The Stoney Express – Almost Ready to Roll!
This weekend, the team behind The Stoney Express came together for a pre-launch planning session ahead of our big day on Monday, 5th May. It was an enormous success and a key step towards getting Stonehaven’s much-loved “wee train” back in action for locals and visitors alike. Overall, a cracking day, and a real milestone for the project.
What’s Launch Day All About?
The main aim of launch day—besides getting The Stoney Express running after all our testing—is to say a big thank you to everyone who’s helped make this happen. Whether it’s been an individual supporter, a local business, or part of a community group, their contribution has mattered, and we want to recognise that.
So, we’ve invited all those people who have helped us get here to come along on launch day, take a celebratory ride, and see the results of all our hard work and what their support has delivered up close.
The event kicks-off at 10:00 and Pipers from Dunnottar Pipes and Drums will be playing The Stoney Express away as it sets off with its first passengers in her return to work. The Pipers will also escort the train as it progresses through the day and the full Band will play at 14:00.
There will be six runs throughout the day up until 15:00 when the train will park up in it’s reserved bay for the rest of the day. Why not bring the kids for a seat in the engine after the rides?
Cutting the Ribbon
We’re especially pleased that Donna Durward will be cutting the ribbon to officially open the line. Donna is one of the longest-serving members of our original team and is now rejoining us in an operational support role. Donna, we’re absolutely thrilled to have you back—and confident you’ll help keep this unruly crew in order!
Meet the Crew
Leading the team is Julie Lindeman, Project Officer. Simply put, The Stoney Express wouldn’t be back without her. From the earliest idea to bringing the train home from Brechin, Julie’s been the driving force throughout.
Supporting her is a resolute team who are helping get the train up and running. The pictures below show the crew in their splendid new uniforms which sport the brand new Logo for The Stoney Express which is also the headline image at the top of the page.
Conductors:
- George Reid
- Tom Hannan
- Lisa Lawman
- Gillian Dodd
Drivers:
- Andy McArdle
- Garry Brindley
- Jackie Eggleton (not pictured)
Operational Support:
- Morgan Hill (not pictured)
- Donna Durward (not pictured)
Left, Conductors: Tom Hannan; Lisa Lawman; Gillian Dodd; George Reid
Middle, Drivers: Garry Brindley; Andy McArdle (nice socks!)
Right, Project Officer: Julie Lindeman “The Boss” cutting the cake!
Not Quite There (But nearly!)
We know there’s a lot of excitement around the return of the train—and we’re right there with you! But we’re not quite ready to start taking paying passengers just yet. We’re currently finalising the timetable, ticket pricing, and the last bits of licensing to get everything fully approved and running smoothly.
Stay in the Loop
While we get those final pieces in place, please follow us on The Stoney Express Facebook page and The Bellman for updates. As soon as we have all the permissions confirmed, we’ll share full details on how to ride, when we’re running, and what it’ll cost.
Thanks again for all the support so far—it’s nearly time to climb aboard! We can’t wait to welcome you to The Stoney Express very soon.