Thanks for the replies chaps.. all feedback is good
I've had a quick look through the xml but can't for the life of me spot why the 1905 victory screen is coming up twice.. anyone got any ideas?
universum : Have no fear tho.. far from putting me off, your comments only inspire me to try harder and resolve the issues.
To answer some of your comments.
When i first designed the map, i found that the DEM model did indeed give exagerated terrain which i suspect would be more to your liking. I tweaked the data to give a more 'realistic' feel, simply as this is the kind of map I prefer myself.
I added a larger number of towns/ villages (even villages demand passengers, mail and food) as during initial play, I found it to be tough to run lines as only the starter towns would accept or generate passengers and mail.. and this gave the poor soul lumped with Manchester (sorry to any Mancunians.. no offense intended) a major disadvantage.
As far as the terrain not being very interesting.. It's the North of England lol.. the terrain ISN'T very interesting.. I grew up in Tyneside and I was about 13 before I knew what a tree WAS!

Seriously tho, I take all your comments onboard and will spend a bit more time making the place a little more 'varied'.
I suspect the perfect solution is release two versions of the map.. the one I have at the moment and a much more difficult version of the map and scenario, with exagerated terrain, altered starting positions and more challenging goals.
On the not so good side, it may take me a while to get round to this. I'm having real life issues with my boat's engine, 12 v electric and heating system that need to be sorted out as a priority (I live on the boat, so it's kind of vital if you follow me

). Rest assured.. as soon as I'm warm, have running water again and the engine actually runs for more than 30 seconds without having a coughing fit and dieing, I'll get my head down and do what I can to provide you with a REAL challenge.
Narra