The Great Central, a line once said to be more dependent on enthusiasts than other lines, has withdrawn lineside passes, so no doubt other lines will be even more crowded out this summer with
camcorderistadors.
You're quite correct, Larry, and it's sad that this has occurred. However, as I understand the situation once again it's down to a small number of lineside pass holders being less than sensible and putting themselves in dangerous positions. Doubtless this could be policed but to do so will employ even more volunteers and these people simply don't exist. Imagine the effect on all heritage lines should someone be badly injured. On the positive side there are lineside sites on the GCR which are available for public access and which provide good views of operations.
We at Finney7 have every reason to be grateful to the GCR and other heritage railways for giving us special access, although never on operating days. We fully understand why that should be the case - and on the GCR we are fortunate that the shed is often open for public inspection on operating days, a privilege not shared on many other lines. The GCR is certainly a railway for enthusiasts but we should remember that even here the greater part of the income by far is from non enthusiasts.
Also, Paul, perhaps you could reconsider your view of the situation at Toddington. Why should one not pay to enter a site on an operating day regardless of the purpose of the visit? Heritage railways cost a fortune - literally - to operate nowadays and surely it's not unreasonable to make our own contribution to running costs with due consideration to the huge pleasure they give us.
Brian