Facing Points

Like so many voluntary groups, FOFNL is organised by a very small elected committee - too few people trying to do too much in their allegedly free time. There are a number of initiatives we would like to pursue, and indeed have an obligation to Highland Railway Heritage, of which we are a founder Member, to provide support; but these need a good many more actively involved people. Most members, the support of every one of whom we truly value, will have neither the time nor inclination - and we respect that.

From long experience, the only way to achieve the wider activity we desire is to increase our membership. In this all members can help, by seeking to recruit friends, neighbours and colleagues. Please help us to help you, and ultimately we believe all our communities. The role of the Railway, not least its environmental and social benefits, is increasingly prominent these days. It needs and fully merits all the encouragement we can give it.

The footbridges at Brora and Helmsdale were recently lifted out by crane and sent away for refurbishment. They have now been duly reinstated. We are delighted it proved cost-effective to preserve the original designs; they contribute greatly to the character of both stations, as the same standard design does elsewhere.

It just seemed a pity we had no advance warning of this work from Railtrack - the first I knew of it was being told by a friend in Helmsdale. Then we could have included photographs in this issue. Still, the remedy is with us - and we shall be trying to make a useful contact for the future. It just makes us look inattentive!