28 April 2007 The Cuneo Centennial was run from London Waterloo to Yeovil Junction to mark the 100 year anniversary of the birth of Terence Cuneo, the well known artist. Terence Cuneo born on 1 November 1907, son of artists Cyrus and Nell is famous for his vibrant paintings of many subjects including railways, military, ceremonial, equestrian, wildlife, portraiture and industrial. Perhaps his greatest honour was to be chosen as the official artist at the Coronation of the Queen who commissioned him on other occasions. The Coronation painting hangs in Buckingham Palace. He was appointed OBE and CVO and gained the Freedom of the City of London in 1993. A large statue of Terence Cuneo can be seen at Waterloo Station.

The train was hauled from London to Salisbury by a member of Terence Cuneo's favourite class of engines, 6233 Duchess of Sutherland. Due to a late discovery of an 'out of gauge' bridge near Sherborne the steam locomotive had to be removed at Salisbury and the train continued to Yeovil behind 57601, seen slowing for the turnout to Platform 3. (Photo courtesy Roland Groom)

As part of the planned attractions, 'Pectin' was on hand to provide steam brake van rides. (Photo courtesy Roland Groom)

Some of the original and valuable Terence Cuneo paintings on display.

The Cuneo Society was formed in 2001, with Carole Cuneo, his daughter, as its President to bring together those who share an interest in the work of Cyrus, Nell and Terence Cuneo.

Prints of other paintings were on display.

A small version of the Waterloo statue was on display.

General view of the ground floor prior to opening to the public.

Not quite Duchess of Sutherland but the '57' was put on the turntable.

Watering of the coaching stock (Derek, John B's rear end, Matt, Pete and Bill, together with admirers!)

Ron and Steve get the PA system ready for....

....the naming of Ron's Fowler engine as 'Cockney Rebel'. Richard Abbott (Chairman) making the introduction including remembering that the engine is celebrating its 60th birthday this year..

George Hinchcliffe, toured Canada, America and Australia with the `Flying Scotsman' recounted his youth when he was employed by John Fowlers (when they were making Steam Traction engines).

George, Shirley and Ron Weston talk out the Fowler's restoration (to a remarkable standard it must be said!)

Carole Cuneo looks happy!!

Local railway fireman and author, Derek Philips was signing books.

57601 moves off the turntable.

Shirley and Nick promoting the 'Yeovil Betrothal running on Saturday 16 June from Paddington to Yeovil. For more details go to their website.

Ready for departure. Hopefully 6233 will make it to Yeovil at a later date (we hope so!!) (Photo courtesy Roland Groom)

BACK