The end of an era can sometimes be difficult to spot. Not so today at Apedale. With the 24th AGM on the Trust taking place, the membership bade a grateful farewell to Phil Robinson’s tenure as Chairman, and his wife, Dawn as Shop Manager. It is difficult to put into words the contribution which Phil and Dawn have made. Phil has been Chair for 25 years – basically, the entire existence of the Trust in its current form. He started when MRT had been compelled to leave the School in Cheadle, and the equipment was in store. Money, membership and morale were all rock bottom. Fast forward to the present day and the thriving Apedale Valley Light Railway. Dawn has been Shop Manager since the shop opened at Apedale; she established all of the systems and processes, and oversaw the logistical triumph of the Santa operation each year.
Phil and Dawn are moving to Scotland to take up a new chapter in their life; all of the Trust members wish them a long, healthy and happy retirement.

