Your memories needed of the golden age of steam

The aim is to build up a bank of memories from a wide range of people relating to the railways in Hampshire and areas of London between 1940 and 1965.

The heritage railway wants to paint a picture of what life was like during the last years of steam travel.

Examples could include memories of evacuation or troop movements on the railways during the Second World War, collecting goods from stations, or even going on holiday or emigrating through Southampton docks – all using the steam railway.

Other stories to be told are those from trainspotters and those who worked on the railways.

Collecting people’s oral histories is part of the Heritage Lottery Fund-supported Canadian Pacific project. This will see the return to steam of the Watercress Line’s flagship steam locomotive, 35005 Canadian Pacific and two rare wooden-bodied carriages.

Sharing your memories will usually involve a simple face-to-face voice recording.

If you would rather write your story or share pictures or film, you’d also be very welcome. You can get in touch to arrange an interview by e-mailing [email protected] or calling 01962 733810 and asking to speak to Becky Peacock or Dave Deane.