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Occasional notes,
thoughts
and jottings from the pen (well keyboard) of a wandering railway
bookseller
........watch this space !!!
4/2/12
If proof were needed that most
railway enthusiasts have a sense of humour look no further than a
cheque received in payment for a book today. Under the drawers
name ( a well known magazine contributer) is "Anorak Account" I had to
laugh!
4/2/12
Under normal circumstances I
would be at Stafford Model Railway Exhibition today, given the weather
forecast I am rather glad that instead I am working on catalogue 75 at
home!
4/2/12
Established collectors will be
saddened to hear that Chris Irwin of "Bookhouse" fame has died.
Chris for many years lived in Ravenstonedale where he and his wife
operated a B&B and his book store (I remember staying there many
years ago, whilst visiting the S&C).
2/2/12
Very nice collection in
today.Many of the classic GWR titles-Russell, Slinn,Riley, Wild Swan
Line Histories, etc. plus about 25 Wild Swan Modelling Titles. They
will be all listed in due course.But if you have wants let me know asap.
2/2/12
Really sorry to see the recent
major changes to the Online "Railway Herald" much fancier and many more
pages, which means a much longer download time (especially in west
Wales!!) a major tie in with Ian Allan (surely the kiss of death) and
it will cease to be free.I will give it 6 months maximum.Shame.If I am
expect to pay for a magazine then I still want it to be on paper.
30/1/12
NOW IN STOCK and well worth the
wait Peter Tatlow's book on Railway Steam Cranes (Volume 1) at
£33. Also in today Southern Way Issue 17 at £12.95 and GWR
Journal 81 at £4.20.
26/1/12
What promises to be one of the
most useful books of 2012 will be in stock shortly.
Peter Tatlow's book on Railway Steam Breakdown Cranes (Volume 1 of 2)
hardback, 256 pages, 200+ illustrations (some in colour) 50+ drawings
at £33.This will fill a major gap in railway history at an
affordable price,and will cover all manufacturers, with full numbering
lists, allocations and history of each crane.This volume covers short
jib cranes. Vol 2 is due out in 2013.
Other titles "rumoured" to be coming in 2012 include the definitive
work on The Snailbeach Railway,Railways in WW1 picture album, Lynton
& Barnstaple definitive work and a history of The Oakwood Press.
Keep looking at these notes for further information!
20/1/12
Another fascinating week of
Portillo railway programmes.Oxford to Milford Haven, including visits
to a Free Miners coal mine in the Forest of Dean, Newport Transporter
Bridge (I really MUST go to that soon) Brecon and Merthyr Heritage
Line,Tata steel works, and Milford, one of the most interesting of the
series so far.
Next week Berwick and North thereof.Reminds me that early March will
see me and 3 pals off to Wylam for our annual trains and beer days. N E
Rover ticket should get us around quite a bit.
20/1/12
So it's farewell Kodak, who have
filed for bankrupcy.Millions of railway enthusiasts owe them a thank
you.Without Kodak so many wonderful colour pictures just would not have
been taken.The digital age has done for them.
20/1/12
Catalogue 75 has been delayed
due to a family bereavement. I hope to get it issued by mid February at
the latest.
8/1/12
Oakwood
Press
Talk
I am delighted to annouce that
Andrew Kennedy from Oakwood Press (Usk) has agreed to do his talk
"Oakwood Press-The First 80 Years" to The Aeron Valley Railway Society
in The Feathers Royal Hotel, Aberaeron on April 18th starting at 7.45.
It will be a slightly amended talk based on the one delivered in
Abergavenney before Christmas.
EVERYONE is welcome (we are a friendly lot-honest) a small charge
applies.
More details ring me 01974 821281.
3/1/12
Stafford
Model
RailwayExhibition
Feb
4th/5th
Due to family illness I shall
NOT be attending the above show this year
2/1/12
Happy
New
Year
to
you
all.
23/12/11
Many thanks for reading "Nigel's
Notes" during 2011.I have been very surprised (and pleased) to discover
just how many of you enjoy my somewhat odd and eclectric
outpourings.
I shall be back at work on
28th,posting out all those orders received over the Christmas period!
May
I
wish
you
all
A very Merry Christmas and a Really Happy 2012.
Or as they say this side of the border (which has been our home since
1985)
Nadolig Llawen a Blwyddyn Newydd Dda
19/12/11
In stock today a good selection
of Locomotives Illustrated magazines, mostly GWR and LMS issues.Send me
your wants,or browse the website.
18/12/11
Still need to order? My LAST
posting date before Christmas will be TUESDAY 20th. I will be posting
again on 28th.
Merry
Christmas
to
you
all.
18/12/11
Do you ever lend out any of your
books?
If so you may like this, found written inside a book recently
Steal
not
this
book
for
fear
of
shame
For in it is the owner's name
And when you die, the Lord will say
"Where is that book you stole away?"
14/12/11
Great day yesterday.Walked part
of the Brinore Tramway (Talybont On Usk) in sun,rain,sleet,hail,wind oh
and the loudest clap of thunder I have ever heard hey ho what fun!
Back to The White Hart for a late lunch, then on to Abergavenny for The
Oakwood Press Story, a delightful presentation by Andrew Kennedy
assisted by his boss (his Mum) on the history of Oakwood in it's 80th
year.I learnt a lot.It was the perfect night out for a
bookseller!I HOPE that Andrew will do a similar talk in 2012 to The
Aeron Valley Railway Society in Aberaeron. I will keep you posted.Got
home at 12.15 a.m. but worth all the effort.
8/12/11
Are you a Colin Gifford fan? He
of Decline of Steam-Each A Glimpse-And Gone Forever? Well I understand
that a re-issue of Each A Glimpse with extra photo's IS going to happen
in 2012. It was promised for last Christmas but didn't appear.A colour
album of his work is also booked to appear in 2012/13.I will keep you
informed as I am a massive fan of his work, which is unsurpassed. His
vision of the grim and glory that was steam and late 1960's Britain is
outstanding.
His book titles came from Robert Louis Stevenson's wonderful poem.
FROM
A
RAILWAY
CARRIAGE
Faster than fairies, faster than
witches,
Bridges and houses, hedges and ditches;
And charging along like troops in a battle,
All through the meadows, the horses and cattle:
All of the sights of the hill and the plain
Fly as thick as driving rain;
And ever again, in the wink of an eye,
Painted stations whistle by.
Here is a child who clambers and scrambles,
All by himself and gathering brambles;
Here is a tramp who stands and gazes;
And there is the green for stringing the daisies!
Here is a cart run away on the road
Lumping along with man and load;
And here is a mill and there is a river:
Each a glimpse and gone for ever!
7/12/11
****************REMINDER****************
POST-FREE
OFFER UNTIL 16.12.11
ALL
ORDERS
FROM
MY
WEBSITE
www.nigelbirdbooks.co.uk
AND
BY
PHONE
01974
821281
OF £25 AND OVER WILL BE
SENT POST FREE (UK)
offer
expires
16.12.11
7/12/11
Not buying much in at present as
stock very high but just acquired a copy of Each A Glimpse (Colin
Gifford) also power of the 37's and Power of The 47's (OPC) and a full
set of all 12 Modern Railways Pictorial.All will be on my website soon
but feel free to enquire.
7/12/11
Good news about Squires Tools see
www.squirestools.com/announce.htm
24/11/11
I am the only one fed up of
seeing pictures and reading all the hype about the B17 "Manchester
United" nameplate coming up for sale soon at SRA.Talk of 80k for
it.It's just a brass plate with a football team on!! Now if it
was Wolverhampton Wanderers that would be different says I a life long
Wolves fan.
24/11/11
Oakwood Press are planning a
small book on the history of the company,comprising company
history,Bibliography (that will be useful) and scans of book covers
included.I will be stocking this so if you would like one let me know.
Want to see all the staff at Oakwood Press? The new issue of Heritage
Railway (157) ha s a picture!
22/11/11
As a special "Thank you" for
reading Nigel's Notes (It amazes me how many of you do!)
FOR ONE WEEK ONLY
Ends
29/11/11
10% off ALL ORDERS (or 20% if
you are a loyalty scheme customer-ask for details if you want to
be!) AND POST-FREE FOR UK ORDERS OF £25 and over. You MUST
order by phone 01974 821281 or via my website-www.nigelbirdbooks.co.uk
and state NNO
19/11/11
I read in the paper today that
people are complaining that their Kindles are frying when they pass
thro the X Ray machines at airports-the answer to
this??..................TAKE A REAL BOOK.
There is so much more to a book than the words on the page.
15/11/11
What promises to be an
interesting series of four programmes on the building of The Welsh
Highland Railway begins next Tuesday - 22nd November at 1930 on BBC2
Wales and Sky 991.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01499dt
14/11/11
The GWR and Didcot fans amongst
you may be aware of the RKB collection, a truly huge collection of
official GWR printed items, lodged at Didcot.These have been collected
and donated by Ron King-Bird over the last 35-40 years or so, and run
to thousands, if not tens of thousands of items, some of which are on
display, many are stored awaiting a new purpose built library to be
built.Sadly the collector and donor of these items Ron King-Bird
(RKB to one and all, no relation he was a King after all!) passed away
about 4 weeks ago I have just learnt aged about 93.
He was a regular customer and good friend, I visited him in the Isle of
Man twice over the years and was made most welcome. Always very
interesting to talk to and with a fantastic knowledge of all things GWR.
He will be missed RIP RKB. Lets hope you get to chat to your heroes
like IKB now!
13/11/11
POST-FREE
OFFER UNTIL 16.12.11
ALL
ORDERS
FROM
MY
WEBSITE
www.nigelbirdbooks.co.uk
AND
BY
PHONE
01974
821281
OF £25 AND OVER WILL BE
SENT POST FREE (UK)
offer
expires
16.12.11
10/11/11
Just read that Squiries Tools from Bognor has gone into administration,
and closes 31/12/11.
A real shocker. How many other railway/model railway businesses will
close before these turbulent times pass?
Support YOUR local small business if you want them to survive.
10/11/11
Maybe something we all would do
if we won £161 miliion!
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-glasgow-west-15678523
10/11/11
Interested in the History of
Oakwood Press?
If so,on 13th December at The Hen and Chickens 5-7 Flannel Street,
Abergavenny NP7 5EG at 8 p.m. the present owners (The Kennedy family)
will be giving a talk on the history of the company which celebrates 80
years this year.Promises to be an interesting night! Weather permitting
I shall be attending.
7/11/11
Well,yesterday saw the end of
the traditional Blackpool Tramway after 126 years.From Easter 2012 the
new modern Flexity Trams will be doing most of the work with the odd
historical tram out in high Summer from South Pier to Bispham or maybe
only North Pier who knows?
Will the passengers come flooding back? will BTS be proved right? or
will they go bankrupt and the whole system get shut down within a few
years?Will Blackpool ever be the same again? Will I ever want to go
again?? Time will tell. But it is a very sad day when the second
most famous icon in Blackpool is deemed to be no longer worthwhile
keeping going.
I shall be going to Birkenhead, Heaton Tramway or Crich in future for
my dose of real trams.
3/11/11
NOW
BACK
IN
STOCK
Rails To Glyn Ceiriog (The
History of The Glyn Valley Tramway-Volume 2 Part 1-
1857-1903) by John Milner at £58 plus postage.
Limited edition of just 1000 copies of which over half have already
been sold. BE QUICK IF YOU WANT ONE.
I can hardly bring myself to say
this but....Christmas is only about 7 weeks away.
So IF there is a NEW book you want as a gift (to a friend or yourself!)
please let me know asap, no later than mid November as after that
suppliers get busy, stocks get low, the Post Office get slow and you
maybe disappointed.
Likewise if you really want that long out of print book let me know, I
will see if I can get you a copy.
I am out of copies of the new Glyn Valley Tramway book by John Milner
(yes the £58 one) but more should be in stock later this week. I
understand that over half the print run of 1000 has already been sold
so be quick!
I still have stock of The De Winton book, GWR Narrow Gauge by Peter
Johnson and Sara Eade's Within These Hills (Corris) all highly
recommended.
I wonder what Wild Swan will have for us in the next month or so? I
hear rumour that one of their new titles MAYBE the long awaited Lynton
& Barnstaple-now that would be nice.
The nights are dark earlier so why not get that special book you fancy?
Email or phone me 01974 821281 (10-6 Mon-Fri)
Here to help!
30/10/11
I THINK Talk Talk have fixed the
voice mail but they haven't bothered to tell me! My last email advised
them I had cancelled my Direct Debit to them, I wonder did that do the
trick (or treat?)
25/10/11
No response still from Talk
Talk, so see below re telephone line fault.
25/10/11
A truly memorable day on the
Talyllyn last Sunday. Along with some 30 odd Corris members I travelled
from Wharf to Nant Gwernol and back behind Corris No. 7 (Tattoo) riding
in the ex Corris coach number 17 and TR coach 18, along with the ex
Corris brake van.Plenty of run pasts en route, weather dry and company
great.
No 7 returns home to Corris on Sunday 6th November for scheduled winter
maintenance.
Many thanks to the TR for looking after her and to everyone both TR and
CR for all the hard work in arranging trips, photo shoots etc.
Hopefully lots of pictures to come in the railway press over the next
few months.
21/10/11
VERY
IMPORTANT
I
have
a
fault
on
my
telephone
line
01974
821281
When the line is engaged, instead of going to voice mail the caller
receives a message saying "Invalid Number" PLEASE Ignore this and keep
trying or email me.(nigelbird.books@virgin.net)
If I ever get hold of Talk-Talk, who seem unable to answer the
phone or emails, I may get it sorted but I am not holding my breath as
their track record is poor on customer services.
I am changing telecom provider from early November.
20/10/11
At the AGM of the Aeron
Valley Railway Society,last night,and following the planned departure
from the area of the model exhibition manager.
Myself and Steve
Parr are now joint exhibition managers for our annual one day
model railway show on Sunday August 12th 2012, venue near Aberaeron.
We are now looking for
layouts for the show.
Unfortunately being
a small club with limited finances we are unable to offer much in
the way of expenses, a contribution towards fuel costs is about all.
(Plus free food and drinks on the day!)
If you have a
quality layout, (any size or gauge) and live locally or you fancy
planning your holiday next year in and around the lovely Cardigan bay
area of west Wales in mid August and can bring a layout I would be
delighted to hear from you on 01974 821281.
It's a small but very friendly show I can assure you of that!
18/10/11
My new catalogue, number 74 is
now available to browse on my website, go to www.nigelbirdbooks.co.uk.
18/10/11
Fantastic weather last Saturday,
made the Ffestiniog Vintage Gala extra special.A vast array of the odd
and unusual, including Spooner's Boat,The Flying Bench, The Colonel
Stephens era coaches, bugboxes etc. as well as the Fairlies,Linda and
Blanche et al all in action.A tip top portion of fish and chips from
Allports in Port. completed the afternoon.
The evening saw us at Wharf Station, Tywyn where Corris no 7 and TR
numbers 4 and 7 were illuminated for night photography.
This was followed by films in the Slater room-all in all a great day
(and no driving for me)
14/10/11
Another book that promises to be
a really good read and maybe more than a little controversial, is
"Welsh Highland Railway
Renaissance" by Gordon Rushton, telling the full story of the
politics,the people who did the work, and how it was done,who paid for
it, and how much it cost plus the story of how the former impenetrable
legal tangle was blown apart by the Ffestiniog.Over 400 pages, with
illustrations, maps and drawings, thsi shoudl be available by April
2012. ADVANCE ORDERS TAKEN. Signed copies maybe available.
Maybe the basis for a new James Bond movie?
14/10/11
A very interesting book to tell
you about, if you have watched the Michael Portillo series of railway
programmes, you will see he carries around a Bradshaw's Guide for
1866. Well it has been reprinted by Middleton Press and is now
IN STOCK.Buy now as a new series I understand starts in early 2012.
624pp Ills. reprint of the guide as used by Michael Portillo in his BBC
TV series.Bradshaw’s Guide was the title employed on BBC TV in 2010 for
a book containing four issues of Bradshaw’s Handbook for Railway
Tourists, bound especially for the series.
The book covers Great Britain plus all of Ireland and describes the
main features and historic buildings of the principle towns, in the
flowery style of a well spoken Victorian person. The main inns are
mentioned, along with the location of telegraph offices, so important
before telephones.
The 14 pages of multiple illustrations are shown in a separate section,
as are the 18 double-page maps. The announcements by many of the
railway companies regarding tours and special arrangements are
included, many being particularly imaginative and detailed.
The advertisements by hoteliers give an interesting insight into life
in those times and the expectations of travellers. The final
fascinating pages include general advertisements for cures for health
problems, the newly created kitchen range (cooker), improved oil
lighting, portmanteaus (cases) and many diverse devices no longer used,
such as the knife polisher. Card covers new IN STOCK £24.95 +
postage.
13/10/11
Catalogue 74 well on the way but
my printer died mid stream new one arrived today, hopefully it will be
finished early next week at the latest.
Off to FR and TR on Saturday for
FR's vintage weekend and to see Corris no 7 running in the TR.
13/10/11
Busy few days! Whilst I was away
at Blackpool and Shildon (Both great by the way) my daughter in law had
a baby boy Osian (pronounced Oshan) Jac Bird-a lovely little chap-the
train set is on order.
Shildon was superb (better than York in many ways) great to see the
Deltics, especially the prototype, and get to cab it.I last saw this in
the science museum about 40 years ago! Other delights were SR electro
diesel E5001,several royal carriages, The NSR loco, which I last saw at
Shugborough Hall many moons ago,the original S&D carriage and more.
I was last at Shildon in 1975 for the parade, only 36 years ago!!
Well worth a visit and it's free as is the car parking (they like you
donate £3 but well worth it).
I hope to revisit in the future.
4/10/11
Off to Blackpool (for the trams,
before "modernisation" at Easter 2012) and NRM Shildon for Delticfest
50 (all 7 Deltics in one place) this coming weekend.
4/10/11
New arrivals in the last couple
of weeks include-Rail Atlases-about 20 of all types/ages mostly
UK.South Wales titles inlcluding Vols 1-4 of Hale's Steam in South
Wales,Caerphilly Works,Brecon Forest Tramroads,Vol 12 of Regional
History (S. Wales) M T & A (Tasker) and more.Enquiries welcomed.
25/9/11
Catalogue 74 in preparation,
should be available within 14 days.
25/9/11
Fascinating programme last night
on BBC2 about The Festival of Britain 1951 (should be on iplayer now)
some lovely shots and visitor's recollections about The Far Tottering
and Oystercreek Railway (Emett). Well worth watching.
21/9/11
Corris no 7 (Tattoo Loco) to visit Talyllyn in October............
In the 60th anniversary year of the world's first preserved railway,
the Talyllyn Railway will be visited by Corris Railway 0-4-2 ST
locomotive No. 7 on 15th and 16th October. The Talyllyn's rare
gauge of 2'3" is only shared by the Corris and this will be the first
time ever that there has been a visiting steam locomotive to the TR.
The Talyllyn bought the two remaining Corris locomotives which survived
its closure, in 1948 and they have been working on the TR since
1952. During the Gala No.7 will operate a Corris railway
train using the CR coach and brake van preserved on the TR. It
will also doublehead a special train with one of the former CR
locomotives (Nos.3 & 4) and the timetabled service trains will be
operated by the former CR locomotives.
On Saturday evening No.7 and the CR train will be illuminated for
photography at Wharf station, where the café will be open for
meals and drinks. There will also be a film show of old TR
footage.
One and two day gala tickets are available from Wharf Station. These
will cover travel on the various special trains as well as the TR
service trains.
Detailed information and timings will be available shortly on the
Talyllyn Railway's website: www.talyllyn.co.uk
19/9/11
Due in today the new Glyn Valley
Tramway book, £58 plus postage.ORDER NOW!
NOW IN STOCK. £58 plus
£5 postage/packing UK
Be quick!
18/9/11
Now in stock Private Owner
Wagons Volume 10-Turton -£21 plus postage.
14/9/11
AT LAST.........a reprint of
Bradshaw's Guide 1866 (as used by Michael Portillo) is imminent from
Middleton Press.
624 pages, softback,illustrated, Due 22nd October at £24.95 plus
postage.
Pre orders taken.
Details are....
Bradshaw’s Guide was the title
employed on BBC TV in 2010 for a book containing four issues of
Bradshaw’s Handbook for Railway Tourists, bound especially for the
series.
The book covers Great Britain plus all of Ireland and describes the
main features and historic buildings of the principle towns, in the
flowery style of a well spoken Victorian person. The main inns are
mentioned, along with the location of telegraph offices, so important
before telephones.
The 14 pages of multiple illustrations are shown in a separate section,
as are the 18 double-page maps. The announcements by many of the
railway companies regarding tours and special arrangements are
included, many being particularly imaginative and detailed.
The advertisements by hoteliers give an interesting insight into life
in those times and the expectations of travellers. The final
fascinating pages include general advertisements for cures for health
problems, the newly created kitchen range (cooker), improved oil
lighting, portmanteaus (cases) and many diverse devices no longer used,
such as the knife polisher.
14/9/11
Update on the new Glyn Valley
book- it SHOULD be available week commencing 19th September.
12/9/11
Back from Super Power-WOW!!
What a spectacle-where else can you see THREE 2 foot gauge
Garratt's,Double Headed Fairlie's,Linda and Blanch Double heading, (in
the lovely 1960's green too),A Mallet (Timmy to his mates) and a
Darjeeling Tank with two coaches.
Weather was very mixed but hey, who cares about the weather.Another
ambition realised and cheaper than going to India (we had an Indian
meal on Friday night in Porthmadog,which helps set the scene!)
AND as a bonus I sold some books too!
Now how do the FR/WHR top that?
8/9/11
Attention fans of The Shropshire
& Montgomeryshire Railway....
Issue
71
of
Archive
(The
Quarterly
Journal
for
British
Industrial
and
Transport
History), has a 12
page article "The Shropshire & Montgomeryshire Railway 1934-1937"
by Paul Jackson, based on
Register of Train Signals Kinnerley 1934-37 which the author owns.Lots
of details on train movements much on Gazelle, Rail Cars,wagons etc an
interesting read. Illustrated with map and 21 B&W illustrations
(mostly from Lens of Sutton and seen before but a couple of unusual
ones)
Photo's well produced.
I can of course sell you a
copy!
The journal is £6.75
plus £2.50 postage/packing (UK) = £9.25
Nigel
PS Two other articles of
interest-The Hythe Pier Tramway nnd Old & New Severn Bridge
Construction.
7/9/11
Just added to my website (www.nigelbirdbooks.co.uk) about
35 out of print Oakwoods (mainly Southern Area) and about 10 RCTS
Southern Area books. i.e. SECR, LCDR, Southern Locomotives (2 volumes)
and more.A few foreign D&C titles and YET TO LIST- 85 Locomotive
Illustrated Magazines-enquiries welcomed.
30/8/11
Coming into stock very soon-Private Owner Wagons Volume
10 (Turton) at £21
30/8/11
Delightful weekend at Corris (what a friendly lot
they are!) Superb 009 layout of Corris in 1930, Aberdovey Harbour in 0
gauge and an Emett based layout, were the highlights for me. The show
gets better each year.
Managed to get a footplate ride on No 7 (The replica Tattoo loco) on
the Sunday night down to the BBQ, then a few pints and live music in
The Slaters-a great night once again.
No 7 is hopefully going to visit the Talyllyn in October, the first
steam visitor to the TR EVER in all it's history. Now THAT will be
worth seeing.Especially some of the planned double heading Tattoo days!
WLLR Gala next..............
25/8/11
BUSY OR WHAT?
Just about to load my vehicle for Corris Model Railway & Toy
Exhibition, this Saturday, Sunday and Monday, at Corris School,
adjacent to the railway.
THEN Welshpool Narrow Gauge Gala Friday 2nd, Saturday 3rd and Sunday
4th September (I will as usual be at Raven Square,Welshpool end of the
line)
THEN Superpower at Welsh Highland Railway on 10th and 11th based in the
goods shed at Dinas.
Then late September maybe a new catalogue!
25/8/11
Just bought in a pile of Oakwoods, A Mallet Locomotives
(D&C) and a nice run of Locomotive Ilustrated's to be collected Mid
September.
Also now in stock,a few books on fairground transport and lorries.
24/8/11
Managed to find a couple of hours to visit (again)
the Exhibition in Aberaeron celebrating the 100th anniversary of the
line opening from Lampeter. Saw lots of stuff that I missed the first
time around and another excuse to have a honey ice-cream.
The Exhibition closes on 27th August, go see it if you can.
15/8/11
Latest on the Glyn Valley Book from the publisher,
Railromances,..
It seems that it is likely to be 2nd/3rd week of September before I
receive copies due to annual holidays interrupting the schedule.
15/8/11
Lyd book now in stock at £15 plus postage. Highly
recommended.
12/8/11
More on Super Power...LOOK what's happening......
• Triple-headed
Garratts
• Double-headed Double Fairlies
• Double-headed Penrhyn Ladies
• Double-header with Mallet + B Class
• Triple-header with Mallet + B Class + Lilla
• Triple-header with Garratt + Mallet + B Class
• Both WHR Passenger sets and one FR Passenger set required
• 1920s FR Vintage set
• Mixed trains
• Complete DHR train
• All Caernarfon departures running right through to Porthmadog
• Special train which includes Non-stop running Pont Croesor to
Minffordd and vice-versa
Looks to be a VERY good event...
Links to outline timetables and ticket information/booking form
available at http://www.festrail.co.uk/content/publish/specialevents/Super_Power_2011.shtml
WOWEE!!
12/8/11
The book on the building of Lyd, (FR) should be with me
next week.It's £15 and written by the people who built her, so
should be well worth having.
11/8/11
Now confirmed. I WILL be having a stall at The
Welsh Highland Railway Super Power weekend on 10th and 11th September,
based in the goods shed at Dinas.
Looks like a very interesting few days!
http://www.festrail.co.uk/content/publish/specialevents/Super_Power_2011.shtml
10/8/11
Busy time coming up-West Wales MRE at Aberaeron on Sunday
14th, then Corris MRE 27th/28th and 29th, followed by Welshpool and
Llanfair Gala on 2nd,3rd and 4th September and hopefully Super power at
the Welsh Highland Railway on 10th and 11th September, see you at one
of these do's I hope? Anything you order can be delivered to these
events free of charge.Still awaiting the Glyn Valley Tramway book,
advance orders now upto 20 !! NOW will you believe me when I say it
will sell out very quickly, with only 1000 being printed.Don't leave it
too late.
10/8/11
Some 150+ books added to my website in the last few days,
including Loco Profiles,some Oakwoods,quite a few books realted to
miniature railways and narrow gauge, some choice D&C standard
histories and over 50 Ian Allan colour albums.The total number of books
listed on my site is now at an all time high, well in excess of 4000-go
take a look!
8/8/11
VERY wet all day today so managed to upload another large
batch of books onto my website, including some bound Modern
Railways,choice Oakwoods and more. Have a look at
www.nigelbirdbooks.co.uk
8/8/11
The exhibition at Aberaeron is really excellent, well
worth a visit if you are in the area.Masses of pictures, documents and
hardware. Why not visit the model railway exhibtion at the primary
school AND the railway exhibition on the same day-Sunday AUGUST
14th
5/8/11
Off to Aberaeron (jewel of the Welsh coast) to see the
railway exhibition, celebrating 100 years of the line opening from
Lampeter.
http://www.cymdeithasaberaeron​.org/sevents.html
29/7/11
Back at it!
Camrail was excellent (well done Simon) lovely layouts and atmosphere
(and tea in real cups!!). The Colonel Stephens Society, whom I was
representing, are well pleased with the PR generated.8 new members and
considerale sales of S&M Railway DVDs, car stickers, copies of Les
Darbyshire's drawings and biographies of the great man-Colonel Holman
Fred Stephens.
I am sure the idea of havinga show within a show will re-emerge
at another location before too long.
PS Longleat was great if tiring.
20/7/11
Off tomorrow for a week or so to Wiltshire, in teh
motorhome,taking in Camrail at Bradford On Avon, with The Colonel
Strehens Society and Longleat with the Grand Kids!Wish me luck!!
20/7/11
Full run of Loco Profile magazines just in, 1-36 plus the
RHDR special.Enquiries welcome!
19/7/11
Just for fun..........
A
lorry driver was driving along on a country road. A sign
came up that read " Low Bridge Ahead. "Before he realised it, the
bridge was directly ahead and he got stuck under it. Cars were
backed up for miles. Finally, a police car arrived. The
policeman got out of his car and walked to the lorry's cab and said to
the driver, "Got stuck, eh?"
The lorry driver said, "No, I was delivering this bridge and ran out
of diesel.
OK I'll stick to selling books!!
17/7/11
Top Gear gets madder and Madder. Firstly Tornado racing a
Motor Bike and Car, now a "caravan train" of 4 caravans hauled by a 4x4
Audi and an open top "sports train" full of NRM staff and others- ALL
ON THE GCR! Did I dream it all or was it the Penlon Chocolate Stout I
had with my dinner?
16/7/11
A very pleasant day in Porthmadog yesterday. Whilst
strolling in the Aberglaslyn pass with my Grand-daughter, Gracie, (who
was paddling in the crystal clear river water) what should go ambling
by (good timing or what?) but a very packed Porthmadog bound Welsh
Highland train, with TWO Garratts on-87 and 143. Quite an amazing site
as it wound it's way through the tunnels.Later in the day it returned
northbound with 143 and one of the BIG diesels.
As a bonus a double Fairlie was spied on The Cob!
Port. really is the narrow gauge capital of the UK!
16/7/11
All is safely gathered in as they say! The De Winton Book
and Within These Hills (Upper Corris Tramway, Corris Village etc) by
Sara Eade both now IN STOCK. as is the new Peter Johnson book GWR
Narrow Gauge. A veritable feast for NG fans.Order now!
13/7/11
The new Glyn Valley Tramway Book by John Milner (see
below). Should be available mid to late August.
Priced at £58.
VERY low print run-be warned!!
26216. Milner J & Williams B: Rails To Glyn Ceiriog
(The History of The Glyn Valley Tramway-Volume 2 Part 1-
1857-1903 Ceiriog Press 2011 1st (Due August 2011 ) 308pp, 358
ills.incl. colour, 20 specially commissioned maps and artwork, incl.
fold out maps, and 47 previously unpublished original plans.This is
part 1 of volume 2,and covers 1857-1903,(part 2 1904-1937 also covering
operation,locomotives and rolling stock, with all new drawings is
scheduled for publication in late 2012/early 2013 pre-orders taken)
LIMITED PRINT RUN OF JUST 1000 COPIES-PRE-ORDER NOW.Hardback in
dustwrapper, NEW . Pre-Order NOW to avoid missing it as I am sure this
will sell out very quickly. £58.00
13/7/11
As well as collecting the new De Winton book,(£58)
on Friday, 15th, I am also collecting copies of Sara Eades new book
Within
These Hills-A Study of Corris Uchaf, Braichgoch Quarry, The Upper
Corris Tramway and The Social Life of A Merionethshire Village Author
2011 1st 208pp Ills. incl. colour. £25
This
follows
on
from
her
Ratgoed-A
Study
In
Slate
(still
available
at
£15),
card
covers.
I will have these all in stock from Friday 15th onwards.
11/7/11
Off to collect copies of the new book on De Winton
(Caernarfon) this week, whilst not cheap at £58, I have seen some
of the proofs and they look fantastic. It will be the definitive work
without doubt. Let me know if you want one as I won't be carrying too
many spare copies.
The new book on the building of Lyd, to be published by the FR should
also be available very soon. I will also be carrying this.
I will be away from Wednesday 20th for a week, off down to
sunny (?) Wiltshire, to help man the Colonel Stephens Society stand at
Camrail (Bradford On Avon), then on to Longleat with the Grandchildren
(who may get fed to the lions if the mis-behave!)
2/7/11
What a lovely railway the Talyllyn is.Visited it on
Wednesday,with a pal who needed educating in the joys of the
line! For a change got on at Abergynolwyn, down (or is it up?) to
Tywyn, spent some dosh in the shop and had a super home made steak and
ale pie in their top notch cafe, washed down with a bottle of
Pioneer Ale (brewed by Purple Moose, Porthmadog).
Returned in an open coach in the sunshine. As always lots of friendly
faces.My favourite narrow gauge line in Wales.Go visit it in it's 60th
year!
27/6/11
Hot off the BBC website....
Two short
lengths of road are about to open at a combined cost of £1bn.
They represent a last hurrah for expensive road projects in an era of
cost-cutting.
At a time of austerity, the idea of spending more than
half a billion pounds on a five-mile stretch of road might seem strange
to some. But the M74 extension is about to open in Glasgow at a cost of
£657m, which works out at £131m per mile or £75,000 a
yard.
Give me rail everytime!
22/6/11
Such has been the demand for my T shirt that reads "Its a
railway station NOT a Train station" that I am going to get some
printed to sell, in black, sizes large and Extra Large, just awaiting
costings.ORDER TODAY!
22/6/11
Just listing a mixed collection just acquired (some 600
books) these include lots of Bradford Barton Remincences, over 70 Ian
Allan colour albums,a few modelling titles, long runs of GWR Journals
and British Railway Journals and about 60 US Railroad titles, and lots
more besides.A few RCTS GWR locomotives including the rare part 14 (be
quick) They will of course all go onto my website
www.nigelbirdbooks.co.uk in time but you are welcome to ask for
anything you may need ahead of that day!
20/6/11
Back from the absolutely excellent GWR Study group event
at Bristol, great to meet so many customers/friends old and new!If you
are a GWR person and missed it SHAME ON YOU!
15/6/11
**************THIS WEEKEND***********
June
18th/19th-Great
Western
Study
Group
Model
Railway
Exhibition,
Filton,
Bristol
See you there?
14/6/11
At last a model railway exhibition with a strong Colonel Stephens theme!
This year's Camrail will feature a number of top quality layouts and
exhibits featuring models of the railways of Colonel Holman Fred
Stephens.
Simon Castens of the Titfield Thunderbolt bookshop is the organiser.
Here is his description of Camrail 2011:
"Andrew Ullyott with his EM rendition of Weston's Ashcombe Road
terminus, Robin Fielding with "Grove Ferry Junction" in S scale, the
Colonel Stephens Society stand, Kerry Baylis with his modelling
demonstration and......
GOOD NEWS Les Darbyshire is bringing "Maidstone Road" out of retirement
to the show and Stephen Hannington's wonderful "Rye Town" is also
appearing, courtesy of its present custodian Chris Jackson.
In addition, Jerry Clifford with his brand new "Colonel Stephens meets
William Smith" essay in 2mm finescale "Fullers Mill" and the return of
Ted Olney and team with the evergreen "Smallcombe". The "Brink Valley
Tramway" from Christopgher Payne and Dick Dorton's "Ardleigh Noel"
featuring some superb 16mm stock built by none other than Peter
Barnfield.
Entry prices are being held at inflation busting levels of incredible
reasonableness, for a show with more high quality models than trade,
20th Century levels of civility, and a venue that owes more to John
Betjeman than Simon Cowell.
So, an event not to be missed for discerning model railway enthusiasts
and Colonel fans alike. Thank you very much to Nigel Bird and members
of the Colonel Stephens Society committee and society for enthusiastic
support in this venture."
Demonstrators:
John Dopson demystifies painting and lining, almost by royal
appointment(!)
Kerry Baylis demonstrates modelling the Colonel's railways in 7mm Scale.
Alan Doddington will be modelling and extolling the virtues of the GWR
in 4mm scale.
Bob Brown will be demonstrating and showing part of his new layout in
3mm scale
Rich Brown will be scratch building LB&SCR rolling stock in 7mm
Scale.
Societies:
The Colonel Stephens Society will be representing their namesake and
his railways, "a very civilised group with a wonderful newsletter –
highly recommended and always a good read" - Simon Castens.
The Festiniog Railway will be representing their twin delights in North
Wales, both now fully operational and well worth investigating.
Traders:
Finney and Smith will be feeding the finescale habit with vital metal
supplies and assorted technicalia.
The Gas Cupboard will have all the latest from Hornby and Bachmann
together with numerous model railway accessories and supplies.
Robin Tett will be in attendance with a plethora of previously owned
model railway equipment.
The Titfield Thunderbolt Bookshop will have the latest in quality
railway publishing
Camrail 2011 will take place on Saturday and Sunday the 23rd and 24th
July 2011at Saint Margarets Hall in the centre of Bradford on Avon.
Opening times 11.00am to 5.30pm on both days,
Admission fees £3.50 adults, £3.00 concessions, accompanied
under 16s free
More info: www.titfield.co.uk
12/6/11
I see from yesterday's Daily Telegraph that Hay Castle
(home of Richard Booth "The King of Hay") has been sold for 2 million
quid! He is moving into his 40 bedroom mansion also in Hay. What I am
doing wrong then?
11/6/11/
As a Rugeley lad I found this fascinating...
An excellent photographic record of the Stafford & Uttoxeter
Railway:
http://picasaweb.google.com/clogandknocker/OldStaffordToUttoxeterRailwayLine
10/6/11
Just a quick reminder, that the GWR Study Group's rather
splendid occasional model railway exhibition is on NEXT WEEKEND in
Bristol..
18/06/11- 19/06/11
GWSG Exhibition
Abbeywood Community School, New Road, Stoke Gifford, BS34 8SF
(approx 10 minute walk from Bristol Parkway station)
1100-1700 (Sat), 1000-1600 (Sun)
Adult: £6.00, GWSG Members: £5.00, Partners & U16: Free
Refreshments available will include hot snacks
And of course the world famous Nigel Bird and his travelling
bookstall will be in attendance!
1/6/11
A host of very interesting new books are either in stock
or due soon,including Rails to Glyn Ceiriog, Volume 2 part 1, covering
1857-1903,(LIMITED PRINT RUN OF 1200)(Part 2 to follow in 2012 or
2013).The Old Talyllyn -16mm scale drawings by Bernard
Rockett,Shropshire & Montgomeryshire Light Railway Under Military
Control 1941-1960,Wolverhampton's Railways in Colour,On Parallel Lines
(photo album par excellance, very Colin Gifford style),Beeching 50
Years of the Axeman,De Winton of Caernarfon from RCL at £58 but
you just know it is going to be good!The Brendon Hills Iron Mines and
The West Somerset Mineral Railway.Balmoral and The Bristol Channel and
a reprint of the superb Minehead Branch from Lightmoor is due soon.Some
tasty stuff you have to agree.
BE AWARE that many publishers have cut back on their print runs, and
the days of 2500 or more have gone.1000-1200 (or evn under 1000 in many
cases) is now quite normal so if you see what you want my advice is get
it whilst you can, because when any title goes out of print the price
can rise quickly.In particular both RCL and Railromance
publications have risen in value quite quickly after going out of print.
I am happy to take advance orders for any title, you will not be
charged until the book is ready for me to despatch.
I am DELIGHTED to say that none of these are available as an e-book!!
1/6/11
Catalogue 73 now completed.I hope to despatch copies
early
next week.
24/5/11
Back from hols.glorious time in Kent, Sussex and Hants,
visited KESR, including private visit for Colonel Stephens Society to
the museum, which really is outstanding.RHDR, as good as
ever,especially on their non stop Dungeness to Hythe train, and
Bluebell where 9017 was in service.Back to work now. Catalogue 73
should be ready within 14 days.
7/5/11
Lots going on in Aberaeron for the centenary of the
railway line opening, see
www.cymdeithasaberaeron.org/sevents.html
6/5/11
Please note that my LAST posting date for orders will be
MONDAY 9th May. I am then away for about 14 days.Orders received whilst
I am away will be dealt with promptly upon my return.
2/5/11
Back from the torture that is Bristol Model Railway
exhibition.I say torture because of the fact it is three days and some
25 hours of trading! VERY busy on Friday maybe because of all the chaps
escaping having to watch "the wedding". Saturday also busy, Sunday much
quieter.Healthy takings and lots of books sold, especially the rarer
items.Car now unpacked- umpteen emails to answer now. Our annual
holiday starts early next week, off to Kent for The Colonel Stephens
Society AGM which includes a trip on the RH&DR and the KESR with an
open top bus ride thrown in too!
Orders upto next Monday (3rd) will be despatched before we leave.
22/4/11
To compensate for my holidays in May, I am working today,
and tomorrow, and Monday! Oh and next Thursday, Friday, Saturday and
Sunday.Is that OK Philip?
18/4/11
IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT
re
catalogue
73
Due to other commitments (shows, holidays etc,) and
awaiting a large collection to arrive,catalogue 73 will not now be
issued until late May/early June.
17/4/11
In today - lovely collection of things GWR, Wagons,
Coaches, Stations, Siphons, GW Way and about 15 of the Ian Allan full
colour albums, and many more goodies (some 80 in total) Starting to
list tomorrow.Wants welcomed.
Be aware that there will be no postal service on 22nd, 25th and 29th of
April,and 2nd May all Bank holidays. (But not holidays for booksellers!
I am working at Bristol Show (Thornbury)on 29th, 30th April and May
1st. Oh to be a banker or Civil Servant!!
5/4/11
In today -British Railway Journal 76, from Wild Swan
articles contained in this issue are Towcester in the 1930s,The Super
D's,Elmers End and Wotton to Brill, 80 pages £9.95 plus postage.
The expected article on "Cats of The Scottish Railway Companies" has be
defurred!
13/4/11
Need any of the Ian Allan British Rail Fleet Surveys? I
have just added volumes 1-11 to my website, including the hard to find
Diesel Shunters and First Generation DMU volumes. PLUS a copy of the
VERY hard to find DMU drawings book by Golding (Cheona) be quick
now..........
12/4/11
It is very rare that a picture book gets me excited
nowadays BUT for On Parallel Lines by Ken Horan and Ted Parker, I will
make an exception! Over 200 stunning black and white pictures (all
previously unpublished) of the dying years of steam in North West
England (Carnforth, Rose Grove etc. etc.)make this a really special
book, add to that many in the "grit and
grime" style of Colin Gifford and you have a winner. If you love
quality steam photography a little out of the ordinary (i.e. not 3/4
side view shots!) or love Colin Gifford's work then this is a must.Good
value too at £19.99+ postage/packing. Set to be a classic I
am sure, buy whilst you can as only 1000 have been printed, with over
600 already sold.
12/4/11
Great day out last Saturday at the Llangollen Railway
Gala-the sun shone all day and with 7822 Foxcote Manor newly returned
to traffic and working both passenger and freight trains it was a
memorable day.
Sadly the planned visit of 7812 Erlestoke Manor from the SVR failed to
materialise due to technical difficulties.
It really is the epitome of a rural branch line. I sat drinking tea
(from a real mug not a horrible plastic one!) at Berwyn, in the sun,
just watching the river bubbling under the chain bridge as various
trains passed on their way at thought this is almost like the 1950's. I
never travelled the line from Ruabon to Barmouth before closure but
when I get my time machine working I sure will (and the
Aberystwyth-Carmarthen line and branches of course!!)
1/4/11
How's
this then?..... silly customer comments no 1
A lady who gazed for a bit at the contents of my Rare Book
Case, then turned and asked, "Are these books actually old, or are they
just made to look that way?"
1/4/11
***********STOP PRESS***********
With effect from today ALL printed books are to be
banned. So it's e books from now on.
HOWEVER I do have quite a lot of books to dispose of so contact me
today!
24/3/11
Another new book, due in May is
The Shropshire & Montgomeryshire Light Railway Under Military
Control 1941-1960
by Mike Christensen O B E
192 pages, laminated hardback.£22.50 (+ postage)
Once again ADVANCE ORDERS welcomed.
I understand that the much awaited book on De Winton by RCL
Publications is scheduled for July , over 300 pages and looks superb,
having seen some of the proofs.. Looks like a good few months for
interesting books.
24/3/11
In today -a new Middleton on Beamish, called "Beamish 40
years on Rails" includes Railways, Tramways and Waggon Ways, unusually
includes much colour and I have to say possibly one of the best
Middleton's to date.Available at £15.95 plus postage.
I really must get to Beamish one of these days, it looks superb.
Also just arrived the last 10 copies of Ratgoed: A study In Slate by
Sara Eade. HIGHLY recommended. It is now OUT OF PRINT and not to be
reprinted. Buy NOW whilst you can.
A new book by Sara is due out in May- "Within These Hills:A Study of
Corris Uchaf,Braichgoch Quarry, The Upper Corris Tramway and the Social
Life of a Merionethshire Village" at £20. Sure to be another
winner, ADVANCE ORDERS taken.
24/3/11
Just got round to a brief write up on the talk that I
did, along with Martin Connop Price on 15th March on the
Lampeter-Aberaeron Line. We both feel it went well. Over 150 people
attended, the normal attendance at CAS talks is about 40 so that's a
good start!
The new edition of the Oakwood book "The Lampeter,Aberayron and New
Quay Light Railway" (£8.95) by Martin was launched at the talk
and sold very well as did the new Middleton Press book on the
Aberystwyth-Carmarthen Line.(£15.95) I have both in stock of
course!
Martin's informative, easy going style (with the odd interuption from
me!) went down well with the audience, and lots of good stories and
facts came from local people who had known the line when it was
open.A couple of former local residents brought in a train staff from
Felin Fach to Aberayron and a superb aerial photograph of Felin
Fach station from the late 1950s.All in all a very enjoyable event and
one that many locals wil recall for years to come.
17/3/11
Back from S&C trip. Wider range covered this year,
including Barnetby, Cleethorpes (good fish and chips, and real ale pub
on the station), New Holland,Barton on Humber,Skipton,Hexham and Wylam.
What a gem the Carlisle-Newcastle line is, managed to photogrpah the
two ex NER boxes.The Boathouse at Wylam was our favourite pub of the
week, 11 real ales, and 3 real ciders, all on handpumps,great home made
soup and roll (just £2.80 a bargain) and lovely friendly staff
and customers, all next to the railway-we will be back I am sure.
Barnetby interesting-lots of coal traffic and the ever present class
66s.Gainborough and Brigg visited, only 3 trains per week all on
a Saturday, what you call a minimum service!
Saw one class 70 at Ribblehead. Whilst great to see so much freight the
motive power varies very little sadly. Did get to see the Network Rail
infrastruction train and a timber train both at Hellifield, both with
66s on the front.
2012 may see us based near Wylam and exploring the North East. If we
can afford the petrol, which is rapidly heading to £1.50 per
litre.
4/3/11
My annual trip to The Settle & Carlisle line starts
tomorrow, back late on 12th.This time including two days at
Barnetby-on-the Wold for freight (the busiest freight line in the UK I
am reliably told) one day still to be arranged, but possibly
Stalybridge area (great pubs!) and two days at our old favourite The
Station Inn Ribblehead, from where we will be visiting The Boat at
Wylam (about 12 real ales!).If you see 4 chaps with cameras in any pubs
in the area it maybe us, do say hello and buy us a pint.
4/3/11
I understand that the new edition of Steam Railway
magazine (out today) is destined to be a best seller. Buy one to find
out why!
18/2/11
If you interested in the Aberystwyth-Carmarthen Line
(and/or it's two branches, to Newcastle Emlyn and Aberaeron
respectively), two things may interest you.
A new book in today from Middleton Press, covering the main line and
branches,usual format with a few pictures new to me, at £15.95
plus postage.
Also, on 15th March there will be a talk on the
Lampeter-Aberaeron Line, entitled "Lampeter to Aberaeron by train: a
journey back in time" to commemorate 100 years since it's opening on
May 12th 1911.(It closed to passengers in 1951 so had a very short
operating life)The speakers will be yours truly and MRC Price the
author of the Oakwood book "The Lampeter, Aberayron & New Quay
Light Railway" (which, by the way, is being reissued later this year),
it will be held at The Memorial Hall, Aberaeron, 7.30 start, admission
£2.50. There are some amazing photographs (almost 100) in the
presentation, well worth coming to.
Other events are also planned...
12th May 2011 –
Centenary Day. It is planned that a plaque will be unveiled to
mark the place where the railway once stood. Aberaeron, Ciliau Parc and
Felinfach primary schoolchildren will dress in period costume and
perform a song written by Doreen Lewis and then walk the two miles or
so along the old railway line, now a cycle track, to the National Trust
Llanerchaeron for a picnic lunch. It is hoped that a new station
sign will be unveiled there, at the Llanerch-Ayron Halt, where the
small halt platform is being restored, as well as other activities. All
are welcome to join the day.
26 July to 27
August, 2011 – Cymdeithas Aberaeron’s Annual Exhibition’s theme is The
Railway, as well as road transport. A 00 Gauge model railway of
Aberayron station and line, to Llanerchaeron, built in 2007 by
Aberayron Model Railway Club will take pride of place in the Exhibition
along with many mementos, memories and photographs. The Exhibition will
be held at Tabernacle Vestry Chapel.
If anyone
requires further information or have themselves any information ,
memorabilia or photographs to do with the Aberayron to Lampeter line
please contact me or any of the people below.
Sandra
Evans sandra.evans49@yahoo.co.uk
tel: 01974 202322
Mair
Harrison mairhlf@gmail.com
01545 571022.
Bryan Yates
bryan.yates011@btinternet.com
01545 571464
15/2/11
If you have the time have a look at the new FR/WHR
website-mightily impressive. It's at www.festrail.co.uk
11/2/11
Catalogue 72 now uploaded to my website, go take a look!
WANTED
I am keen to acquire back issues of Locomotives Illustrated, as stocks
are fast running down,any to sell me?
8/2/11
Catalogue 72 paper copies posted out today.
8/2/11
Stafford MRE has now come and gone. Another busy weekend
and much warmer than last year.
This really is an excellent show and now fills 3 halls at Stafford
Showground, well worth a visit.In the adjacent hall was a large
antiques fair. as I loaded the car I noticed some of the antique
dealers had large tables, chairs, dressers and even a grandfather clock
to load, and I thought books were heavy!
2/2/11/
For all those of you watching Portillo's railway
programmes, where he uses a c.1860 Bradshaws Guide, on his travels. One
sold on Ebay in desperate need of rebinding for £430! So get up
the loft now you never know.
31/1/11
Catalogue 72 now printed.Just needs stapling and
stuffing, should be posted out early next week, (after I have been to
Stafford Model Railway Exhibition)
In stock today-GWR Journal 77 (£3.95) and Narrow Gauge and
Industrial Review 85 (£5.50) plus postage.
29/1/11
Delayed Parcel Delivery to USA
The 'temporary'
delay for parcels posted prior to Christmas, is I am lead to
believe, due to new sorting procedures and an unofficial policy of
delivering letters and leaving the parcels till later. These have been
exacerbated by the recent adverse weather problems.
The 'permanent'
delay is the result of the recent bomb disguised as an inkjet
cartridge. Mail is no longer being sent on passenger planes - all mail
is now carried on cargo aircraft. Parcel delivery to the USA is
generally reliable but can be very sporadic, some parcels being
delivered relatively quickly while others take some considerable time
without any discernable reason.
Please be aware of this!
24/1/11
PETROL, love it or hate it we all need it (well most of
us) Just seen a breakdown in where the money goes, for every
£10 spent -£6.26 is tax+vat,£3.43 goes to the
producers and a miserly 31p is for the retailer, now you know!
24/1/11
Due to printer problems, catalogue 72 will be delayed,
probably until early February.
19/1/11
Catalogue 72 should be completed this week,and issued
soon after, a good selection of US railroad books and general UK
material.
13/1/11
Portillo and Bradshaw! The news series has started and so
have the phone calls ..Caller-"do you have one of those Bradshaw
guides?, like the chap on TV uses?" Me "No sir you are the xxth caller
today, they are VERY rare and would be about £200, IF I had one",
never seen one in some 30 years of collecting/dealing. Silence from the
other end of the line. Do they REALLY expect me to have a shelf full at
a tenner each? Is some one going to reprint it SOON please before I go
mad..........
12/1/11
Our annual lads " S&C Beer & Trains" trip gets
closer.Early March sees 4 of us staying at Brigg for 2 nights (so we
can train watch at Barnetby, which I reliably informed is THE place for
freight traffic, and still has semaphores) also 2 nights at our much
loved Station Inn, Ribblehead, which sees us in Settle for a
curry and a few pints, and probably a day trip to Wylam for train
watching from The Boathouse, right by the lovely ex NER signal box
spanning the tracks, and with about 12 hand pumps.I can't wait!
12/1/11
News of the death of two well known railway gentlemen may
not have reached you.WJK Davies, well known author of many railway
titles including Narrow Gauge and Light Railway books passed away in
December. Also Bob Vice a long time member of the Welshpool &
Llanfair Light Railway,Bob was their main outlet for book sales. Bob
always had an excellent selection of books for sale on his stall,
especially overseas titles, he was a regular at Stafford Collectors
Fair,and at the WLLR Gala in September-he will be much missed.
Earlier in the year (about October) Greg Fox the proprietor of Foxline
Publications also passed away.
The truly excellent series of books from Foxline are quite rightly
highly regarded and sought after. I do hope some one takes on the
rights to the past titles and continues to release new titles in the
years to come.
6/1/11
Are you in my loyalty scheme? If so a special offer...
ALL
orders sent to a UK address of £30 and over for
books IN STOCK, new and used,
(see website) will be sent post free if ordered before 18th January
2011.
Plus you will get the
usual 10% discount.
So a £30 book will
cost you £27 post included.
This does NOT apply to
books that I need to order in.
Nigel Bird
www.nigelbirdbooks.co.uk
If not why not join TODAY?
Ask for details but be quick...........
5/1/11
Large back order (much delayed by the weather) just
arrived from Wild Swan Publications , all orders will be despatched on
Friday 8th. My apologies for the delay- completely outside my
control.The only title not yet available from them is LNWR Wagons
Volume 2, which I am assured will be published shortly. Good levels of
most of their other newly released titles now available from stock,
others can be ordered within 7-10 days. Go on treat yourself, NO VAT on
books (yet!!)
1/1/11
Happy New Year to all readers!
Let's hope that 2011 is no worse than 2010, I will be surprised if it's
better but we will see.
Just in -some 30 GWR Bradford Bartons, mostly reprints but at just
£5 each a bargain.See my website.
31/12/10
ALL orders despatched today, but no postal deliveries now
until 5th January, then normality returns!
21/12/10
Managed to get into town today (just) ALL orders have now
been despatched I hope they reach the buyers before 25th!
I will be posting again on or about 29th December (subject to the
weather of course)
Thanks for all your custom in 2010.
18/12/10
ANOTHER 4 or 5 inches of snow has fallen overnight.We now
have some 12 inches on the ground and still it falls! This is by far
the worst snow we have encountered here since we arrived in 1985.
I doubt now that any orders will be despatched before Christmas day for
which I can only apologise. I WILL be posting out between Christmas and
New Year (subject to the weather) probably on 29th or 30th.
17/12/10
SEVERE WEATHER. We have some 8 inches of snow and still
it falls. Access to the local Post Office is impossible. All orders
prior to 15th HAVE been posted out, later orders will go as and when
the weather improves.Happy Christmas!!
6/12/10
Christmas Order?
My LAST posting date before Christmas Day will be TUESDAY 21ST.
I will then resume posting on or about WEDNESDAY 29th DECEMBER.
Normal posting will resume from Tuesday 4th JANUARY.
A very merry Christmas and prosperous (!) 2011 to you all.
Nadolig Llawen a Blwyddyn Dda.
YOUR custom is appreciated by this small business.
3/12/10
In stock today
GWR Journal 76 (Autumn!! ) Will try to get them all out next week.
Weather allowing!!
3/12/10
Managed to get to PO today-chaos, packed with people
collecting their mail (as no deliveries in many areas for 5 days) and
posting those funny little Christmas cards! ALL orders have been sent
out today, how long they take to reach their destination is anybody's
guess.Heavy snow as we came home.
Lovely little local Christmas fair on in the memorial hall in Tregaron,
where nearly everybody I saw I knew-the delight of a small rural
community. My daughter in law is one of the main organisers of the
fair, and my daughter was on the refreshments stand, selling tea and
cawl in aid of the local children's nursery, where she teaches.
Why would you want to live in some faceless town or city?? Answers on a
postcard.
29/11/10
A minor thaw enabled us to get to Tregaron today,(just)
ALL orders have now been despatched.
However ore snow is due tomorrow!!
28/11/10
The Christmas rush (well not quite a rush yet!) has
started, more orders this weekend than for many months, including from
The Netherlands, France, USA, Ireland (EU) and even Wales. Slate Quarry
Album continues to sell very well and stocks are low, as does the new
WLLR and the new 4mm/7mm modelling book from Wild Swan (which I am
still waiting delivery of!) Plus odds and ends including 2
Hamilton-Ellis titles, a pair of Midland Wagon books (only about 6 sets
left to sell now!) a Padarn & Penrhyn by Turner (amazing how well
the D&C stuff still sells after all this time (they were good mind
you) and a couple of Oakwoods.
We had 4 inches of snow on Friday and as usual our lane is a nightmare,
no post in for two days and no sign of a thaw. I hope to get all
parcels away soon.
23/11/10
More copies of Ratgoed-A Study In Slate by Sara Eade now
in stock. This is my favourite book of 2010, beautifully designed,
lovely text and pictures and at £15 what a bargain.Get one whilst
you can.I am really looking forward to Sara's next book, on Corris
Village and the upper tramroad.
Great plans are afoot for The Corris Railway, including a new station
building, (with overall roof) relocation of the doctors surgery to a
permanent building and a sector plate for getting the loco around its
train. See the Corris website for full details of the proposed plans.
22/11/10
The new ETRMS signalling on The Cambrian is now operation
from Harlech to Pwllheli see..
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-11793266
21/11/10
Just finished reading Madocks & The Wonder of Wales,
being about the life of William Madocks by Elisabeth Beazley .His main
achievement was of course the design and building of The Cob at
Porthmadog, which opened in 1811, and reclaimed over 3000 acres from
the sea. Next year sees the 200th anniversary of this amazing
structure, which supports both road and Ffestiniog Railway even to this
day. Celebrations are planned I believe for next year. An excellent
read (if a little hard work at times with all the references to
documents etc) well worth seeking out a copy.
Also had a more detailed look at the new Welshpool & Llanfair N G
book from Wild Swan-very impressive indeed.
Now I have a backlog of magazines to read!
13/11/10 (Football not railways for once!)
WHY do I support Wolves? It's really not good for my
heart, another defeat, 3-2 at home to Bolton, and it looks like a
return to The Championship beckons.
13/11/10
The 2 new Xpress books are now in stock, District
Controller 14 North Devon and a detailed work on Locomotive boilers,
£14.95 each.
12/11/10
List of forthcoming books from Wild Swan,(for
Christmas!) in today. These include a new book on WLLR pre
preservation, another in the North & West Line Series viz 3A
Abergavenny
Junction to Hereford, LNWR Wagons volume 2, LMS Locomotive Profile
13-The Standard Compounds and 14-The Standard Class 3 Freight Tank
Locomotives,Creating Model Buildings in 4mm & 7mm, and an enlarged
and revised edition of The Slough Estates Railway.Just like buses (and
Blackpool trams!) you wait an age and then 6 come all at once!!.Advance
orders welcomed, books despatched as soon as in stock.
12/11/10
Managed to sneak a day off on Wednesday, and with a pal
from South Wales travelled from Llanwrda to Craven Arms on what I still
call The Central Wales Line (Heart of Wales) anyway the line from
Swansea to Shrewsbury. Autumn/Winter is without doubt the best time to
travel this line as lineside vegetation is a problem, when the leaves
are on, the views are very restricted. It has a rather sparse
service of only 4 trains per day (usually single car units) weekdays,
but is well worth the effort as the views are splendid as are the main
two viaducts you pass over and sugarloaf tunnel.A very worthwhile trip
and a bargain at £8.90 return.With these brach lines it really is
use em or lose em.
3/11/10
Delighted to report that at last I have travelled the
whole route, (by train!) from Caernarfon to Porthmadog, on Saturday
last (30th October) and what a journey it is.All I can say is do it
when you can , you will not be disappointed! The final section, from
Pont Croesor to Porthmadog, via the town section and over Britannia
Bridge is fantastic and so different than any other line in the UK.2011
will see very limited operation of the full line, with 2012 seeing a
full timetable operating.Well done to all concerned with the reopening
of this line.
3/11/10
Catalogue 71 now live on the website, my apologies for
the delay due to technical difficulties, and special thanks to Iain for
sorting it out!
26/10/10
Catalogue 71 now completed and should be available within
7 days. Will include some lovley bound copies of MRJ amongst other gems.
17/10/10
Still working on Cat. 71, hopefully out within 7-10 days,
but got Carmarthen Model Show next Saturday (23rd) then trip to WHR on
30th, which will include (at last) the section through the town and
over Britania Bridge and the Cambrian Coast line-really looking
forward to that.
10/10/10
Just had to
write it! Another 100 years before it comes around again. I will be 156!
9/10/10
For all fans of Blackpool trams (that's me now!)
Advance tickets for Heaton Park (Manchester) Tramway's Blackpool Day on
21st November are on sale now.
See their website...
www.heatonparktramway.org.uk
I hope to visit.
5/10/10
Catalogue 71 should be available late October.
5/10/10
Back from a great few days In Blackpool.
Lots of tram riding, from Pleasure Beach to Fleetwood and all places in
between.The £6 day travel card is great value, covers all trams
and buses.
Many of the historic fleet were in action, my personal favourites are
the open boat and the 1930s double deckers.It is with regret that the
system is being modernised,(due to commence March 2012) I really do
think it's a mistake, the Blackpool tram system is not a modern
rapid transit like Manchester but an historic part of the appeal of the
town, like The Tower, Winter Gardens, The Piers, Ice-Cream,Fish &
Chips and Hot Donuts (yummy)
Anyway a very enjoyable few days, lets hope that at least some of the
older trams get saved and used regularly.
23/9/10
Off to Blackpool next week to do some historic tram
riding, before the system gets modern trams-who's daft idea was that
then? Another piece of history dies.
Thank goodness for The Isle of Man.
23/9/10
A great weekend at The Welsh Highland and Ffestiniog
Railways, despite the liquid sunshine!
Wonderful trip from Pont Croesor to Caernarfon and back.
The return journey was in style in the 1st class observation car, with
full Welsh tea-scones, Welsh cakes, clotted cream, tea and good company.
We were banked from Rhyd Ddu to Beddgelert by a Garratt on our return
as due to lack of water at Beddgelert the loco had worked North to take
on water, having left it's train at Beddgelert, quite a site from the
obs.
Sunday saw us looking around Boston Lodge works, what an amazing place!
A ride to Blaenau and back in the afternoon behind a Fairlie, finishing
off a fantastic two days.
14/9/10
A well deserved break this weekend-no show, just a visit
to the Welsh Highland Railway, with fellow members of The Colonel
Stephens Society, travelling from Pont Croesor to Caernarfon and back.
Hoping for a dry day (unlike today!!) I have not travelled the PC to
Hafod-y-Llyn section yet, I am told it is stunning (as is the section
through then pass to Beddgelert) I look forward to doing the full trip
from Harbour Station to Caernarfon and back very soon.
6/9/10
Well, another Welshpool Narrow Gauge Railway Gala has
come and gone.3 days this year, boy is that tiring, especially on
Saturday from 7.30 a.m. to 8.30 p.m.! some 13 hours trading at Raven
Square.Very busy Friday and Saturday, somewhat slower Sunday until mid
day. Lovely to see the ex Bowaters loco Chevallier in service (sadly it
failed late Sunday with a recurring hot box), by late Sunday only two
loco's were servicable, (the Resita having not been available all
Sunday- no change there then!)-The Countess and The Earl, amazingly
they seem 100% reliable and able to fly up Golfa bank with minimal
effort. The 3 coach set of Pickerings look absolutely superb-must have
a ride in them one day.All in all another excellent few days, trade was
good, and great to see lots of old friends/customers, and make some new
friends too.
It was my 12th year at this gala and still, in my opinion of the best
narrow gauge gala's in the UK. All being well Joan should be in service
for next years event, see you there?
20/8/10
WANTED.
Does anyone have a set (two volumes) of Cobb's Railway
Atlas they wish to sell? I have a customer looking to acquire a set.
Email me or phone 01974 821281 with condition and price, unless you are
local you will need to be able post it.
17/8/10
Re WILD SWAN PUBLICATIONS
All outstanding orders for magazines etc. should be
cleared within 14 days.Sorry for the delay.
17/8/10
All Oakwoods (see below) are now listed on my website.
2/8/10
As part of a substantial collection just acquired (yet
another!) I have some 80 Oakwood press titles to list, mostly out of
print, this is in addition to my stock of about 200 that I already
have, plus a few choice GWR wagon books, and many Welsh
titles-Foxline,OPC (vols 1-4 of Hale's Steam in South Wales) D&C
Cambrian (both volmes) etc.. Listing will take some time but feel free
to enquiry if any titles you need.
8/7/10
Catalogue 70 now live on my website.
25/6/10
Catalogue 70 now under preparation, should be ready in
10-14 days.
24/6/10
ALL
NEW
BOOKS
IN
STOCK
WILL
BE
SENT
POST
FREE
UNTIL
2ND
JULY
TO
ANY
UK
ADDRESS
email
me
for
a
list.
23/6/10
A tough budget as expected but thankfully NO VAT ON BOOKS
and MAGAZINES.
Oh and ENGLAND through to the last 16 in the World
Cup, bring on the Germans!!
19/6/10
Need any Model Railway Journals to complete your set? I
have most issues from 1-190 in stock at £2 each plus postage.
I also have a lovely bound run..
Model Railway
Journal Bound Run From Volume 1 to Volume 15 Wild Swan Publications A
rare chance to acquire a super bound run of Model Railway Journal.
Issues 0 to 115, bound in 15 volumes. Beautifully bound in green cloth
with gilt titling (not publishers binding), marbled endpapers,bound
without covers. Both magazines and binding are in truly fine
condition.Offerred as a run, but if unsold after 1.10.10 I will
consider offers for individual volumes.The cost of binding the 15
volumes alone to this standard would be no less than £300, plus
the 115 magazines of course! £350.00+ postage
3/6/10
New catalogue of forthcoming books from Ian Allan arrived
today, a few new and reprinted titles look interesting- Each a Glimpse
(Gifford) reprint due October at £30. New titles include another
study of IK Brunel by Adrian Vaughan, looking at the man through his
letters and writings, Adrian's books are always worth reading as his
depth of research is always thorough, this is due in October. Another
abc combine reprint is coming-1952, with allocations at £12.99,
due July.. A book on Tornado (you may have heard about this locomotive
in the press) in fact I am fed up of reading about Yawnado as its been
christened.What looks like (at last) the definitive book on the
Woodhead Route, 128 pages, with over 200 illustrations is due in July
at £19.99, this has to be, along with the Cambrian, Central Wales
Line, The Cumbrian Coast and the S&C one of my all time favourite
lines, I travelled it just once behind one of the unique class 76
electrics, a full return journey Manchester-Sheffield, a foggy day in
November,a lifetime ago! Also Noodle books are re-issuing in September
(sadly in paperback) LMS Signals by Warburton at £14.95. ALL of
these can be ordered NOW for despatch and payment when published.
I also note that future Ian Allan catalogues (splendid though they are,
in full colour and nicely printed)will be £4.95 each PLUS a
ridiculous £4.50 for postage and packing (This appears to be
their minimum postage charge for all orders , and I worry I overcharge
at £2.50 minimum!) Nearly £10 for a catalogue-amazing!!
27/5/10
Back from holidays! A splendid couple of weeks that incuded a visit to
the NRM at York (first time for about 30 years!) for The Colonel
Stephens Society AGM, followed by a trip to The Dewent Valley Light
Railway and to an members private railway, complete with replica Ford
railbus!
A trip into Hull on the "big railway" was an interesting day out, what
a super station Hull is.
Then onto The Yorkshire Dales, for a few days in the
Ribblehead/Ingleton area. An ambition was realised when 60019 Bittern
came over the viaduct, southbound, and I was there to see it! The first
live steam loco I have seen over Batty Moss.I also saw a class 70 on a
coal train, southbound, the newest UK addition to Loadhauls diesel
fleet, ugly yes but not as bad as I the pictures imply! I truly think
the view out over Ribblehead is one of THE greatest views in the UK,
and The Station Inn adjacent is always good for a pint or two of real
ale and a hearty meal-Why not try it?
Anyway this years holiday is over, next year the Colonel Stephens
Society's AGM takes us to the RHDR and KESR, where I understand that
City of Truro maybe performing! Roll on.
6/5/10
I SHALL BE AWAY FROM 12th to 27th MAY ON HOLIDAY THE
HOUSE WILL BE OCCUPIED, (INCLUDING A LARGE DOG!) SO MAIL WILL GET
THROUGH OK.ALL EMAILS ETC. WILL BE DEALT WITH ON MY RETURN.
17/4/10
Catalogue 69 is now live on my website.
9/4/10
Whatever political party you support, this has to be good
news.
The
Conservative Party has pledged not to add tax to books if it is elected
on 6 May. Questions have been raised over VAT after the Tories said
they would not raise National Insurance contributions. There is,
however, a possibility that VAT will be added to e-books - and that
would help the sales of printed books
Given
the ever rising price of fuel (£1.20 per litre is now average) I
am expecting book sales to rocket any day,as no-one will be able to
afford to go anywhere soon!
30/3/10
Well it's nearly Easter, and its snowing! Yes really,
what a long hard Winter it has been. Last weekend I was in the garden
in a T shirt now its five base layers and waterproofs!
Anyway-catalogue 69 is in preparation, should be available mid April. I
have 3 collections to buy in this month, so look out for some new
goodies on the website.
Then it is Thornbury and Porthmadog shows in early May, followed by a
10 day break to York and district, involving the Colonel Stephens AGM
at York and hopefully a bit of fell walking in the Yorkshire Dales and
Lake District.Roll on Summer!!
19/3/10
So you love the way Amazon discount do you? Well read
this, because the future of booksellers and (indeed the book) is in
peril, mostly thanks to the end of the Net Book Agreement and the heavy
discounters. Use your local bookseller or he won't be there
soon............
UK: Kilburn Bookshop closes
Nowadays, when a 'high-street' bookshop closes it is not big news,
except when the closure is a major independent bookseller. Although the
Kilburn Bookshop, in North London, is primarily selling new books,
anyone who wants to know what might happen at some point in the future
to our side of the trade should read this excellent and thought
provoking observation. What happens in the new book trade will
eventually affect our side of the trade. Simon-Peter Trimarco, the
manager, reflects with passion and anger on the state of the book
trade. Simon has spent some twenty-two years selling books and is one
who welcomes PCs and technology.
The Kilburn Bookshop's owner, Steve Adams also owns the Willesden
Bookshop which he intends to keep open, blames a rent increase and the
disruptive effects of lengthy local engineering works as factors
exacerbating the trends that already make life tough for independents.
Let's hope his efforts prevail.
Simon writes:
The Kilburn Bookshop is closing its doors for good on 31 March, 2010,
after 30 years' service to the good folk of NW6.
I'm gradually de-stocking the shop, but it's vile working in a
not-very-good bookshop, and the shelves are starting to look pretty
ropey. I'm was trying to put down my thoughts about where I see the
industry going and realized that I think the whole industry will fail
in the next couple of years. Dillons, Ottakar's, Hammicks have all
gone; Borders went bankrupt in December; Waterstone's has obviously
been struggling for ages; most independents have closed, or will do
soon; and those stalwarts and new shops which (we are told) are
"thriving" are situated in out-of-the-way places, or in very affluent
neighbourhoods, with no competition for the mass market and people with
money to burn.
Since the destruction of the NBA (Net Book Agreement) we’ve had to
suffer the online folk like Amazon and the big chains demanding huge
discounts from publishers in order to then discount themselves to
oblivion. Idiot publishers have just rolled over saying “yes, take it
all." Backlist titles are now coming in at silly money prices -
£14.99 for a Penguin Classic anyone?
Now, as the independents close, we have supermarkets stocking - at a
loss making price - the "top twenty bestsellers" that, somewhere, got
mistaken for books; soon there won't be enough stock-holding shops for
publishers to get a new title, let alone a back-list one, on the
shelves and sold - then they'll start failing too.
What will happen? If publishers can't afford the small print-runs for
those few stock-holding shops left then it just leaves e-books and
print-on-demand. Various multinationals have been trying to hive off
these awful "reader" things, Kindles, iPads etc. We have Apple and the
like demanding all manner of things from publishers (oops, I mean
"working with"), even before the actual launch of their sorry attempts.
You can tell these products are no good by the desperation of them
trying (and failing) to be as much like a book as possible. If you've
invented something to replace another product, surely it should be a
better alternative to the original, not a poor copy?
It's a backwards step: none of these readers is anywhere near as good
at being a book as a book; none of them is capable of being the myriad
things a book is. How do you annotate an e-book? How do you
lend an e-book (free)? How do you turn down its corners, throw it down
in annoyance? How do you not break your reader on the Tube when you
stuff it into your pocket? How do you browse for something to read when
you don't know what you want? How do you come across a biography of
someone you didn't know existed when you were vaguely looking for a
novel? How do you pass it on?
But if Big Business, the money men, want us to have something, then
that is what we‘ll have. No - that is all we'll have! Weird how Apple
is somehow seen as above the fray, a collection of holy men, when in
reality it’s just another multinational corporation out to make as much
money in as short a time as possible. And if it has to destroy the book
trade to get its way, well, that's the way it goes, buddy! And now
Google (Don't Be Evil) has come up with their master plan to bypass all
copyright laws, to hold everyone, author and reader alike, to ransom;
how long will it be before the second hand and exchange trade has all
gone too and the upstart Oxfam shops are left with the same books going
round and round...
My guess is that, once almost all the bookshops have closed, Amazon, or
some similar mega-company, will start opening little Browsing
Bookshops. It'll be like TescoMetro or Starbucks: first put all the
other shops and suppliers out of business, then go in there yourself
and tell everyone what a great job you do, a great service to the
"consumer", that we‘ve never had it so good.
Am I bitter? Yes! I hate what’s happening to the whole trade and I’m so
angry that we independents could do nothing about it - look back to the
demise of the NBA and read the letters and arguments published against
its abolition. We were right. But things turned out not just as we
predicted but worse than we ever thought.
I am accused by some as being an old fogey but I refute that: I have a
science background, I love technology, I think the computer has helped
me do an infinitely better job than before. But we are being funnelled
into a dead end. Where did this idea that all information should be
free, all research should not be charged for, all the nonsense given an
equal billing with hard won knowledge come from?
One of the only things that I agree with Rupert Murdoch about is that
Newspapers should charge for their online content. So should
publishers, so should anyone whose hard work is available to use or
enjoy. Why do we accept that the workers: the writers, musicians,
journalists, editors, the endless list, no longer have the right to be
remunerated for their work? If all is to be paid for by 'advertising'
then from now on nothing can ever be trusted.
I’ve been at Kilburn Bookshop, on and off, for 22 of its 30 years and
God knows what I'm going to do now. Vaguely, I look at anywhere that
has jobs advertised but they all seem to want Dynamic!
Forward-Thinking! Planners! Who Work Well In A Team! and Thrive On
Challenges! What on earth does it mean, and would I want a job that
demands that anyway? Mostly I have no idea what these employers are
asking for, or even what the actual job is, other than someone who will
work endless hours for no money and be damn grateful. None of which am
I able or willing to do. Anyway, I'm not going to think about that now.
So goodbye from Kilburn Bookshop, and goodbye to the book trade.
Simon-Peter Trimarco, London
Amen to that.
9/3/10
What a superb week.Glorious weather all week, including
snow on Tuesday morning, when I drew back the curtains at The Station
Inn to view Ribblehead Viaduct I was greeted with an unforgettable site
of an over night snow fall. A quick walk to the viaduct was just magic.
Later that day we travelled to Penistone, via Huddersfield, to see the
very depressing site of the redundant Woodhead Route, the stumps of the
catenary are all that remain, it is a disgrace that this line was
closed.
Wednesday we managed a short walk passed Blea Moor Box, and over
the aqeduct, returning via the arches. Then by road to Dent, which was
rather chilly, with snow lying on the platform. The coal road over to
Garsdale was closed, due to ice and snow,so we took the long route to
Garsdale to see Ruswarp on his plinth.VERY cold so we didn't linger
long, then on to Appleby for our next B&B, The Royal Oak.
Thursday saw us venture to Newcastle, from Carlisle-a lovely run on a
super sunny bright day. A quick pint in The Head of Steam and,
following advice from a couple of locals our plans to visit Hexham
changed to a visit to Wylam,definately the right decision.The
Boathouse, adjacent to the station was superb-14 hand pulls, delicious
home made thick vegetable soup, and we could see the railway from the
warmth of the pub. The ex NER signalbox over the tracks was something
new for me, how wonderful that it, and one at Hexham still survive.
Friday saw us return home, with stops at Scout Green (WCML) the Lune
Gorge, and Oxenholme, where we had a trip up the Windermere Branch.
Arrival back in west Wales was about 9pm, another fantastic few days.
Plans for 2011 are already in place-likely to be Barnetby (nr. Hull)
and surprise surprise Wylam!!
We will of course take a trip on the S&C surely the most scenic
line in the UK?
27/2/10
I shall be away 1st to 5th March inclusive, my annual
"out of season" trip to the wonderful Settle & Carlisle Line. This
time two nights at The Station Inn, Ribblehead and two nights at The
Royal Oak, Apppleby. Plenty of train travel, good company, good food
and good local ales. Hopefully we can travel from Carlisle to Newcastle
via Hexham, a line I have never travelled on, but am assured its well
worth the trip, and maybe just maybe I might get some walking in.
13/2/10
Just in...
Talyllyn Revived. A splendid new book covering the TRPS
from its inception.256pp ills. incl. colour, dealing with the
administration and operational aspects of the TR and TRPS (from 1951
onwards) during the preservation era (rather than the engineering
side, which was well covered in John Bates book "Chronicles of Pendre
Sidings") Hardback with dustwrapper in the style of Bates book
and a great compliment to it.IN STOCK now £33 plus postage.
11/2/10
Just back from a great day at the Talyllyn Railway,
celebrating Tom Rolt's 100th birthday (Had he been alive, he would have
been 100 today) A lifetimes ambition for me was realised when I met and
chatted to Sonia Rolt, (Tom's widow). We then too a lovely train trip
up the line followed by a superb buffet,which rounded off a truly
memorable day.Thank you the TR, still the best narrow gauge railway in
the world!
22/1/10
Attention GWR Journal buyers (The Wild Swan publication)
There is now an on line searchable index at
www.gwrjournal.com a very useful site!
Plenty of back issues in stock if you need any!
20/1/10
Catalogue 68 now live on my website
www.nigelbirdbooks.co.uk. Paper copies despatched 15th January.
About a third of the US books now listed on my website, with rest to
follow asap.
Oh and the snow has gone at last. Back to rain!
10/1/10
Catalogue 68 now complete,(over 500 items) and should be
on the website soon.Paper copies may well get delayed due to the
ongoing poor weather conditions in the UK.
10/1/10
Over 150 cracking USA Railroad books into stock today (no
narrow gauge) I will be listing them on my website asap, but will
take quiet a while, however if there are title(s) you need please
email me I will check the pile!
8/1/10
Managed to get all parcels away today, despite continuing
bad weather. More snow is forecast for most of UK this wekend.Postal
deliveries inwards are still affected.
6/1/10
SNOW!!!
Due to adverse weather conditions, I am unable to get to
the Post Office to despatch parcels.
Please be patient if you are awaiting an order from me as soon as
conditions allow they will be on the way.
No mail deliveries inwards are being made either at present.Roll on
Spring!
3/1/10
HAPPY NEW YEAR and may all the railway books you seek
turn up this year!
Late in 2009 I purchased a large collection of model railway books,
over 300 in total, mostly fom 1930s/40s and 50s but the odd one much
earlier.Many by Ahern, Greenly, Carter, etc. these are now ALL listed
on my website-www.nigelbirdbooks.co.uk -why not have a look?
Catalogue 68, should be ready within 7-10 days, a bumper issue!!
17/12/09
The new book on the Talyllyn (Talyllyn Revived) has been
delayed until early 2010. Some details are now available- 256pp ills.
incl. colour, dealing with the administration and operational aspects
of the TR and TRPS duing the preservation era (rather than the
engineering side, which was well covered in John Bates book "Chronicles
of Pendre Sidings") Hardback with dustwrapper in the sytyle of Bates
book and a great compliment to it. Publication is due in early
2010. Advance orders taken now.
4/12/09
Attention Corris Railway fans! you are in for a treat-not
one but TWO new books on the railway. Firstly (and IN STOCK) A Corris
Celebration.This book by Gwyn Briwnant-Jones covers the railways early
history in text and pictures but interestingly mostly covers the POST
preservation era, right up to 2009.Tons of pictures, (many in colour)
showing the major developments at the railway since the 1970s. Some
very young looking volunteers are evident! Highly recommended at
£9.99 plus postage.
Another book, Corris and Vale of Rheidol by Middleton Press, their
usual format hardback at £15.95 (with some new Corris pictures
included) is due within 10 days and can be pre-ordered now.
A new book on post preservation Talyllyn Railway by Alan Holmes is also
due within a few weeks. Very much in the style of Chronicles of Pendre
Sidings (Bate) and provisionally £33, again advance copies can be
ordered.
21/11/09
MY LAST POSTING DAY FOR CHRISTMAS 2009 is
23rd
December
21/11/09
Very busy at present,some 600 books added to my website
in the last 2 weeks (this may have something to do with it!) including
well over 100 modelling titles, model engineering books, Irish narrow
gauge and much more.Still some 700+ to add, including more mdelling and
soon some nice Americam titles all being well.
21/11/09
Lots of new books coming in for Christmas-
The 10 top sellers are (in no particular order!)
1-Slate Quarry Album-Hardback limited to 300 (and almost sold out the
publisher tells me)
2-KESR (Hart) Wild Swan
3-Titfield Thunderbolt Then & Now
4-Great Western Way (New edition) MUCh enlarged
5-Simplex (Not new but still sells
ing really well)
6-Snailbeach (Tonks) again not new but continues to sell.
7-Great Western Wagons before 1948 Volume 2
8-Private owner wagons Volume 8 (Turton)
9-The Wisbech & Upwell Tramway (Oakwood)
10-Slates From Glyn Ceiriog (Milner)
and of course the DVD Welsh Byways, with fantastic coverage of lines
rarely seen on dvd, like Aber-Carmarthen!
Good stocks of all
the above. Order now for Christmas.
12/11/09
Another very wet day in west Wales can only mean one
thing.............yes I was out trackbed walking again! Along with a
pal we did the Llanerchaeron to Aberaeron path, along the old trackbed,
about 2 miles.Very pleasant walk but very wet towards the end.Then
joined by another pal we went on to the area above Tynygraig, by which
time it was just too wet so we retired to the Talbot in Tregaron with a
roaring log fire and a pint of Cribyn Ale. One day we will get to walk
in the dry!!
10/11/09
The new book pre Christmas rush is starting, with the
wonderful full colour 2nd edition of The Slate Quarry Album now in
stock (£32 hardback VERY Limited run) and £24 softback both
IN STOCK.The new much expanded edition of Great Western Way at
£37.50 is also in stock. I have also re-stocked, following
reprint, with the Titfield Thunderbolt Then & Now book a bargain at
£8.95. Several from Wild Swan-Severn & Wye Vol 4, KESR,New
Modellers Signalling Book also promised.Also due from Plateway is a new
Narrow Gauge Industrial Album, in softback and hardback editions.A
quick email or phone call will confirm availability of any of the
foregoing.
10/11/09
All seems back to normal at Royal Mail, at least until
the New Year, when more action is threatened.
23/10/09
Postal Dispute:
Whilst the actions in the postal dispute remain
intermittent I will continue to use Royal Mail for despatch of your
orders. I very rarely suffer a non-delivery and although there might
currently be some delays I feel this is better than using a carrier
with the associated increase in posatge costs and the need for all
items to be signed for, which can be inconvenient. I will watch the
situation closely and will keep you posted via Nigels notes.
23/10/09
What a week! We all made it, all 20 or so miles,
Aberystwyth to Tregaron, heavy ran for about half the journey didn't
spoil the walk.What a wonderful train journey that must have been
when the line was open, oh to have a time machine!
Some talk of doing it the other way next year, might have recovered by
then.
The couple of pints of Double Dragon and the steak and kidney pie at
The Talbot, Tregaron, were well received I can tell you!
13/10/09
Myself and 2 or 3 friends are planning to walk the
Ystwyth Trail next tuesday 20th October. This is mostly on the old
trackbed of the closed line Aberystwyth-Tregaron, some 20 miles or so,
and weather permitting should be fun!
I never got to travel the line whilst it was open so this is the
nearest I can get till it reopens, hopefully sometime in my lifetime.
I'll do a write up if I survive!
13/10/09
It would appear that Royal Mail are likely to be on
strike next week (22nd is rumoured) so please be aware that deliveries
maybe held up.All seems to be running OK at present. Just what any
small mail order business nedds on the run up to Christmas!
28/9/09
New catalogue (67) now uploaded to my website.
23/9/09
Delivered fresh secondhand book stock to Talyllyn
Railway, prior to AGM this coming Saturday.
Sales going well there and I think there is much potential for the
future.
Had a truly outstanding meal in the cafe. A great day amongst lovely
people. What a super railway this is. The FIRST and still in many ways
the BEST.
16/9/09
Catalogue 67 well under way. I hope to have it available
within 14 days.A few gems too!
7/9/09
Great to see so many old friends at the WLLR Gala.(and
sell a few books!) Another very busy few days. Shame about the overcast
skies. What a lovely railway it is-such nice people too.
31/8/09
Great few days at Corris exhibition. The new venue at The
school Corris seemed to work well. Numbers good and lots travelling on
the railway.
23/8/09
More stock of the very popular Welsh Byways dvd now in!
Lull before the storm, catching up with my paperwork on another wet
Sunday in August-two shows over the next two weekends, Corris
Exhibition 28th-30th August at Corris School, adjacent to Corris
Railway station and Welshpool & Llanfair Narrow Gauge Gala,
September 5th & 6th, Sue & I will be at Raven Square,
(Welshpool end of the line) for these two very busy and hectic days-why
not pop and see us at what is always a super gala-lots to see and do.
10/8/09
Wow, what a really busy day at The West Wales Model
Railway Exhibition, Aberaeron, Ceredigion. Some 400 visitors and yet
another really cracking show-well done Dick and Martyn. The new dvd
"Welsh Byways", featuring the Aberystwyth-Carmarthen line and
branches, Barmouth Junction to Llanuwllyn track lifting train and much
more was very popular, in fact all 15 copies were sold in a few hours.
Footage is rare on these lines and the quality us excellent.Fresh stock
on order!
I am pressing ahead with my planned book on the Aberystwyth to
Carmarthen Line, for publication in late 2010. Should you have ANY
pictures off the line or its branches at any time, of stations,
locomotives, carriages,structures etc. PLEASe get in touch.
31/7/09 BIRD joins TWITTER
I have today signed up to Twitter, the latest internet
"keep in touch" craze.If you wish to follow me and my ramblings go to
www.twitter.com/nbrailwaybooks
31/7/09
All the Rolt books are now listed, and already The
Clouded Mirror,Sleep No More and Hunslet Hundred have been sold.Plenty
more on my website!
15/7/09
ATTENTION L T C ROLT Collectors!!!
I have just acquired a super collection of Rolt's,some 40 books in all,
many are first editions and very rare indeed is a SIGNED copy. I am
presently listing them on my website. Feel free to email me if you have
any wants.
8/7/09
IMPORTANT...........Please note that my phone line (01974
821281) is currently out of order. Please EMAIL me on
nigelbird.books@virgin.net
ADDED 10/7/09- PHONE NOW REPAIRED.
4/6/09
Catalogue 66 now up on the website. Paper copies posted
tomorrow.
29/5/09
Catalogue 66 is well under way, and hopefully will be
available within the next 7 days. Lots of good stuff too!
19/5/09
RAILWAY MAGAZINES! Most are worthless however a few are
sort after, mainly for thier historical content. I have excellent runs
of the following now in stock...British Railway Journal,Locomotive
Illustrated, Model Railway Journal and Modellers Backtrack. If you need
any just email me.
19/5/09
It's another Subaru! A green Forester this time.J555
JGL.Look for it and me at shows! A pleasure to drive and I hope,
reliable. I now need to sell lots of books to pay for it.
14/5/09
Busy sorting through two large collections which I have
just bought in. Much Welsh material and some really good quality
general stock, if there is anything you need just email me I may have
it.
Sadly our trusty Toyota Surf has expired big time and is uneconomic to
repair (it is 18 years old after all) so busy looking to buy a suitable
replacement,maybe another ultra reliable Subaru?
3/4/09
Just received confirmation that my stall at the
Llangollen Gala will be located at the Glyndyfrdwy Station Site along
with other traders and numerous miniature gauge railways. This
really is to be THE gala of 2009, with an amazing array of visiting
locomotives, including 9017 (Dukedog) IN BLACK!,246 Morayshire,1306
Mayflower,3440 City of Truro,6100 Royal Scot, (tbc) 5690 Leander
(tbc),5526,Beavertail observation car and the home fleet of
locomotives.The gala runs from 18th to 26th April. I will be present
for 18th and 19th AT LEAST, maybe longer depending on how busy it is!
This really is a must do event, see you there?
28/3/09
Back from another wonderful S&C trip. I never tire of
the line, the scenery, or the friendly locals. (or the local brews!)
On the way up we encountered an operational overhead cable way, taking
material into a brick works at Claughton, a real antique survivor and
amybe unique across an A road in UK?
We managed to get to Heysham from Ribblehead, on the only train of the
day, via Morecambe.Not the most scenic line in the area but well worth
the trip if only because I do wonder how secure the line is from
Morecambe to Heysham.
Wednesday was glorious and we did the Dent to Ribblehead walk, over the
top of Blea Moor tunnel (A public right of way) amazing scenery. And
thousands of tons of stone and rubble still lying on the ground from
when the tunnel was built. A walk well worth doing if you are resonably
fit, and have a couple of hours spare.Leave your car at Ribblehead,
train to Dent and walk back.
Thursday saw us off to Stalybridge, by train via Leeds. Super buffet
and bar on the station at Stalybridge, great plate of pie and peas for
£2 odd and several pints of great local ale.On to Marsden for the
brewery tap of Riverhead Ale, then to Huddersfield station for a little
more refreshment!, in the very old fashioned,and dingy, but well worth
visiting Kings Head.(We avoided The Head of Steam on advise froma
regular Real Ale Drinker) (Thanks Matt-Harrogate!) What a wonderful
station Huddersfield is, all that stone and giant supporting pillars, a
real gem.
Back to The Station Inn for food to soak up all that beer, and a couple
more pints-a great day all round.
Friday saw us heading south and back to wales, another cracking few
days, maybe a week next time!
9/3/09
We all love banks don't we! (In fact if you live in the
UK you own most of them!)
I recently saw this.......and felt it worth sharing:-
Beggars make rags
Rags make paper
Paper makes money
Money makes banks
Banks make loans
Loans make beggars
9/3/09
I shall be away from 16th to 20th March. My annual visit
to the Settle-Carlisle line. Myself and 3 pals stay at The Station Inn
Ribblehead, enjoying the trains and the real ale. Last year we did the
Cumbrian Coast route via Workington, what a really superb line that is.
This year? who knows? A bit of walking, maybe Denthead to Ribblehead? A
few pints in Dent?
8/3/09
Catalogue 65 now available on the web site.
Very enjoyable event last Saturday at Stafford ( Railway Collectors
Fair), always a busy day, great chance to meet some of my regulars and
of course friends within the book trade.
Despite the downturn trade still good IF you have the right stock of
course!
16/2/09
Currently working on catalogue 65, which should be out
within 10 days. Some goodies in this one, especially for GWR fans!
14/2/09
Unfortunately due to the severe weather I was unable to
attend The Stafford Model Railway exhibition a few weeks ago. The first
show I have missed due to the weather in almost 25 years of doing
shows. Global warming, where are you when we need you?
2/1/09
Due to family illness, regretably I have had to
withdraw from the Leamington & Warwick Show at Stoneleigh on
17th/18th January.
22/12/08
All orders received and paid for upto 21/12/08 have now
been despatched.
No further orders will be dispatched until 2/1/09.
Merry Christmas and a Very Happy New Year to you all.Your custom is
really appreciated.
11/12/ 08
Catalogue 64 NOW AVAILABLE ON LINE
4/12/08
Catalogue 64 including a small sale section will be early
next week.
3/11/08
NEW BOOKS! Do I stop selling them??
I am increasingly finding it hard to sell certain publishers new books,
due to very heavy discounting by a well known on line seller.(Think
Jungle) If I sold certain titles (mainly Ian Allan and Noodle Books)
for what they sell them for it would not be worthwhile bothering,
£2-£3 profit (less card fees etc.) on a £20 book, how
do I make a living on that? Sell 40 a day would do it, but that
is not going to happen.
I fear that when they have put all independent booksellers (mostly
those that care, have a passion and know what they are doing) out of
business the big discounts will disappear.Why I am telling you this?
Well all I would say is support your INDEPENDENT bookseller otherwise
one day they will be gone and gone with them will be the knowledge,
experience and passion that these sellers have.You have been
warned!
3/11/08
Interested in Canals? If so, you may wish to get my "one
off " canal list, due out in about 10 days. 150 or so books/maps
etc.Just email me for a copy.
21/10/08
2009 sees the 150th anniversary of the first (horse
drawn!) trains on The Corris Railway in Mid Wales, some exciting events
are planned including a re-run of the first train, complete with one
horse power.
Possible hiring in of ex Corris locomotives from the Talyllyn Railway
is also being discussed.
As dates and events get firmed up I will post details on my
website.With the reopening in full of The Welsh Highland Railway from
Caernarfon to Porthmadog also set for 2009 it really promises to be a
rather special year in Wales for narrow gauge fans!
10/10/08
Despite all the fears about the economy, catalogue 63 has
gone well. Many thanks to all you buyers out there. Your support is
really appreciated. I fear that 2009 maybe much worse, trade wise. I
hope I am wrong. Maybe I can get nationalised?
3/10/08
Starting to book a few shows for 2009. One that looks
very interesting is Steel, Steam & Stars 11, at the
Llangollen Railway. 9 days in total, with lots of very interesting
locomotives booked to appear, including 9017 and 3440.Stalls to be at
Carrog-see you there?
3/10/08
Catalogue 63 is now available.Click the catalogue link or
email me for a copy.Almost 500 items of a varied nature-UK, Standard
and Narrow Gauge, Overseas, Working Timetables and much more.
23/9/08
Catalogue 63 now well on the way to being issued, should
be out in about 7-10 days if all goes to plan.
22/9/08
Managed to grab a day off and visited the Severn Valley
Railway Gala on 20th. A stunning day, with Dukedog 9017 (Earl of
Berkeley), City of Truro,Double Headed Manors (Erlestoke and Bradley)
and a local auto train, Kidderminster to Bewdley. I thought I was back
o the Cambrian in the late 1950's. The sun shone, the trains were
packed and a real holiday spirit was evident.
At Bridgnorth MPD the replica loco built for Trevithick 200 was in
steam, along was Black 5 45110, now sadly out of ticket, one of the
very last steam loco's to run prior to the end of steam in august 1968.
The only sad thing all day was the sight of the lovely red brick
cottgae that overlooks Bridgnorth yard, empty and rather forlorn. I
always fancied living there. What a fantastic view over the yard and
station, and I guess a good place to live if you are a railway
bookseller!.Why it is empty I don't know, maybe the railway has
acquired it for security of the site, anyway its a real shame.
Both the Dukedog and 3440 City of Truro will be at the Llangollen Gala
next April, another entry in my 2009 diary, along with of course Corris
150 and the opening of The Welsh Highland Railway in full.
9/9/08
Garratt 50 has come and gone but wow what a fantastic
Gala. Superb live steam in umpteen gauges, displays of loco
plates,models, photos etc.An unrepeatable event.
Now everyone looks forward to the reopening of The Welsh Highland
Railway in full, at Easter 2009. Be there or miss out on the 21st
centuries greatest narrow gauge event.
3/9/08
Sue and I leave tomorrow (4th) for the Garratt 50 Gala
based at Dinas on the Welsh Highland Railway. I understand that
over 60 Garratt's of varying gauges will be on display, and mostly
operational. The Gala starts Friday 5th and runs for 3 days.Plenty of
quality stock with me, despite selling quite a lot at the WLLR Gala
last weekend.Including the new book on Alan Keef the locomotive and
rolling stock builder from Lea, Ross on Wye, which is selling well.
3/9/08
I am delighted to annouce that with effect from 5th
September 2008 I will have stock on sale at The Talyllyn Railway,
Tywyn, North Wales. Only a small quantity for starters but who
knows if it is successful more space may be made available. If you are
in the area why not pop in?. Excellent cafe and museum, and the train
ride's not bad either!
2/9/08
Another super WLLR Gala,very busy on the Saturday, we
even had some sunshine!. A locomotive failure late on Sunday
necessitated use of the Welshpool Classic Coack to ferry stranded
passengers from Sylfaen to Raven Square. I have to say the staff at
Raven Sqaure coped very well and soon got matters sorted. As to the
Resita (the failed locomotive, which also failed at 2007's Gala) which
broke an axle I believe, many suggestions at to her fate were
suggested. No doubt repairs will be undertaken in time to break down
again next year?
13/8/08
If you collect Foxline publications TAKE NOTE!
Just in-a full run from 1-42, busy listing on my website over the next
few days.
Be quick.
11/8/08
Nice to see so many friends old and new at the
delightfully friendly Aberaeron Exhibition, yesterday.
Despite heavy rainshowers early and late in the day, co-inciding with
unloading and loading the car (of course) it was as always a great day.
This must be THE best location for a model railway show in the
UK, and some of the best refrshments too.
Lots happening in the town too as it is Cob Day (horses) Why not come
in 2009 and see for yourself?
24/7/08
Another excellent show at Telford, a real must for those
of a narrow mind (in modelling terms!)
A quiet period now, until late August-trying to enjoy the summer,
whilst it lasts! See you at Mach, Welshpool or Dinas? or maybe all 3!
The Motorhome will be earning it's keep in the next month or two.
16/7/08
Narrow Gauge Railways your interest? Then this coming
Sunday 20th July you may care to visit the narrow gauge modelling event
at The Park Inn Hotel, Telford (off Junction 5, M54), 10.30 am to 4 pm,
plenty of layouts and a variety of traders, including a really good
book seller!! I am also at 3 other narrow gauge related events in
August and September, all in Wales, see my calendar of events for dates
etc.
21/6/08
Catalogue 62 is now available on my website.
9/6/08
Preparation for catalogue 62 now underway.
If all goes to plan (for a change!) it should be available in about
10-14 days time.
In the meantime I hope to see some of you at the Fleet Air Arm Museum
exhibition at Yeovilton this coming weekend (14th and 15th June)
28/5/08
Wow what an experience! I refer to the Tom Rolt Rally at
Tywyn,and in particular the winds (gusting at over 100mph apparently) A
really super, friendly, well organsed vintage rally turned into a
nightmare for Sue and I (and our motorhome "Scottie") when very high
winds picked up on the Sundday night, blowing down the large tent
adjaent to our pitch. Sadly the show was cancelled on the Monday. I
really hope that there is a 2009 show-if so we will be there!
27/5/08
Interesting piece from The Association of American
Railroads website...
Railroad Fuel Efficiency Sets New
Record
Baltimore to Boston on One Gallon of Diesel Fuel
WASHINGTON, May 21, 2008 — What's more fuel
efficient than the newest hybrid car? A freight train.
And last year, freight railroads were more fuel
efficient than ever.
In 2007, major freight railroads in the United States
moved a ton of
freight an average of 436 miles on each gallon of fuel. This represents
a 3.1 percent improvement over 2006 and an astonishing 85.5 percent
improvement since 1980.
"That's the equivalent of moving a ton of freight all
the way from
Baltimore to Boston on just a single gallon of diesel fuel," said
Association of American Railroads President and CEO Edward R. Hamberger.
He noted that thanks to railroads' fuel efficiency
gains, since 1980
freight railroads have reduced fuel consumption by 48 billion gallons
and carbon dioxide emissions by 538 million tons.
Hamberger pointed out that railroads are three or more
times more
fuel efficient than trucks, adding: “In fact, if just 10 percent of the
freight currently moving by truck went instead by rail, the nation
could save one billion gallons of fuel per year."
Moving more freight by rail does more than just reduce
fuel
consumption and pollution, he said. It also reduces highway congestion.
"A single intermodal train can take 280 trucks off the highways. And
because the average size of a truck is equal to almost four
automobiles, that's the same amount of space that 1,100 automobiles
would occupy."
Railroads are taking concrete steps to further reduce
fuel consumption and emissions.
"Railroads and their suppliers have developed technologies that
reduce the need to idle locomotives when not operating” said Hamberger.
“They have developed new hybrid and "gen-set" locomotives that also
reduce both fuel consumption and emissions in rail yards. And they are
working to develop new hybrid locomotives and fuel cell locomotives
that have promise to bring further improvements in both areas.
So WHY are we in the UK still using road haulage as our main form of
freight distribution? Could it be the huge amount of revenue that fuel
duty generates? Surely not?
13/5/08
Please note we will be on holiday, in Cornwall/Devon from
14th to 22nd May.
All enquiries/orders will be dealt with upon our return.
7/5/08
Just booked what looks like a very interesting new show
South West Model Railway Show, Fleet Air Arm Museum, Yeovilton,
Somerset.(June 14th/15th) Some 30 layouts spread throughout the
museum.So for the normal admission price of £10.50 you get
to see lots of interesting planes (Including Concorde) and the model
show thrown in for free. See you there? (and parking is free! Unlike
the NEC!!)
21/3/08
What a wet, cold, miserable Easter weekend in prospect.
Glad to be at home in front on the computer and the log fire!
For those of you who see me about on the stall etc. you will no longer
see my trusty Subaru Legacy, it has been sold on to a good friend of
mine. Lots of life in it yet but we have acquired another more modern
MotorHome so it had to go!
Future events will see me arrive in either the MotorHome or our Trusty
Toyota 4x4.
I have today updated my calendar of events, which this year
features 2 new events for me. The Garratt 50 Gala on the Welsh Highland
in September and The Model Railway Exhibition in Wadebridge, North
Cornwall. Nice to do some different venues.Sadly the Gauge 0 Guild
event at Telford has been chopped from my schedule due to the good old
favourite of falling sales and increasing stall rents.(thats before I
add in diesel fuel at £1.17 per litre, is this Government
trying to bring the country to its knees I wonder? I am as eco friendly
as the next person (probably more so) but we cannot all drive small
cars, or use the train/bus all the time, not when carrying
umpteen boxes of books around!
As to the proposed plans to close thousands of Post Offices in the UK ,
including many in rural areas,(including my local one in
Llangeitho) that are generally the only shop in a village, are
they MAD. These places are the lifeblood of many villages and small
towns.Why do we put up with letting the people we elected do what THEY
want rather than what we want them to do? Give me a party to vote for
that listens to peoples wants and acts accordingly PLEASE! Slowly I
fear the days of going to shows
are limited, as costs soar and takings level off or fall.But hey-no
Post Offices so no mail order either! Talk about stifling enterprise.
Perhaps I'll become a Civil Servant, like the rest of the country seems
to be. Safe and Sound but so boring!
He ho, roll on
that premium bond win!
28/2/08
Catalogue 61 has now been uploaded to my website.
25/2/08
Catalogue 61 is now completed and will be uploaded very
shortly.Paper catalogues will be mailed out later this week.
25/2/08
Back from a few days break at the Station Inn, Ribblehead
(S&C) Wonderful weather with glorious sunshine.The upgrade of this
line is nearing completion to enable even more freight traffic
(and a rumoured hourly passenger service!) to use the line. 6 additional
block posts are being installed to allow tighter headway for trains.
We were able to take in the KWVR as they were running for half
term-my first visit to this line since the early 1970's. A super out
and back trip with a stop over at Haworth to visit The Fleece for few
pints of Timmy Taylors fine ale.
Another day saw us doing the "round robin",
Ribblehead-Carlisle-Carnforth (via Cumbrian Coast
Line)-Giggleswick-then walk to-Settle-Ribblehead, again via the odd
hostelry selling decent real ale.
On our return we were fortunate enough to see ex LNER K1 62005 heading
with support coach for KWVR Gala, just North of Hellifield. A stop for
tea and cake at the splendid Hellifield Tea Rooms rounded off another
wonderful few days on this most magnificent line, surely the finest
line in England for scenery?
7/02/08
Early days but I am very hopeful that I shall
shortly be able to announce a new outlet for my second hand book sales.
A major preserved railway in Wales is all I will say at present! Stock
should be in place before Easter.
6/2/08
First show of the year now over-Stafford Model Railway
Exhibition, and what a super show too. Really high quality and varied
layouts, many I had not seen before, and a good selection of traders.
It was busy all weekend and I am sure the word is out that this
show really should be on all modellers lists for a visit.
My takings were up on 2007 which in itself is unusual in the present
market!
Make a date for 2009-February 7th and 8th.I'll be there!
21/1/08
Catalogue 61 is under preparation and should be issued
late in February.
11/12/07
The very first Loyalty Club catalogue is now available,
some 400 items ALL HALF PRICE. You have to be a loyalty club
member to get a copy, cost is £25 or £27.50 by card as a
one off payment. You could recover that cost from just this catalogue
alone, but you also get 10% off all future purchases and free paper
catalogue (UK) for ever!
"Normal" catalogue, number 61 will be issued in January 2008.
Happy Christmas/Nadolig Llawen to you all.
29/11/07
I would normally be packing now ready for the Warley
Exhibition at the NEC, Birmingham, however I am not attending this year
due to rising costs.I shall miss meeting many of you, and the money!
but falling sales and increasing costs make it impossible to make any
profit.
A glut of new books have come in, in the last 10 days,
have a look at my "new stock" section for a full listing ALL those
listed are IN STOCK for immediate dispatch, post free for orders of
£25 or over to a UK address. Others are expected shortly
including LNER Wagons Vol. 2 from Wild Swan, and operation Norfolk from
Xpress.I will be posting right up to December 21st but don't leave it
too late!
A special sale catalogue for Loyalty Club customers ONLY
will be issued within the next 14 days, with some real bargains.A
£25 one off payment (£27.50 by card) gets you signed
up-email for details.
10/10/07
Catalogue 60 is now complete and paper copies will be
mailed out very shortly. However, due to the ongoing postal strikes
delivery will undoubtedly be slower than normal.
11/9/07
A very difficult trading year so far.Money seems to be
quite tight and costs seem to be ever rising-fuel, stand rents etc.The
"out and about" trading year starts to wind down for me now. Only 2
shows left, Cardiff and Carmarthen, (see diary) sadly I have had to opt
out of the Warley Show at the NEC due to costs, at almost £500
for a 10 foot stand it is impossible to make a profit, I am not sure
how this show will continue to survive, as costs continue to rise much
faster than takings, the smaller traders like myself will be pushed
out, thus making the show less attractive to visitors. A very busy
August and September saw me (and Sue my wife) at several shows, as
always my favourite was the WLLR Gala-always a superb weekend-new
locomotive and the second Pickering coach, both operating all
weekend.Guildex at Telford was very disappointing and sadly I shall not
be at the 2008 show.
To clear old stock I am offering a "buy one get one free" deal,on
certain books, see bargains page.
I also hope to post catalogue 60 within the next month.
8/8/07
Just off to see Standard 76079 on the Cambrian Coast
Express, Machynlleth to Porthmadog. It is working Mon-Fri until the end
of August. Sun shining.camera in the bag!
11/7/07
Catalogue 59 now available on line, order now before its
too late. Telford Narrow Gauge show this Sunday (15th) a very nice
little show lots to see, well worth the trip.
26/6/07
Will it ever stop raining I wonder? Hottest Summer on
record they said-WRONG again. Anyway to books...Two very recent
collections both GWR biased, wagons, coaches,loco's etc etc anything
you need GWR I may well have. Usual prompts-search the website or email
me, much is not yet listed (several weeks work yet)
Catalogue 59 well on the way, should be distributed within 7-10 days,
plenty of goodies including lots of Oakwoods, Ian Allan colour albums,
and much more.
Don't forget my Loyalty Scheme, pay £25 (£27.50 by card)
and get 10% of all future purchases, free paper catalogues (UK) and
more.Email for application form.Off for me brolly now.....
22/5/06
New arrivals today include some 20 odd Ian Allan and
Runpast all colour albums, now on my website.
22/4/07
Off to Pembrokeshire and Llanelli tomorrow to collect two
recent buys. One collection is canal stock, unsure what is available,
the other is a nice general collection with lots of Foxline Books,
which are always very good sellers but hard to acquire. A price is
agreed so they will be available on the website very soon.Also
collecting more stock of "The Red Dragon and other old friends", the
Swansea book, which has sold very well and I suspect will be out of
print before long-so If you are dithering BUY WHILST YOU CAN!
Another new book recently released is the expanded Oakwood on The
Manchester and Milford Railway (Pont Llanio one of the stations on the
line is about 2 miles from my door, and the water tank and platform are
still clearly visible) an extra 62 pages from the first edition, with
many new pictures, some even provided by yours truly. A fascinating
line which should never have been closed,as it cuts off the rural Mid
Wales from the urbanised South Wales, in fact re-opening is fully
supported by Elin Jones our local Assembly Member-who knows what may
happen in the future if we get a Government who are serious about
public transport and green issueS?
21/3/07
Production of catalogue 58 is now well under way. I hope
it will be completed and distributed before Easter.
My Loyalty Scheme is proving very popular-why not join before the next
catalogue and save yourself some money? (see below 8/1/07)
25/1/07
At last a book on the railways of and around Swansea has
been published."The Red Dragon and other old friends" is highly
recommended and available now at £28 plus postage. See website
stock listing for full details.
8/1/07
Now up and running-"Nigel Bird Books Loyalty Scheme", for
a one off lifetime fee of £25,(£27.50 by credit or debit
card) you will get:-
1-10% off ALL orders (excluding postage)forever (new and used books)
2-FREE paper catalogues forever, or by email for overseas customers.
3-Priority booksearch service, members will be the first to be offerred
stock items matching their wants.
4-Special one off offers exclusive to members-sale catlalogues
etc.
Email me nigelbird.books@virgin.net for an application form.
3/1/07
Happy New Year to you all.
Now that life is slowly returning to normal, I am delighted to
advise of the imminent launch of the "Nigel Bird Books loyalty
club" coming very soon.The club will offer discounts on ALL orders,
free paper catalogues (UK members only) exclusive special offers, and
more, for life, in return for a one off payment.Full details will
appear here very soon.This is to reward regular buyers and hopefully
will encourage you to stick with me!
12/12/06
ALL UK orders of £30 or over for items in stock,
new and used, (NOT special orders) will be sent postfree until 31/12/06
just quote X06 to get this offer.Overseas orders will be charged at
cost LESS the UK postage on the item(s) ordered.I will be posting upto
22nd December, then resume posting Tuesday 2nd January 2007.As usual a
batch of new just pre Christmas titles have appeared from Wild Swan,
including The Selsey Tramway Vols 1 and 2,Claughton & Patriots,LMS
Class 5 Capriottis,Swindon Engineman, Off Northampton Shed all should
be in stock for Christmas despatch (postfree over £30 see above!)
5/12/06
The major model railway show(and my busiest) of 2006 is
now over-Warley National at the N.E.C. Birmingham. Attendance was up
again at some 18,500+, if only they all spent £1 at my stand, I
would be a very happy bunny. Still-a successful show with some at least
spending, although in line with many shows takings they were down on
2005, a sign of the times I fear. Plans for 2007 shows are now shaping
up and a list will be posted on my website calendar section very soon.
One super addition (a must for GWR enthusiasts) is the GWR Study Group
show at Portishead in June, dates etc will be posted soon.
6/11/06
Catalogue 57 is now available on-line. Click on the
catalogue link.
5/11/06
Catalogue 57 is now complete and will be uploaded to the
site very soon.The printed versions were posted on Friday so should be
out there tomorrow (Monday) A major change with printed copies has
taken place. I have ceased having them professionally printed and
instead have run them off myself on a no frills basis. This will cut
costs and time of production which should in turn mean more lists per
annum (at least 4 maybe more I hope) Please read my amended terms in
the catalogue as I have now brought in minimum postage charges
(£2.50) and minimum transaction levels for credit/debit cards
(£10) this is an attempt to defray every increasing bank charges
and commissions which just keep going up (like the Bank's profits at
the expense of mine)
A very large GWR and South Wales collection (some 1500 items) has just
been acquired-not yet listed but your wants welcomed-there is some
super stuff in the collection all in fine condition.
30/10/06
Two long awaited new books have now been published and
are in stock-The Selsey Tramway (Volume 1) from Wild Swan by Cooksey
and the new Darjeeling book from Rail Romances also volume 1 of a
planned 2 volume set by T Martin both highly recomended. Order via the
website or phone me (01974 821281) for prompt despatch.
10/10/06
Latest acquisition is a medium sized all diesel/electric
book collection. Includes all the colour portfolio's (Jane's, later Ian
Allan) many of the Ian Allan diesels in the regions series,at work,and
some 12 Bradford Barton diesel titles, many on hydraulics.I am sure
these will go pretty quick as this market is very strong. Most are now
on the website but do email me to check if I have what you want.
5/9/06
Been rather busy of late, with shows and other none
railway happenings.In particular we have acquired a motorhome, which
has taken much longer than expected (don't all jobs?) to get all
outstanding jobs done on.All is now completed, fully mot'd and taxed.
we hope to get on the road with it in about 7-10 days and actually have
a few days holiday, the first of 2006.You may well see it at some
events, like the WLLR Narrow Gauge Gala in 2007. The 2006 event which
has just passed was rather spoiled on the Saturday by rain, however
visitor numbers were very good on the Sunday and as usual it was a most
enjoyable day.It was the last appearance of Orion, which is returning
to it's homeland of Finland, very soon, rather a sad loss in many ways
as this very impressive machine certainly gets noticed when running,
still the P'way will last a little longer now I am sure. This coming
weekend 9th/10th sees me with my bookstall at Guildex, Telford, The
Gauge 0 Guild annual show, and jolly good it is too. This is the 50th
so should be rather special.
14/8/06
Just getting back to normal after a hectic couple of
weeks which has seen my trusty Subaru heading for North Wales,Stafford
and then locally at Aberaeron. All enjoyable events but as always my
local show in Aberaeron was a real pleasure to do, such a friendly
show, exhibitors, traders and visitors all seem to really enjoy the
day. The location is stunning overlooking Cardigan Bay and the home
made food is always a delight. Why not come next year? 2nd Sunday in
August.
I have a couple of weeks off now, then Welshpool Narrow Gauge Gala (2/3
September) followed by Guildex at Telford-hope to see you!
24/7/06
Another very warm day, we Brits are just not used to it,
if this is Global warming I assume much more to come.At least my
tomatoes are ripening quickly!Off to the cinema tonight (I bet that
will be warm) (Pirates of The Caribbean 2) don't think of "visiting"
our empty house the 3 dogs will have you (honest-you are warned)
New piece of computer kit fitted today wireless router, the window sill
is now overflowing with kit, wires etc.Mark my friendly very reliable
computer fix it man asked why I didn't have an Ebay shop-good question!
I do now..
Massive magazine sort out continues, amalgamated all my small piles of
British Railways Illustrated's into one massive "in date order" pile,
so now have several hundred for sale (many duplicates of the early
issues, which seem plentiful) all £1.50 each plus postage, buy 50
I will send them postfree in UK.Still plenty of Model Rails,Backtracks
and MRJ's awaiting you if you need to fill gaps, or are starting to
collect them.Really special deal on orders that fill the boot of my
car!!
19/7/06
Much too hot to go outside today, set to be the highest
temperature ever reached in Wales today, its already well over 30
degrees at 9.50 a.m. and climbing steadily.
I attended a delightful narrow gauge show last Sunday (16th) in
Telford, very well organised (well done Steve Warrington) a super
venue, The Moat House Hotel (as was),air conditioned large room, lots
of free parking, great coffee and more!. Lots of super layouts and some
top traders present. I met a lot of customers old and new who were all
very enthusiastic about the location and show.Despite much flack about
my shorts, from my assistant for the day Mr. Iain Fraser, I survived
and despite a 14 hour day (I left home at 5 am) will definately add it
to my regular list. If you are into Narrow Gauge modelling or otherwise
make sure you go next year. The date for 2007,will be added to my diary
section in due course.
As the world of the digital newsletter and magazine grows, I have
decided to take a small advert, starting in August, in the splendid
on-line magazine "The Railway Herald" (www.railwayherald.co.uk) this is
a free weekly magazine, claimed to be read by over 20,000 people, well
worth a look as it covers all the current happenings on the UK railway
scene, particularly strong on news items,unusual workings,new
locomotives and liveries etc. with top draw pictures too.I suspect in
years to come the paper magazine maybe a thing of the past and we will
all be getting our railway fix this way, sad really cause taking a
computer to bed really is awkward!
2/7/06
Catalogue 56 has now been uploaded my site (just click on
the catalogue tab) lots of goodies to tempt you.
So No England v Germany then! oh well maybe next time?
Having a mad clear out of back issues of Bylines,Garden
Rail,Brill,Backtrack and Model Rail attempting to make some shelf (and
floor!) space. If you need any just email me, they are going fast!
28/6/06
Stock of Reservoir Railways of South Wales by the late
Harold Bowtell (and completed by Geoffrey Hill) arrived today.
Excellent too, goes as far west as Llanelli and north to Brecon, at
£14.95 for a hardback of this quality it's excellent value. I
would guess this will sell out pretty quick! Buy now!
No football on tv tonight-how odd! Still, Friday and Saturday will
compensate, who would bet on England v Germany in the final?
27/6/06
Catalogue 56 has gone to the printers today. I hope to
get it issued next week, both in paper and electronic form.
Need any Narrow Gauge World's to make your set? I have most issues in
stock at £2 each or 10 for £15 (Plus shipping)
23/6/06
Well done Royal Mail! A parcel posted to me on 22nd June
arrived next day, not that unusual you say BUT the address was
Bird Books
Tregaron
SY25 6PY
and it found me, helps being famous locally!!
Catlogue 56 is now complete and off to the printers next week, should
be available within 10-14 days.
20/6/06
New arrival
today is from Xpress Publishing, "District
Controller Severn Valley Railway and Branches", working information,
allocations etc for the mid 1950's, as always from Xpress there is so
much information in their books that you won't find elsewhere. A
bargain at £11.95 + p&p.
Also today I have booked an additional event, Telford Narrow Gauge
Show,(www.ngtrains.com/telfordng.htm) 16th July,10-30am to 4 pm, an all
narrow gauge event with some 20 layouts listed as
attending,009.H0e,0e,0-14,0-16.5,16mm etc. as well as 15 traders and 5
Society stands. I hear on the grapevine that it really is an up and
coming quality show,I will have an interesting selection of mostly
narrow gauge books on my stall so I hope to see you there.
19/6/06
Welcome to a new feature of my
website, I have felt for sometime that this, along with a bargains page
were
two omissions from my site, so thanks to
my expert web designer Iain this has now
been put right. As to what will appear on this page-lets see how it
develops!
Your ideas and input welcomed!
Progress on catalogue 56 is
well advanced, only slowed down by watching The World Cup (come on England) and the need to
regularly mow the lawn and weed the veg patch. I hope that the
catalogue will
be available early in July which means I will have a month to deal with
orders
before my busy show season starts in August and September.
As catalogue 55 was a half
price sale one off of older stock,(still some items left if you hurry!)
56 will
have new stock acquired since catalogue 54 so may well be a little
larger than
normal and will of course have some gems.
For the modellers out there,
and there are lots and lots of you I know , (in fact I read sometime
ago that
railway modelling was the 3rd most popular hobby in the UK, after gardening
and football –funny that! I hasten to say this was pre computer games
and the
internet! so it may now be different.) I have just acquired a full set
Model
Rail, the Emap title and one that really seems to have gripped the new
modellers and those that feel that the likes of MRJ are rather too high
brow.
So if you are short of any copies (they are £1.50 each or 4 for
£5) email me
now with your wants at nigelbird.books@virgin.net I also have acquired a large quantity of the
high quality magazine Backtrack, again at £1.50 each or 4 for
£5.
Finally, in today has come the new issue of Locomotives
Illustrated,
number 162, a stunner, covering The Locomotives of the Cambrian and
Midland
& South Western Junction Railways, 46 pages, and including many
full A4
size illustrations, I have extra stock of this issue in anticipation of
a few
local sales! They are £3.50 plus postage (£1.50 UK) per
copy.
Of
course,
as
always
I
have
very
substantial
stocks
of
this
fine
magazine,
including
many
of
the
long
out
of
print
earlier
issues,you
know
where
I
am
if
I
can
help!
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