OUTINGS FOR 2024
Saturday, 29th June, 2024
Although at the time of writing final timings and itinerary are still very much 'work in progress' we are pleased to announce that on Saturday, 29th June, an A.E.C. Bridgemaster will once again grace the streets of Sheffield. Early in 1959 S.T.D. took delivery of six A.E.C. Bridgemasters with Park Royal H45/31R bodywork, 519-524, 2519-2524 WE, purchased for their high seating capacity rather than their low height. They were put to work on services 101, 102 and 105 until some years later replaced the low bridge Regent IIIs on services to Dinnington.
Thanks to the valuable assistance and cooperation of the Leicester Bridgemaster Group, without which this tour would not have been possible, Leicester City Transport 217, 217AJF, a vehicle almost identical to the Sheffield Bridgemasters, will visit Sheffield for this special recreation of the Sheffield Bridgemaster days. It is expected that the tour will start early afternoon and run until around 2000 hours with participants being able to join/leave as they wish. The tour will start with a run to Dinnington to cover services 6 and 19. Dinnington plays a significant part in 217's history as it was once operated by Fosters. On return from Dinnington services 101/102/105 will be tackled, after which other services such as 33, Shirecliffe-City-Hemsworth, 34/38/39 Wincobank-City-Hollythorpe Rise/Norton, 95 Walkley-City-Intake as time permits.
As 217 only has a Class 5 test it cannot be used for 'hire or reward' and as such there will be no fare payable to travel for as little or as much of the day as you wish, the vehicle being kindly provided by the vehicle owners for our pleasure.
This is very much a unique opportunity and to mark the occasion a souvenir brochure will be produced and available to purchase - cover price unknown as yet. To avoid a major surplus only the required number will be produced so to guarantee a copy please order with Paul Beardsley in advance. Please also advise Paul Beardsley of your intention to participate in some or all of the outing. It is quite in order to request a copy of the brochure without travelling. Equally, purchasing a brochure is not a condition of travelling.
Friday, 30th August, 2024.
Outing to the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway with three course luncheon on The Derbyshire Countryman.
Departure will be from Pond Hill, Sheffield, at 1030 hours, to the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway at Wirksworth. Transport will be provided by the South Yorkshire Transport Museum with the beautifully restored former Sheffield United Tours 322, a 1961 A.E.C. Reliance with Plaxton Panorama coachwork (subject to availability). At Wirksworth there should be time to view the railway displays, artefacts and other rail related curiosities in the recently opened museum, browse the gift shop, visit The Station Cafe or relax in The Apollo Bar for a leisurely drink before boarding The Derbyshire Countryman which departs at 1315 hours for a return trip to Duffield, hauled by one of the railway's steam locomotives.
Watch the Derbyshire countryside slip by as a freshly prepared three course luncheon is served at your seat.
Soup of the Day with a fresh Bread Roll
Roast Topside of Derbyshire Beef, homemade Yorkshire Pudding, Roast Potatoes and Seasonal Vegetables
Dessert of the Week
Vegetarian, Vegan and gluten free options are available but must be ordered in advance. Please advise any food allergies, intolerances etc. when booking.
An at seat drinks service from the bar is available at an additional cost which must be settled by debit or credit card.
Return to Sheffield should be for around 1730 hours.
MAXIMUM FARE - £74.95 per head.
Outings will only take place given sufficient support for them to be viable.
Bookings to Paul Beardsley by email - beardspaul@aol.com, or text/phone 07871 975479, with emergency contact details for contact in the event of cancellation at short notice due to weather conditions etc..