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

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

             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.

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

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

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.

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............

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....

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,..

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......

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!

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..........

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!!

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

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***********

See you there?

14/6/11

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

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...

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

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...

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

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

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...

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..

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............

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:-

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.

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

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 3^rd 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!