The end of a year is an appropriate time to look back on our activities in the past summer season, and this year we are able to so with some satisfaction. Quainton is fast becoming a model for the "non operating" railway preservation centre. Our open days have not resulted in a financial "killing" due to our policy of moderate entry charges. Nevertheless, we have been able to put down a worthwhile sum towards the purchase of the up yard, the provision of covered accommodation and the acquisition of further relics. The fact that we have given pleasure to upwards of 30,000 visitors during the summer season must be of great satisfaction to us all.

It is a sad fact of life that the majority must pay for the shortcomings of the minority. Such is the situation that has forced the Executive Committee to ban Junior Members under sixteen years of age from working at Quainton during the week unless accompanied by an Adult Member. The situation has been of concern to the Executive Committee for some time; particularly during the school holidays. We have previously taken the view that, provided certain safe tasks are carried out as agreed by each Sub Committee our Junior Members were sufficiently responsible to be allowed to work on their own. It has come to our notice, however, that certain Junior Members have been abusing this privilege and have been behaving irresponsibly. Under these circumstances the Executive have no alternative but to impose this ban.

Further to this we have also decided not to allow the enrolment of any new members under the age of twelve years unless the child is a close relative of an Adult Member who will accept responsibility for the Junior. The Junior Membership will be tied to that of the responsible Adult Member and a lapse of membership of the latter will automatically disqualify the youngster.

May I add my personal good wishes to those of our Chairman and the Executive Committee in wishing you all a Merry Christmas and every success and happiness in the New Year.

Notes:
The text in this Quainton Railway Society publication was written in 1972 and so does not reflect events in the 40+ years since publication. The text and photographs are repeated verbatim from the original publication, with only a few minor grammar changes but some clarifying notes are added if deemed necessary. The photos from the original publication are provided as scans in this internet version of this long out of print publication.

Reference:
Secretary's Page - Quainton News No. 14 - December 1972