Teesside Small Gauge Railway

The Birth of the Miniature Railway

For some time before 1992 a small group of model engineers of Teesside were meeting each other at various portable miniature railway events. The views of that time were expressed that it would be nice to have a permanent railway within Middlesbrough or nearby to run models that have been made. No particular length of track was in mind but just somewhere to lay some line and perhaps have a clubhouse. Searching began in earnest driven by the late Bob Waters. Many potential venues were considered and hoped for even before the first informal meeting which was held on Monday the 3rdFebruary 1992 at the Parklands Pub, Smith's Dock Park, Eston. Another was held the following week on the 10th. At this one 9 people sported £10 each and another £50 as an expression of meaningful determination to find a club site. Monday 24th February 1992 was the first formal meeting when the essential roles were elected into posts and the group duly named the Kirkleatham Small Gauge Railway, as there was a possibility at the Redcar Museum. This of course did not mature but an offer emerged at Preston Park. The group had hoped for a place nearer to Middlesbrough but this offer was too good to lose. It was a captivating prospect and everyone became inspired and motivated. However there was concern about the commitment to run an intense public railway, as this was more than the original idea.

The Preston Park Concept. The base elements of the plan have not changed. We were so fortunate to have the land and the buildings offered by the Stockton Borough Council Parks Department. Intense fund raising continued by running battery locomotives on a portable track at events. In those early days we had the use of the councils small earthmover (Not Brian but a JCB!). What a boon that was. Then right at the right time an application was made and a significant grant was added to the funds. The only one we have ever had which was such a help getting things started. The voluntary group had to agree on priorities and in particular setting the line down, as this would generate income for what lay ahead for the rather green volunteers. Many skills were and are required and indeed determined people joined the venture. The railway has a strong place in the hearts of many volunteer members. A great deal has been achieved. It is to the credit of those who have been members and those who volunteer today. Thousands of passengers have enjoyed a journey on the little railway and many enjoy running the trains.