Steam Train To the Sea

We are all gathered on the platform Jumping up and down with glee We can see the smoke of the puffing train Coming nearer to take us to the sea We are off on a Whitsun treat Forty children or more Many adults to look after us Experience told them what was the score They heaved on wicker baskets of goodies And crates of lemonade We were off to Barry Island for a Picnic Just a half hours ride away The seats were rather hard and had mesh racks above to store luggage for folk Opened up the windows with a leather strap Stuck out heads to a face full of smuts and smoke The choc choo sound was so exhilarating Excitement grew with every mile Wanted to be that train driver with his whistle To pull that chain that made the sound, bringing smiles. Had a wonderful time on the sands Paddled our feet in the sea Gathered around to eat our food Washed down for the adults with gallons of tea Forty tired and happy children Clambered aboad that train for home The clicketty clack of the wheels the sway of the carriage, sending them to sleep and dream We were soon at our home station So sleepy yet didn't want the day to end Tired and dirty, had a lovely day in the sun Starting the day aboard a steam train that puffed around the bend. Penned January 20 2015