Train Restoration

Description

The Train had begun to fall into disrepair over the last few years and we have been engaged in restoration work to preserve it. Currently the 3rd Carriage (The Largest) has been moved into our workshop to restore it. This work entailed the removal of all rotting timbers, including its inner structure. It has to be rebuilt to its original specifications and to a high standard so as to sustain it into the future. We used high quality materials to ensure it will be weather resistant for many years to come.
The project was led by one of our Members who happens to be a very skilled carpenter. Many of our members were also involved in the project while learning new skills and methods of building such a structure. The joy and sense of achievement been gained by all is hugely important to our health and wellbeing. It also ties in with the ethos of the Men’s Shed movement “Men talk shoulder to shoulder, not face to face”. The level of conversation and storytelling happening while the work was in progress has to be seen to be believed.

Aim of Initiative

It is hoped when the restoration is complete, that it will continue to be a focal point in Moate Town. • The restoration work which is been carried out to a very high standard will ensure the Train will be preserved for many years to come. The members of the shed, all of which are senior citizens, will have learned new skills while at the same time contributing to the health and wellbeing of themselves and their colleagues. Many members live on their own , and the “Shed” is a very important part of their lives.

Who is it aimed at

The initiative was originally aimed at the members of Moate Mens Shed to help them learn new skills as well as contributing to their health and wellbeing. Since its completion a large number of people have visited the train, children have played in it and many photographs have been taken, so now its aimed at all people in the Community and wider Community.

3 Steps critical to success

1. Availability of raw materials – wood, paint, screws, tools, etc.
2. Skilled members who are able to carry out the works and also have the ability to pass on their skills to other members
3. Having the funding available to purchase the raw materials required.

3 Challenges in Planning / Delivery

1. Having finance available to purchase tools and supplies in order to rebuild the train
2. Teaching members new skills as many of our members are senior citizens.
3. Keeping members of our Club motivated to complete the restoration project.

3 Outcomes / Benefits

1. The pride and joy of the members of the Mens Shed on their ability to work as a team and the new skills required while working as a group.
2. The have restored the train was originally in the Green area to its original high standard
3. Sense of pride that visitors stop off to see the restored train. It contributes to the overall asthetic look of the area. Flowers have been sown beside the reinstated train and its a focal point for pictures.