Bluebell Railway publishes special World War One-style newsletter during closure

The new regular publication is designed to maintain morale among its staff and volunteers during the railway’s current closure.

And it is making the issues available to everyone who is looking for something to read or do during the shutdown.

The newsletter is called The Bluebell Times and is based on The Wipers Times, a newspaper that was produced by soldiers in the trenches in World War One after they found an abandoned printing press.

The paper helped to maintain morale during the fighting around Ypres in Belgium.

A Bluebell Railway spokesman said: “We hope The Bluebell Times helps to keep up spirits in the same way. It is designed to fill the gap for anyone missing their steam train rides or visits to the Bluebell Railway. Although the railway is currently closed, the lines of communication are still open.

“It’s a publication for all – railway staff at home, volunteers in all departments, members, supporters, visitors, friends, train enthusiasts, families and general readers. It’s perfect for train-mad youngsters or anyone who wants a bit of light relief.”

Among the contents in issue one are a feature article on life as a train driver, an in-depth look at one of the railway’s locomotives, an update on the emergency appeal for funds, a word search puzzle, a guess the year quiz based on filming at the Bluebell Railway and a special children’s section.

The Bluebell Times has been edited by Tom James who is a volunteer in the locomotive department and there are contributions from people across the railway.

The first issue of The Bluebell Times is available now and can be downloaded from https://www.bluebell-railway.com/bluebell-times/.

Future issues can also be found there.

A message from the Editor, Gary Shipton:

Thank you for reading this story on our website.

But I also have an urgent plea to make of you.

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We thank all our readers and advertisers for their understanding and support - and we wish YOU all the best in the coming weeks. Keep safe, and follow the Government advice. Thank you.