JEC Oxfordshire Enjoyed Fish & Chips On A Steam Train - Saturday 20th July

22nd July 2024

Being the peak of the year, this was set to be ‘one of the big ones’ for our Region in 2024. These events are so popular, we originally had some trouble getting a venue, meal and date !

The ‘GWSR’ runs from Cheltenham Racecourse to Winchcombe and Broadway, a 36 mile round trip. The fish and chips are freshly cooked and delivered on board along with ice cream and there was time to explore at the turn-around end.

We agreed with the GWSR to put on a display of our cars outside the departure (Toddington) station, with our Region flags flying. Our Flag was also fluttering outside our reserved carriage for the 25 JEC passengers who took part.

With the fun of steam travel, glorious views, food and friends - all oiled with a little prosecco - what wasn't to love ??

We put on a great display of our Jaguars

With this being a m ostly couples / families 'do', there was 'just' 12 Jaguars but they made a great showing and there was much interest, including from a fellow traveller who is now set to join the JEC. Our display was strengthened further with other Jaguar-driving train passengers who decided to park with or near us !

There was an XF, 2 x F-Paces, an F-Type, an XJR, an XKR-R, 3 XKs, 2 Mk2s and an E-Type. With our Region Flags aloft, both in the car park and by our carriage, there was no doubt we were there

The Group Of 25 Was Pretty Evenly Split Between 'Old Timers' and 'Rarer' or 'New' Faces

Our Region is awlays loyally supported by a slew of Members - but not all Members' wives have been met before. Even the Chairman's wife was able to make this event.

We were particularly pleased to make Judith Rawlinson, David & Judy Neilson, Lee Lane and family, Phillippa Tickle and Andrea Richell welcome to our gang.

Lee's son also joined us, as an aspiring and VERY keen steam engines fan !

That's Not To Say The 'Oldies' Weren't Just as Welcome !

Our thanks must go to Andy North who did much of the organising and, as usual, was Region Phoyographer, albeit that we got to turn the tables on him somewhat.

Our carriasge and seats were both very comfortable and spacious - just right for the prosecco, fish and chips and ice cream that we consumed with such gusto.

We Were VERY WELL Looked After

We were welcomed by the Train Manager, Jeff, and his team looked after us VERY well indeed. Celia and her husband did a first class job.

The train driving crew clearly worked very hard troo on our behalf, even allowing certain persons to view the cab from besides the VERY warm fire box.

But whether you chose to get out at the turn around or stayed relaxed in your seat, everyone said they had a superb time.