Taking a trip into rail history (From Swindon Advertiser)

Taking a trip into rail history

12:33pm Monday 24th July 2006

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Memories came flooding back for dozens of ex-railway workers at the book launch of Trip, a history of GWR workers' annual jaunt.

Highworth author Rosa Matheson sold 30 signed copies at the launch, which was held at the Steam Museum on Saturday.

She said: "There were lots of memories and lots of friends who hadn't seen each other in years it was a bit like Friends Reunited!"

Mrs Matheson began work on the book while writing a PhD thesis on women in the Great Western Railway.

She said: "I didn't choose to write the book really, it chose me! I started on it in 1998 or 99. I went to interview people and they would launch into these wonderful stories, so I had all this great material.

"I added to it over the years and it grew and grew."

She added: "The trip was a golden time for the workers. We take holidays for granted now, it's so cheap and easy."

For a dedicated copy of the book contact Mrs Matheson on 01793 764979.

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