The Toad was in a sad state. It was suffering badly from age. The metalwork was rusting, the roof leaked and older repairs were starting to show their age. The most used passenger carrier was falling to bits. Refurbishment was a daunting prospect. The Toad had been ruggedly built. One inch rivets held 1/4" plate to 3" angle iron. In some places the metal had rusted to four times its original size. Riveting was beyond our capabilities and, to be frank, unnecessary. Even our most enthusiastic drivers could not reproduce the effect of doing 60 mph on the main line. Removal of the veranda side plates and sanding box supports was dramatic. (All photos courtesy Kit Stallard)

Let battle commence!

End plates removed.

The rivets were blown out. John B, Martin S and Ian C had great fun lighting up the shop like firework night.

John M sourced the steel and after much cutting, measuring, planning and bolting the veranda sheeting was renewed and some of the frame renewed and all repainted. This was the bulk of the work and took up many Sundays with Mike H and Tuesdays with Martin and Ian.

Veranda end metalwork completed.

The roof leaked. The old roofing felt as removed by Jim M and the woodwork patched by Roger S. A coat of putty and then canvas provided the base for a water tight roof.

The running boards were rotting and were replaced by Mike, Ian and Martin.The plywood at the window end was thrown away and the correct planks fitted.

New floor installed at the veranda end. Sanders now operate correctly.

Two cots of undercoat and two topcoats of GWR wagon grey and only the re-lettering remained to finish the job. For us this was a huge job which we hope you will admire when you see it. Our thanks to all who helped and all the rest who gave us their advice. Our Chairman, in his quiet way, was happy enough to give us the Oyster SR van to do next as a 'thank you'.

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