Romney Hythe and Dymchurch Armoured Train

I am researching some of my Paternal Grandfathers wartime service and in 1940 he was the driver/mechanic of the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch armoured train.

From a couple of sources we have been told that the train is actually accredited with downing 3 German aircraft, my question is how can I find out more about these aircraft? Dates, types etc?

 

AI states the below and assume if true war diaries would confirm states Somerset Light Infantry manned at some point

AI Overview





The Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway's miniature armoured train was credited with shooting down three German planes: a Bf 109, a He 111, and a Do 17. While the specific aircraft types are noted in sources, confirmation of these kills is difficult due to the hectic nature of aerial combat and potential overclaiming. One Bf 109 is confirmed to have been shot down by a Boys anti-tank rifle round from the train, with the wreckage containing a hole of the correct caliber.


Armoured Train – Romney Hythe & Dymchurch Railway Supporters Association
Description: Unedited silent shots of an armoured train manned by a battalion from the Somerset Light Infantry (SOMLI) patrolling a stretch of the 15-inch guage railway line that runs from Hythe across the Romney Marshes to Dungeness. The crew consists of seven men, including the driver, and the armament consists of four First World War-vintage .303 Lewis Guns and two Boyes .5 inch anti-tank rifles.

 

Might be worth contacting the below
War diaries

 

Our interest was spiked again in this subject recently when we read that a replica of the armoured train is back in progress with Armoured Engineering.

 

When, as ever, you're looking for other stuff.

Old Soldiers and all that.

Kind regards, choo-choo ch' boogie, always,

Jim.

 

I do wonder when its completion will be? I'd very much like to take my Father down to see it as it was his Father who served on it during the war.