Talking of Trains

Talking of Trains is a programme of education, entertainment and variety for those interested in railways and public transport. The current class tutor is Dick Crane and he is supported by an incredible line-up of guest speakers and organised excursions.

The programme runs from September through to the end of March each year and is held at the Surbiton Library Room. Classes start at 7.00pm and finish at 9.00pm.

The organisation is now entering its 64^th year! Testament to the success is that over the years membership has averaged 55 - 60, more recently reaching over 70. Several have been members since 1964! There have only been three lecturers – John Gilks until 1984, Gerry Siviour 1984 – 2002 and Dick Crane up to date.

Although run as an educational evening class ‘Talking of Trains’ is a very social institution where many lasting friendships have been made amongst its members.

The programme of activities is organised by the class tutor with help from a Committee. The high attendances have enabled the annual fee to be kept very low compared with other adult education classes.

The complete course fee is £50 covering all 20 sessions.  A pro-rata rate applies for members joining from January.

Two subscription forms are available here. One in the form of an Excel spreadsheet which you can fill in online and then email it back to our gallant Treasurer (whose email address is on the form). You can then pay your subscription by electronic transfer. The second is a .pdf file which can be printed and handed in to the Treasurer (Ken Davies) when you visit the class on a Wednesday evening together with the class fee (£50) in cash or by cheque. Or you could post the form, together with a cheque to

Ken Davies
Treasurer
Talking of Trains
20 Ferndown
Claremont Road
Surbiton
KT6 4RY

If you would like to ‘try us out’ you are welcome to attend one meeting without charge or obligation!

We are very sorry to advise you of the death of our good friend Joe Foley on 2^nd August. He had been a class member for around 30 years and a life long railway enthusiast.

You may be aware that Joe volunteered for many years at the Mid Hants Railway and then at Didcot Railway Centre, where many of you will have been greeted with a hearty welcome as you were spotted approaching the ticket office! Recently he had started volunteering at the Kent and East Sussex Railway where he was seen at Northiam Station during their diesel gala in July.

Joe was always the best of company. Above all, Joe was “fun” to know. We have lost a dear friend.

He will be much missed by many in the class.