Narrow Gauge tracks in the Sand - Leighton Buzzard Light Railway

Rod Dingwall

Oakwood Press 2019  £17.95

Reprinted, with minor corrections, after not having been available for many years. The growth of the Bedfordshire town of Leighton Buzzard was closely linked with its sand industry served by the railway for 50 years from 1919. The author recorded the memories of the men who worked in the sand quarries and has really captured the feel of what work was like there. The 2ft gauge petrol and diesel locomotives used on the Leighton Buzzard Light Railway gave it and the town (with its numerous level crossings) an unique character. The diminutive locomotives could handle 500 skips of sand a day. Sand was also moved by lorry and canal boat, also included here. A large section of the railway has been restored but the book tells the story of the line before preservation.