© 2007 SWDSME
The Club was founded in 1982 by Ian Stock and his father-
The local authority were approached and offered an area in a Saffron Walden park known as "The Paddling Pool". A survey of the site revealed that a track of just over 400 feet could be fitted into the area available and construction was planned. After a long winter spent in preparation, the track was finally completed and the official opening took place on Sunday 29 July 1984 by Ted Jolliffe, Editor of the Model Engineer magazine.
After 5 Years based at the Saffron Walden track, with vandalism becoming a problem, an opportunity arose to relocate the track to its present location adjacent to the Audley End Railway.
The Club was able to take over a raised track of some 720 feet that had been built by a Youth Opportunity Scheme using surplus railway sleepers. Initially the clubhouse facilities were rather limited being based on a converted stable and garden shed.
Gradually the facilities have been improved, aided by an enthusiastic ‘Wednesday Gang’ who can turn their hand to a wide range of construction projects.
A major expansion of the Club took place in 1999 when Lord Braybrooke agreed to the laying of a 1600ft ground level track. Although a big cost for the Club resources, Club members rallied round and the track laying project got underway.
By 2001 the major excavations had been completed and ballast laid for the track laying gang to ‘get welding’
Completed in time for the Club to host the 2003 Southern Federation Autumn Rally, the track has become an invaluable asset.
A 7¼” battery electric loco has been built together with a fleet of passenger carriages for public running.
Club facilities continue to be improved as funds permit.
