Chairmans Blog

Arthur Sancto 1944 – 2009

Arthur's Seat

Arthur, our MCRUA Secretary, was born in Swindon, Wiltshire, where his father worked as an armature winder for the Great Western Railway. He developed an early interest in the railways and was a keen train-spotter.

On leaving school, aged 16, he took up an engineering apprenticeship with the Western Region Workshops of British Railways where he continued to work for several years after completing his apprenticeship.

Whilst still working for the British Railways Board he moved to London where he enjoyed a period at the Board Headquarters, 222 Marylebone Road (The Kremlin) and subsequently at Finsbury Park Motive Power Depot.

In 1970 he moved to Leicester to work as a design engineer in the nuclear industry and worked on Heysham and Hartlepool Nuclear Power Stations and finally on the design of Sizewell B power station. He subsequently moved to Knutsford when his employment relocated to Booth’s Hall.

Many of his interests were related to the railways. He was a life member of the Talyllyn Railway Society based in Tywyn, where he went as often as possible either simply to visit or to assist on working weeks, helping to maintain the steam railway. He was often to be seen at the AGM in September, latterly accompanied by his wife, Elaine, whom he married in 2003 and whom he had also enthused with his love of the railways.

He was a keen member of the MCRUA and acted as its Secretary for many years as well as being their webmaster for several years.

He took a keen interest in Knutsford station and was the station adopter until ill health necessitated the curtailing of some activities. Arthur maintained his interest in railway matters until he became seriously ill in early 2009.

We were delighted to be able to agree the installation of “Arthur’s Seat” at Knutsford station with Northern Rail, and with assistance from Knutsford High School (KHS). KHS provided the two paintings behind the seat, the one on the left being of a Great Western engine, as well as the planting and maintenance of the flower tub. All very much appreciated. It was lovely that Elaine was able to join us at the dedication ceremony.

Elaine is sitting on “Arthur’s Seat”. Behind her are MCRUA members, Sally Buttifant our Community Rail Officer and representatives from Knutsford High School and Northern Rail, and others.