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On 23 May 1931 a miniature engine called 'Neptune' began running on a narrow 20" gauge track between Peasholm and Scalby Mills in Scarborough and the famous North Bay Miniature Railway was born. The engine was a small scale replica of the famous L.N.E.R. Pacific class steam locomotives designed by Sir Nigel Gresley, although the mini version runs not on coal but on diesel!

Triton at Peasholm Station

The engine was built by Hudswell Clarke in Leeds, a firm that was also a major manufacturer of full sized locomotives. In 1932 another engine, 'Triton', also from Hudswell Clarke, joined its sister engine in Scarborough. The two locos have been hauling carriages along the scenic route for more than 75 years, carrying millions of passengers around the panoramic sweep of the town's North Bay.

In 2007 the operation of the line was taken over from the Council by the North Bay Railway Company Limited. Instead of being a summertime only service, the railway now operates throughout the year, including running 'Santa Specials' in December.

Inside Triton's cab

The service remains popular with both visitors and local people. It is interesting to see parents and grandparents taking children on a trip they made themselves when they were little.

Nowadays the railway is often used to travel from Peasholm to the Sea Life Centre, which is at the Scalby Mills end of the line.听 Anyone with a long memory might remember Scalby Mills as a quiet area with a small pub, a beck running into the sea and a feature on the beach known locally as 'Monkey Island', which was lost to coastal erosion sometime in the 1960s.

Phil Hart signals the train's departure

There are now not two but four historic locos - 'Poseidon' and 'Robin Hood' joined the original engines towards the end of 2006. The 'new' additions were also built by Hudswell Clarke, in 1933 and 1932 respectively. All-weather coaches have recently been added to the rolling stock so that the trains can operate all year round, whatever the weather.

The route runs through Scarborough's Northstead Manor Gardens, once home to the famous Open Air Theatre which has fallen into disrepair over the past couple of decades. However, there are plans to restore the Theatre to something like its former glory so passengers may be able to see an improvement to the area in the future.

MD Lesley Humphreys & Staff Manager Ted Lancaster

The North Bay Railway Company's managing director, Lesley Humphreys, is proud of what they have achieved since taking over the line. A smart new ticket office and shop with a covered waiting area has been created, an adjacent cafe bistro called 'The Glass House' is now open, the engine sheds have been extended and there are plans for new 'Pullman' type coaches and a special dining service in the future.

Many of the company's staff are real enthusiasts. Former Scarborough and Yorkshire cricketer, Phil Hart, began working on the miniature railway as a guard nearly four years ago and is thoroughly enjoying his role.

Kevin Wood standing outside 'his' engine sheds

Kevin Wood, who has the rather grand title of 'Estate and Plant Manager' is a lifelong railway buff who loves getting his hands dirty. His first memories of the railway go back to his childhood.

And, displaying confidence in the future, the company has also recently taken on an apprentice, local lad Stephen Johnson, who also loves the railway and says this is his dream job!