I know this probably sounds unbelievable but there never have been brakes on the coaches. The system used was the U.S. traditional. Engine whistles for brakes and brakeman runs along the top of the wagons winding on the handbrakes. It works fine.

I am not aware of any steam runaway but I do know of one railcar runaway - I think 71 - between Huigra and Bucay and I have seen the not so pretty remains. Maybe some reader knows the details of that accident.

I am not aware of any intention to fit air brakes to steam locos. They simply are not needed.

As to other comments. They talk a lot of freight but they have no good wagons, any good ones having been converted to passenger coaches, at least their roof anyhow!

There are two problems against freight. Firstly the zigzags can only hold five coaches including the loco. Secondly grades of up to 5.25% need horsepower. 2200HP for four wagons is not exactly economical.

I think basically they have been sold on the idea of a tourist railway and that is the way it is pointed. I don't really care as the railway is being rebuilt totally and that is all that matters. The new speed limit is expected to be 40 m.p.h. instead of the old 25 m.p.h. Yes, the new operation will unfortunately look like a railroad but give it a few years and everything should be back to normal.

One other point. I have seen one train with roof seats but the difference is that the ladder is inside the coach which makes it safer. It used to be that we had very unusual disabled access. You climbed the ladder outside for access and if you fell off then you were disabled! Disabled access indeed!

Michael Grimes