1981

For 1981 IMLEC went the furthest South it had ever been, to Bournemouth. The Bournemouth Society's track was designed by the ME editor Laurie Lawrence, who was also in charge of construction. Laurie had been Secretary, Chief Engineer, President and Vice-President of the club over the years.

Percy Wood was back to defend his 1980 title, but with a different locomotive. Out with the Britannia and in with a 5 in. J39. This proved a wise move as Percy became a three time IMLEC champion. Laurie Lawrence gives us details of the winning run:

"Run 11 A couple of weeks before the event, Percy Wood came on the office telephone somewhat anxiously enquiring about the Rules. Apparently the L.N.E.R. J39 was not going to be ready in time and he wanted to "defend" with his Britannia which had won last year. However, as it turned out, his J39 was ready and Percy was again set to show what the geriatrics could do. This engine has a radiant superheater, long travel valves and hydrostatic sightfeed lubrication. Percy was responsible for the design and had only the minimum of time in which to "run in" the engine before the event. Load was 12 adults and the start was very clean and positive but that bank gave him as much trouble as several other competitors. The train stalled on the bank and Percy had to set back to be able to tackle it afresh. Once the locomotive had got hold of the train, there was no stopping him! Speed went up to around 10 m.p.h. and firing was at regular intervals, only small shovelfuls went in the box with Percy in complete control. He did not waste a grain of coal, and drove in his customary competent manner. It was obviously a good run and a crowd gathered round the score board at the finish waiting to see if Ray Wilkinson, who had been at the top place for about three hours, would be dislodged. He was."