton Heath MPD (9D), from 1966 to the end of steam 1968, I became intrigued into the title of your video! But, the Dewsnap I remember oh so well was adjacent to Guide Bridge, thus nowhere near 'the Miles Platting Road', and neither location is within South Manchester! Please Iain, this is not meant to seem derogatory in any way, But is there another 'Dewsnap', I wonder??? Cheers, George Bingham.

[@iainrobinson6566]

Hi George, thanks for your comment! I strted my story with the idea of Dewsnap sidings, which was in Dukinfield, near where I lived in the sixties. My mate and I used to go steam hunting (and visited both Trafford Park and Newton Heath before the end of steam.) But as usual with my work, the loications were conflated into something else, but I wanted to keep "Dewsnap" as I was so fond of the place. I hope I didn't offend you! I envy you your memories and experiences of the last days of steam. Have you seen "Gandy Dancer's" videos of Manchester steam, you would like them if you haven't already seen them. Thanks for looking in and all the best!

[@Geo46115]

Hello again Iain Thanks indeed for your reply, and I was most interested to hear of your visits to both 'sheds'. Why our paths may even have crossed, eh? Please, Iain, no needs for any apols at all, but I was just curious if there were 2 Dewsnaps! It's hard to believe that all those sidings have gone. the same goes for Ashton Moss and Gowhole too, all obliterated! I've worked goods trains to all those sidings, and even shunted there too... and I'd go back and do it again tomorrow... Yes, I do follow Gandy Dancer, and several other KZbin contributers, Tim Gearney is a real gent in my mind. So again Iain - my thanks for your reply, I shall subscribe to your channel, your command of English language and storytelling are excellent, by the way! Kind regards George.

[@iainrobinson6566]

Thank you, George for subscribing, and your comment about my writing is very much appreciated. I’m putting together a series of reminiscences and thoughts about the end of steam, which I will put up here, that might be of interest to you. Thanks again, cheers, Iain.

[@Geo46115]

Thanks Iain, I'll be 'tuned in' for sure, ready and waiting👍 George.

[@haroldhorseposture9435]

Hi, George, During your time at Trafford, do you remember a driver, Bill Reynolds ? My uncle Bill on me mum's side . I always thought he'd been a Gorton man . as he lived in Ashton , right by Hill's biscuit works. I haven't come across anyone who remembers him yet, as I always asked blokes who'd been Gorton men . For my part, I was born and raised close by Gorton, and could hear the goings on in the night hours. Much time was spent on the 'birdcage' , against the wishes of my folks, who were adamant that 'bad men' lurked there. Healey Mills men ? What a place , dripping in steam days atmosphere. My journey started at Guide Brtidge , in'77 , thence Newton Heath , Victoria , Piccadilly RRNE/TPE , then at at last, a return to 'proper' trains at Peak Forest until retirement. I wish the clock could be turned back , so I could see things with a railwayman's eye. Anyway , this story was ace , well written and well read , like you, the title got me, and my abiding memory of Dewsnap is of a busy yard full , as were all the others , of absolute characters. The sea of birch trees became a heartbreaking reminder of all that is lost. I periodically have to attend a unit there to get my wife's blue badge reassessed, right where Dog lane was. As for 'The Dewsnap' , many local yards would have had a job or two that likly would have been referred to as such , but you'll likly know that. I enjoyed this story immensely , more please !