It was here where I gazed across the way and saw a few older gentlemen busy at the water's edge. I watched with interest as they lowered something into the water. It was a remote controlled model tug boat followed by a few more that I couldn't make out. Although my main modelling interests lie with railways, I always appriciate other types of model and the hard work that goes into creating the miniature versions.
| Through cider induced bleary eyes, I take 5 minutes out to enjoy these miniature nautical models |
Saltwell Park itself is a real gem of a location and has plenty to do and see. Features include Saltwell Towers, which was once the main residence of the grounds. It has been converted to include a small Museum and Cafe. Other attractions here are the Bird Avieries and small Petting Zoo. It has nostalgic Bandstands, Rose Gardens, Waterfalls, 3 Childrens Play Areas, Tennis Courts,
the Boating Lake and many large grass covered open areas perfect for Picnics or a kick about with a ball.
I also remember being a kid coming here and it having a full sized plane next to the play park. It was a 017 Vickers Viscount which you could board using stairs, walk through the empty fuselage and exit down the inflatable slide. It had no wings, but we didn't care....it was bloody great!
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| Vickers Viscount 017, Saltwell Airways! Brilliant |
One thing Saltwell Park doesn't have and in my opionion would benefit from having a miniature railway that could circle the boating lake, similar to the one I have frequented for years at South Shields. This narrow gauge railway called the Lakeshore Railroad features American Loco's running clockwise around the Boating Lake. To this day I refuse to leave the park until I've had my ride, a rule I've had since 1984.
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Santa Fe Loco 3440 'Mountaineer' awaits departure on the South Shields Lakeshore Railroad |
Until next time.....
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