Hi everyone. Ive been watching this site for years and have learned a lot from the members and contributors here. I thought it was about time I made myself known to everyone!

i am not an engineer by training ( actually a Chemist once upon a time) but have always wanted to make things in metal. Retirement has given me the time to practice.

I'm slowly improving in the quality of the things i do -from a low base- and appreciate being able to use the benchmarks of what can be done as demonstrated by some of the skilled members on here. The breadth of knowledge and experience is very impressive. I hope i can make a contribution to that in time. Thanks!

Hi Brian,

Sorry for the delay in response. At the moment i am in the middle of a build of a 3 1/2 inch Jubilee loco to the Martin Evans design. The guys at the club persuaded me to take it on when one of the members brought in a pair of frames, horn blocks etc. part assembled. I have taken it on mostly to learn the skills needed to machine the small parts that make up the beast, rather than a desire to sit behind a live steam loco. When I've finished it, i may well sell it.

I have also recently purchased a Harrison 11 inch lathe, having traded up from a Boxford Model A. Its turning out to be needing a bit of fettling, which i really enjoy, and i think it will be a good little machine when I've got it up to scratch. I've also got a 1943 Bridgeport which i have got going and which i will one day convert to CNC. Not for any reason other than to learn. I learn loads from the guys at the TSMEE and i can see there's much to be gained from many on this forum.