GDMK Images is now supporting the restoration of English Electric Class 50 50021. You will find exclusive gifts featuring both Class 50s 50021 and 50026 on our stall at railway events around the country starting with the epic looking Dawn of the Diesels gala at the Swanage Railway.
Money raised from the sale of these 50021 and 50026 gifts will go towards the restoration of 50021 and the upkeep of 50026.
Exclusive Class 50 Gifts
Our stall will start featuring exclusive gifts of both Class 50 locos such as mugs, phone cases, magnets and key rings at the Dawn of the Diesels event. Over the year this will expand to include the full range of new GDMK Images gift products including exclusive wall art, pictures and t-shirts.
As the year progresses you will be able to buy an exclusive range of 50021 and 50026 gifts online.
In the meantime you can donate to the restoration of 50021 via this Paypal donation link [/vc_column_text][ess_grid alias=”exclusive-50021-and-50026-gifts”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Auctions
Make sure you drop by the stall and check out the 50021 and 50026 gifts because there you will find out about the exciting range of auctions. These auctions will allow you to bid on exclusive prizes such as Class 50 cab rides and driver experience days!
Many thanks to Paul Spracklen and the fantastic support team working on 50021 and 50026 for the opportunity to be involved!
Cheers for now and see you at Swanage!
Gary and Dawn[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_separator color=”sky” el_width=”80″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text]
Share our support of 50021 and 50026 with your family and friends … thanks!
Last weekend saw us at Bury on the East Lancs Railway.
This was our first outing to a railway gala in 2017 and what better place to start than the East Lancs Railway Spring Diesel Gala!
The Spring Diesel Gala is a home fleet only affair, but still boasts an impressive lineup of heritage diesel locos including
Class 14 D9531
Class 31 31466
Class 37 37109
Class 40 D345 (40145)
Class 45 45108
Class 47 D1501 (47402)
Class 50 50015
Class 73 73001
The gala was also the springboard to launch my latest digital painting featuring a BR Class 40 in the snow.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
#gdmkimageslive
The East Lancs Diesel Gala saw the launch of our new #gdmkimageslive feature where I go on Facebook Live to bring an insight into the event, a product or general discussion surrounding our business and events.
The first #gdmkimageslive session saw the unveiling of our new Class 40 digital painting picture and can be seen below.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/3″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_raw_html]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[/vc_raw_html][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Views from the East Lancs Railway Spring Diesel Gala
Here is a quick sample of pictures I managed to take during the event. First off though check out our view from the stall Sunday morning – a beautiful concerto of English Electric power gently idling away provided by Class 37 37109 and Class 40 D345.[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_video link=”https://youtu.be/4_DRzosxYiM” align=”center” title=”English Electric Sweet Tunes”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text]The weather wasnt fantastic being mainly overcast with occasional rain. Nevertheless I managed a few nice pictures, some of which will make their way onto products in due course. The low angle picture of 50015 Valiant with the cab reflected in the wet has given me inspiration for a new digital painting.[/vc_column_text][ess_grid alias=”east-lancs-railway-spring-diesel-gala”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
40135 No Show
The weekend went without too many hitches. The failure of much anticipated Class 40 40135, complete with repaint into BR Blue, was an obvious disappointment. Lets face it though, these machines take a hell of a lot of money, time and dedication to keep running. These things happen and we will just have to wait till next time to sample this great loco in its new guise. Good luck to everyone at the CFPS in getting 40135 up and running – heres hoping its a quick and not too expensive fix![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Next Stop Nene Valley Railway
So before we knew it the weekend was over and done with and we were packing the van for another exciting trip down the M6! Well actually we went back cross country because, as usual, the M6 was doing its best impression of a car park.
And now we are looking forward to the Nene Valley Railways Bulleid 50 Event this weekend.
I have 3 new wall art prints of 34053 Sir Keith Park for this event so drop by the stall and say hi where you can see them up close.
Also dont forget I will be doing another #gdmkimageslive Facebook Live session over the weekend. I will be talking about our ordering process and some of the benefits of ordering from our art stall at an event. Please join us!
All the best for now and look forward to perhaps seeing you at the weekend!
If you liked this article then why not share it with someone you know who will also find it interesting …. thanks! [juiz_sps buttons=”facebook, twitter, google, pinterest, digg, linkedin, stumbleupon, mail”]
I have just updated the shop and added phone cases for the latest smartphones. Pouches for 36 new smartphones and just over 20 new hard cases are now available.
Pouches and Hard Cases available for these new Smartphones
A few of the new smartphones we have covers and pouches for –
Samsung S7
Samsung S7 Edge
Samsung J5
Sony Xperia XA
Sony Xperia X
Sony Xperia X Performance
Huawei P9
iPhone SE
Smartphone Pouches and Flip Cases are priced at £24.95 with Hard Cases priced at £19.95.
Remember, any picture for sale in the galleries can be put on a phone case.
If you have your own special picture then contact me for details of how to order your personalised phone case.[/vc_column_text][ess_grid alias=”phone-cases-for-latest-smartphones”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/3″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1468495004852{margin-top: 5px !important;margin-right: 5px !important;margin-bottom: 5px !important;margin-left: 5px !important;border-top-width: 1px !important;border-right-width: 1px !important;border-bottom-width: 1px !important;border-left-width: 1px !important;border-left-color: #0098da !important;border-left-style: solid !important;border-right-color: #0098da !important;border-right-style: solid !important;border-top-color: #0098da !important;border-top-style: solid !important;border-bottom-color: #0098da !important;border-bottom-style: solid !important;border-radius: 4px !important;}”]
We have a wide selection of pouches, hardcases and flip cases for all the popular phones available from our art stall. If you buy or order a phone case directly from the stall you will get FREE P&P saving you £4!!
We are attending many of the big aviation and railway shows over the summer so drop by, say hi and get a cool cover for your phone. Any picture you see on this website could be adorning your phone within a couple of days of ordering. Sure beats going to to your nearest high street phone shop and paying £20+ for a plain phone cover!
See where we are this summer via our Where to Find GDMK Images page[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Come and see our stall at any of these events and get yourself a cool phone case!
Thanks for reading, all the best for now
Gary[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_separator color=”sky” el_width=”80″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_cta h2=”Subscribe to GDMK Images” txt_align=”center” add_button=”bottom” btn_title=”Sign me up!” btn_custom_background=”#0098da” btn_custom_text=”#fffffd” btn_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fstaging.gdmkimages.co.uk%2Fsubscribe-gdmk-images-newsletters%2F|title:Subscribe%20and%20and%20never%20miss%20an%20update%20or%20offer!||” btn_add_icon=”true” btn_custom_onclick=”true”]Subscribe and never miss an update or offer![/vc_cta][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Let your friends and colleagues know we sell phone cases for the latest smartphones …. thanks! [juiz_sps buttons=”facebook, twitter, google, pinterest, digg, linkedin, stumbleupon, mail”]
The Latest Editorial Stock Update Features Railway Pictures
I have just added 20+ Editorial stock Pictures to my Alamy and Picfair portfolios. This update features railway pictures of diesel locos from the 1960s and 1970s at various locations on the Severn Valley Railway.
The Severn Valley Railway is a preserved railway that runs through the Worcestershire and Shropshire countryside. You can read about the railway on my Severn Valley Railway Location Report.
Click any image in the grid to see the full picture and select either ‘Alamy’ or ‘Picfair’ from the ‘flyout’ to licence from the appropriate agency.
Some of these pictures are also available as wall art, select the ‘Buy Wall Art’ flyout to view and buy wall art.
Thanks for looking and please feel free to leave any comments on this update in the comments below.
Thanks
Gary[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][ess_grid alias=”update-features-railway-pictures”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_separator color=”sky” el_width=”80″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_cta h2=”Subscribe to GDMK Images” txt_align=”center” add_button=”bottom” btn_title=”Sign me up I want to save 10% on my purchase!” btn_custom_background=”#0098da” btn_custom_text=”#fffffd” btn_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fstaging.gdmkimages.co.uk%2Fsubscribe-gdmk-images-newsletters%2F|title:Subscribe%20and%20save%2010%25%20off%20your%20next%20wall%20art%2C%20phone%20case%20or%20t-shirt%20purchase!|”]Subscribe and save 10% off your next wall art, phone case or t-shirt purchase![/vc_cta][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Share news of the latest editorial stock update with your friends and colleagues …. thanks! [juiz_sps buttons=”facebook, twitter, google, pinterest, digg, linkedin, stumbleupon, mail”]
Some of these pictures are also available to buy as wall art and personalised gifts – follow the links on the pictures to buy as stock or wall art and gifts.
The update features images of diesel locos from the 1970s and 1980s on and around the Severn Valley Railway.
The pictures includes scenes at the main stations and some of the classic diesel locos including class 50, class 52 and class 55 locos.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][ess_grid alias=”70s_80s_Railways”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1443099097328{padding-left: 0px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1445371015759{border-top-width: 1px !important;border-right-width: 1px !important;border-bottom-width: 1px !important;border-left-width: 1px !important;background-color: #fffffd !important;border-left-color: #0098da !important;border-left-style: solid !important;border-right-color: #0098da !important;border-right-style: solid !important;border-top-color: #0098da !important;border-top-style: solid !important;border-bottom-color: #0098da !important;border-bottom-style: solid !important;border-radius: 4px !important;}”]
The update features images of people and Classic Cars at the Classic Car show in Hinckley during September.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][ess_grid alias=”hinckley-classic-car-show”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
More Editorial Stock Pictures Coming
I have another sizeable batch of editorial stock pictures featuring more 1970s and 80s railway scenes, modern aircraft from air displays this past summer, general modern railway scenes and a number of autumn themed pictures.
This batch should be ready for upload towards the end of next week or early the following week.
All of these upcoming releases will be added as editorial stock on Alamy but a number will also be suitable for wall art and adding to gift products.
Share news of this editorial stock photo update with your friends and colleagues …. thanks! [juiz_sps buttons=”facebook, twitter, google, pinterest, digg, linkedin, stumbleupon, mail”]
The Severn Valley Railway is a preserved railway that runs 16 miles between Kidderminster and Bridgnorth. As with most of todays heritage railways, the line fell victim to the rationalisations that ravaged the railways in the 1960s. Even before the infamous Beeching Report, the Severn Valley Railway was recognised as economically unviable and identified as a candidate for closure.
The railway ran from Hartlebury through to Shrewsbury. Construction started in 1858 with final completion coming in 1862. Stations were located at Stourport-on-Severn, Bewdley, Arley, Highley, Hampton Loade, Bridgnorth, Coalport, Ironbridge, Buildwas, Cressage and Berrington.
Primary traffic for the line was coal from the collieries at Alveley and Highley. The line was never considered as financially successful.
The railway became part of the Great Western Railway in 1870.
The Great Western Railway built a link from Bewdley to Kidderminster in 1878. This connection allowed traffic access to the Black Country and West Midlands.
The line played a useful role during the Second World War as a diversion route around the Midlands.
Through passenger and freight services ended during 1963. The line was removed north of Bridgnorth soon afterwards.
Coal traffic continued from Alveley until 1969. Passenger services from Bewdley to Kidderminster and Hartlebury lasted until 1970.
Preservation Beginnings
In 1965 a group of local enthusiasts formed the Severn Valley Railway Society.
Their aim was to buy the section of line from Bridgnorth through to Alveley Colliery sidings near Highley.
The societies hard work was rewarded in 1970 when the first train services ran between Bridgnorth and Hampton Loade.
By 1973 sufficient funds allowed purchase of the the line from Alveley Colliery sidings, through to Highley, Arley and Bewdley as far as Foley Park, near Kidderminster.
Services started running south to Bewdley in 1974 with occasional special trains running through to Foley Park.
The railway always knew a station and connection with the national railway network at Kidderminster was vital.
British Rail traffic to the British Sugar Corporation sidings at Foley Park ceased in 1982. This presented an opportunity to buy the 1 ½ miles of railway through to Kidderminster Junction. At the same time, an agreement to lease the old Kidderminster Goods Yard from British Rail allowed the dream of a station at Kidderminster to become reality.
The new Severn Valley Railway station at Kidderminster came into use in 1984. Finally trains were able to run over the full length of the Severn Valley Railway as we know it today.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Overview of the Severn Valley Railway Today
Today, the Severn Valley Railway is a far cry from the economically unviable railway of the early 20th Century.
The railway is predominantly operated by steam locos with a small number of services, mainly at weekends, operated by classic diesel locos. The Severn Valley Railway is the home of many types of steam and diesel locos.
Many railway preservation societies call the Severn Valley Railway their home including –
Each of these societies are focused on preserving and operating many different types of loco, coaching stock and infrastructure but each contributes to the Severn Valley Railways success. When you have read this article, please take a few minutes to read about their organisations as they deserve much support.
All stations are maintained in typical Great Western Railway styles and colours and the railway retains its authentic Great Western Railway lower quadrant signals.
Moving away from the locos, the Severn Valley Railway operates classic period rolling stock. Of particular note is the railways achievement in running full rakes of coaches from defined periods. Many railways find themselves in a position where their coaches are a mix and match of styles and eras.
The Severn Valley Railway can proudly boast its ability to run full rakes of rolling stock from the following railway companies
Great Western Railway
London Midland and Scottish Railway
London and North Eastern Railway
1950s/1960s British Rail
The LNER rake is particularly eyecatching with its varnished teak panelled exterior.
As well as running regular steam and diesel timetabled services, the Severn Valley Railway has regular theme days to attract visitors including
Steam galas featuring many visiting steam locos
Diesel galas where the service is operated by classic diesel locos
Most visitors start their journey at Kidderminster, which is ironically the railways newest station and modelled on the original Great Western Railway station at Ross on Wye.
Kidderminster mainline station is directly adjacent to its mainline counterpart, being only a short walk across the cobbled station frontage. This provides a convenient connection for visitors using the main railway network.
At Kidderminster station you will also find the Kidderminster Railway Museum (www.krm.org.uk) and the Coalyard Miniature Railway.
Bewdley has three platforms and was originally the junction station for trains to Hartlebury or Kidderminster. Adjacent to the station is a goods yard full of wagons and coaching stock.
Highley is a small station but also home to The Engine House. There is only one platform but several lines through the station. This a reminder of the areas important mining past and that industries reliance on the railway to get its produce to the market.
The Engine House at Highley is an interesting visitor and education centre. On display are several steam locos for you to get up close to and get a real sense of the immense size and presence of a full-size steam loco.
Another item of interest is an original Post Office sorting vehicle. Inside you can see how mail was sorted on the go by mailmen in days gone by.
On the upper floor is an excellent cafe and viewing terrace which allows great views of passing trains.
[/vc_column_text][vc_media_grid item=”2915″ grid_id=”vc_gid:1480361748635-de2b9bec-7682-0″ include=”2908″][vc_video link=”https://youtu.be/5TV5MDwb5V8″ title=”View From The Engine House Cafe Balcony”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Hampton Loade Station
Hampton Loade is a beautiful station that seems to be in the middle of nowhere. Trains pass here allowing you the chance to change trains.
The Severn Valley Railways northern terminus station. The buildings date back to the railways original opening in 1862, albeit with numerous changes in that time.
Bridgnorth has a locomotive works and yard. You can get an overview of the works from the platform and station overbridge but access is not allowed.
I suppose this is due to that dreaded ‘Health & Safety’ mantra that dominates the modern world – whatever happened to using common sense and taking responsibility for your own health and safety? Please, don’t get me started![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Photographic Opportunities
On The Railway Photographic Opportunities
There are many factors besides the meticulously restored stations, locomotives and coaching stock that makes the Severn Valley Railway so rich in photographic opportunities.
Each station provides fantastic opportunities for capturing or recreating period scenes. You can document the operational activities of a busy railway scene. Guards and Station Masters interact with the public, drivers attend to their locos and massive locos ooze atmosphere alongside authentic signalling equipment. There is much to inspire photographers.
The attention to detail means many period still life set pieces are everywhere including authentic signage and period baggage.
Interesting pictures can be had at the north end of Arley Station. Trains pass here and you can get some nice images of the trains passing. At the north end of the Platform is a grassy picnic area with a restricted view to the north. You can get shots of the southbound service arriving with the loco of the northbound service in the foreground. Afternoons are better due to the suns position.
At Highley, cross the bridge and walk northwards past the signalbox. Pick a point along the fence to get pictures of southbound services coming round the bend. The trains approach head on before entering the station. Telephoto lenses create a compressed field of vision for this shot. Afternoons are better when the sun has moved around.
The overbridge at Bridgnorth station provides a useful viewpoint of the yard as well as views of trains ready to depart southwards. The view southbound can be tricky with high contrast lighting being a problem most of the day.
The first location is still technically on the railway. The Engine House viewing balcony is an excellent place to relax with a cuppa and view the trains coming and going from Highley Station. I recommend this location in the afternoon as the sun will have moved around sufficiently to light your subjects.
The railway meanders, as its name suggests, through the Severn Valley and at many points is close to the Severn River. At 16 miles in length, the railway passes over several level crossings, public footpaths and bridges, all of which provide lineside photo opportunities.
The Severn Way, a long distance footpath following the River Severn, provides several vantage points for photographing the railway between Arley and Highley stations.
The most well known of these spots features the Victoria Bridge passing over the River Severn just south of Arley Station. This location is a classic photography spot on the railway and features regularly in the railway press. As with the Engine House location at Highley, lighting is more favourable in the afternoon.
You can leave the train at Arley and walk down to the river. Follow the Severn Way northwards towards Highley. Along the Severn way you will encounter several locations that set the railway in context with the surrounding countryside. This walk should be undertaken in the morning to take advantage of the morning light. In the afternoon your scene will become backlit as the sun moves around.
If you were feeling adventurous, it is possible to walk from Bewdley through to Hampton Loade. You would follow Northwood Lane until you came to the Severn Way. The route generally follows the railway and provides many different opportunities to photograph passing trains.
I must stress in the strongest terms, DO NOT TRESPASS on the railway at any time, however exceptional you think your photo could be. Trespassing is illegal. Walking around a working railway is dangerous – trains WILL kill you. Your presence is a distraction for the staff who have a job to do. Ultimately, stupid acts of trespassing usually result in unnecessary tighter controls on those of us who do respect the railway environment.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Lasting Impression
My lasting impression of the Severn Valley railway is overwhelmingly positive. For a start the line is a good length and trains are regularly 7 or 8 carriages long meaning the locos have to work hard in places.
Each of the stations are impeccably restored and maintained to represent a working Great Western Railway allowing yourself to be immersed in the ambience of times long since passed.
Add in the fact that the railway passes through some stunning scenery and you have a winning formula.
The railway and the hosted preservation societies provide a nice mix of large and small locos mixed in with matching rakes of coaching stock.
The railway also has regular turns for the diesel fleet which I highly commend. A lot of people think of diesels as boring, but they nevertheless played an essential role in the history of Britains railways.
Preserved railways need to remember that many people won’t remember steam trains active on the ‘real railway’. I’m in my late 40s and never saw a steam train in service. My youth is full of BR Blue diesels with compartment stock working trains to various seaside resorts.
I hope you enjoyed this overview of the Severn Valley Railway. Please take a little time to visit the groups I have linked to as restoring and running railways is an expensive, unglamorous and time consuming labour of love. The groups deserve all the support and publicity they can get.
I would love to hear your views on what I have written and am only too happy to answer any questions you might have.
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_separator color=”sky” el_width=”80″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_cta h2=”Subscribe to GDMK Images” txt_align=”center” add_button=”bottom” btn_title=”Sign me up I want to save 10% on my purchase!” btn_custom_background=”#0098da” btn_custom_text=”#fffffd” btn_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fstaging.gdmkimages.co.uk%2Fsubscribe-gdmk-images-newsletters%2F|title:Subscribe%20and%20save%2010%25%20off%20your%20next%20wall%20art%2C%20phone%20case%20or%20t-shirt%20purchase!|”]Subscribe and save 10% off your next wall art, phone case or t-shirt purchase![/vc_cta][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Share this location report of the Severn Valley Railway with your friends and colleagues …. thanks! [juiz_sps buttons=”facebook, twitter, google, pinterest, digg, linkedin, stumbleupon, mail”]
In connection with a few behind the scenes changes, the GDMK Images brand and product range is set to significantly increase. The first noticeable change will be an increase in the products available to buy.
In the coming days you will be able to buy many new products with my photography and digital art on. These new products will include
3 types of keyring
notebooks
fridge magnets
yo-yo’s
mugs
travel mugs
tote bags
adult and childrens t-shirts
plus many more new products to be announced …
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_gallery type=”image_grid” images=”2765,2766,2767,2768,2769,2770,2771″ simple_arrows=”1″ title=”Examples of New Products”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
GDMK Images Event Stall
The second change will be the increased visibility of the GDMK Images event stall. The stall is now booked to attend 20+ events between now and Christmas including
The changes are for many reasons, but the predominant change was the success of the Summer Events stall. My wife had the crazy idea to take my art out to a couple of summer events with our good friends at Alizzins Cave. The reception, feedback and demand to my work was overwhelming. In short, as a result of the success of the event stall, she has taken the marketing and product range to a whole new height.
GDMK Images is primarily about supplying wall art and editorial stock imagery. The photography and creating digital art will remain my focus and will still be the central focus of GDMK Images. My wife will be taking the photographic and digital art and marketing it as unique gifts through the website and at events around the country.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
New Wall Art Rental Service
With the changes, now seems a good idea to announce the imminent launch of the GDMK Images wall art rental scheme. Very shortly, both home owners and businesses, will be able to rent wall art from GDMK Images for very affordable rates. The details will be revealed in full in the coming weeks, but essentially you will be able to rent some exceptional wall art with prices starting from £4.95 per month.
With all the changes happening, why not subscribe to the GDMK Images newsletter? You will get a heads up on all the news, a 10% discount against purchases and subscriber only discounts and offers.
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The GDMK Images range of t-shirts were successfully launched at our stall at the Shackerstone family festival. The designs were very well received and sold well. Many of you asked about the availability of the designs in childrens sizes.
I am pleased to announce that both the Class 50 and Vulcan aeroplanedigital art tshirts are now available in the following childrens sizes –
3-4 years
5-6 years
7-8 years
The kid sized t-shirts are priced at £12.50 plus 3.50 p&p or available to collect free from Alizzins Cave on Rugby Road in Hinckley. Please let me know in advance if intending to collect from Alizzins Cave.[/vc_column_text][vc_gallery type=”image_grid” images=”2635,2641″ img_size=”medium”][vc_column_text]
New T-shirt Designs On The Way
More of my digital art images will be available as t-shirts over the coming weeks. Keep checking back or why not subscribe and get a 10% discount voucher and be alerted as soon as new designs are released?
GDMK Images will be at the Classic Car Show in Hinckley on Sunday 20th September so why not come along and say Hi and see the T-shirts in person.
Thanks for reading and I look forward to seeing you on Sunday
Share news of the GDMK Images kid sized t-shirts with your friends and colleagues …. thanks! [juiz_sps buttons=”facebook, twitter, google, pinterest, digg, linkedin, stumbleupon, mail”]
Last weekend saw the official launch of the new GDMK Images t-shirts at the Shackerstone Family Festival.
There are currently 3 t-shirt designs available.
The first design features my extremely popular Vulcan Bomber digital painting. This image features a Vulcan Bomber taking off in a rainstorm.
This design is available on a Heather Grey or plain Black t-shirt.
The second design is available in white only and features English Electric Class 50 loco 50049 Defiance.
The loco is in large logo livery and is depicted under GWR lower quadrant signals.[/vc_column_text][vc_media_grid gap=”3″ item=”2161″ grid_id=”vc_gid:1457285240569-cb4d1db3-f26f-0″ include=”2548,2547,2544″][vc_column_text]
T-Shirt Sizes and Pricing
The t-shirts are available in sizes S, M, L, XL, XXL, XXXL and are priced at £25 + £3.50 p&p (optionally avoid p&p by collecting from Alizzins Cave)*.
For those who were enquiring at the Shackerstone Festival about the availability of childrens sizes, I can confirm that childrens sizes will be added very shortly so keep checking back for details.
The range of designs will be increased slowly over the coming weeks.
Thanks for reading and let me know what you think about the new designs
Cheers
Gary
*please contact me prior to ordering if wanting to collect locally[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_separator color=”sky” el_width=”80″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_cta h2=”Subscribe to GDMK Images” txt_align=”center” add_button=”bottom” btn_title=”Sign me up I want to save 10% on my purchase!” btn_custom_background=”#0098da” btn_custom_text=”#fffffd” btn_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fstaging.gdmkimages.co.uk%2Fsubscribe-gdmk-images-newsletters%2F|title:Subscribe%20and%20save%2010%25%20off%20your%20next%20wall%20art%2C%20phone%20case%20or%20t-shirt%20purchase!|”]
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My intention is to provide information for the photographer, and casual visitor, to various places of interest.
See the main Location Reports page for more details of the series and links to the reports.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Railway Overview
The Peak Rail steam railway is part of the old Midland Railway line that originally ran from London St Pancras to Manchester Central via Derby.
The railway was identified for closure as part of the infamous ‘Beeching Report’ of the 1960s.
As a result, local passenger services ceased between Matlock and Buxton in 1967 and through express trains finally ended in 1968.
Currently local services, operated by East Midlands Trains, still run from Derby to Matlock, which is the ‘mainline’ terminus.
Directions to Peak Rail.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column font_color=”#00478c”][vc_gallery type=”image_grid” images=”1721″ img_size=”medium” title=”Matlock”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]At Matlock, you change to platform 2 and join the Peak Rail line for a run of 4 miles through to Rowsley South.
In 2011 arrangements were finalised to allow Peak Rail trains to run into the mainline station making access to the steam railway extremely easy.
In November, January and February only, Peak Rail trains run into Matlock Riverside station which is slightly north of the mainline station. It is only a short riverside walk into the main town.
The railway is open throughout the year. You will find both steam and old BR diesels running the service.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row font_color=”#00478c”][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Darley Dale Railway Station
[/vc_column_text][ess_grid alias=”darley-dale-railway-station”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Darley Dale is the first station north of Matlock.
There is a small museum featuring various exhibits showing the railway during its working period. The exhibits include photos, posters and items of equipment that give a good flavour of times gone past.
[/vc_column_text][ess_grid alias=”peak-rail-rowsley”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The northern terminus is Rowsley South. The station is a modern build, albeit in traditional style, alongside the main engine shed and engineering facilities.
On the station is a nice buffet and a gift shop with lots of transport related wares.
During British Rail days this site was a sizeable depot and maintenance facility.
Within this engineering complex are several enthusiast groups dedicated to restoring, preserving and maintaining various historical locomotives and rolling stock.
Also to be found at Rowsley South is a picnic area which gives a good view of the railways operations. There is a short narrow gauge railway operated as the Derbyshire Dales Narrow Gauge Railway which runs alongside the picnic area.
There are many photographic opportunities to be found on and around the Peak Rail facilities.
Matlock and Matlock Riverside stations offer little other than the standard railway platform type environment.
A footpath runs a good way alongside the railway between Matlock Riverside and Darley Dale. The River Derwent also runs close at several points. The footpath provides many opportunities for lineside shots of the passing trains.
Darley Dale station has an authentic steam era feel and look. The crossing gates immediately south of the station also offer another unusual opportunity for creative photos.
The Matlock bound platform is laid out with authentic milk churns, enamel signs, period railway signage and stacks of luggage. It really looks the part. The Rowsley platform buildings are under renovation and not open to visitors yet.
Rowsley has many great opportunities. The many types of wagons, coaches and locomotives under restoration and stored is very impressive. The sheer number and differing types of railway vehicles present many photo opportunities. There is a fully working turntable which in itself is a rarity nowadays.
As is typical for Britain, the weather was changeable during my visit. The day started nice and bright with good light from the winter sun.
As the day progressed, the clouds crept in and the day became much darker with only very brief glimpses of sun. The darker skies led to flatter looking scenes with little in the way of saturated colours. At times like these it sometimes pays to look for scenes that would look good in black and white.
A steam railway is the perfect place to practice black and white photography. It not only gets around the problem of flat colours, but also leads you into creating a little bit of authenticity with your photos.
As shown below, when the sun shines keep an eye out for colourful scenes, but when the light isnt favourable look for patterns, shapes or reflections in otherwise dull scenes. The sky was heavily overcast on the carriage shot. The dull maroon colours were muted, yet the sheen provided lots of reflections from the wooden boarding on the platform. A dull image in colour is transformed when converted to black and white.
My lasting impression of the Peak Rail steam railway was positive.
Although the line is only 4 miles long, it provides ample opportunities for creative photography. The railway shouldn’t be compared to larger steam railways such as the Severn Valley Railway as that simply isnt an equitable comparison.
The Peak Rail steam railway does a great job of providing a compact snapshot of a railway from the past.
Darley Dale and Rowsley are both full of opportunities for the photographer who enjoys railways or recreations of times long gone.
The railway operates a number of special theme days which provides additional photographic opportunities.
All in all, I recommend the Peak Rail steam railway to both photographers and also to general visitors looking for an authentic steam era experience.
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