I have constructed a test/running-in track, with automatic switching at each end to send the locomotive back in the other direction.  Here the track is seen in our kitchen.  It has reverse curves built onto a 2.4m long piece of MDF, to test running around curves, etc.

This has meant that I have been able to finish “running in” my Garratt.  I’ve now lubricated all the axles and gears, etc, and it now runs very well: very pleasing.  It will even run “dead slow” without hesitating or stopping!  It’s there in the picture, half-way up the track.  Also visible in the L&Y 0-4-0 tank engine.

I have also been repainting some wagons made many years ago by my brother John.  Made for Nick, I think.  Anyway, I have been renovating them (changing from Finescale to Scale Seven gauge, apart from anything else).  Also repainting them Midland Railway grey and adding transfers.

They have also been made more realistic by “weathering”:

I think they look quite realistic now.