Report by Graham Parks and Helen Kemp

Saturday 5/6/10 saw Helen and myself meeting Jeff Walls at Martin Cornwall's yard at 8am then driving NDN 759, along with NDN 753, to Bentley Wildfowl and Motor Museum near Lewes in East Sussex. We had been invited by Dennis (surname unknown) from the Uckfield Miniature Railway Club, who operate the ride-on trains within the grounds. The club was celebrating 25 years and the opening of part of their new extension which, when complete, will give a total line length of one mile. The line was officially opened by Bob Symes, a former presenter on Tomorrow's World. Dennis was also celebrating his birthday along with Helen (nearly 40).

On arrival at Bentley and after parking the Scarabs, Helen and myself set about erecting the tent while Jeff Walls carried everything from the Scarabs to the tent and even made the first of many cups of tea. That's a fair price for lodgings in our tent I thought. After camp was sorted it was time to explore the motor museum and wildfowl trust which was all set in beautiful surroundings. Entry was free for us as we were part of the celebrations.

Saturday evening and Helen, Jeff and myself decided that dinner would be best served in a pub so we set off in the Scarabs for a four mile drive to Ringmer and a pub called The Anchor Inn. After the meal and a little liquid lubrication we drove back to Bentley. Upon our return it vwas getting dark but we were surprised to see that the miniature railway were still operating their trains so it then ensued that we were treated to a moonlit train ride along the line and through the woods at about 10pm. It seemed rather eerie but no need to be afraid as the train was expertly driven in the darkness by 9 year old Hugh.

Sunday saw us up early thanks to the rather loud dawn chorus, never mind we were soon out on the road again to The Lavendar Line at Isfield, where we had arranged to meet Martin Cornwall with Scarab WLD 720. Jeff treated Helen and myself to a full English breakfast (same time next week?). After our plates were emptied the trio of Scarabs set off in convoy back to Bentley (photos 1 and 2). Upon our return the Scarabs were yet again displayed beside the miniature railway so this called for more train rides and another visit to the motor museum (photo 3).

At the end of the day there was just time for Helen to photo the 3 intrepid drivers by their vehicles (photo 4). Overall it was a very good and enjoyable two days, the vehicles received a lot of interest. I would like to finish with a big thank you to Dennis and the Uckfield Miniature Railway for the invitation and train rides. For further details of the Uckfield Model Railway Club and the Bentley Miniature Railway please click here.