The Last Belle

The Last Brighton Belle

Photos of the last public run of the Brighton Belle (with The Room 84 Show on board)
on 30th April 1972 have been submitted by Ian King.

These youthful happy faces show signs of relief from the week of hectic work in the office -
or an increasing supply of alcohol obtained from the Pullman crew.....

	Standing at the back framed by the exquisite marquetry of the Belle's coaches - Jim Collins Seated males from the left - Mike Troke, Derek Van Ryne and Dave Edwards. Kong's arm, appearing on the left, demonstrates what a superb photographer he is - being able to move Mike's head into position with his right hand whilst taking the photo with his left. Who was the young lady -the new Brighton Belle?
	Six minutes out of Victoria (two cans each by the look of it) and the party spirit is beginning to develop. The Churchillian figure on the left is Stuart Burrell with Mick Munday seated nearer the camara. Advertising that beer does not necessarily add weight - but does encourage stripping is Simon Patrick pointing in the accustomed way at Bob Scott. Notice that by this time the Belle's rough riding has bounced the curtain, next to Simon, over the rack....
	Ah - just passing on to the Quarry Line at Coulsdon North - or Stoat's Nest as it was originally called - and a stoat has been served for dinner.... beautifully presented and the perfect combination to a can of McEwans.... Derek Van Ryne (left) seems happy with the arrangements whilst Rodney Barrington Hunt raises a glass in praise of the Belle's head chef. About to offer some nugget of wisdom is Dave Edwards who is also stopping us seeing what Jim Collins is saying to Rodders...
	The more genteel part of the train sees Geoff Hawkins (Borneo) advising Mr and Mrs Smith on the other side of the isle which hotels in Brighton ask no questions. Sitting at the other side of the table are Mr and Mrs John Graham. John (from Room 80) is giving that "knowing" look of approval on Borneo's well judged advice... Behind Borneo is Detective Inspector Mike Botley of Kent County Constabulary - aghast at Borneo's local knowledge.. Somebody has already started to collect souvenirs by pocketing Borneo's seat number....

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