Trains.

As it is the 150th birthday of Frank Hornby, best known for inventing Hornby Model Railways (he also had a moustache), I thought I'd do a post about trains. Unfortunately I don't know an awful lot about trains. I know how steam engines work, but explaining that would just be boring. As a result of my limited knowledge this post will probably just be a rambled mash up of dubious train related facts and opinions. So be warned.

Steam engines are in many ways better than diesel engines. A steam train looks better by far, both when moving and just staying still. It also sounds better. The loud, rhythmic clacking sound of a steam train as it thunders through the countryside sounds infinitely better than the whirr of a diesel or electric train. Steam trains, although slower, also seem far more powerful. The speed of the pistons, the fire, the steam, the smoke, the muck, the sheer size and the fact it takes two people working hard to operate make it seem more powerful as it tears along the tracks. They are more romantic too. The atmosphere at a steamy railway platform has featured in more films than the beeping and warning of electric doors closing. In fact, most things associated with steam locomotion seems better than modern rail. I am aware that modern rail is cheaper, faster and more efficient, but it lacks charm. The conductor telling people what train it is is better than staring at an electronic sign with yellow lettering. You also got a warning off a conductor when he shouted 'all aboard' and waved his flag, but not any more. Even the smell of steam is better then the smell of diesel.

Honestly, if steam trains were as cheap, efficient and quick as their modern day counterparts, wouldn't we all prefer steam?