WITH the arrival of The Flying Scotsman in Hampshire, the Echo has gone loco for locomotives, taking a glimpse at a popular train event from yesteryear.
It was October 4, 1980 when trainspotters congregated at Alresford and Ropley to travel on the trains, admire the locomotives and see the restoration of coaches and steam giants .
Many enjoyed rides on the 100-year-old bus pulled by shire horses.
Comedian Leslie Crowther was in attendance, travelling on the horse-drawn bus as well as riding a steam lorry.
“It was super and a wonderful way to see the countryside,” he said. “I love trains. They are my favourite way of travelling.”
The planning for the Watercress gala began a year beforehand, organised by John Perry and Jayne Blake, aided by countless volunteers.
The effort from everybody saw record-breaking sales of train tickets along with two days of well enjoyed activities.
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