On the first steam day of the 2022 season, with Hudswell Clarke 1238 doing the duty, a trial of the “e-coal” was carried out. This is a product claimed to be more sustainable compared to mined coal, with lower CO2 emissions and visible smoke.
Results were slightly mixed, with a long wait for the loco to get into steam (apologies to the passengers of the 1130 train who had an unexpected diesel substitution for their journey); the fireman was heard to observe that the plastic bag probably burnt better than the coal. However, once the loco was in steam, the product seems to perform well, and certainly makes less smoke than more conventional fuels.
It has the added benefit of the property of tesselation, so all the lumps fit together in a nice pattern. Some of the crews find that sort of thing deeply satisfying.
See the Focus Transport posting here on the recent Homefire e-coal trial at the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway.
Steam railways are finding it extremely difficult to source good quality steam coal due to continued closure of mines, coupled with the lack of supply from Russia.
More details about the railway can be found below
Passengers join trains at the station located next to the Apedale Heritage Centre. The station building used to be located at Silverdale, on the North Staffordshire Railway. The round trip journey takes around 15 minutes.
Trains are hauled by either steam or diesel locomotives from the Trust’s collection, depending on the day (see timetable page for more details). The coaches are also historically interesting – ranging from a replica of a coach used in a north wales slate quarry to a more modern coach formerly operated on the famous Ffestiniog Railway. Some coaches are open and unheated – so if it’s a cold day, wrap up warmly!
There is a well-stocked shop in the main station building. On days when steam locos are operating, tours of the main loco shed can be organised, when visitors can see many of the Trust’s large collection of locomotives.
The railway is located next to the Apedale Heritage Centre. The Centre has a free-to-enter museum, and a cafe with a wide range of food and drinks. Tours of a genuine coal mine are available.
Throughout the year, there are many special events to attract all ages and interest groups.
The railway are happy to arrange charter trains, even on days when they do not normally operate. As they are staffed only by volunteers, they cannot guarantee to meet every requirement – but potential passengers are asked to get in touch to discuss their needs.
All of the members of the Moseley Railway Trust look forward to welcoming you to Apedale!
