Henry Dunleath Workshop (2006)

A ceremony took place at Whitehead Excursion Station on Tuesday 4th July to mark the official opening by Dorinda, Lady Dunleath, of the RPSI's Henry Dunleath Workshop. Photos by Phil Lockett and Edward Friel.

Carrickfergus Borough Council were at Whitehead Excursion Station early to ensure that the platform was well swept for the guests.

Shunter James and Joiner Ernie take the opportunity to brush some of the dust off the Mk2 carriages.

The "Guinness" engine (No.3BG) was in steam and had shunted No.85 "Merlin", Dining Car 87 and 3 Mk2 carriages to the platform. This view is from the fireman’s side of the cab, looking back towards the sheds and workshop.

No.85 "Merlin" was Lord Dunleath's pride and joy. He had been the driving force behind the restoration of the locomotive, which had been a museum piece in the collection of the Ulster Folk & Transport Museum.

The RPSI volunteers love a day of celebration. Jeff (RPSI Driver) poses here in his dirty overalls during the preparatory shunt, prior to getting changed for the guests arrival.

No.3BG "Guinness" wearing a headboard for a train it is unlikely to ever haul! Phil Lockett looks on.

There were over 90 guests invited. Here, Heather, Isabel and Sullivan are welcoming Jim Urwin, a Director of the team developing the Magheramorne quarry site.

The Society's Secretary enjoys coffee and a biscuit in Dining Car 87, ably provided by Rita Henderson, RPSI Catering stalwart.

Here, a smarter looking Jeff explains the intricacies of operating steam trains to Sammy Wilson MP.

RPSI Chairman Johnny Glendinning welcomed the guests and said the opening was an important occasion for the Society, all the more special because of the recent conferring of an MBE on RPSI Locomotive Maintenance Officer Peter Scott.

A view of the speakers inside the mighty workshop. The large machine in the middle of the workshop is the wheel lathe, whilst the overhead crane is seen visible at the far end.

Dorinda, Lady Dunleath, unveils the plaque. She said Lord Dunleath would have been proud, pleased and greatly honoured by the tribute that was being paid to him.

A close-up of the plaque.