Freddie Huxtable
Freddie practised as a Chartered Accountant and Chartered Tax Adviser in London for 40 years. He has returned to his roots in Devon from London on his retirement.
His interest in railways began in his teens in BR days, when there was significant rationalisation of the rail network being undertaken. The hobby took a back seat for 30 years until his interest in railways was rekindled in his 50s. At this time his involvement became much broader, from operational matters, signalling, and historical reading and research such as the development of railways from the 1800s. He wrote and had published a 3-volume book on the Taunton to Barnstaple line (The Devon & Somerset Railway), which was closed in 1966, and has written other railway-related articles.
In his retirement he has been appointed a director of several companies, one being the Forest of Dean Railway. Apart from railway research, he also has several model railways, some of which have been exhibited as far afield as the NEC, the others for personal enjoyment. He is also a member and Vice Chairman of the Barnstaple and North Devon Model Railway Club.