In the early days of the IWSR at Havenstreet a tradition of post Christmas 'Works Outings' began, usually taking place between Christmas and New Year, led by such personalities as Len Pullinger and Ian Wightmore. The guiding principles were that the outing should visit a location of engineering interest followed by the chance to discuss the significant historical points noted in a few, well-chosen pubs.

The visits have continued over the years with, at times, the numbers attending falling to as few as six hardy stalwarts, determined to maintain the tradition - time has marched on with many members who were formerly regulars finding that increasing family and work commitments make the outings difficult to attend. But the news is not all bad! Last years trip to the Brighton and Hove Engineerium saw an increase in those wanting to travel to an excellent museum and enjoy an interesting and sociable day out. This year a total of seventeen Steam Railway members, a record number for recent years, travel to South London to visit the recently opened Croydon Tramlink.

Bright and early on the morning of Saturday 30th December 2000, our hardy band braved the bitingly cold wind on Ryde Pier Head and boarded the 0850am FastCat to Portsmouth, starting our journey to Wimbledon. Meeting up with Chris Tagart and family en route at Woking our destination was reached just after 11.00am.

The plan was to travel by Tram from Wimbledon, via Croydon to Elmers End and Beckenham Junction. But first some refreshment was required! We speedily retired to the 'Alexandra' for a much-needed pint of Youngs Bitter to steel our nerve for the journey that was to follow. A beer kitty was quickly raised and the round ordered - this was also to be our first acquaintance with the dreaded 'London Prices'!

Thirty minutes later, with each member in possession of a One Day Bus and Tram Travelcard and a copy of the very useful leaflet entitled "A Guide to REAL ALE PUBS in South London accessible by TRAMS"', we were ready for the off. Following a group photograph we boarded the tram for Elmers End. The journey soon began, an 11-minute headway between trams being operated on this section of the system. The tram proved to be clean and comfortable and all were impressed with its rapid acceleration and deceleration characteristics. Alarmingly steep gradients were climbed with ease and there appeared to be no problems with heavy braking on the slippery, icy rails.

The first part of the journey followed the course of the former LB&SCR Wimbledon to West Croydon line, the transformation of which amazed those who remembered the branch in its previous existence, the former run down stations being replaced with new trams stops at frequent intervals. The tram was soon as full as any train on the branch ever was, with many passengers heading for the massive shopping area now standing alongside the line at Waddon Marsh where once an expanse of sidings were packed with coal wagons to supply the now demolished power stations. The town of Croydon was soon reached, the tram making its way along the busy streets to East Croydon and then onwards to Elmers End.

On arrival, thirst overcame our party and once again we headed for the nearest public house. Unfortunately our choice of hostelry proved less than inspired so, after quickly slaking our thirsts, we beat a hasty retreat to the tram stop.

Following a very short wait we were rapidly transported to Beckenham Junction and the welcoming haven that is the 'Jolly Woodman'. By general agreement this was the best pub of the day, the Harveys Best Bitter being on particularly good form.

All too soon, it was time to make our way back to Croydon. The highlight of this part of the journey was travelling along the pedestrianised main shopping artery, George Street, the sounding of the trams warning gong parting the thronging crowds. The tram stopped just outside 'The George' - we decided that it would be rude not to go inside!

Arrival at Ryde was shortly after 11.00pm, unfortunately just after closing time, denying us the chance to spend the remainder of the days 'Kitty' which, luckily, managed to keep us in beer for most of the following evening - New Years Eve - although that is, as they say, another story!