ANTON U3A QUESTERS
VISIT TO TWYFORD WATERWORKS
SUNDAY 06 OCTOBER 2024
Ten Questers came out on Sunday 06 October 2024 to visit the Twyford Waterworks. The visit took place on a Sunday as the Trust only have open days on the first Sunday of the month from May to October inclusive. Only on open days do they run the plant and equipment to recreate the full experience.
Twyford Waterworks is an Edwardian pumping station containing a unique selection of buildings and machinery within a rural downland setting in the heart of Hampshire. The first well was completed in 1898 and operations had commenced by 1900.
Our guide for the morning was Matthew who is the vice-chairman of the Trust. He has been actively involved at the site for over 26 years and has been intimately involved in the restoration of equipment and buildings on the site as well as the acquisition of appropriate additional equipment. What better person to conduct our tour?
We were taken by Matthew on a 1 ½ hour tour and provided with much information about the history, operation and plans for the facility.
The three hand-dug 50 m deep wells on the site still provide up to 15 megalitres of water per day into the public supply system operated by Southern Water. However, none of the original pumps, filters and processes are still in use and the site was listed as a Scheduled Ancient Monument in 1973.
There was also an outdoor display of classic and old cars and other light vehicles as well as some small steam powered vehicles to add to the occasion.
After a well-received tour in somewhat damp weather, Questers retired to the on-site tearoom for light lunch and refreshments.
There have been a number of positive comments from Questers after the outing so it was found to be interesting and informative.
Cecil Rose
Some Images and text from Twyford Waterworks Trust website.