The Vocal Chuffers pull in at Lower Branton

The Vocal Chuffers, the choir of the Tuttleton and District Model Railway Society, made their debut at the Songs of Praise at Lower Branton Methodist Church, Shop Street, on Sunday 4 October. All eleven members attended, outnumbering the regular congregation by three, and Rev’d Paul Thompson called it the best attended service at Lower Branton in some years.

The choir arrived at twenty seven minutes past ten for a half past ten start, which Mr Leonard Ashworth noted with satisfaction. He conducted with the green flag throughout. The red one was needed only once, during the notices, when the Shunting section came in early.

Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer went well until the second verse, which was delayed by leaves on the line after Cecil Hobday turned two pages at once. Mr Ashworth apologised to the congregation for any inconvenience. Mrs Sylvia Ferris said she had never heard basses go so low, and would be very glad to have them again.

Rev’d Paul Thompson’s one condition was honoured, and the timetable suspended for the sermon, although Mr Ashworth was seen to consult his pocket watch at the second point. Refreshments followed in the buffet car, which remains a trestle table. Doreen Pickles’ tea urn, which had travelled separately, was ready at noon precisely.

The Vocal Chuffers have been invited back for the first Sunday in December. Mr Ashworth has accepted, subject to engineering works.