The Friends of the Far North Line
Cairdean Na Loine Tuath
the campaign group for rail north of
Inverness - lobbying for improved services for the local user, tourist and freight
operator
Anne-Mary Paterson, Highland Railway Society, 2021
ISBN: 9780 992731 14 4 Paperback: 88pp. £9.90
Well known writer on railway subjects and FoFNL member, Anne-Mary Paterson has written a railway book with a unique angle which makes a fascinating and entertaining read. Anne-Mary's family background of civil engineering shines through as she takes you on a tour of Highland stations with private waiting rooms for the use of the local landowners who had a special, even symbiotic, relationship with the railway.
Ten stations are covered in detail, including four on the Far North Line. This is far more than just a 'railway book', you will get an insight into the history surrounding the stations and the activities of the Lairds who are featured. The coming of the railway to the Highlands changed life for ever and many of the landowners were quick to recognise the opportunities afforded by this new quick and safe transport. Reading the book is like being given a guided tour by a knowledgable friend, since Anne-Mary often writes in the first person. She has lived in Beauly, (whose station once hosted Lord Lovat's private waiting room) for many years, so is an ideal guide.