Reviews

Fairburn Tank in The Lakes" was the title for Timeline's November outing with 42073 at the Lakeside and Haverthwaite line, but little did the unwary participants anticipate how close to actually being under water this event threatened to be as the River Leven surged past the Linsty Green location providing an interesting diversion from the rather sombre first day's shoot in the perpetual gloom of The Lakes at their most miserable. Undeterred, Neil and his willing co conspirators, the two Peters, pressed on and, with some relief from the rainfall later in the day, and despite awesome ASA readings, a reasonable selection of images was procured along the branch. A satisfyingly filling early dinner in the L and H restaurant and night shoot starring the motionless Linda completed the proceedings for Day One, with an optimistic weather forecast for the morrow in the minds of those with two days suffering booked. To everyone's relief Thursday dawned with hills visible and a prospect of brightness and so it came to pass that the sun did wilfully illuminate Sowerby Bridge's finest and her diminutive train at most of the key locations along the line. Opinion seemed to favour the rock face just east of Haverthwaite Tunnel as the master shot, but the woods approaching Newby Bridge must have been a close second with their autumn tints sparkling in the sunshine. The morning ended with some reflective views over the reed beds approaching Lakeside, after which a return to lunch at Haverthwaite was made as the sun gave way to clouds portending the arrival of the storm-named-Abigail. Rain and increased gloominess over lunch saw an exodus of participants before a superbly smokey afternoon departure to Lakeside, but once again, Neil's personal hotline to God had already secured the services of the golden orb and I think there was a general feeling that Timeline had made the best of what originally seemed most unpromising circumstances. Notwithstanding day one's adversities I enjoyed this charter and thank Neil, Linda, the Two Peters and all the staff of the L and HR who made it possible.

Pete S

Many thanks for a fantastic evening with XM655 at Wellesbourne. Despite the weather it was a great night and I got some great shots. I will be attending more events!

Andy C

Just to say many thanks, both to yourself, ‘Anchorman’ Dave, the crew of RAF 102, and of course the man upstairs, who was in charge of the weather, for a really superb day on the Solent yesterday. Anchorman has the speed, and flexibility, of chasing boats on water, which also enabled us to make good use of the prevailing weather conditions. I have rarely experienced such dramatic cloud backdrops, against a photographic subject. As for the awesome ‘demo’ by the Coastguard patrol, it was a privilege to be able to witness the precision of the crew, at such close hand. I look forward to next years Solent programme, you have certainly set the bar high after yesterday! Well done once again to all involved.

Neil E

As a regular visitor to East Kirkby and Just Jane, I enjoy the oppressive to take part in TLE. Neil & Alan are brilliant in the way that they are there for all your needs and are very approachable particularly if you need a little technical help. I’ve attended photography events with other operators where re-enactors forget they they are chiefly there for us the customers, but the way that Neil & Alan get the guys and girls to to do repeat walks, or when they hold a certain pose for a few seconds. The banter is also good, and I particularly like the fact that we are all encouraged to be friendly and aware of each and to be polite. I cannot recommend TLE highly enough and look forward to a shoot containing the Mosquito in 2020. Rob Hayton

I had my first experience with Timeline Events on Monday 28th August at Didcot Railway Centre with two giants - 60103 Flying Scotsman & 60009 Union Of South Africa. First to be able to photograph there two locos together is a dream come true and Timeline Events made this happen. I found the hole experience a fantastic and enjoyable one with lots and lots of wonderful photos to cherish. I've even had one made into a jigsaw puzzle. They provide fantastic backdrops and reenactors to the events which makes the hole theme come to life. I met some lovely people there as well. I recommend anyone who is interested in photography should experience these wonderful events, well worth the money and I can't wait to do another one - don't tell the wife though!

Andrew P

I recently attended my first TimeLine Event at Didcot, having just joined as a TLE member  - Winter in the shed - what a great experience! Merging together my passion for social history and photography I was really looking forward to the event - and I wasn't disappointed! The venue was brilliant - old, authentic and atmospheric - even more so due to the smoke machines and steam from the trains.  Together, with professional, flexible, approachable and adaptable re-enactors, the perfect backdrop and atmosphere for railway shots was created. The cameo's set up by the TLE team were thoughtful and considered and the team ensured each photographer got the shot they were after.  Fellow photographers were polite, enthusiastic and willing to share their tips and techniques.  I really enjoyed the event and have already booked up for several more in the near future!

Belinda E