Ride behind a variety of steam and diesel-outline locomotives, running on two circuits, and watch small trains on the Garden Rly. The WRSLS (West Riding Small Locomotive Society) was founded on 21st April 1945 with 27 members. By 22nd October 1949, all the raised track had been laid and the first tests carried out with new running cars. On 5th November 1949, the first members' running day began at
2:30pm, and went on until 8.00pm when it started to get dark! May 19th & 20th 1951, was the first public running weekend, rides were just 2p for two laps. After this start, public running days were held once a month for several years. Prior to that, between 1945 and 1949, demonstrations were held on site using a short portable track. In June 1952, there was 1000 rides sold in one day! In September 1954, a 100 mile non-stop, record-breaking run by Albert Balmforth’s 2-6-4 L1 tank locomotive was completed in 10hrs. The engine still survives in running condition at the private Stockholes Farm Railway. In July 1955, the First Rally was held. September 1973 saw a big Silver Jubilee event held at Blackgates. By July 1974, the original rails on the raised track were completely worn out and running was suspended. By 11th May 1975 however, the track had been completely relaid and running was able to restart. Fares raises to 5p for adults and 3p for children for 3 laps. In 1986, the ground level 7 ¼” track opened which allowed more trains and heavier locos to run. There has been some remarkable engines at WRSLS. The circuits are considered to be quite challenging for locos & their drivers and a testing ground for miniature engineering excellence.
