Railway enthusiasts seem to be, all bad jokes apart, natural computer fans. Accordingly, it has been no surprise that the Microsoft Train Simulator (MSTS) has been a big hit ever since its original release. Since then numerous add-on programs have appeared, including some featuring heritage steam railways. To these has now been added a virtual representation of the legendary Kent & East Sussex Railway,  built by Colonel Holman F. Stephens, which has battled on into the 21st century. Among its mainly volunteer staff is Paul Wright, one of the computer programmers who put the original MSTS together. With his knowledge of both the K&ESR and the simulator, Paul was uniquely placed to produce an add-on featuring this lovely 10 ½ mile long standard gauge light railway which is situated in one of the most unspoilt areas of  South East England.

Those who know the Kent & East Sussex intimately, as well as anyone coming fresh to the subject, will find a fascinating representation of familiar features for the already smitten and a superb preview for anyone who subsequently makes a first visit to the real thing. Various of the K&ESR’s locomotives come as part of the package including the Norwegian 2-6-0, one of the famous Stroudley Terriers, an SE&CR P Class and Austerity   0-6-0 saddle tanks. The range of rolling stock (both passenger and freight) is equally wide with pride of place perhaps going to the Pullman cars and the K&ESR's well known Vintage Train. The simulator is, incidentally, set in 2005 and is likely to become something of a historical record in itself in due course as things tend to move on quite rapidly on heritage railways. A goodly selection of activities based on actual operational duties are also included. Tenterden bank, which is mainly 1 in 50, is accurately represented and should prove an interesting challenge.

Initially the CD-Rom will be available from mid-September through the railway’s online store at www.kesr.org.uk and of course the Gift shop at Tenterden Station.