Double Arrow Double Royal - An Introduction to the Railwayana Scene in the Company of Pictorial Posters from the British Rail Era (Paperback)

A lifelong railway enthusiast, Mike Priestley grew up on the Wirral, where his early memories include class J94 tank engines outside the ex GCR Bidston shed, viewed from Liverpool bound third rail electric trains. Poulton station, on the long closed Seacombe branch, set in a cutting now used by the Wallasey tunnel approach road, was a popular diversion on the way home from junior school. Sunday cycle rides to Birkenhead motive power depot followed, where London Midland and standard classes played host to Grange or B1 weekend visitors. The freshly painted buffer beam of 2-10-0 92203, at the head of the last steam hauled John Summers iron ore train to Shotton, was spotted, whilst a sixth former, from his grammar school classroom. Already a keen photographer of the unfolding post 1968 steam railway scene, Mike's interest in railwayana and posters in particular, began with a chance encounter with a colourful print in a souvenir shop in France. Since 2005 Mike has built up his own collection of original posters, many from the Double Arrow British Rail era and augmented with some recognisable images from the '30s and '60s, which adorn the walls at home. Mike's hope is that this book will encourage others with an interest in railways to take a closer look at the full range of this intriguing art form. Hopefully, they will also feel sufficiently inspired to step into the fascinating world of the railwayana auction.