Heritage Railway – January 18, 2019

WE join with everyone in the heritage railway sector in congratulating two truly outstanding recipients of New Year’s Honours for 2019.

When local lad Mervyn Allcock set out to preserve the behemoth that is Barrow Hill roundhouse and turn it into a major heritage venue, there were many who remained unconvinced. How on earth could an old brick shed full of static locomotives be a visitor draw with the same appeal as an operational heritage line?

However, over many years, Mervyn and his Barrow Hill Engine Shed Society confounded such critics time and time again. What the powers that be had declared redundant and a prime candidate for the bulldozer became not only a multi-use facility for rail activities across the board, but a unique and phenomenal historical and educational resource.

And yes, not only does the venue have its own running line for passenger rides and photographic opportunities, but the interior of the former Staveley Midland shed has been transported back to the steam era with the addition of the trademark smoke hoods and other fittings. Not only that, but as Britain’s last rail-connected roundhouse, the venue can now accept incoming charters, which can but enhance the superb gala events that have been staged there. Mervyn has elevated what was once an everyday piece of local transport infrastructure into a national treasure and his MBE is richly deserved indeed.