Track Engineer here, on my area, the white crosses on the wood sleepers indicate they are to be changed before they cease to hold gauge. All the other random looking white spray paint on the cables, cable tubes, point equipment etc. and other equipment, are there to highlight potential obstructions to a tamping machine. These are normally marked up just ahead of the tamper which is usually working at night, thus avoiding possible damage from the tamping tools. I guess you landed at Norwich just before the scheduled litter pick😁.
16:50 Driver from Australia here, That's the signal stepping up as the route beyond further signals gets set, Because this usually happens very quickly once the signaller sets the route you'll occasionally get flashes like that if the signals beyond the one you are looking at haven't already cleared before the one in front of you has
Hi Charlie. Great meeting you at GETS. Myself and Lord Al both had mini-me's done. Great tutorial no wonder you richly deserved the award. Thanks Charlie. Thumbs up thumped 👍 ....Pete....
Another good one - very much enjoying your channel and seeing the progress on Chadwick, Charlie. I've been watching a lot of the back catalogue and the number of useful tips and information in there, all adaptable to modelling in other scales (N in my case due to space limitations) have been very helpful in planning my own trip back into the model railway world.
Hi again Charlie As always very enjoyable. You come up with these little tips and ideas that seem so obvious once you suggest them but not until then! Love the nibble out of the platform edge. Some paint already rubbed off my Hornby Castle cylinders. You have just also proved one of my theories. The bigger and more complex the layout more time you spend solving problems rather than just running and relaxing. All part of the hobby I guess. But I do remember having a busy day at work as an Electrical Tech solving problems, and looking forward to some Running time when home, to be faced with annoying little hassles and more problem solving. Just part of the day. Sometimes exacerbated by the fact that with work the layout was unused for weeks, and the next session was all cleaning . Thanks again. I would love to see a running session for one episode, watching your signaling and block detection functioning. You then can do the cleaning and fault finding for me and I will just watch and enjoy . Stay safe. Howard.
Many thanks, Howard for such an interesting comment. You are of course correct, half the time we’re mending rather than enjoying! Once the next batch of signals are in place, I will certainly do a more involved running session. Regards, Charlie.
I’ve just bought my first Accurascale loco I’d love to see a swift on Dcc function re-mapping so I can standardise all my function buttons using jmri which I believe works on most Decoders and also a more in depth tutorial on the sig m20 Keep up the Great Work every day is a school day with your Videos
Hi Charlie, just would like to thank you for all your hard work in making all your videos/content, I have been watching them for the last couple of years, and have been inspired to take the plunge in to doing my own oo layout, based on the western region at the end of the steam era and the beginning of the diesel. When I am home in the UK I spend most of my time in Cornwall ,on my sister's farm, it's a wonderful part of the country to model,as you know.The layout is named Diddy junction west.I started last September and haven't got as far as I thought, but it's been a steep learning curve. I must say if I did not have your guidance on so many subjects I would still be trying to get my points to work lol. Again Thank you so much and keep up the good work. Cheers
Excellent update. Awesome demonstration on the Tortoise repair. I love to see trains that I cannot see in person. Thank you for taking us along. Keep up the great content.
Well Charlie you have been busy! Another video with some great tips to follow. It always amazes me what resources are available out there. The Rail Archive is another great research tool. I particularly liked your views of Chester. As you say a lovely station and my word it looked well kept and relatively free of weeds etc. Congratulations to them. Trust you and your better half are keeping well. Regards Kevin
Many thanks, Kevin, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed enjoy the video. Yes, Chester is a great example to the rest. Thanks for asking, Margaret and I are both well as I hope you are too. Regards, Charlie.
I used to live a stone’s throw away from Chester Station. It was what got me interested in model railways. I got all my figures from Alan at ModelU. I found them to be the best.Great video as always Charlie. Thanks😊
We enjoy all that you do. So always interested in any subject you tackle. Also if you ever get the chance. Take the train to Shrewsbury station and get some footage. Took the train from there to Wellington every school day for 5 year in the late 70s early 80s. We would be naughty on occasion and Hop by "accident" the train to Chester or Crewe. And sometimes the express to Wolverhampton that would not stop at Wellington. Loved the old DMUs. Keep up the great content.
Great video as ever Charlie, I love the mixture of content and your reviews are always un biased. You sold me on the light so 1 on order for a Xmas present. Thanks Charlie great work keep the videos coming.
Hi Charlie, great mix of subjects, well done. I certainly like the trips out to see the real thing, I loved seeing the drainage on the platform, .... I know I really should get out more!! The thought struck me was how many of your followers would also like a model Charlie driving one of their engines!! Very pertinent subject that of lighting and magnification very useful light that you have brought. It's been a wet few days down our way but we are well away from the flood damage. They are the worst storms in living memory. Thanks for your videos, always very enjoyable. Have a great weekend!!
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the video David. The footage on the TV of your floods has been shocking, and I feel for those who have lost loved ones. Sadly, it will take years to recover from this one. Regards, Charlie.
I had a very happy smiling laugh out loud moment .... When Charlie said, "but here's a purchase that I *have* made....", the video cut to a promo for hearing aids! :) LOL!! And being 68 years old, I can also relate. :) Always wonderful videos, Charlie ... very appreciative of all you do
Thanks for the Autumn update, nice for you to cover these subjects, would be great to get a how to paint figures video in the future. Love the new light for the workbench, I also have eyes that are deterioating and good light is critical to my closer visibility. cheers Richard
Yes 402 was one of the first class 50s to move down to the western region back in the early 70s for crew and depot training. 400, 401 and the 402. Our 402 (or 50002) is still with us on the WR at Buckfastleigh. Slowly being restored, wish us luck.
Charlie, thanks for the update. Only a few 50s (D400s in old money) made it to the Western Region before TOPS numbers were applied. The aforementioned 400, 401 & 402 of course; these came down from the LM in that order (October 1972, July 1973, November 1973). Also appearing pre TOPS was 404 (January 1974) which was renumbered soon after arriving on the WR, 405 in March 1974 (renumbered August 1974) but this one may have actually been in works for some of 1974. I am not aware of any other 50s running on the WR with pre-TOPS numbers. And favourite turns in the early days were Bristol-Paddington
It's always heartwarming seeing one hobby discover age old methods used in other hobbies! The model railway, scale modeling and miniature hobbyist should have a yearly gathering where we can all share our modelling techniques with each other! 😂
Another great video from Charlie - I have always wondered about the meaning behind the 'Head Codes'...I used to wonder about them when I lived in London in the 1980's, train watching when I could. Now I know that they are of great significance. Thanks for the insight...I also have a bar LED light and a ring LED light with a magnifier as well as a pair of magnifying glasses with interchangeable lenses and inbuilt LED. Can never have enough of either at the age of 65( just turned).
Thank you Charlie, another excellent Video, that Light looks really good, certainly beats my very old Anglepoise Lamp that never stays where I put it, thanks for sharing.
Charlie, another intesting update video. Great to see a classic Australian Loco make an appearance, I do love the A Class, and the repainted A62 is lovely in V/Line orange and grey. Anyway, the part on the lights is very interesting, and something I do need to investigate, I am in treatment for Ocular Cancer, so my eyesigtht has suffered, and sadly I can't do the very fine work I used to. I have invested in a Nine Steps head magnifier, and that really helps, but as you say, you need to fumble around for the paints or decals. A session of figure painting would be good. Thank you for sharing, stay safe, and Cheers, Michael
Hi Charlie. Thank you for another interesting update. So many lovely things covered. I do enjoy broadening my very limited knowledge of model trains which I absolutely love. Do take care over the coming winter months and keep well.
Yes please, Charlie, a session on painting 00 guage figures will be appreciated. Don't worry about 66 year old eyes, you are still a mere youngster, I am 85 and still modelling. - Chris, Western Australia
Hi Charlie, I enjoyed the field trip to Chester station. It was a fast forward through all that stuff about the headcodes though! I am 69 this November. The optician tells me when you can't see as you get older it is due to the retina getting thinner! I first noticed it putting tracks together - I couldn't see the joiners! Thanks for uploading.
Fascinating as ever Charlie, thank you. I’m doing my best at building a layout but have not allowed my mates to come look yet. I’m getting access to 3D scanner and printer and they have agreed to be scanned. I’m planning a show evening near Christmas where all my friends will be invited and presented with themselves in miniature and some super glue, they can then put themselves on my layout! I’ll do a video.. 👍
Charlie, another good video l. I'm very much a steam man but run a few diesels on my layout. Like yourself I didn't know much about modern stuff, then I came across Don Coffey cab ride videos on RUclips. He explains about a lot of things, signals, bridges, viaducts and general construction in the old days. ( I like his comments of tunnel construction "built with candles and colera"). By watching the routes you can pick up inspiration for all those line side features and junction layouts. As usual, Keep up the good work.
Many thanks for your comment Vernon, I’m so pleased that you find the video interesting. I shall have to look up.Don Coffey, it’s a name I’ve never come across. Regards, Charlie.
@@ChadwickModelRailway I find them quite adictive, although I have to limit the time I watch as some are 2-3 or even 4 hours long! (love the class 66 hauling freight)
Thanks Charlie for an interesting Autumn update. I know Chester and Chester railway station well and have to agree they are both fascinating with lots of history. Yes - I would really appreciate a session on figure painting.
Hi Charlie First off, congratulations on your award for RUclips contributor. It’s well deserved and I think that Hornby should re-name it as the Charlie Bishop Award!. lol After all Brazil were allowed to keep the Jules Rimet trophy once they had won the World Cup for the third time! You asked for some suggestions for future videos and my contribution is the thorny question of road vehicles for the layout. I’ve visited a few exhibitions with splendid layouts that unfortunately fallen for the stereotypical “bus on a road bridge” cliche, which in its self is understandable given the limited amount of road space available on most model layouts. However, i have often observed that the road vehicles on display are incorrect for the period modelled on the layout or are geographically incorrect. A few examples that I’ve seen, (I’m not going to name and shame the exhibitors) A Leyland National bus (first introduced in the early 70’s) on a post war era (1950’s) Layout. Southern National livery bus waiting at a level crossing, all fine except the layout was modelling a location in Kent! It is a bit like the London Transport bus showing Piccadilly sitting on a Thomas the Tank engine and friends layout. I have since bought a Bachman “Bertie the bus” and donated to that culprit. Modellers who would like guidance on the subject can reach out to their local area of The Model Bus Federation for help in choosing the model of bus appropriate for their own layout. I can provide you with the contact details of the area secs. If desired. A few years ago i gifted you as set of model buses that would be suitable the geographic location and era for Chadwick including one with a fictional fleet name of Chadwick and District, just so you don’t fall into this particular can of worms. Am i right in thinking that 2025 will be the year of the Chadwick Parkway Station Build? Layout automation is another topic and i can recommend that you take a look at the splendid FLINT HILLS layout on RUclips. I saw it running at my local show in Faversham and its quite captivating and something to behold.. I’ve recently had to invest in a garden“shed” since moving into my daughter’s home because she did not want any of my modelling setup and materials inside her house. That all spent 3 months stored in a corner of the garden within your favoured Really Useful boxes and crates. I say “Shed” but it’s actually a proper log cabin that wont let in drafts and wont get blown down in the slightest breeze. As it is almost an accepted tradition the shed has a sign affixed to it which reads David’s Shit Shed, Because my shit isn’t allowed in the house. Daughter amused,thankfully.
Yet another interesting update. Sometimes it’s a nice departure from “build sessions” to see what’s been happening in general. Plenty of food for thought. With regards to the resistor added to your brake van. Have you ever thought of fitting tail lights? The circuitry involved would draw enough current to activate your block detection system as well as adding that extra detail to the brake van itself.
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it, David. Yes, some of my brake vans do have fitted lights, but sadly this is one of my earlier ones. Regards, Charlie.
Brilliant update Charlie, I would be interested in figure painting, but anything that you do I find it extremely interesting to watch, love your videos and how informative they are.
Hi Charlie - another fascinating update as always, full of interesting information for us armchair modellers! (OK, I plan to get out of the armchair, but it's so comfy.... maybe later...). I'm really glad you enjoyed your trip to Chester - I was born there, many years ago (although in fairness, you'd have already been chasing the young ladies around when I was a babe in arms); I also worked in the big brown office building you can see in the background at 16:19 (and a few other spots), although I was actually in the building just behind it, which you can catch a glimpse of at 18:22 (with the row of AC units on it). I was surprised to see a Lime St train leaving! I'd always thought the Merseyrail Electrics were the only way to get directly to Lime St. from Chester (and I recall the days when the leg to Hooton was run by a Class 101 DMU). Since checked up on National Rail, and whilst the TfW train is 5 minutes slower than Merseyrail, it's also a couple of quid cheaper. I shall travel that way, next time! As for the architecture - It was actually shared with three pre-grouping railway companies right from the start, designed by Francis Thompson and built by Thomas Brassey. I believe it had the longest platform in the UK, at the time of its construction (Manchester Victoria later took that crown). I was at Making Tracks 2 (or 3?) at the Cathedral last year, and the Thomas Brassey Society were there showcasing his life (he was a prodigious builder, mostly of railway buildings and structures). After grouping, I believe it was shared between the LMS and GWR. When I got re-bitten by the railway modelling bug, I thought I'd have a go at modelling Chester station... however, when I measured it up, in OO gauge there's not a single room in my house that I could fit it into, unless I literally modelled only the station!
Lovely video as always. Strange but welcome to see you talking about my hometown of Chester (now live in Newcastle upon Tyne). A station I am very familiar with. Great observations inc. 19:27 an electric trains stop sign which through me for second before remembering about the third rail! I can remember getting a Crewe shuttle back in the day from the parcels platform at 18:50.
Great video, and must get a figure made of me ,but in 1980s BR station uniform as that's what I did back then for work. Also need to get our station cat Sooty as well ,that we had at falmer , i always wonder if it was now that he be as well known as the Huddersfield station cats ? He was a character 😂, That gen site is great and will help look up what my diesel fleet was doing 😊 Chester station is great ,many a happy day there ,and think it still has its DMU depot ? As many of the older 1st generation dmus were kept going well past when other places had sent them to the scrap yards.nice to see the ' train shed ' roofing too ,as these platforms I used to get on class 103/05/108s dmus towards manchester.
A great update Charlie. The painting of figures would be an interesting watch so if you do find time to do a video I'll be watching but I watch all the videos anyway. A good point on older eyes. Good lighting is paramount for working on small things. I have a magnifier light but as you mention too much stuff is out of sight when changing tools but so far it's worked for me, usually when sizing watch bracelets or watch batteries with super tiny screws. A very good point also made for real life station hardware like old rails, cables and troughs etc. This is something that I hadn't considered so if / when I get past my planning phase I'll take that into account. A great piece on the head codes as well, a way to check if a loco set wheel in an area being modelled , when and what it was hauling. Many thanks for sharing.
Great to see your update! We are just getting into storm and heat season! I have used a lot of gimbals at work, but most of them are too bloody heavy! The DJI one is not too bad.
Figure painting would be great. A couple of other quick ideas for you: How do you test whether a chip has blown? How to fit a stay alive to a regular chip? Are there more McKinley updates coming too, I love all your videos Thanks for your superb, awarding winning, films 😄
Thanks for another informative video. Being an old git, I was around before any orange became the norm. The first orange to appear was the mini-vest as per the fellow in the middle in the first pic of them, and this would have been early seventies. Because it wasn't mandated by BR, not everybody wore one.
Hi Charlie; another great video; Autumn update already. Focussing on specific tasks and smaller projects appear to be working well. Lots of progress made over the last few months; even the new snippets videos. You done airbrushing in past; be nice to see how figure painting can be done; types of brushes use and sizes and the time it takes to do them to various progressive standards…. It’s interesting to see how various modellers paints various items - they change their method depending on the task undertaken. Fireman and drivers add that small level to the locos, figures around the layout do wonders. Hope the point motors now last for couple decades; great way to strengthen the arms. Looking forward to the next instalment and the station completed. All best Marc from Leighton Buzzard
Charlie - I do a fair bit of close-up work on wiring and soldering etc. I can recommend the headsets you get on Amazon with LEDs built in. You charge them via a usb cable and have interchangeable lenses depending on the degree on magnification you need. I think mine were only about £15-20, so worth a shot.
Hi, Charlie! Another interesting video, especially the research segment. For information, the 1E21 headcode was 'The Cornishman' - Penzance to Bradford Forster Square working, the return being 1V72. It'll be interesting to find out whether the archive goes back as far as 1961!! Thanks for another useful video. Take care.
Long distance inter-regional trains have a long history of using domestic WR power in Cornwall 1E21 and the corresponding 1V72 were usually a Western or later a 50 in Cornwall - i.e. west of Plymouth. Other long services may have used hydraulics as far as Bristol before giving way to a Peak or Brush 4. So yes, not unusual to see a hydraulic with say an Eastern Region reporting number (to give headcodes their proper name) displayed
Great video again, Charlie, thanks for the update. I quite like Chester and its station. However, Rob Crossan includes Chester in his list of five least favourite stations when he writes in The Telegraph. His view is: "If St Pancras is the wedding cake of 19th-century train station architecture, then Chester station is a two-day-old Gregg’s pasty that’s been pecked at by pigeons. The featureless, flat station frontage is a mid-Victorian calumny, insanely lengthy on both sides of the entrance until it turns into goods yards and a tattoo parlour. Stroll down the main drag that sprawls out ahead of the station entrance however, and you’ll quickly discover that, far from being deposited in Chester’s historic centre, you’re actually a good mile away at the end of a windswept and unappealing road. A strong shout for the dullest mid-sized station in England. " Ah well, each to their own!
@ Hi Charlie, well I can’t disagree with his comment on the location. I haven’t measured it but I didn’t think that it was a mile from the centre. As for the architecture, I liked it and can remember being impressed by the frontage when it came into view. Inside? Well, it’s much of a muchness really. A blend of the old and the modern but it seemed well looked after. It’s a big station, as you know and there’s plenty to see there. We went to Chester to see making tracks the first time around. There was still a lot of Covid restrictions so we didn’t go out in the evening. However, we were staying at the Holiday Inn by the racecourse with a good view of the railway viaduct. The variety of trains going past was quite something so I guess that Chester station is pretty popular with the train spotting fraternity! I probably wouldn’t put Chester in my top five but it shouldn’t really be at the bottom either.
Hi Charlie another great video with good info and great idea's, I liked the tip about cutting away a bit of platform to allow the loco to clear it at certain points, I have a w1 hush hush that clips the platform with its rather sticky out steps on near the front of the loco. PAINTING FIGURES would be very helpful to some people out there I used to paint the games work shop / war hammer figures some 38 years ago and done very well indeed dear i say but i would still love to see you do video on the subject as there is always some thing new to learn. thank you again Charlie for very interesting video.
Hello Charlie. My name is Brian and this is the first time that I have sent a comment. I thoroughly enjoyed this episode. The little visit to Chester was well photographed and very informative. You have a good eye for detail. On the bit about the layout platform, you showed a signal cluster at the platform end. Where did you get them from? They look like what I need for my layout. You didn`t say who makes that led light you have just bought. It looks like it be very handy. Keep up the good work. By the way, you have been the only person to explain how single and double slip wiring works. That was brilliant. Thanks, Brian.
Another interesting and informative video Charlie so thanks for that. Figure painting and fence posts and panelling would be of current great interest for me please. Take care regards Barry..👍
Wow that's an expensive lamp! But I suppose if you do a lot of modeling etc, then it could be a worthwile investment! I must say that I do suffer a little when doing small figure painting! the figuers Ihave been making and painting recently have been the War gaming type of thing! Re extra lighting, I tend to use an old desk lamp that used to belong to my grandperants, and it gives some good extra light when I feel that it's needed. ! I like the info about the point motors, and how to upgrade them, useful imformation, eventhough I just use the basic Peco ones on my layout, but I always learn something new from your videos! They are always something to look forward to, as I don't tend to get out and about much to shows or clubs etc. Sadly none of my friends are into the hobby, and it's not much fun when you are on your own!
Hi Charlie. I am mainly a military model painter and painted perhaps 100s of model soldiers ranging from 10mm scale to 28mm . I have an Optivisor but find it uncomfortable wearing it for long periods.. I tend to use 3.5x magnification spectacles and are great for painting details on figures. Very cheap too as they are obtainable from the pound type discount stores.
While I have a way to go before I'm collecting my pension, props to you Charlie for the public service messages on eyewear, I expect that will prove useful for years to come! Yes to figure painting please, I recently bought a load of Modelu figures and have been scratching my head on how best to approach it, so any advice you can give would be greatly appreciated. All the best and congratulations on your win 🏆
Charlie another brilliant video and very informative. I’m afraid I’m not very patient as you post your videos every fortnight but I realise you’ve got your own life to do other things. Anyway you often mention the show more tab which unfortunately doesn’t appear as I watch RUclips on my iPad. Looking forward to next fortnight.
Dear Sir, The quality of your videos and your uncanny communication skills make me wonder what your 'non-modeling world' profession is. Cheers from Brazil!
Great stuff again. I nearly bought the same lamp at GETs but he had run out on the day and sent me to Hobbies site, who had money off them anyway. I thought that was extremely decent of him.
Another brilliant video Charlie, well done! Just to avoid confusion, you mentioned a signal at Chester displaying a “D” and said it meant “down”. This may or may not be the case as Network Rail employ an inconsistency manager to ensure that nothing makes complete sense. “D” could just mean “D section”. We have section letters displayed at London Victoria and Canon Street (for example).
Optiviser, I almost have my genuine one attached to my noggin. I have 5 other "optiviser knockoffs" and they live permanently in a drawer, some where! So, fellow modellers only buy the original, save your loot for something else. I love your light, that really is a great idea. Thanks Charlie.
Aha Charlie, a few years ago I did take a chunk out of my platform for my Steamers. I had no idea it was done in the real world, until today. Painting people, 00 people, I have tried. It can only be improved, so yes please a tutorial is needed. Barry.Devon
Fantastic video as always Charlie well done. I found the part about notching the platform for the train to be interesting I'm not sure I've ever seen that here in the states. We do have something here in the town that I live in at our train station which has a single track platform with bidirectional travel, as our train station is served by an occasional local freight service, as well as a commuter rail service via DMU, we have a curious thing which I have never seen before called the gauntlet track. If you were unfamiliar, it uses a turn out at each end to bring the tracks a bit closer to the platform but not far enough away from the mainline that you actually use a frog. At the station itself they're actually four rails the closest one to you and the third rail are for the passenger trains pulling up to the station and the second rail and fourth rail is for the through freight services so that the freight cars are a couple feet extra away from the platform. It's kind of an interesting thing and I don't know that I've ever seen anybody model it, would be curious if it's a thing ever use somewhere in England as well. Anyway, keep up the great work and I look forward to your next video.
Many thanks, the great pod. That configuration is clearly something that I have never heard of. I don’t believe it’s been adopted anywhere in the UK. Thanks for the info, regards Charlie.
Another interesting video as per usual, looking to get some extra lighting for when I do more modelling, I too have some figures to paint mainly photographers and dogs will look at that link
A great video, thanks Charlie. Figure painting is a great idea. I've been doing some recently, basing my technique on watching Dan paint figures at the NEC earlier this year. I print my own figures, prime them (I use a water based resin that seems to need priming), dry brush some white on to pick out highlights then apply single coats of each colour I want, well thinned down. I'm not as good as Dan, but the end results seem acceptable. One thing that annoys me is that the seated figures we can buy, when fitted in carriages, sit far too high (heads up near the top of the window). I think that this is due to the fact that the internal seat on Hornby and Bachmann (and maybe Accurascale, but I haven't tried that) are just too high. The beauty of self-printing is that the figures can be edited in software and printed out in bulk for much less cost than buying them. I cut my seated figures for carriages off at the belly button, which gets them seated at a more credible height. Obviously they lose their legs, but that is not detail that can be easily seen through carriage windows anyway. As I can't post pics here, I've sent you an email. Btw - I left a comment yesterday and it has disappeared. Not sure how I offended the RUclips gods. I hope this one sticks.
Many thanks, Ed, and you make some excellent points. I’ve no idea what happened to your previous comment, but if it has a link, it will be held for manual approval. Regards Charlie.
Your item on lighting and vision was spot on. I do use the magnifying lamp and have the same problem of finding something outside area of lamp. Am considering an illuminated version of an omnivisor as my magnifying lamp is difficult to position accurately.
I used to do a lot of HO Preiser figure painting (and adapting) back when I had the eyes of someone in their 20s and 30s. I've now got a load of TT figures to paint for a new layout. Wish me luck ... It would certainly be interesting to see how you go about painting figures, especially as we both have the eyes and dexterity of someone not in their 20 and 30s. 3D printing seems to have made them so much more detailed (and realistic) nowadays, so maybe new techniques are needed?
Hi Charlie. Platform 2 that you refer to is platform 1. Platform 2 being at the other end of the station for trains heading towards North Wales or Shrewsbury. Platform 1 that you refered to is infact known as the Parcels Bay. Not in use to passengers and only used for stabling stock. M is for the up main to Crewe. D for down Warrington. Hope this helps.
Enjoyed the video Charlie, I admire the ingenuity on the point motors! If my understanding is correct, reference the Class 221s, Bombardier are a French company, so it is pronounced 'dee-a' rather than 'deer'.
Regarding the stainless steel lines, on the rails, that you mentioned, in the bay platforms at Chester (lovely city, only been once, for a day trip, when on holiday in Southport in 2014, and I did visit the model shop!), if you arrive on the Merseyrail into Southport, you can actually HEAR the lines, as there's a rumbling noise, as the units run over them, before stopping. And regarding your age Charlie, I'm only 21 years behind you!
Another interesting video thanks. Bought the very same lamp two or three years ago, it is absolutely great.
Thanks Robert, that’s very reassuring. Regards, Charlie.
Yes - would like to see figure painting. Looks like a good light. Nothing beats the right glasses and enough light! Great update.
Thanks Gavin, I’m so pleased that you found this one particularly interesting. Regards, Charlie.
Track Engineer here, on my area, the white crosses on the wood sleepers indicate they are to be changed before they cease to hold gauge. All the other random looking white spray paint on the cables, cable tubes, point equipment etc. and other equipment, are there to highlight potential obstructions to a tamping machine. These are normally marked up just ahead of the tamper which is usually working at night, thus avoiding possible damage from the tamping tools. I guess you landed at Norwich just before the scheduled litter pick😁.
Thanks, Pete, that’s really interesting info. Regards, Charlie.
Nice update Charlie, shame I missed you @ GETS, always next year 😉. Keep up the good work. Look forward to your gimble review. Regards John
Figure painting , yes please. And thank you so much for another interesting video.
It’s a deal, F9987.
Regards, Charlie
Figure painting? Yes, please!
Thanks Trevor, I’ll be on the case. Regards, Charlie.
😊
16:50 Driver from Australia here,
That's the signal stepping up as the route beyond further signals gets set,
Because this usually happens very quickly once the signaller sets the route you'll occasionally get flashes like that if the signals beyond the one you are looking at haven't already cleared before the one in front of you has
Thanks Mrme, much appreciated.
Regards Charlie
Charlie, you are creating an invaluable resource for present and future modellers - a wonderful legacy.
That’s very kind of you to say so. Take care, regards, Charlie.
"...because its....prototypical. WooooOOoooo." I love it. I love your cautious use of that word. Thanks for the video Charlie.
Yes ,I had a laugh at that 😅😂 Well Done Charlie.
Thanks guys, I just find the use of the word prototypical, to be frightfully middle class. Regards, Charlie.
Hi Charlie, Great video, thanks! Looking forward to your figure painting episode. Mike MacKenzie
Thanks, Mike, that’s most kind.
Stay safe fella. Regards Charlie.
Hi Charlie.
Great meeting you at GETS.
Myself and Lord Al both had mini-me's done.
Great tutorial no wonder you richly deserved the award.
Thanks Charlie.
Thumbs up thumped 👍
....Pete....
Thanks Pete, that’s very kind of you to say so. The YT meet ups were brilliant. Regards, Charlie.
Great Video Charlie! Love the real life scenes of the when you are scouting about! Cheers! 👍
Thanks P3272, that’s most kind. Regards, Charlie.
Another good one - very much enjoying your channel and seeing the progress on Chadwick, Charlie. I've been watching a lot of the back catalogue and the number of useful tips and information in there, all adaptable to modelling in other scales (N in my case due to space limitations) have been very helpful in planning my own trip back into the model railway world.
Thanks Matt, that’s most kind. Regards, Charlie.
Hi again Charlie
As always very enjoyable.
You come up with these little tips and ideas that seem so obvious once you suggest them but not until then!
Love the nibble out of the platform edge. Some paint already rubbed off my Hornby Castle cylinders.
You have just also proved one of my theories. The bigger and more complex the layout more time you spend solving problems rather than just running and relaxing.
All part of the hobby I guess. But I do remember having a busy day at work as an Electrical Tech solving problems, and looking forward to some
Running time when home, to be faced with annoying little hassles and more problem solving.
Just part of the day. Sometimes exacerbated by the fact that with work the layout was unused for weeks, and the next session was all cleaning .
Thanks again. I would love to see a running session for one episode, watching your signaling and block detection functioning.
You then can do the cleaning and fault finding for me and I will just watch and enjoy .
Stay safe.
Howard.
Many thanks, Howard for such an interesting comment. You are of course correct, half the time we’re mending rather than enjoying! Once the next batch of signals are in place, I will certainly do a more involved running session. Regards, Charlie.
I’ve just bought my first Accurascale loco
I’d love to see a swift on Dcc function re-mapping so I can standardise all my function buttons using jmri which I believe works on most Decoders and also a more in depth tutorial on the sig m20
Keep up the Great Work every day is a school day with your Videos
I do my re-mapping, on ESUdecoders, on an ESU programmer. Sadly Chris, I do not use JMRI. Regards, Charlie.
Hi Charlie, just would like to thank you for all your hard work in making all your videos/content, I have been watching them for the last couple of years, and have been inspired to take the plunge in to doing my own oo layout, based on the western region at the end of the steam era and the beginning of the diesel. When I am home in the UK I spend most of my time in Cornwall ,on my sister's farm, it's a wonderful part of the country to model,as you know.The layout is named Diddy junction west.I started last September and haven't got as far as I thought, but it's been a steep learning curve. I must say if I did not have your guidance on so many subjects I would still be trying to get my points to work lol. Again Thank you so much and keep up the good work. Cheers
Thanks Frazer, I’m so pleased that you enjoy the channel. Regards, Charlie.
Excellent update. Awesome demonstration on the Tortoise repair. I love to see trains that I cannot see in person. Thank you for taking us along. Keep up the great content.
Bob, you are most welcome mate. Stay safe, regards Charlie.
Well Charlie you have been busy! Another video with some great tips to follow. It always amazes me what resources are available out there. The Rail Archive is another great research tool. I particularly liked your views of Chester. As you say a lovely station and my word it looked well kept and relatively free of weeds etc. Congratulations to them. Trust you and your better half are keeping well. Regards Kevin
Many thanks, Kevin, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed enjoy the video.
Yes, Chester is a great example to the rest.
Thanks for asking, Margaret and I are both well as I hope you are too. Regards, Charlie.
Thank you very much Charlie 😀
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it, Hander. Regards, Charlie.
I used to live a stone’s throw away from Chester Station. It was what got me interested in model railways. I got all my figures from Alan at ModelU. I found them to be the best.Great video as always Charlie. Thanks😊
thanks, John, and a great choice of figure manufacturers. Regards, Charlie.
We enjoy all that you do. So always interested in any subject you tackle. Also if you ever get the chance. Take the train to Shrewsbury station and get some footage. Took the train from there to Wellington every school day for 5 year in the late 70s early 80s. We would be naughty on occasion and Hop by "accident" the train to Chester or Crewe. And sometimes the express to Wolverhampton that would not stop at Wellington. Loved the old DMUs.
Keep up the great content.
Thanks, Steve , for looking into your world. Regards, Charlie.
Great video as ever Charlie, I love the mixture of content and your reviews are always un biased. You sold me on the light so 1 on order for a Xmas present. Thanks Charlie great work keep the videos coming.
Thanks Kevin, I’m so pleased that you found the video interesting. Regards, Charlie.
Hi Charlie, great mix of subjects, well done. I certainly like the trips out to see the real thing, I loved seeing the drainage on the platform, .... I know I really should get out more!!
The thought struck me was how many of your followers would also like a model Charlie driving one of their engines!!
Very pertinent subject that of lighting and magnification very useful light that you have brought.
It's been a wet few days down our way but we are well away from the flood damage. They are the worst storms in living memory.
Thanks for your videos, always very enjoyable. Have a great weekend!!
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the video David.
The footage on the TV of your floods has been shocking, and I feel for those who have lost loved ones. Sadly, it will take years to recover from this one. Regards, Charlie.
I had a very happy smiling laugh out loud moment .... When Charlie said, "but here's a purchase that I *have* made....", the video cut to a promo for hearing aids! :) LOL!! And being 68 years old, I can also relate. :) Always wonderful videos, Charlie ... very appreciative of all you do
Thanks Kevin, that’s very kind of you to say so. Regards, Charlie.
Thanks for the Autumn update, nice for you to cover these subjects, would be great to get a how to paint figures video in the future. Love the new light for the workbench, I also have eyes that are deterioating and good light is critical to my closer visibility. cheers Richard
Thanks, Richard, the preparations for the video well underway. Regards, Charlie.
Yes 402 was one of the first class 50s to move down to the western region back in the early 70s for crew and depot training. 400, 401 and the 402.
Our 402 (or 50002) is still with us on the WR at Buckfastleigh. Slowly being restored, wish us luck.
Charlie, thanks for the update. Only a few 50s (D400s in old money) made it to the Western Region before TOPS numbers were applied. The aforementioned 400, 401 & 402 of course; these came down from the LM in that order (October 1972, July 1973, November 1973). Also appearing pre TOPS was 404 (January 1974) which was renumbered soon after arriving on the WR, 405 in March 1974 (renumbered August 1974) but this one may have actually been in works for some of 1974. I am not aware of any other 50s running on the WR with pre-TOPS numbers. And favourite turns in the early days were Bristol-Paddington
Many thanks for the info gentleman. And hopefully I’ll be at Buckfastleigh next Saturday for the diesel fair. Regards, Charlie.
Really interesting video! Thankyou Charlie.
You’re most welcome, Michael. Regards, Charlie.
It's always heartwarming seeing one hobby discover age old methods used in other hobbies!
The model railway, scale modeling and miniature hobbyist should have a yearly gathering where we can all share our modelling techniques with each other! 😂
What an excellent suggestion, stay safe, regards Charlie
Another great video from Charlie - I have always wondered about the meaning behind the 'Head Codes'...I used to wonder about them when I lived in London in the 1980's, train watching when I could. Now I know that they are of great significance. Thanks for the insight...I also have a bar LED light and a ring LED light with a magnifier as well as a pair of magnifying glasses with interchangeable lenses and inbuilt LED. Can never have enough of either at the age of 65( just turned).
Many thanks, Greg, for a look into your world. Regards, Charlie.
Thank you Charlie, another excellent Video, that Light looks really good, certainly beats my very old Anglepoise Lamp that never stays where I put it, thanks for sharing.
Thanks Peter, I’m so pleased that you found the video useful. Regards, Charlie.
Charlie, another intesting update video. Great to see a classic Australian Loco make an appearance, I do love the A Class, and the repainted A62 is lovely in V/Line orange and grey. Anyway, the part on the lights is very interesting, and something I do need to investigate, I am in treatment for Ocular Cancer, so my eyesigtht has suffered, and sadly I can't do the very fine work I used to. I have invested in a Nine Steps head magnifier, and that really helps, but as you say, you need to fumble around for the paints or decals.
A session of figure painting would be good.
Thank you for sharing, stay safe, and Cheers, Michael
Thanks Michael, I think painting is certainly now on the list. Good luck with your treatment. Regards, Charlie.
Hi Charlie.
Thank you for another interesting update. So many lovely things covered. I do enjoy broadening my very limited knowledge of model trains which I absolutely love.
Do take care over the coming winter months and keep well.
Thanks Rose, that’s very kind of you to say so. Regards, Charlie.
Yes please, Charlie, a session on painting 00 guage figures will be appreciated. Don't worry about 66 year old eyes, you are still a mere youngster, I am 85 and still modelling. - Chris, Western Australia
Thanks, Chris, that’s very encouraging. Regards, Charlie.
Another enjoyable episode Charlie… we enjoyed that! 👍🏻
Thanks Steven, I’m so pleased that you found it interesting. Regards, Charlie.
Hi Charlie, I enjoyed the field trip to Chester station. It was a fast forward through all that stuff about the headcodes though! I am 69 this November. The optician tells me when you can't see as you get older it is due to the retina getting thinner! I first noticed it putting tracks together - I couldn't see the joiners! Thanks for uploading.
Thanks AT, I’m so glad you found most of the video interesting.
Regards Charlie.
Fascinating as ever Charlie, thank you. I’m doing my best at building a layout but have not allowed my mates to come look yet. I’m getting access to 3D scanner and printer and they have agreed to be scanned. I’m planning a show evening near Christmas where all my friends will be invited and presented with themselves in miniature and some super glue, they can then put themselves on my layout!
I’ll do a video.. 👍
Wow, what an interesting project. You keep me posted, regards Charlie.
Charlie, another good video l. I'm very much a steam man but run a few diesels on my layout. Like yourself I didn't know much about modern stuff, then I came across Don Coffey cab ride videos on RUclips. He explains about a lot of things, signals, bridges, viaducts and general construction in the old days. ( I like his comments of tunnel construction "built with candles and colera"). By watching the routes you can pick up inspiration for all those line side features and junction layouts.
As usual, Keep up the good work.
Many thanks for your comment Vernon, I’m so pleased that you find the video interesting. I shall have to look up.Don Coffey, it’s a name I’ve never come across. Regards, Charlie.
@@ChadwickModelRailway I find them quite adictive, although I have to limit the time I watch as some are 2-3 or even 4 hours long! (love the class 66 hauling freight)
Thanks Charlie for an interesting Autumn update. I know Chester and Chester railway station well and have to agree they are both fascinating with lots of history. Yes - I would really appreciate a session on figure painting.
Thanks, David, and I shall definitely tackle the figure painting. Regards, Charlie.
Hi Charlie
First off, congratulations on your award for RUclips contributor. It’s well deserved and I think that Hornby should re-name it as the Charlie Bishop Award!. lol After all Brazil were allowed to keep the Jules Rimet trophy once they had won the World Cup for the third time!
You asked for some suggestions for future videos and my contribution is the thorny question of road vehicles for the layout.
I’ve visited a few exhibitions with splendid layouts that unfortunately fallen for the stereotypical “bus on a road bridge” cliche, which in its self is understandable given the limited amount of road space available on most model layouts.
However, i have often observed that the road vehicles on display are incorrect for the period modelled on the layout or are geographically incorrect.
A few examples that I’ve seen, (I’m not going to name and shame the exhibitors)
A Leyland National bus (first introduced in the early 70’s) on a post war era (1950’s) Layout.
Southern National livery bus waiting at a level crossing, all fine except the layout was modelling a location in Kent!
It is a bit like the London Transport bus showing Piccadilly sitting on a Thomas the Tank engine and friends layout. I have since bought a Bachman “Bertie the bus” and donated to that culprit.
Modellers who would like guidance on the subject can reach out to their local area of The Model Bus Federation for help in choosing the model of bus appropriate for their own layout.
I can provide you with the contact details of the area secs. If desired.
A few years ago i gifted you as set of model buses that would be suitable the geographic location and era for Chadwick including one with a fictional fleet name of Chadwick and District, just so you don’t fall into this particular can of worms.
Am i right in thinking that 2025 will be the year of the Chadwick Parkway Station Build?
Layout automation is another topic and i can recommend that you take a look at the splendid FLINT HILLS layout on RUclips. I saw it running at my local show in Faversham and its quite captivating and something to behold..
I’ve recently had to invest in a garden“shed” since moving into my daughter’s home because she did not want any of my modelling setup and materials inside her house.
That all spent 3 months stored in a corner of the garden within your favoured Really Useful boxes and crates.
I say “Shed” but it’s actually a proper log cabin that wont let in drafts and wont get blown down in the slightest breeze.
As it is almost an accepted tradition the shed has a sign affixed to it which reads
David’s Shit Shed, Because my shit isn’t allowed in the house. Daughter amused,thankfully.
Many thanks, David for such an interesting comment. However, rest assured, your buses are all safe. Regards, Charlie.
Another fantastic and informative video. I look forward to your next video.
Thanks Mark, that’s most kind. Regards, Charlie.
Thanks Charlie for another informative video. Thoroughly enjoyed my Friday "wind down."
Thanks mate, I’m so pleased you enjoyed my company. Regards, Charlie.
Yet another interesting update. Sometimes it’s a nice departure from “build sessions” to see what’s been happening in general. Plenty of food for thought. With regards to the resistor added to your brake van. Have you ever thought of fitting tail lights? The circuitry involved would draw enough current to activate your block detection system as well as adding that extra detail to the brake van itself.
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it, David. Yes, some of my brake vans do have fitted lights, but sadly this is one of my earlier ones. Regards, Charlie.
Brilliant Charlie, thank you.
Sending you a coffee.
Thank you, Stephen, that’s very generous. Regards, Charlie.
Great as ever and Chester is the best city. Interesting about repeaters and even nos etc.,
Many thanks, David, I’m so pleased that you found the video interesting. Regards, Charlie.
Brilliant update Charlie, I would be interested in figure painting, but anything that you do I find it extremely interesting to watch, love your videos and how informative they are.
Thanks M6500, that’s most kind. Regards, Charlie.
Hi Charlie - another fascinating update as always, full of interesting information for us armchair modellers! (OK, I plan to get out of the armchair, but it's so comfy.... maybe later...).
I'm really glad you enjoyed your trip to Chester - I was born there, many years ago (although in fairness, you'd have already been chasing the young ladies around when I was a babe in arms); I also worked in the big brown office building you can see in the background at 16:19 (and a few other spots), although I was actually in the building just behind it, which you can catch a glimpse of at 18:22 (with the row of AC units on it). I was surprised to see a Lime St train leaving! I'd always thought the Merseyrail Electrics were the only way to get directly to Lime St. from Chester (and I recall the days when the leg to Hooton was run by a Class 101 DMU). Since checked up on National Rail, and whilst the TfW train is 5 minutes slower than Merseyrail, it's also a couple of quid cheaper. I shall travel that way, next time!
As for the architecture - It was actually shared with three pre-grouping railway companies right from the start, designed by Francis Thompson and built by Thomas Brassey. I believe it had the longest platform in the UK, at the time of its construction (Manchester Victoria later took that crown). I was at Making Tracks 2 (or 3?) at the Cathedral last year, and the Thomas Brassey Society were there showcasing his life (he was a prodigious builder, mostly of railway buildings and structures). After grouping, I believe it was shared between the LMS and GWR.
When I got re-bitten by the railway modelling bug, I thought I'd have a go at modelling Chester station... however, when I measured it up, in OO gauge there's not a single room in my house that I could fit it into, unless I literally modelled only the station!
Many thanks 3909, for a look into your world. We clearly both share the love of Chester Station. Regards, Charlie.
Thanks Charlie. Have to say that Railgenarchive is going to take many hours of my life now! but very useful. Painting figures would be great too.
Thanks L 5766, so pleased that you found it interesting. Regards, Charlie.
Lovely video as always.
Strange but welcome to see you talking about my hometown of Chester (now live in Newcastle upon Tyne). A station I am very familiar with. Great observations inc. 19:27 an electric trains stop sign which through me for second before remembering about the third rail! I can remember getting a Crewe shuttle back in the day from the parcels platform at 18:50.
Thanks mate, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the Chester visit. Regards, Charlie.
Great show Chas , I'm all for the figures painting
Thanks, John, I’m on the case. Regards, Charlie.
Figure painting , yes please Charlie, . And thank you for another interesting video.
Thanks Stephen, so pleased that you found it interesting. Regards, Charlie.
Great video, and must get a figure made of me ,but in 1980s BR station uniform as that's what I did back then for work. Also need to get our station cat Sooty as well ,that we had at falmer , i always wonder if it was now that he be as well known as the Huddersfield station cats ? He was a character 😂, That gen site is great and will help look up what my diesel fleet was doing 😊 Chester station is great ,many a happy day there ,and think it still has its DMU depot ? As many of the older 1st generation dmus were kept going well past when other places had sent them to the scrap yards.nice to see the ' train shed ' roofing too ,as these platforms I used to get on class 103/05/108s dmus towards manchester.
Thanks Ian, for such interesting comment. Yes, Chester really is a gem of station. Regards, Charlie.
Thanks Charlie, very enjoyable.
Thanks Josa. Much appreciated.
Regards Charlie.
Always interesting Charlie…
Please keep them coming.
Thanks, Ron, you keep watching I’ll keep making. Regards, Charlie.
A great update Charlie. The painting of figures would be an interesting watch so if you do find time to do a video I'll be watching but I watch all the videos anyway. A good point on older eyes. Good lighting is paramount for working on small things. I have a magnifier light but as you mention too much stuff is out of sight when changing tools but so far it's worked for me, usually when sizing watch bracelets or watch batteries with super tiny screws. A very good point also made for real life station hardware like old rails, cables and troughs etc. This is something that I hadn't considered so if / when I get past my planning phase I'll take that into account. A great piece on the head codes as well, a way to check if a loco set wheel in an area being modelled , when and what it was hauling. Many thanks for sharing.
Thanks Anthony, I’m so pleased that you found the video interesting. Regards, Charlie.
Great to see your update! We are just getting into storm and heat season! I have used a lot of gimbals at work, but most of them are too bloody heavy! The DJI one is not too bad.
Thanks, Kingsview, that’s reassuring to know. Regards, Charlie.
Figure painting would be great. A couple of other quick ideas for you:
How do you test whether a chip has blown?
How to fit a stay alive to a regular chip?
Are there more McKinley updates coming too, I love all your videos
Thanks for your superb, awarding winning, films 😄
I know the feeling. I enjoy Charlie's videos, and check weekly for an update from McKinley 🙂
Some great suggestions, Tim, thank you. Yes, there are McKinley videos planned hopefully to shoot later in the month. Regards, Charlie.
Thanks for another informative video. Being an old git, I was around before any orange became the norm. The first orange to appear was the mini-vest as per the fellow in the middle in the first pic of them, and this would have been early seventies. Because it wasn't mandated by BR, not everybody wore one.
Thanks, Philip, great info and much appreciated. Regards, Charlie.
Yes to a figure painting video. Great update Charlie.
Thanks, Michael, I’m certainly on the case. Regards, Charlie.
Figure painting would be really useful. Another excellent video thank you Charlie
Thanks, Gordon, I’m on the case. Regards, Charlie.
Hi Charlie; another great video; Autumn update already. Focussing on specific tasks and smaller projects appear to be working well. Lots of progress made over the last few months; even the new snippets videos. You done airbrushing in past; be nice to see how figure painting can be done; types of brushes use and sizes and the time it takes to do them to various progressive standards…. It’s interesting to see how various modellers paints various items - they change their method depending on the task undertaken. Fireman and drivers add that small level to the locos, figures around the layout do wonders. Hope the point motors now last for couple decades; great way to strengthen the arms. Looking forward to the next instalment and the station completed. All best Marc from Leighton Buzzard
Thanks Marc, that’s very kind of you to say so. Regards, Charlie.
Charlie - I do a fair bit of close-up work on wiring and soldering etc. I can recommend the headsets you get on Amazon with LEDs built in. You charge them via a usb cable and have interchangeable lenses depending on the degree on magnification you need. I think mine were only about £15-20, so worth a shot.
Thanks, Richard , that’s most useful. Regards, Charlie.
I’m definitely interested in a figure painting video Charlie
Nice looking light too
Thanks David, I am working on the figure painting already. Regards, Charlie.
Lovely update/compilation video Charlie. If I tried to make a video like that my viewers would get a slightly down-market "K-Tel" version :)
Don’t underestimate your abilities, Roger. As long as you’re improving, regards Charlie.
Hi, Charlie! Another interesting video, especially the research segment. For information, the 1E21 headcode was 'The Cornishman' - Penzance to Bradford Forster Square working, the return being 1V72. It'll be interesting to find out whether the archive goes back as far as 1961!! Thanks for another useful video. Take care.
Long distance inter-regional trains have a long history of using domestic WR power in Cornwall 1E21 and the corresponding 1V72 were usually a Western or later a 50 in Cornwall - i.e. west of Plymouth. Other long services may have used hydraulics as far as Bristol before giving way to a Peak or Brush 4. So yes, not unusual to see a hydraulic with say an Eastern Region reporting number (to give headcodes their proper name) displayed
Thanks Philip, that’s most interesting. I imagine a couple of retired West country drivers have populated the database. Regards, Charlie.
Great video again, Charlie, thanks for the update. I quite like Chester and its station. However, Rob Crossan includes Chester in his list of five least favourite stations when he writes in The Telegraph. His view is:
"If St Pancras is the wedding cake of 19th-century train station architecture, then Chester station is a two-day-old Gregg’s pasty that’s been pecked at by pigeons.
The featureless, flat station frontage is a mid-Victorian calumny, insanely lengthy on both sides of the entrance until it turns into goods yards and a tattoo parlour.
Stroll down the main drag that sprawls out ahead of the station entrance however, and you’ll quickly discover that, far from being deposited in Chester’s historic centre, you’re actually a good mile away at the end of a windswept and unappealing road. A strong shout for the dullest mid-sized station in England. "
Ah well, each to their own!
That’s interesting, George, but where do you sit on the issue? Regards, Charlie.
@ Hi Charlie, well I can’t disagree with his comment on the location. I haven’t measured it but I didn’t think that it was a mile from the centre. As for the architecture, I liked it and can remember being impressed by the frontage when it came into view. Inside? Well, it’s much of a muchness really. A blend of the old and the modern but it seemed well looked after. It’s a big station, as you know and there’s plenty to see there. We went to Chester to see making tracks the first time around. There was still a lot of Covid restrictions so we didn’t go out in the evening. However, we were staying at the Holiday Inn by the racecourse with a good view of the railway viaduct. The variety of trains going past was quite something so I guess that Chester station is pretty popular with the train spotting fraternity! I probably wouldn’t put Chester in my top five but it shouldn’t really be at the bottom either.
Thanks Charlie love every minute of these videos
That’s most kind, C70.
Regards, Charlie.
Very interesting update Charlie, thanks 👍
Thanks Alan, I’m so pleased that you found it interesting. Regards, Charlie.
Hi Charlie another great video with good info and great idea's, I liked the tip about cutting away a bit of platform to allow the loco to clear it at certain points, I have a w1 hush hush that clips the platform with its rather sticky out steps on near the front of the loco. PAINTING FIGURES would be very helpful to some people out there I used to paint the games work shop / war hammer figures some 38 years ago and done very well indeed dear i say but i would still love to see you do video on the subject as there is always some thing new to learn. thank you again Charlie for very interesting video.
Thanks Tony, I’m so pleased that you found this one useful. Regards, Charlie.
I'm happy to watch anything you publish, Mr B. I know you've done if before, but a loco maintaince turorial would be useful 😊
Thanks Stephen, I shall certainly give it a go. Regards, Charlie.
@@ChadwickModelRailway
Hello Charlie. My name is Brian and this is the first time that I have sent a comment. I thoroughly enjoyed this episode. The little visit to Chester was well photographed and very informative. You have a good eye for detail. On the bit about the layout platform, you showed a signal cluster at the platform end. Where did you get them from? They look like what I need for my layout. You didn`t say who makes that led light you have just bought. It looks like it be very handy. Keep up the good work. By the way, you have been the only person to explain how single and double slip wiring works. That was brilliant. Thanks, Brian.
Hi Brian, many thanks for your message. The signal is made by Absolute Aspects, probably the best manufacturer in the UK.
Regards Charlie
Good to see the same type of markings in the wooden slips. Same in Portugal. The X on a slip it's to mark the substitution for a new one.
That’s reassuring that the standards remain the same across many nations. Regards, Charlie.
Another interesting and informative video Charlie so thanks for that. Figure painting and fence posts and panelling would be of current great interest for me please. Take care regards Barry..👍
Thanks Barry, I’m on the case.
Regards Charlie
Great update Charlie. Thank you.
Thanks Simon, I’m so pleased that you found it interesting. Regards, Charlie.
Wow that's an expensive lamp! But I suppose if you do a lot of modeling etc, then it could be a worthwile investment! I must say that I do suffer a little when doing small figure painting! the figuers Ihave been making and painting recently have been the War gaming type of thing! Re extra lighting, I tend to use an old desk lamp that used to belong to my grandperants, and it gives some good extra light when I feel that it's needed. ! I like the info about the point motors, and how to upgrade them, useful imformation, eventhough I just use the basic Peco ones on my layout, but I always learn something new from your videos! They are always something to look forward to, as I don't tend to get out and about much to shows or clubs etc. Sadly none of my friends are into the hobby, and it's not much fun when you are on your own!
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the video Mike. Please do your utmost to attend local shows, they can be so inspirational. Regards, Charlie.
Hi Charlie. I am mainly a military model painter and painted perhaps 100s of model soldiers ranging from 10mm scale to 28mm . I have an Optivisor but find it uncomfortable wearing it for long periods.. I tend to use 3.5x magnification spectacles and are great for painting details on figures. Very cheap too as they are obtainable from the pound type discount stores.
Thanks Garth, that’s much appreciated. But I do tend to wear my reading spectacles whilst using it. Regards, Charlie.
While I have a way to go before I'm collecting my pension, props to you Charlie for the public service messages on eyewear, I expect that will prove useful for years to come! Yes to figure painting please, I recently bought a load of Modelu figures and have been scratching my head on how best to approach it, so any advice you can give would be greatly appreciated. All the best and congratulations on your win 🏆
Thanks, Simon, and rest assured the model figure painting is imminent. Regards, Charlie.
Charlie another brilliant video and very informative. I’m afraid I’m not very patient as you post your videos every fortnight but I realise you’ve got your own life to do other things. Anyway you often mention the show more tab which unfortunately doesn’t appear as I watch RUclips on my iPad. Looking forward to next fortnight.
Hi Michael, the show more tab, is just below the title, labelled more. Regards, Charlie.
Dear Sir,
The quality of your videos and your uncanny communication skills make me wonder what your 'non-modeling world' profession is.
Cheers from Brazil!
Thanks E2936, my previous profession was in the Navy. Regards, Charlie.
Great stuff again. I nearly bought the same lamp at GETs but he had run out on the day and sent me to Hobbies site, who had money off them anyway. I thought that was extremely decent of him.
Yes, that was very considerate of him. I hope you and the boys enjoyed the show. Regards Charlie.
Another brilliant video Charlie, well done!
Just to avoid confusion, you mentioned a signal at Chester displaying a “D” and said it meant “down”. This may or may not be the case as Network Rail employ an inconsistency manager to ensure that nothing makes complete sense. “D” could just mean “D section”. We have section letters displayed at London Victoria and Canon Street (for example).
Thanks Mark, you’re right These things never as straightforward as you think. Regards, Charlie.
Yes - figure painting would be good to cover, I've just had a new prescription so the glasses are good to go!
Thanks, Mike, I’m on the case. Regards, Charlie.
Optiviser, I almost have my genuine one attached to my noggin. I have 5 other "optiviser knockoffs" and they live permanently in a drawer, some where! So, fellow modellers only buy the original, save your loot for something else.
I love your light, that really is a great idea.
Thanks Charlie.
Thanks, Peter, you back up my view of, buy cheap, buy twice! Regards Charlie
Aha Charlie, a few years ago I did take a chunk out of my platform for my Steamers. I had no idea it was done in the real world, until today. Painting people, 00 people, I have tried. It can only be improved, so yes please a tutorial is needed.
Barry.Devon
Thanks Barry, I’m so pleased you enjoyed the platform nibbling. Regards, Charlie.
Yes figure painting would be really interesting
Thanks Michael, I’m on the case. It’s surprising how many people are enthusiastic on this one. Regards, Charlie.
Nice light Charlie might have to look for one these , I’ll use the link . Regards Fred
Thanks Fred, I’m so pleased that you found the video useful. Regards, Charlie.
Fantastic video as always Charlie well done. I found the part about notching the platform for the train to be interesting I'm not sure I've ever seen that here in the states. We do have something here in the town that I live in at our train station which has a single track platform with bidirectional travel, as our train station is served by an occasional local freight service, as well as a commuter rail service via DMU, we have a curious thing which I have never seen before called the gauntlet track. If you were unfamiliar, it uses a turn out at each end to bring the tracks a bit closer to the platform but not far enough away from the mainline that you actually use a frog. At the station itself they're actually four rails the closest one to you and the third rail are for the passenger trains pulling up to the station and the second rail and fourth rail is for the through freight services so that the freight cars are a couple feet extra away from the platform. It's kind of an interesting thing and I don't know that I've ever seen anybody model it, would be curious if it's a thing ever use somewhere in England as well. Anyway, keep up the great work and I look forward to your next video.
Many thanks, the great pod.
That configuration is clearly something that I have never heard of. I don’t believe it’s been adopted anywhere in the UK. Thanks for the info, regards Charlie.
Figure painting - yes for me too. I have a ModelU Charlie B. waiting :D
That’s great news, we’ll learn together. Regards, Charlie.
Another interesting video as per usual, looking to get some extra lighting for when I do more modelling, I too have some figures to paint mainly photographers and dogs will look at that link
Thanks OR TMD, I’ll give the figure painting a go. Regards Charlie
A great video, thanks Charlie.
Figure painting is a great idea. I've been doing some recently, basing my technique on watching Dan paint figures at the NEC earlier this year. I print my own figures, prime them (I use a water based resin that seems to need priming), dry brush some white on to pick out highlights then apply single coats of each colour I want, well thinned down. I'm not as good as Dan, but the end results seem acceptable.
One thing that annoys me is that the seated figures we can buy, when fitted in carriages, sit far too high (heads up near the top of the window). I think that this is due to the fact that the internal seat on Hornby and Bachmann (and maybe Accurascale, but I haven't tried that) are just too high. The beauty of self-printing is that the figures can be edited in software and printed out in bulk for much less cost than buying them. I cut my seated figures for carriages off at the belly button, which gets them seated at a more credible height. Obviously they lose their legs, but that is not detail that can be easily seen through carriage windows anyway.
As I can't post pics here, I've sent you an email.
Btw - I left a comment yesterday and it has disappeared. Not sure how I offended the RUclips gods. I hope this one sticks.
Many thanks, Ed, and you make some excellent points. I’ve no idea what happened to your previous comment, but if it has a link, it will be held for manual approval. Regards Charlie.
I'd much prefer you outlive your Tortoise switch machines. 😊 Great update - have a wonderful two weeks!
Thanks MM, I’d like to think I will! Regards Charlie
Your item on lighting and vision was spot on. I do use the magnifying lamp and have the same problem of finding something outside area of lamp. Am considering an illuminated version of an omnivisor as my magnifying lamp is difficult to position accurately.
Thanks Alan, I’m so pleased that you found the video interesting. Regards, Charlie.
I used to do a lot of HO Preiser figure painting (and adapting) back when I had the eyes of someone in their 20s and 30s. I've now got a load of TT figures to paint for a new layout. Wish me luck ...
It would certainly be interesting to see how you go about painting figures, especially as we both have the eyes and dexterity of someone not in their 20 and 30s. 3D printing seems to have made them so much more detailed (and realistic) nowadays, so maybe new techniques are needed?
Thanks Andrew, my plans are taking shape. Regards Charlie
Much appreciated Charlie
Thanks DJ, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it. Regards, Charlie.
great vlog nice vid thanks lots great thind and update vid thanks lee
Thanks AR, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it. Regards, Charlie.
Great video, would definitely be up for a figure painting video as its something Ive always dreaded
Thanks Jack, I’m on the case. Regards, Charlie.
Another fab video Charlie! Would be very interested in figure painting and fitting them into locos and carriages
Thanks KB, we shall learn together. Regards, Charlie.
That was very interesting Charlie 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂❤
Thanks Robert, that’s very kind. Regards, Charlie.
Great video Charlie, yes please on figure painting.
Thanks Thomas, I’m on the case. Regards, Charlie.
Hi Charlie. Platform 2 that you refer to is platform 1. Platform 2 being at the other end of the station for trains heading towards North Wales or Shrewsbury. Platform 1 that you refered to is infact known as the Parcels Bay. Not in use to passengers and only used for stabling stock. M is for the up main to Crewe. D for down Warrington. Hope this helps.
Now this is getting confusing. Someone previously mentioned that the D was for Dee Marsh. Regards, Charlie.
@ Dee Marsh is on the Wrexham - Bidston line. The D leaving Chester to the east is for the Down Warrington.
Enjoyed the video Charlie, I admire the ingenuity on the point motors!
If my understanding is correct, reference the Class 221s, Bombardier are a French company, so it is pronounced 'dee-a' rather than 'deer'.
Well, Matthew, it looks like you’ve blown my cover. Regards, Charlie.
Regarding the stainless steel lines, on the rails, that you mentioned, in the bay platforms at Chester (lovely city, only been once, for a day trip, when on holiday in Southport in 2014, and I did visit the model shop!), if you arrive on the Merseyrail into Southport, you can actually HEAR the lines, as there's a rumbling noise, as the units run over them, before stopping. And regarding your age Charlie, I'm only 21 years behind you!
Thanks for the info on the rumbling lines. Beware, those 21 years, will fly by. Regards, Charlie.