The Hayling Billy 50 programme of events a joint commemoration by local Community Groups that has included events involving the Haylings BEST Havants Spring Arts Centre H.I.A.D.S. Langstone Community Association Cycle Hayling and the East Hayling Light Railway Society. Marking the passing of half a century since the closure of the much loved Havant – Hayling Island branch line. Draws to a close this weekend (16th/17th November) with the Hayling Seaside Railways annual Model Railway Exhibition held this year for the first time at the Hayling Island Community Centre in West Town not far from the site of the Islands former main railway station.

The event is booked to feature up to 20 model railway layouts many provided by local Model Railway Clubs and with a distinctly local Southern Region flavour in gauges ranging from N to O. Representing Bembridge on the IOW Lee on the Solent and a quarry layout of Purbeck Mine in Dorset. Plus two layouts representing the Hayling Billy; itself. There will also be freelance layouts of worldwide locations and an interactive Thomas the Tank Engine to entertain the younger enthusiasts. Plus displays and trade stands.

While on the Seaside Railway itself the Hampshire Narrow Gauge Railway Trusts 1919 Bagnall steam locomotive Wendy will be in charge of a series of narrow gauge Hayling Billy Lament special trains along the seafront between Beachlands and Eastoke Corner. Stopping by request at Mengham Road Halt for the new C.O.P.P. War Memorial. Linking the two event sites will be a regular service of colourful vintage busses from a pool including a 1972 Bristol RE in the emerald green and cream livery of Provincial (Gosport & Fareham) and a classic 1951 Bedford OB in the deep maroon of the East Kent Motor Services fleet.

The show opens its doors on both days at 10am closing at 5pm on Saturday and 4.30pm on Sunday. With the first steam train from Beachlands departing each day at 10:00 from Beachlands and 10:20 from Eastoke with the normal 45 minute interval service continuing from 11:00 until the shows end. Individual tickets are available for the railway or the show or alternatively a combined ticket is available at both venues for the whole show/bus/train package.

All proceeds raised from the event will go to EHLR Society volunteer projects to secure the future of narrow gauge light railways on Hayling Island. Including the building of a new steam locomotive to run at the Hayling Seaside Railway. The frames and components of which will be on public display along with the lines diesel locomotive and goods wagon fleets at Beachlands Depot.

Ian Edwards
Volunteer PR Officer
Hayling Seaside Railway.

(The photo showing the Hayling Billy at Hayling Island station is by Roger Gallienne).