STEVIE B's RAILWAY PHOTO COLLECTIONS http://stevie-b.fotopic.net/ 27 rows en-gb 60 SEVERN VALLEY RAILWAY DIESEL GALA 2009. http://stevie-b.fotopic.net/c1766765.html I always look forward to this Diesel Gala. Probably because it has four of my favourite stations within its length. Plus, of course, it is home to The Fifty Fund and their locos. This gala was, due to no fault of their own, somewhat curtailed due to the derailment on Monday 28th September of the tender of a steam loco at the southern end of the station loop at Hampton Loade. This effectively closed the northern passing loop and drastically reduced the number of trains that could be run. The SVR were forced to cancel the booked appearance of 56303; a Virgin 57/3 and 26007. It was still a marvellous and hectic gala, so "hats off" to the Gala Committee for successfully overcoming the major reorganisation, at a very late stage, of the timetable. My one gripe (and in this day and age I think it a major gripe) that there was no locomotive roster available prior to, or during, the gala! Obviously the loco crew and officials had a roster, but not to make it available on-line for the gala visitors is, quite frankly, NOT ON!! My two visits to this gala were on the first (Thursday) and last days (Saturday). Thursday 8 October 2009: I always look forward to this Diesel Gala. Probably because it has four of my favourite stations within its length. Plus, of course, it is home to The Fifty Fund and their locos. This gala was, due to no fault of their own, somewhat curtailed due to the derailment on Monday 28th September of the tender of a steam loco at the southern end of the station loop at Hampton Loade. This effectively closed the northern passing loop and drastically reduced the number of trains that could be run. The SVR were forced to cancel the booked appearance of 56303; a Virgin 57/3 and 26007. It was still a marvellous and hectic gala, so "hats off" to the Gala Committee for successfully overcoming the major reorganisation, at a very late stage, of the timetable. My one gripe (and in this day and age I think it a major gripe) that there was no locomotive roster available prior to, or during, the gala! Obviously the loco crew and officials had a roster, but not to make it available on-line for the gala visitors is, quite frankly, NOT ON!! My two visits to this gala were on the first (Thursday) and last days (Saturday).

2601) 12099 & D3937 GLADYS wait in the watery autumnal morning sunshine for their 2602) D8188 & D8059 wait atop their 9am non-stop Kidderminster to Bridgenorth departure, the first train of this gala on Thursday 8th October. 2603) The pair of 20s wait for departure time at Kidderminster. 2605) The first south bound departure, in the hands of D1062 WESTERN COURIER at Bridgenorth. 2607) The new(ish) railway museum 2610) D821 GREYHOUND waits patiently alongside one of the three SVR DMUs, for its first gala run at Highley. 2611) Slowing for the Highley station stop, 50135 breaks the morning silence. 2614) After running out of the siding at Highley, the three car DMU saunters back into the platform road. 2615) D821 basks in the morning sunshine at Highley. 2617) The Highley 2620) D821 GREYHOUND at Highley. 2623) Terminating at Highley, 37264 enters from the Kidderminster direction. 2626) The Highley terminating trains, once passengers had been disgorged, would push the train back clear of the points at the southern end of the station. The train would then run into the middle road where the lead loco would uncouple. The loco stabled in the left hand siding (infront of the box) would then run into the headshunt. After the departure of the next through train would run back onto the stock, couple up and draw forward onto the main line and then back into the platform road. 2629) 37264 looks splendid in blue with 2631) D8059 & D8188 enter Highley from Bridgenorth. 2634) The pair of 20s depart from Arley, Bewdley & Kidderminster bound. 2636) The GREYHOUND waits at Arley. 2637) The GREYHOUND pulls up in Bewdley. 2638) D1062 WESTERN COURIER in Bewdley's platform 3 waits to head north. 2639) On static display all gala long is 50026 INDOMITABLE at Kiddy. 2641) 37906 at Kiddy, waits for its departure time. 2642) The 42 and a 50. GREYHOUND & INDOMITABLE. 2645) The 20s resting between shifts. 2646) On of my favourite shots of the day; 37906 growls out of Kidderminster. 2648) D821 GREYHOUND at Kiddy. 2651) Back from Bridgenorth atop the 12.35 Thursday departure, 50135 ARK ROYAL enters Kidderminster. 2653) The 2656) Another Diesel Gala first was the use of platform three for northbound departures instead of platform one. This saved passengers transferring across the footbridge. This move obviously helped to keep the timetable running smoothly. 2657) 47580 COUNTY of ESSEX in the county of Worcestershire! 2659) 47580 is Kiddy bound at Bewdley. 2660) The GREYHOUND 2662) Another of my favourite shots of the day; D821 at Bewdley. 2663) Off and running for Highley, the GREYHOUND leaves Bewdley. 2672) My favourite shot of the day (Thursday) D444 EXETER enters Bewdley from Arley. 2673) D444 at Bewdley. 2677) GWR meets BR at Bewdley. 2679) A great pair of 50s ... 44 & 26, EXETER & INDOMITABLE at Kiddy. 2680) 50s 44 & 26. 2683) 47580 COUNTY of ESSEX rests at Kidderminster. 2682) Sauntering off to Bewdley, shunters 12099 & D3022 leave Kiddy with the 16.15 departure. 2684) D444 EXETER runs off 2686) D1013 WESTERN RANGER makes an entrance at Kidderminster. 2691) D1013 at Kiddy. 2693) D1013 WESTERN RANGER on the blocks at Kidderminster. 2694) 52 + 50 at kiddy. 2695) 47580 COUNTY of ESSEX leaves Worcestershire for Shropshire. 2697) 47580 in the late afternoon sunshine leaves Kiddy. 2698) D1013 in my final shot of the first day of the SVR Diesel Gala 2009. 2701) 10.12am at Arley, D444 runs light to Highley on day 3 of the SVR Diesel Gala. 2703) D444 EXETER at Arley.

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]]> Thu Oct 8 2009 NENE VALLEY RAILWAY AUTUMN DIESEL GALA 2009. http://stevie-b.fotopic.net/c1763655.html My "local" Preserved Railway stretched out their 2009 Autumn Diesel Gala to cover four days. Starting on the Thursday with a one-train double-heading day, a fair few fans gathered in the autumnal sunshine for a very pleasant day's entertainment. This collection covers the two days (Thursday and Friday) of my visit to this excellent (as usual) Diesel Gala. I couldn't help but laugh when one of the station staff at Orton Mere on the second day, told me that it wasn't the "50" that caused the timetable slipage on the first day; it was the bloke with the wheel barrow chasing after the loco picking up all the bits that were falling off that caused the late running! 50008 was in a bit of a state, but it was great to ride behind her again after so many years. Roll on the next NVR Diesel Gala. Thursday 1 October 2009: My "local" Preserved Railway stretched out their 2009 Autumn Diesel Gala to cover four days. Starting on the Thursday with a one-train double-heading day, a fair few fans gathered in the autumnal sunshine for a very pleasant day's entertainment. This collection covers the two days (Thursday and Friday) of my visit to this excellent (as usual) Diesel Gala. I couldn't help but laugh when one of the station staff at Orton Mere on the second day, told me that it wasn't the "50" that caused the timetable slipage on the first day; it was the bloke with the wheel barrow chasing after the loco picking up all the bits that were falling off that caused the late running! 50008 was in a bit of a state, but it was great to ride behind her again after so many years. Roll on the next NVR Diesel Gala.

2404) 50008 gets into position for its first run at the NVR Diesel Gala, Autumn 2009, at Wansford. 2406) 50008 waits the arrival of the 09.07 from Peterborough at platform 1, Wansford. 2407) 31271 & 31108 arriving from Peterborough at Wansford. 2412) 31271 & 50008 run onto the stock for the 9.40 Wansford departure, over the River Nene. 2414) Peterborough (Nene Valley) station and the 50 / 31 combination ready for the run-round. 2417) Uncoupling at the Wansford end of the Peterborough station to enable 50008 to pilot 31271. 2420) 31271 runs back onto the stock past 50008. After 31271 coupled up to the stock, it had to uncouple again and run up to the 50 and then both locos ran back onto the stock. 50008 had no air and therefore couldn't run back unaided. Now safely coupled up, 50008 & 31271 await the 2423) The 50 / 31 combination back safely at Wansford. 2427) With the timetable 50 minutes or so behind, the decision was made to cancel the 10.50 service. This is the pair of 31s running back to form the noon departure from Wansford. 2428) The 31s stretch out of platform 2 and onto the River Nene bridge holding up traffic on the crossing for over 15 minutes. Good job the A1 was re-routed around Wansford many years ago! 2429) With load seven, 31108 & 31271 head off to Peterborough with the noon service. 2431) The Wansford shed basking in the autumnal sunshine. 2433) 50008 & D5185 CASTELL DINAS BRAN. 2440) 31271 STRATFORD 1840 - 2001 leads classnate 31108 into Wansford. 2441) 31271 & 31108 pass 50008 & D5185. 2443) The 25 / 50 combination roll back onto the stock across the River Nene bridge. 2447) Back from Peterborough, 50008 & D5185 enter Orton Mere. 2449) Ferry Meadows station stop, heading west to Wansford are 50008 & D5185. 2452) Back from Wansford, 31108 leads 31271 into Ferry Meadows station. 2454) The 31s ready to run-round at Peterborough. 2458) 31108, 50008 & D5185 in the autumn sunshine at Wansford. 2462) The 50 / 25 pairing again off to Peterborough at 16.20 with the delayed 15,50 service from Wansford on the first day of the four day NVR Diesel Gala. 2501) Orton Mere station; day two of the NVR autumn Diesel Gala with Peak 45133 heading for Wansford from Peterborough. 2503) 45133 at Wansford. 2505) 45133 run across the river. 2506) In the watery October sunshine, 45133 backs onto the stock for the second service of the day with the 09.40 from Wansford to Peterborough. 2508) With a load seven, blockage of the crossing is unfortunately essential. 2512) Watery autumnal sunshine across the Wansford shed on Friday morning, day two of the NVR Autumn Diesel Gala. 2514) D9009 & 50008. 2519) The locos heading the next two service trains to Peterborough wait in platform one at Wansford. D5185 will head the 10.50 and the 50 / 55 pairing, the noon service. 2522) 50008 & D9009 ALYCIDON enter Orton Mere, Peterborough bound. 2524) 50008 & D9009 leave Orton Mere for Peterborough. 2525) 50008 enters the headshunt at Peterborough. 2529) D9009 awaits 50008 before heading back to Wansford from Peterborough. 2531) The Hoover & Deltic back at Wansford. 2532) D306 ATLANTIC CONVEYOR heading the 13.36 departure from Wansford. 2533) D306 heading over the River Nene out of Wansford. 2535) Beware of the Train ... 37518 bursts into life at Wansford. 2537) 45 / 31 / 37 on shed at Wansford. 2538) 50 / 55 / 45 on shed at Wansford. 2541) With just a nose in front ... 50008, D9009 & 45133. 2544) Lining up for their next duties, 45133 will head the 14.40 whilst the pairing will head the 15.50 to Peterborough. 2548) 45133 passes the Wansford box to take up pole position for the 14.40 departure. 2553) 45133 with the Mk1s heads out of Wansford for Peterborough. 2555) D306 in 2561) The pairing of D5185 CASTELL DINAS BRAN & 37518 cross the bridge to head the 15.50 service from Wansford on day two of the NVR Autumn Diesel Gala 2009.

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]]> Thu Oct 1 2009 MID NORFOLK RAILWAY AUTUMN DIESEL GALA 2009. http://stevie-b.fotopic.net/c1761123.html The second day of this year's second Diesel Gala at the MNR appeared to be a quiet one. Most of the home fleet stretched their legs alongside the DRS Class 37 37510 on this beautiful late September day. If anyone remembers my trip to the MNR Gala six months ago and wants an update on the suspected "speeding ticket" scenario ... well ... it never arrived, so hopefully I'm still "nil point" on my licence!! Don't speak too soon!!! Sunday 27 September 2009: The second day of this year's second Diesel Gala at the MNR appeared to be a quiet one. Most of the home fleet stretched their legs alongside the DRS Class 37 37510 on this beautiful late September day. If anyone remembers my trip to the MNR Gala six months ago and wants an update on the suspected "speeding ticket" scenario ... well ... it never arrived, so hopefully I'm still "nil point" on my licence!! Don't speak too soon!!!

01) 31438 a.k.a. D5557 in the sunshine at Dereham. 02) Network Rail's multi purpose stoneblower STEPHEN CORNISH lays over at Dereham. 04) 101695 stabled at Dereham. 08) 47584 under repair at Dereham. 10) 37003 under restoration and the subject of a Bachmann 00-gauge Limited Edition in due course. Details from www.c37lg.co.uk if you're interested. 11) 37003. 17) The 11.45 Wymondham departure arrives back at Dereham, in the hands of 50019 RAMILIES & D8069. 19) 50019 & D8069. 21) 37510 DRS Anglian on a mission. 22) 50019 RAMILIES & D8069 being uncoupled from the stock. 28) D8069 & 50019 RAMILIES 30) 50019 RAMILIES runs through at Dereham. 31) D8069 runs through at the north end of Dereham station. 33) One of my favourite shots of the day; 31438 being the subject matter. 35) 37510 ... you've been framed. 36) 37510 departs solo from Dereham with the 12.45 for Wymondham. 42) D8069 in the sunshine. 43) 73210 SELHURST & 50019 RAMILIES ... you two have been framed. 45) D8069. 47) MNR reflections (1). 48) MNR reflections (2). 52) 73210 SELHURST. 54) 37510 back from Wymondham with the 13.40. 55) 31438 & 37510 and another of my favourite shots of the day. 57) 31438 & 37510. 59) 37510 runs off the stock. 63) 73210 SELHURST; 50019 RAMILIES and 37510. 65) STOP ... its 73210; 50019 & 37510. 67) D8069 departs Dereham with the 14.45 to Wymondham. 69) 31438 brings up the rear of the 14.45 Dereham departure on the second day of the MNR Autumn Diesel Gala 2009.

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]]> Sun Sep 27 2009 DESIRO DAY - a collaberation between M.L.I. & S.W.T. http://stevie-b.fotopic.net/c1761000.html The railway magazine MODERN LOCOMOTIVES ILLUSTRATED, in conjunction with SOUTH WEST TRAINS held a "go virtually anywhere on SWT metals for £20" day. Issue number 178 of the magazine features the Desiro Units operated by SWT, hence the DESIRO DAY. A great many enthusiasts took up the offer. My itinerary started and concluded at Waterloo, formerly with the 07.50 and latterly at 18.20. This collection features (at each station) AN HOUR OR SO AT .... Reading, Basingstoke, Bournemouth, Southampton Central and Clapham Junction, my photographic stops of the day. Saturday 26 September 2009: The railway magazine MODERN LOCOMOTIVES ILLUSTRATED, in conjunction with SOUTH WEST TRAINS held a "go virtually anywhere on SWT metals for _20" day. Issue number 178 of the magazine features the Desiro Units operated by SWT, hence the DESIRO DAY. A great many enthusiasts took up the offer. My itinerary started and concluded at Waterloo, formerly with the 07.50 and latterly at 18.20. This collection features (at each station) AN HOUR OR SO AT .... Reading, Basingstoke, Bournemouth, Southampton Central and Clapham Junction, my photographic stops of the day.

001) Two Class 458 Juniper Units at Reading. 002) A FGW HST heads for Paddington. 003) Class 458 Juniper Units. 004) 43028 on the rear of a West Country express in Reading's platform 4. 005) Xc's 220030 in the 007) 220030 heads back to Manchester Piccadilly. 010) 165106 heads west out of Reading. 012) 166221. 014) 43035 on the rear to London; 43168 heads west. 016) 43168, with no feather lit, heads towards Didcot Parkway. 019) 220028 & 165110. 020) 220028 & 165110. 021) With the feather lit, 43194 will hit the 022) FGW HST & SWT Juniper Units at Reading. 024) 43145 on the rear of a westbound service. 026) 220016 (left and heading for Bournemouth) alongside 220013 (waiting to head to Manchester). 030) FGW heading to Paddington whilst SWT waits to operate to Waterloo. 034) A FGW departure to, and an arrival from London Paddington at the eatern end of Reading Station. 035) Arrivals at Reading from two different London termini, Paddington in the foreground and Waterloo. 036) SWT Juniper units and FGW turbos at the London end of Reading Station. 038) The FGW shuttle service between Reading and Basingstoke (at the latter) in the hands of Turbo unit 165136. 040) Desiro unit 444021 waits at Basingstoke. 041) 444003 at Basingstoke. 043) Unit 045) 221120 takes the 046) 66592 with a Freightliner for Southampton comes off the Reading route at Basingstoke. 047) 66592 heads for Southampton through Basingstoke. 050) 159013 is Waterloo bound. 051) 444043. 053) 159004. 055) XC's 220024 comes off the Reading route into Basingstoke heading for Bournemouth. 056) 220024. 057) 444025 heads west. 060) 159006. 058) 450036. 059) 444008. 063) 159002. 065) 66050 EWS ENERGY heads through Basingstoke bound for the Eastleigh yard. 066) 66050 EWS ENERGY heading for Eastleigh Yerd. 067) 450036 waits to head back to Waterloo. 069) 450036 & 444023, SWT cousins. 070) Class 444s at Bournemouth. 073) 444039, after splitting at Bournemouth continues its service to Weymouth. 074) 444023, after splitting from sister unit 039, waits to go onto the DMU servicing road. 076) 220004 arrives right-time at Bournemouth from Manchester Piccadilly. 078) 220004 & 444012. 079) 444012 at sunny Bournemouth. 081) 444041 at sunny Bournemouth, on its way to Weymouth. 082) 220004 back from the DMU servicing roads and awaits its 14.45 departure back to Manchester Piccadilly. 085) 444024 bursts into the sunshine at Bournemouth.

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]]> Sat Sep 26 2009 BATTLEFIELD LINE AUTUMN 2009 DIESEL GALA http://stevie-b.fotopic.net/c1756770.html In my opinion, in the Preserved Railways of Great Britain, this line is high in "League Two." This line has a "family" feel to the operation, well that's what I felt whilst visiting on the first day of this three day gala. Unfortunately, 56098 was pulled from the loco rosta earlier in the week preceeding the gala due to its failure. This then spoilt the Class 56 triple header which was to be one of the main draws of this gala. The other draw being the "Carry on Clagging" cup that was run on the Friday evening after the return of the last service train. This lack of 56098 did not detract from what was an excellent gala "opening night." The friendly atmosphere and locals, plus a sunny afternoon, made Shackerstone a pleasure to visit. Congrats to all involved. Friday 18 September 2009: In my opinion, in the Preserved Railways of Great Britain, this line is high in "League Two." This line has a "family" feel to the operation, well that's what I felt whilst visiting on the first day of this three day gala. Unfortunately, 56098 was pulled from the loco rosta earlier in the week preceeding the gala due to its failure. This then spoilt the Class 56 triple header which was to be one of the main draws of this gala. The other draw being the "Carry on Clagging" cup that was run on the Friday evening after the return of the last service train. This lack of 56098 did not detract from what was an excellent gala "opening night." The friendly atmosphere and locals, plus a sunny afternoon, made Shackerstone a pleasure to visit. Congrats to all involved.

02) Gala heavyweights from left to right are:- 56040 OYSTERMOUTH; 31130 CALDER HALL POWER STATION; 33019 GIFFON; 73114 and 31101. 05) The first service of the day; 47640 UNIVERSITY of STRATHCLYDE waits at Shakerstone for the 10am departure time for Shenton. 08) 47640 (with large logo livery on one side only) runs round at Shenton. 09) 47640 UNIVERSITY of STRATHCLYDE backs onto the stock at Shenton for the 10.30 departure back to Shakerstone. 10) Passing the Class 116 / 118 hybrid DMU upon entering Shakerstone. 13) 56040 OYSTERMOUTH and 31101 back onto the stock for the 11am Shakerstone departure to Shenton. 15) 56040 & 31101 simmer whilst staff boost up the genny of the buffet car at Shakerstone. 16) Causing a bit of a fog, 56040 hauls its load out of Shakerstone atop the 11am departure. 18) 31101 runs round at Shenton. 19) I did ask the driver whether he had paid and displayed ... his answer was 21) Now coupled back up, 56040 & 31101 continue their run round manoeuvre at Shenton. 23) OYSTERMOUTH & 31101 buffer up to the stock for the 11.30 Shenton departure for Shakerstone. 25) 33019 GIFFON plus Class 25 D5217 are in charge of the noon Shakerstone departure. 28) 33019 & D5217 (25067). 31) This Shakerstone platform one lineup consists of 56040; 31130; 73114 and 47640. 32) 56086 & 73114. 36) 56040; 31130; 73114 and 56086. 42) 56086 & 73114 with the 13.00 from Shakerstone. 43) 31130 CALDER HALL POWER STATION gets into position for the 14.15 departure for Shenton. 45) 31130 is framed between the posts. 46) 48) 49) Visions International were sponsors of this event. 51) 56040 OYSTERMOUTH. 52) The delightful Shakerstone station. 53) 73114 (now 55) 73114 arrives into platform two. 58) 56040 side by side with 31130. 59) 56040 OYSTERMOUTH passes the Shakerstone signal box; one of my favourite shots of the day. 62) 56040 & 31130 are off with the 15.15 from Shakerstone. 64) 73114 basks in the Friday afternoon sunshine. 66) 47640; 33019; 04110 and 31101. 67) 47640 drags 31101 out of the sidings for their next 69) 31101 & 47640, platform one, Shakerstone. 71) 73114; 31101 & 47640 star in another of my favourite shots of the day.

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]]> Fri Sep 18 2009 GREAT CENTRAL RAILWAY AUTUMN 2009 DIESEL GALA - DAY TWO http://stevie-b.fotopic.net/c1754349.html The "double track" Preserved Railway held its bi-annual, three day Diesel Gala during the second weekend of the month ... and what a cracker it was too! A Deltic, a Hoover, a Growler and a Peak were the star attractions along with the "locals" which, on day two, gave a much wider variety of pulling power. On day two, Quorn & Woodhouse station featured heavily in this photo gallery along with Loughborough Central and Rothley. In decending order of classes, the following were operational:-55019, 50007, 47714, D1705, D123, 37314, D6535, D5830, D5401, D5185, D8098, D4067 and D2158. Another teriffic day out at the Great Central Railway. Congrats to all involved for a glorious two days out ... and the sun shone ... in buckets!! Saturday 12 September 2009: The "double track" Preserved Railway held its bi-annual, three day Diesel Gala during the second weekend of the month ... and what a cracker it was too! A Deltic, a Hoover, a Growler and a Peak were the star attractions along with the "locals" which, on day two, gave a much wider variety of pulling power. On day two, Quorn & Woodhouse station featured heavily in this photo gallery along with Loughborough Central and Rothley. In decending order of classes, the following were operational:-55019, 50007, 47714, D1705, D123, 37314, D6535, D5830, D5401, D5185, D8098, D4067 and D2158. Another teriffic day out at the Great Central Railway. Congrats to all involved for a glorious two days out ... and the sun shone ... in buckets!!

01) Arriving at Rothley, D123 LEICESTERSHIRE and DERBYSHIRE YEOMANRY will lwad the 9.51 departure for Loughborough Central. 07) Departing Quorn & Woodhouse for Rothley are the 4BIG and D6535 combination. 08) Departing Quorn & Woodhouse for Rothley are the 4BIG and D6535 combination. 09) Class 25, D5185 arrives at Q & W. 11) D5185. 14) After arriving back at Q & W from Rothley, the 4BIG / D6535 combo transfer from the 18) Class 33 D6535 waits to push the 4BIG set to Rothley. 19) Slowing for the Q & W stop is Class 31, D5830. 23) One of my favourite photos of the day ... 4BIG at Q & W. 24) Q & W welcomes 50007 SIR EDWARD ELGAR. 26) Warning ... SIR EDWARD arrives at Q & W. 28) 50007 departs from Q & W in the Leicester direction. 30) Warning ... D123 at Q & W. 31) D123 LEICESTERSHIRE and DERBYSHIRE YEOMANRY. 32) D123 detarts Q & E in the Leicester direction. 33) In 34) D5185 runs light into Q & W from Loughborough. 35) 47714 in fading Anglia livery brings the 11.45 ex Loughborough into Quorn & Woodhouse. 37) A busy scene at Q & W. 47714 and D1705 cross, whilst D6535 & the 4BIG unit rest in the 40) D1705 and D123 41) D5185 pilots 47714 out of Q & W at the Class 33 looks on. 42) 50007 SIR EDWARD ELGAR arrives at Q & W on its way to Loughborough Central. 43) 50007 geparts from Q & W. 45) D6535 plus the 4BIG unit await the arrival of the next 48) The 50) D5401 at Quorn & Woodhouse. 51) Warning ... D5401 awaits departure time. 54) The 4BIG / Class 33 57) D6535 dewarfs the G-scale model railway, a permanent fixture at Rothley. 58) D6535 meets D9019 at Rothley. 59) 55019 ROYAL HIGHLAND FUSILIER approaches Rothley. 61) The token 62) 55019 heads back to Loughborough out of Rothley. 64) D8098 glides into Rothley. 65) 37314 66) Reversing at Rothley Brook, 37314 DALZELL enters Rothley from the south. 67) D8098 waits to be released from the rear. It will continue, in a 68) The Class 37 service train is held outside Loughborough for some ten minutes, as obvious intense activity continues within the station confines. The 69) D2158 MARGARET - ANN at Loughborough. 70) The splendid semaphores guarding this side of the Loughborough station. 71) The Class 20, D8098 runs through towards the shed. 73) Shunters D4067 & D2158 run through the Loughborough station throat. 75) D8098 waits at the semaphores. 80) Classes 20 and 31 run through the Loughborough station throat. 84) 47714 with the 15.10 non-stop service to Leicester North. 83) 37314 DALZELL at the semaphores. 86) D5185 (25035) CASTELL DINAS BRAN 88) 50007 SIR EDWARD ELGAR enters Loughborough Central. 89) 37314 DALZELL runs through the Loughborough station throat. 91) 37314 DALZELL at Rothley.

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]]> Sat Sep 12 2009 GREAT CENTRAL RAILWAY AUTUMN 2009 DIESEL GALA - DAY ONE. http://stevie-b.fotopic.net/c1754303.html The "double track" Preserved Railway held its bi-annual, three day Diesel Gala during the second weekend of the month ... and what a cracker it was too! A Deltic, a Hoover, a Growler and a Peak were the star attractions. This collection of photos covers Day One (Friday) when the "Big Guns" were operational. Loughborough Central, Rothley and Leicester North stations feature in these photos from day one. Rothley, high on my "pretty preserved stations" list is in stark contrast to the bland, stuck-out-in-the-middle-of-nowhere...ness of the Leicester terminus, as can be seen in this collection. Friday 11 September 2009: The "double track" Preserved Railway held its bi-annual, three day Diesel Gala during the second weekend of the month ... and what a cracker it was too! A Deltic, a Hoover, a Growler and a Peak were the star attractions. This collection of photos covers Day One (Friday) when the "Big Guns" were operational. Loughborough Central, Rothley and Leicester North stations feature in these photos from day one. Rothley, high on my "pretty preserved stations" list is in stark contrast to the bland, stuck-out-in-the-middle-of-nowhere...ness of the Leicester terminus, as can be seen in this collection.

02) Class 33, D6535 with the 4-BIG unit on push / pull duties enters Rothley from the south. 05) D6535 at the Loughborough terminus. 10) 50007 SIR EDWARD ELGAR hooks up to the stock for the 11.00 departure from Loughborough Central. 11) 4-BIG (plus the 33) at Loughborough awaiting its 11.15 13) 50007 & D123 pass on the double - track between Quorn & Woodhouse and Rothley. 14) SIR EDWARD at Leicester North. 16) 50007 at Leicester North. 18) The extremely pretty station of Rothley viewed from the south. 21) 50007 SIR EDWARD ELGAR leaving Rothley for Loughborough. 24) 47714 slows for the Rothley station stop. 26) 47714 about to run-round at Leicester North. 30) The Loughborough end of the run-round loop at Leicester North and 47714. 32) 47714 in fading Anglia livery leaves Rothley for Loughborough. 34) 47714 picks up speed after the Rothley station stop. 35) 55019 / D9019 ROYAL HIGHLAND FUSILIER approaches Rothley. 36) 55019 ROYAL HIGHLAND FUSILIER on the GCR. 38) Beware ... D9019 approaches Rothley from the south. 40) A pair of 47s, D1705 SPARROWHAWK and 47714 slow for the Rothley station stop. 42) D1705 & 47714. 43) The push-n-pull Class 33 & 4BIG 45) D6535 exits Rothley. 48) 47714 & D1705 SPARROWHAWK pick up speed after the Rothley station stop. 49) 50007 SIR EDWARD ELGAR at Rothley. 51) 50007. 58) SIR EDWARD enters Rothley from the Leicester direction. 61) D123 LEICESTERSHIRE and DERBYSHIRE YEOMANRY enters Rothley. 62) D123 at Rothley. 63) D123 LEICESTERSHIRE and DERBYSHIRE YEOMANRY at Leicester North. 66) D123. 68) D123 backs onto the stock after the run-round at Leicester North. 70) 37314 DALZELL and its first trip of the day slows at Rothley. 72) Basking in the afternoon sunshine at Loughborough is D8098. 75) D1705 SPARROWHAWK. 77) 50007 & D123 at Loughborough. 78) D6535 pushes off again to Rothley from Loughborough. 81) 37314 DALZELL runs on shed at Loughborough. 82) The Loughborough station throat with 55019 running through.

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]]> Fri Sep 11 2009 BARROWHILL ROUNDHOUSE "TWIN-ENGINE / TYPE 5" DIESEL GALA 2009. http://stevie-b.fotopic.net/c1738031.html Another excellent diesel gala held at the roundhouse site near Chesterfield. This was a "Twin Engine / Type 5" gala with plenty of static exhibits, some of which took turns on one end of the push / pull three coach shuttle between the site platform and the boundary fence. One of my favourite classes of loco was present, namely the Westerns. Champion and Fusilier also shared the shuttles, though sadly not together. There are many of my "favourite shots of the day" within this collection, mostly featuring the 52s. A day out for me to savour. Plenty of modern locos were also present as both exibits and shuttle locos. A glorious day ... and the sun shone!! Saturday 8 August 2009: Another excellent diesel gala held at the roundhouse site near Chesterfield. This was a "Twin Engine / Type 5" gala with plenty of static exhibits, some of which took turns on one end of the push / pull three coach shuttle between the site platform and the boundary fence. One of my favourite classes of loco was present, namely the Westerns. Champion and Fusilier also shared the shuttles, though sadly not together. There are many of my "favourite shots of the day" within this collection, mostly featuring the 52s. A day out for me to savour. Plenty of modern locos were also present as both exibits and shuttle locos. A glorious day ... and the sun shone!!

001) D8132 BARROW HILL DEPOT. 002) 55022 ROYAL SCOTS GREY. 005) 56101 looks ab. fab in blue / large logo livery. 006) DRS' 66425 on shuttle duty. 009) A pair of 56s sandwiching a pair of 52s. D1015 & D1023, WESTERNs CHAMPION & FUSILIER between 56s 101 & 098. 011) The permanent 013) A pair of 20s - 107 & 096. 014) 45060 SHERWOOD FORESTER. 016) 56098 storms past D1015. 017) 45112 ROYAL ARMY ORDNANCE CORPS. 018) D1023 WESTERN FUSILIER. 019) 66841 in Advenza Freight livery. 023) Old and new in a variety of blues. 025) The immaculate looking 37197. 030) Network Rail's 97302. 032) Network Rail's 97304. 036) An immaculate looking twosome: 20s 096 & 107. 035) STANTON No: 50. 038) A view across the rooftops in the diesel display area. 043) 56098 has been released from passenger shuttle duties. 042) Fastline Freight's 66305. 046) Westerns in waiting. D1023 & D1015. 048) CHAMPION & FUSILIER, one of my many favourite shots of the day. 050) 07001. 052) BRs D1023 WESTERN FUSILIER passes old 054) Old & new; side by side. 055) 47818 EMILY was on permanent shuttle duty at the 056) D1015 & D1023; WESTERNS CHAMPION & FUSILIER. 058) Another of my favourite shots of the day. The masses appeared to be enthralled. 063) 56101 065) D1015 taking up shuttle duties. 067) 56101 looking splendid. 069) 55022 ROYAL SCOTS GREY. 072) Fantastic - towering above, D1015 shuttles off. 074) D213 Andania D9016 Gordon Highlander. 075) 73134 Woking Homes. 076) 66433. 079) 56101, 56006 & 66841. 080) D1015, 56101, 56006 & 66841. 082) DRSs 66433 takes its turn on the passenger shuttle. 088) Diesel & electrics in the Roundhouse - from left to right:- 33035, 37057, 85101, E3035, 26007, D8142, D4092 & 33108. 089) 03066 going for a spin! 090) A magnificent site. A pair of Westerns; reminds me of my school days, going to Bristol from Weston-super-Mare some 45 odd years ago. 092) My favourite shot of the day. 095) 56101 lets everybody know it's on shuttle duty! 096) Old & new ... 55022 & 66841. 097) 55022 ROYAL SCOTS GREY. 100) 45112 ROYAL ARMY ORDNANCE CORPS. 104) Towering high above the camera; Deltic 55022 shuttles off the site platform. 105) 2 x 52s, 3 x 56s & 1 x 55 ... from l to r: 55022, 56098, D1023, D1015, 56101 & 56006.

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]]> Sat Aug 8 2009 AN HOUR or so at CARLISLE / The ELECTRIC SCOT RAILTOUR 2009. http://stevie-b.fotopic.net/c1725386.html The third attempt to successfully run The Electric Scot railtour was achieved on Saturday 11th July 2009. The original attempt by SPITFIRE RAILTOURS of Taunton, Somerset to run this tour was on Saturday 29th December 2007 when it was cancelled at Wolverhampton with stock problems. SPITFIRE then re-ran the tour on Wednesday 15th October 2008. This time 87002 was declared a failure at Glasgow and the "insurance" diesel had to return the train to Birmingham International. It was definitely third time lucky for SPITFIRE RAILTOURS, and a great day out ended as we pulled into Birmingham International just 14 minutes down on the scheduled arrival time. I, like many others, visited the DRS Open Day, so we alighted at Carlisle. My DRS photo collection can be found on an adjacent collection. An eight hour stay was the order of the day, so before (and after) the main event, "an hour or so" was spent on the platforms of Carlisle station. Enjoy. Saturday 11 July 2009: The third attempt to successfully run The Electric Scot railtour was achieved on Saturday 11th July 2009. The original attempt by SPITFIRE RAILTOURS of Taunton, Somerset to run this tour was on Saturday 29th December 2007 when it was cancelled at Wolverhampton with stock problems. SPITFIRE then re-ran the tour on Wednesday 15th October 2008. This time 87002 was declared a failure at Glasgow and the "insurance" diesel had to return the train to Birmingham International. It was definitely third time lucky for SPITFIRE RAILTOURS, and a great day out ended as we pulled into Birmingham International just 14 minutes down on the scheduled arrival time. I, like many others, visited the DRS Open Day, so we alighted at Carlisle. My DRS photo collection can be found on an adjacent collection. An eight hour stay was the order of the day, so before (and after) the main event, "an hour or so" was spent on the platforms of Carlisle station. Enjoy.

01) 47786 ROY CASTLE MBE was the 04) 87002 ROYAL SOVEREIGN waits for the 06.10 Birmingham International departure time. 06) 10.20, a right-time arrival at Carlisle in brilliant sunshine, set the mood of the day. 09) 87002 at Carlisle. 11) Departing for Glasgow Central, 87002 continues its journey north. 12) 47786 bringing up the rear of The Electric Scot Railtour. 13) 156505 at Carlisle's platform 7. 17) Class 57 Thunderbirds rest in the sunshine. 16) Northern Rail's 156475 at platform 2. 23) A Pendolino heads for London Euston. 24) TPE's 185104 & Freightliner's 66514 are southbound. 25) 156481 in Northern Rail livery stands at platform 5 before trundling back to Newcastle. 26) 221115 under the familiar train shed. 29) 185140 Glasgow bound & 221143 London bound. 31) 156439 in the distinctive new Scotrail livery. 32) 185144 slows for the station stop on its way to Manchester Airport. 34) DRS' 66416 has a crew change before taking the 36) A pair of Class 156s - 439 & 456 covered in different versions of Scotrail livery. 37) 158859 in Northern Rail livery. 39) 156475 disappears into the countryside as it heads for Whitehaven. 42) 390s 018 & 011. The former heads north; the latter heads south. 44) 390011 at Carlisle. 46) ATW's 57315 on thunderbird duties. 48) 57305 JOHN TRACY & 57311 PARKER tick over before heading for Preston. 50) 390032 CITY of BIRMINGHAM enters platform 3 from the south. 51) 185144 slows into platform 3. 52) 158859 departs for Newcastle. 53) 156490 arrives from the Tyne Valley line. 55) 390047 disappears southbound. 56) 142090 & 390047. 57) 142090. 60) 221109. 61) West Coast Railway's 47760 sporting 63) 156484 in one of the bay platforms. 64) DRS' 66430 is signal checked on its way north with the 66) 185135 in the striking 69) Pendolino 390050 slows for the Carlisle stop on its way to Glasgow. 70) 390020 in platform 4, waits to head for the capital. 71) Northern Rail's 153360. 72) Passing Voyagers at Carlisle. 74) 87002 Royal Sovereign slows to pick me up along with the hoards of others that visited the North West today. 76) Exactly what it says on the tin!

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]]> Sat Jul 11 2009 DRS KINGMOOR (Carlisle) DEPOT OPEN DAY 2009. http://stevie-b.fotopic.net/c1725150.html The gates of Direct Rail Services' Kingmoor Depot in Carlisle were thrown open for the day on Saturday 11th July 2009. Initially for family and friends of the workforce and invited guests, these DRS open days are becoming a serious event on the railway calendar. The big percentage of the visitors to this open day came via "The Electric Scot" railtour organised by Spitfire Railtours of Taunton, Somerset. Originating from Birmingham International and setting down at Carlisle (for the open day), the destination was Glasgow Central. In glorious sunshine, this small-ish depot excelled with exhibits for our viewing pleasure from across their Company. Well done and thanks to all concerned for an excellent event. Roll on next year! Saturday 11 July 2009: The gates of Direct Rail Services' Kingmoor Depot in Carlisle were thrown open for the day on Saturday 11th July 2009. Initially for family and friends of the workforce and invited guests, these DRS open days are becoming a serious event on the railway calendar. The big percentage of the visitors to this open day came via "The Electric Scot" railtour organised by Spitfire Railtours of Taunton, Somerset. Originating from Birmingham International and setting down at Carlisle (for the open day), the destination was Glasgow Central. In glorious sunshine, this small-ish depot excelled with exhibits for our viewing pleasure from across their Company. Well done and thanks to all concerned for an excellent event. Roll on next year!

04) Kingmoor depot viewed from the over bridge near the site entrance. 06) 66411 Eddie the Engine in Stobart livery. 08) 37610 T.S. (Ted) CASSADY 09) 47593 GALLOWAY PRINCESS. 11) 57008 TELFORD INTERNATIONAL RAILFREIGHT PARK. 12) 57012. 14) 37229 JONTY JARVIS. 15) 20311 21) 66414 JAMES the ENGINE in Stobart livery. 22) 66413. 23) 47739 ROBIN of TEMPLECOMBE in Colas livery. 26) 57011; 57007; 66431 and 66420. 27) 57011; 57007; 66431 and 66420 side by side under cover in the repair shop. 28) 37603 jacked up. 29) 66428. 31) 66433. 32) 66423. 33) 37069. 34) 66428. 36) 37510. 37) 57010. 38) Class 66 cousins 423 & 433. 39) 20302 & 20303. 40) 50049 DEFIANCE up for repairs. 41) 50049 DEFIANCE. 42) Colas' 47739 ROBIN of TEMPLECOMBE. 44) 37423; 66412 & 47593. 46) Five DRS locos in the 49) 37423 SPIRIT of the LAKES. 50) 37229 & 37087. 51) 37087 KEITHLY & WORTH VALLEY RAILWAY. Is it a Sixty?? No it's three Class 20s - 311; 303 & 302 in the Cumbrian sunshine. 56) A great view of some of the exhibits. 57) Eddie Stobart liveried 66s side by side. 66414 & 66411 JAMES & EDDIE the ENGINES. 64) 66412 in Malcolm Rail livery. 65) 66412. 66) Playfully squaring up to each other, it's rivals Eddie & Malcolm. 68) A marvellous twosome. 01) The invitation ticket. 02) The position of the exhibits.

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]]> Sat Jul 11 2009 A CAPITAL DAY OUT (FOUR) & A JAVELIN PREVIEW 2009. http://stevie-b.fotopic.net/c1725007.html Another in my series of "Capital Days Out" saw me limiting my station photograpy to King's Cross and St. Pancras International only. My plans for the day included a preview of the Javelin commuter service that will be commencing with the December timetable change. This service, currently previewing will, when fully up and running, ravage the journey time of today's South Eastern commuter routes from Kent. The Class 395s, known as Javelins, will utilise the High Speed 1 route between Ashford International / Ebbsfleet and St. Pancras International. The aforementioned Preview Service started running on 29th June 2009. Along with allowing its potential customers a "preview of the service", will give the trains a mileage accumulation; test all the systems and the technicians can iron out any bugs that may have survived the journey from Japan, the country of construction, prior to the official opening. May I thank both TOC's set of platform staff for courteously allowing me and my camera access to both the EMT and SouthEastern sections of St. Pancras International. RAIL magazine's "Stop & Examine" back page feature campaigns for a better tolerance of us likeminded souls with a bent for railway photography. I would like to add these two sets to the list of "the good guys & girls". Thank you. Friday 10 July 2009: Another in my series of "Capital Days Out" saw me limiting my station photograpy to King's Cross and St. Pancras International only. My plans for the day included a preview of the Javelin commuter service that will be commencing with the December timetable change. This service, currently previewing will, when fully up and running, ravage the journey time of today's South Eastern commuter routes from Kent. The Class 395s, known as Javelins, will utilise the High Speed 1 route between Ashford International / Ebbsfleet and St. Pancras International. The aforementioned Preview Service started running on 29th June 2009. Along with allowing its potential customers a "preview of the service", will give the trains a mileage accumulation; test all the systems and the technicians can iron out any bugs that may have survived the journey from Japan, the country of construction, prior to the official opening. May I thank both TOC's set of platform staff for courteously allowing me and my camera access to both the EMT and SouthEastern sections of St. Pancras International. RAIL magazine's "Stop & Examine" back page feature campaigns for a better tolerance of us likeminded souls with a bent for railway photography. I would like to add these two sets to the list of "the good guys & girls". Thank you.

001) 43068 enters King's Cross with Grand Central's 06.41 Sunderland departure. 012) 365510 wearing a First Capital Connect livery variation, exits King's Cross for Cambridge. 013) 317345; 43305; 91117; 91108 and 43307 line up in the sun at 015) Hull Trains' gleaming Adelante 180113 arrives at the Capital with the 08.12 Hull departure. 018) Occupying King's Cross' platform 1 are GCR's 019) ECML racers 43314 (NXEC) & 43068 (GCR). 020) ECML racers 180113 (HT) & 43317 (NXEC). 024) Hull Trains' 180113 at King's Cross. 025) Against the King's Cross blocks are 82s 208 & 217, alongside 43s 317 & 068. 026) The SouthEastern section of St. Pancras International. 029) East Midland Trains' 222012. 030) East Midland Trains' 222010. 032) Eurostar half-sets 3218 (and 7) alongside 3021(and 2). 033) Looking north from the end of EMTs section of St. Pancras. 035) 43059 leaves with the 11.15 limited stop HST for Nottingham. 040) 43089 arrives on the rear of the 09.28 from Nottingham. 041) 395003 with a 044) From the right, Platforms 3 & 4 house 222010 & 222012, whilst Eurostar 3021 / 3022 await their next trip along HS1 to Europe. 049) 3007 / 3218 / 3021 line up across threir section of St. Pancras International. 050) 5 car Class 222015 brings in the 10.24 Kettering departure for the Capital. 051) 43089 and 3021 visible. 052) 222s 010 & 015. 054) 395003 Javelin. 058) A six car Javelin set number 395003. 061) Looking right the way across St. Pancras International from the SoutnEastern platforms. The platforms run from right to left in this view. EMT has platforms 1 - 4 inclusive. Eurostars run from platforms 5 - 10 inclusive and SouthEastern Trains operate the final three, numbers 11 - 13 inclusive. 062) The scissors crossing between platforms 12 & 13. 065) A Meridian set leaves St. Pancras International. 072) From left to right Eurostars occupy platforms 5, 6,7 & 8 with 9 & 10 trainless. 075) The new FCC 078) SouthEastern Javelin preview listing for the afternoon. 085) 395013 visible, attached to 395016 will form a high speed test train. 089) Inside 395003 from the 090) Viewed from the window (of the 13.07 Javelin departure for Ebbsfleet) the West London Line climbs over the HS1 route. 091) The Dartford Crossing looms as the Javelin speeds us at 140mph through the Essex countryside before diving under the River Thames. 095) Essec industry alongside the Queen Elizabeth 11 bridge. 097) Ebbsfleet 099) 395005 at Ebbsfleet. 101) Another Eurostar races along the avoiding 103) Too fast to even catch the half-set number! 107) Another Javelin preview slows for the Ebbsfleet station, alongside the Kent connector line from Gravesend. There are another couple of platform faces just out of view to the upper right of this photo. Javelins will join / leave HS1 here from / to the Medway towns. 112) the 13.01 (local time) Paris Eurostar departure slows for the Ebbsfleet station stop. 3017 & 8 will arrive at St. Pancras sixteen minutes after leaving this station. 115) A Eurostar departs as a Javelin arrives at Ebbsfleet. 120) Storming past Ebbsfleet station on the coast-bound fast, the 14.34 London departure races Brussels bound. 124) The 14.13 non-stop Paris to London Eurostar speeds past Ebbsfleet International station. 129) Through the window of a London bound Javelin preview service, the Stratford 135) The London skyline (the Post Office Tower visible centre-right) as the Javelin slows for the London terminus. 145) The SouthEastern High Speed logo and the digital destination panel on the side of each coach. 146) Back at King's Cross, an unidentified Hull Trains Adelante departs for the north. 148) Leaving platform eleven for Cambridge, FCC's 365537 departs. 154) My train home to St. Neots today is in the hands of a pair of Class 321s. 405 and 401. I much prefer the Class 365s. The ride and comfort being far superior! FCC please note!!

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]]> Fri Jul 10 2009 The JACOBITE STEAM TRIP on the WEST HIGHLAND LINE 2009. http://stevie-b.fotopic.net/c1723046.html During a weeks' vacation in Scotland, my wife and I made the out and back day trip from Fort William to Mallaig. Run by West Coast Railways, the summer season of steam train trips are under the banner of "The Jacobite." Voted Top Rail Journey in the World by Wanderlust magazine 2009, this year's season marks the 26th year of regular summer steam trains to Mallaig. This sold out trip left Fort William at 10.20 and covered the 42 mile journey (including the leg-strech / sightseeing break at Glinfinnan) in two hours. Unfortunately the weather was quite dull and disappointing, but an entertaining day was had. Friday 3 July 2009: During a weeks' vacation in Scotland, my wife and I made the out and back day trip from Fort William to Mallaig. Run by West Coast Railways, the summer season of steam train trips are under the banner of "The Jacobite." Voted Top Rail Journey in the World by Wanderlust magazine 2009, this year's season marks the 26th year of regular summer steam trains to Mallaig. This sold out trip left Fort William at 10.20 and covered the 42 mile journey (including the leg-strech / sightseeing break at Glinfinnan) in two hours. Unfortunately the weather was quite dull and disappointing, but an entertaining day was had.

J190) 45231 The SHERWOOD FORESTER awaits its load for the trip to Mallaig. J193) 45231 The SHERWOOD FORESTER at Fort William. J194) 67011 arrives J196) We're off and running. J197) With the Glenfinnan Viaduct in sight, the excitement level rose quite dramatically. Probably something to do with a certain franchise called Harry Potter! J200) With hoards of cameras outstretched, we cross the viaduct. 100 feet high, these 21 arches are crossed quite sedately. J215) The head of Loch Shiel. J218) The leg stretching stop at Glenfinnan. J219) A pair of Class 156s (457 & 496) cross us at Glenfinnan. J221) The Class 156s disappear Fort William bound. J223) The entertainment at Glenfinnan. J224) Glenfinnan signal box. J226) 45231 ready for the Glenfinnan departure for Mallaig. J227) Plenty of greenery passes. J229) Loch Eilt. J230) Loch Eilt. J233) The rppftops of Arisaig and Loch nan Ceall beyond. J234) The Mallaig arrival of 45231 The SHERWOOD FORESTER with J236) Mallaig harbour. J237) 45231 has now run-round and manoeuvored the stock into the opposite Mallaig platform. J238) The Isle of Skye / Mallaig J241) Awaiting the arrival of the Scotrail service from Fort William prior to our Mallaig departure. J243) The Scotrail service train, in the hands of Class 156s 450 & 465, arrives at its destination. J246) Loch Sheil just prior to the frenzy of obtaining photographic evidence of crossing Harry Potter's viaduct. J247) Ben Nevis and Fort William from across Loch Eil. J249) Neptune's Staircase, a remarkable series of canal locks taking the Caledonian Canal from Loch Linnhe (Fort William) up to Loch Lochy and eventually Loch Ness (Inverness). J250) Upon our return to Fort William, the Caledonian Sleeper Service is readied for the overnight return to London. J251) 45231 The SHERWOOD FORESTER runs round the West Coast Railways' stock. J252) Awaiting an incoming Scotrail service, 45231 The SHERWOOD FORESTER shimmers patiently for the

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]]> Fri Jul 3 2009 "HELP FOR HEROES" DAY at the NENE VALLEY RAILWAY 2009. http://stevie-b.fotopic.net/c1714888.html First GBRf held an Open Day at the Nene Valley Railway in aid of the charity "Help for Heroes" and supplied two locomotives (66723 & 73207) to supplement that day's steam hauled trips (in the capable hands of 73050 CITY of PETERBOROUGH) The diesel round trip departures from Wansford were at 10.15; 13.25 & 16.35 and (especially the early trip) appeared to be heavily loaded. A pleasant couple of hours was spent, mainly at Wansford, the photographic results of which can be seen here. Yes ... I did swell the charity's coffers by donating a few pounds. Saturday 20 June 2009: First GBRf held an Open Day at the Nene Valley Railway in aid of the charity "Help for Heroes" and supplied two locomotives (66723 & 73207) to supplement that day's steam hauled trips (in the capable hands of 73050 CITY of PETERBOROUGH) The diesel round trip departures from Wansford were at 10.15; 13.25 & 16.35 and (especially the early trip) appeared to be heavily loaded. A pleasant couple of hours was spent, mainly at Wansford, the photographic results of which can be seen here. Yes ... I did swell the charity's coffers by donating a few pounds.

01) Ex-London Transport's SENTINEL with part of the TPO display train in platform three at Wansford. 03) Six of the Best - L to R:- THOMAS; 47270 SWIFT (aka 1971); 50008 THUNDERER; 37518; 56114 & D9504. 05) Arriving back in Wansford, 73207 heads the Yarwell Junction 10.30 departure into platform 2. 06) Off to Peterborough, 73207 crosses the River Nene. 09) 66723 bringing up the rear of the 10.35 Wansford departure. 11) SENTINEL shunts the TPO out of platform three across the River Nene. 14) 73050 CITY of PETERBOROUGH. 15) 325002 ROYAL MAIL (North Wales & North West) on show at Orton Mere. 17) The rest of the TPO vehicles (including BRIAN WHITE) situated at the NVR are also on show at Orton Mere. 19) 66723 CHINOOK enters Orton Mere heading the Peterborough 11.15 departure for Wansford. 23) 66723 exits Orton Mere. 24) 73207 passes the Orton Mere signal box. 26) 66723 CHINOOK crosses the River Nene and slows for the Wansford station stop. 27) 73207 brings up the rear as it crosses the river. 28) ... er ... could be 66723 CHINOOK! 31) 73050 & 66723. 33) 73050 lets off steam at Wansford. 35) 73050 CITY of PETERBOROUGH leaves Wansford for Yarwell Junction with the 11.50 Wansford departure. 37) D5613 (aka 31190) and sister loco 31271 STRATFORD 1840 - 2001 and 1971 SWIFT (aka 47270) on shed at Wansford. 38) 37518 on shed at Wansford. 42) 73207 beneath the Wansford semaphores. 48) The First GBRf 30) 66723 CHINOOK. 43) This locomotive is a Polish 0-8-0T Tkp/Class Slask No. 5485, built in 1959 for shunting and marshalling trains in steelwork factories. MANY THANKS to PETER SKUCE for PUTTING ME STRAIGHT. Click:-http://peterskuce.fotopic.net/c1245928.html for more info & photos. 44) 66723 & 73050. 46) 73050 CITY of PETERBOROUGH crosses the Nene and heads for its namesake. 41) Visible in the open and from L to R:- 31271; 50008; No.11 BIRCH COPPICE; 56114; 47270 SWIFT; D9504; THOMAS & SENTINEL. HELP for HEROES.

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]]> Sat Jun 20 2009 WEST SOMERSET RAILWAY "MIXED TRAFFIC" GALA 2009. http://stevie-b.fotopic.net/c1712050.html Minehead witnessed the ONSLAUGHT of a Hymek, a couple of "Teddy Bears" and their COURIER, a phenomenon that is seeing the NORTH STAR in daylight .... plus .... a TORNADO! May I add that miraculously, JOHN F KENNEDY also put in an appearance, or two!!! Sounds unbelievable .... it was a sight for sore eyes. One of my favourite Preserved Lines in the country, and home to three of my four favourite classes of locos, the West Somerset Railway had pulled out all the stops and organised a belter of a week-end. The main "draw" being, of course, 60163 TORNADO, but I'm sure that the many families riding thoroughly enjoyed their day out, just like me. The extremely picturesque railway and very friendly staff and locals, made this (for me) one of the top events of the year. Sincere congrats to ALL concerned. I visited (an the photos are from) Friday afternoon when the weather was gloomy, and all day Saturday, when the sun shone. Friday 12 June 2009: Minehead witnessed the ONSLAUGHT of a Hymek, a couple of "Teddy Bears" and their COURIER, a phenomenon that is seeing the NORTH STAR in daylight .... plus .... a TORNADO! May I add that miraculously, JOHN F KENNEDY also put in an appearance, or two!!! Sounds unbelievable .... it was a sight for sore eyes. One of my favourite Preserved Lines in the country, and home to three of my four favourite classes of locos, the West Somerset Railway had pulled out all the stops and organised a belter of a week-end. The main "draw" being, of course, 60163 TORNADO, but I'm sure that the many families riding thoroughly enjoyed their day out, just like me. The extremely picturesque railway and very friendly staff and locals, made this (for me) one of the top events of the year. Sincere congrats to ALL concerned. I visited (an the photos are from) Friday afternoon when the weather was gloomy, and all day Saturday, when the sun shone.

01) D832 ONSLAUGHT approaches its destination, Bishops Lydeard on the FRiday afternoon with the 15.40 ex-Minehead. 03) D832 runs round and backs onto the stock for the 17.25 Bishops Lydeard departure for Minehead. 04) D832 ONSLAUGHT. 09) D832 ONSLAUGHT readying for departure. 14) D7523 JOHN F KENNEDY shunts the goods train. 16) D7523 JOHN F KENNEDY is ready for the goods train departure at 18.00. 17) D7523 JOHN F KENNEDY. 19) D7523 at Bishops Lydeard. 20) D1661 NORTH STAR at Bishops Lydeard. 21) D7523 & 60163. 24) JFK departs Bishop Lydeard. 27) 60163 TORNADO backs onto the stock before pushing it back into the siding ready for its following morning working. 29) 60163 TORNADO. 31) Museum & TORNADO. 33) D7017 approaches its Bishops Lydeard destination. 35) Saturday morning an the 09.15 departure is in the hands of D7017. 36) The Hymek approaches Williton, Minehead bound. 37) D7017 & D832 cross at Williton. 38) D832 ONSLAUGHT at Williton. 41) Western class D1062 WESTERN COURIER arrives at Blue Anchor on its way from Minehead to Bishops Lydeard. 43) D7017 exits Blue Anchor for Minehead. 45) D1062 opens the throttle Williton bound. 48) D7017 back from Minehead at Blue Anchor. 50) D7017 & D1661 pass at Blue Anchor. 51) D1661 NORTH STAR awaits departure time before heading out of Blue Anchor for Minehead. 52) D1661 reats at Minehead. 54) D9520 & D9526 bask in the sunshine at Minehead. 56) And they're off ... from Minehead, the Teddy Bears leave the main platform. 57) D9520 & D9526 head out of Minehead. 58) A DMU in ... is that Minehead?? 59) The Western Region DMU in the bay platform at Minehead. 61) 60163 TORNADO after the highly anticipated arrival at 12.26 at Minehead. The atmosphere upon its arrival was quite amazing. 62) The throngs around the TORNADO. 63) The ONSLAUGHT of a TORNADO. 67) A TORNADO rushes through the Somerset countryside. 69) Beware of the TORNADO leaving Williton. 70) The DEPG locos on shed at Williton and not operating during the gala week-end D6566. 71) On shed at Williton D1010 WESTERN CAMPAIGNER. 74) D7018 also at Williton. 77) D1062 WESTERN COURIER approaches Williton from Bishops Lydeard. 78) Beware the COURIER enters Williton. 81) COURIER & NORTH STAR cross at Williton. 82) D1661 at Williton. 85) On the final approach to Williton come the TORNADO. 86) 60163 TORNADO at Williton. 88) The TORNADO lets off steam. 89) The ONSLAUGHT and the TORNADO cross at Williton. 97) The 102) D832 ONSLAUGHT eners Crowcombe Heathfield from Bishops Lydeard. 105) Hymak & Western slow for the Crowcombe Heathfield station stop.

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]]> Fri Jun 12 2009 LONG MARSTON OPEN WEEK-END 2009 http://stevie-b.fotopic.net/c1708607.html An event I had been looking forward to since purchasing my ticket some three months previously. The event was greatly marred by the inclement weather ... it pi**ed down!! That was a great shame as hosts Motorail Logistics, and in particular, Jack Boskett and his team had done a marvellous job in organising such an event, and have it washed out on the first day. I'm glad that the weather was far superior on the second day! An explanation (from BOB WATT and in his words) of the derailment (photo 47 of this colloection) is as follows:- "Originally the centre coach of 3; the rear vehicle had been drawn off by 11230 by this time; the space remaining on North Gate platform permitted the leading coach (trailing on departure) of the Railtour, propelled by 66060, to get a door on the platform, letting everybody (including me!) get back on again, and away at 1403, only 2 minutes late". Saturday 6 June 2009: An event I had been looking forward to since purchasing my ticket some three months previously. The event was greatly marred by the inclement weather ... it pi**ed down!! That was a great shame as hosts Motorail Logistics, and in particular, Jack Boskett and his team had done a marvellous job in organising such an event, and have it washed out on the first day. I'm glad that the weather was far superior on the second day! An explanation (from BOB WATT and in his words) of the derailment (photo 47 of this colloection) is as follows:- "Originally the centre coach of 3; the rear vehicle had been drawn off by 11230 by this time; the space remaining on North Gate platform permitted the leading coach (trailing on departure) of the Railtour, propelled by 66060, to get a door on the platform, letting everybody (including me!) get back on again, and away at 1403, only 2 minutes late".

02) 87004 alongside ex-86260 (thanks to 03) 11230. 01) A shot of the general 04) 4 condemed shunters, a 56 & 73138. 06) 47580 COUNTY of ESSEX just visiting for the week-end. 08) 50135 ARK ROYAL; 50026 INDOMITABLE; 73006; E3172 & 57307 LADY PENELOPE. 10) One of the rows of redundant Class 86s. 12) 47580; 20903; 20902 & 50135. 14) 01512 CONDUCTOR. 16) 50026; E3172; 73006 & 57307. 17) 57307 LADY PENELOPE. 34) Another row of stored Class 86s from TOCs Anglia & Virgin. 20) Headboard 22) Ex Class 86 (86247) wears one of the Europhoenix liveries. 26) 86401 NORTHAMPTON TOWN looks magnificent in the original incarnation of the NSE livery dating back some twenty years now. 27) 28) A row of condemmed Class 87s. 29) 31439; 31301 & 37898 rust in peace! 31) Rows of wagons now being stored due to the economic downturn. 32) More shunters. Nearest the camera are RACHEL & EMMA. 35) Yet more rows of Class 86s. 37) 73006; E3172 & the CONDUCTOR! 39) 41) 20902 & 20903. 42) 70047 MULBERRY; 50026 INDOMITABLE; 50135 ARK ROYAL & 20902. 43) 01512 CONDUCTOR & 70047 MULBERRY. 40) 47580; 50135; 50026 & 57307. 44) A brace of 87s plus an 86. 47) The mishap! Front bogie derailment of the rear coach near the site platform. BOB WATT supplied the explanation on my front page commentary. 46) No. 15 EARL DAVID after the mishap.

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]]> Sat Jun 6 2009 MID-HANTS (WATERCRESS) RAILWAY DIESEL GALA 2009. http://stevie-b.fotopic.net/c1705099.html With a five year break since the last diesel gala, this Mid-Hants Railway (a.k.a. the Watercress Line) event was a welcome return. Being yet another of what I call the "pretty" preserved lines, my visit coincided with the first day of this three day event. I have to say that the crowds were conspicuous by their absence! Yes there were people about, but not the volume one comes to expect from a diesel gala! The Watercress Line's website was lacking with regard to any serious information regarding the gala, and the timetable only appeared (without the loco roster) just two days before the event. Two possible reasons for the absence of the hoards could be explained by the fact that their website stated that everybody entering the station areas HAD to buy a Rover ticket. Well at least, it started off like that. I would hope they came to their collective senses, especially IF the punters were turning away. There was also a gala programme available (which I believe included the loco roster) but had a price tag of £5. I don't think that enthusiasts would pay £5 for information and descriptions that they already knew (being enthusiasts!!) just to obtain the loco roster. I certainly didn't pay £5 and later in the day I asked for, and was given a roster upon production of my ticket. I do hope that the other two days had a better patronage and that, in this economic climate, the line doesn't become known for "being a rip-off." I had a great day without the hoards .... thanks for asking. Friday 29 May 2009: With a five year break since the last diesel gala, this Mid-Hants Railway (a.k.a. the Watercress Line) event was a welcome return. Being yet another of what I call the "pretty" preserved lines, my visit coincided with the first day of this three day event. I have to say that the crowds were conspicuous by their absence! Yes there were people about, but not the volume one comes to expect from a diesel gala! The Watercress Line's website was lacking with regard to any serious information regarding the gala, and the timetable only appeared (without the loco roster) just two days before the event. Two possible reasons for the absence of the hoards could be explained by the fact that their website stated that everybody entering the station areas HAD to buy a Rover ticket. Well at least, it started off like that. I would hope they came to their collective senses, especially IF the punters were turning away. There was also a gala programme available (which I believe included the loco roster) but had a price tag of _5. I don't think that enthusiasts would pay _5 for information and descriptions that they already knew (being enthusiasts!!) just to obtain the loco roster. I certainly didn't pay _5 and later in the day I asked for, and was given a roster upon production of my ticket. I do hope that the other two days had a better patronage and that, in this economic climate, the line doesn't become known for "being a rip-off." I had a great day without the hoards .... thanks for asking.

01) 9.15am at Ropley and the locos are awoken. A 33 & a pair of EDs prepare to run to Alton in preparation for the start of their first duties. 03) 37905 & 56098 are idling prior to their run down to Alresford to take up their first positions. 06) The Class 117 DMU shuffles into Ropley with the first 08) The Class 122 has the honours of being the first 09) 37905 & W55003 at Alresford 12) W55003 in the cattle dock (a.k.a. platform 1a) at Alresford. 13) The shunter, D3358 provided cab rides for any interested parties. 14) W55003 in 15) 33053 enters platform one at Alresford. 16) The bubble car heads off with a 20) 33053 waits with the 11.20 departure to Alton from Alresford. 21) 33053 & the 22) 73201 BROADLANDS & 73107 SPITFIRE at Ropley. 23) We wait in the loop as 37905 departs from Alton. 25) 33053 runs round at Alton. 26) 450087 in one of the mainline platforms. 28) 56098 waits in the loop at we depart from Alton. 30) Awaiting entry to Medstead & Four Marks. 31) 35) 56098 with a demonstration freight entering Medstead & Four Marks. 37) 56098 / 73201 / 73107. 38) BROADLANDS & SPITFIRE depart Medstead & Four Marks for Alton. 39) 56098 heading for Ropley. 40) 44) Southern Railway warning ... look out for 37905. 46) 37905 in the sunshine leaving Medstead for Alton. 48) Crossing at Medstead. 54) 56098 & 73107 SPITFIRE 57) 56098 & 73107 off to Ropley, Medstead then Alton. 58) D3358 patiently awaits the arrival of the Pullman stock. 60) 73201 BROADLANDS at Alresford. 61) 37905 arrives at Alresford with the heavily delayed Pullman from Alton. 62) D3358 hard at work shunting the Pullman stock. 64) 73201 & 37905 with the 15.20 Alresford departure, sixty minutes late! 65) 73201 BROADLANDS & 37905 head out of Ropley. 68) 33053 in charge of the breakdown train - for demonstration purposes only, I'm pleased to state. 69) The 70) 33053 slows for the Ropley stop. 71) 33053 enters Ropley. 74) The Class 117 DMU heads out of Ropley into the sun. 76) 1125 / 56098 / 73107 SPITFIRE. 78) 56098 & 73107 storm out of Ropley for Alresford.

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]]> Fri May 29 2009 An HOUR or so along the OUSE VALLEY WALK (ECML). http://stevie-b.fotopic.net/c1705039.html Not far from home is the Ouse Valley Walk which runs alongside both the Great River Ouse and the East Coast Main Line. This particular part of the walk runs from St. Neots to Buckden, south of Huntingdon and during the eight or so mile round trip, saw a variety of (generally) unidentified Locos / Electrics and Units. My legs are still aching!! Thursday 28 May 2009: Not far from home is the Ouse Valley Walk which runs alongside both the Great River Ouse and the East Coast Main Line. This particular part of the walk runs from St. Neots to Buckden, south of Huntingdon and during the eight or so mile round trip, saw a variety of (generally) unidentified Locos / Electrics and Units. My legs are still aching!!

01) An '82' rushes south. 03) A full liveried NXEC HST. 05) Proud parents and their nine siblings. 06) Another '82' rushes south. 07) The striking silver and white NXEC livery is on this Power Car only. 10) A '317' heads for Peterborough. 12) Trains and boats ... but no planes! 13) Hull Trains' Class 180 rushes north across the 14) A Class 365 Peterborough bound. 16) Another '365' in the shadow of the Offord Cluny church. 17) A Hull Trains' Adelante sprints through the Cambridgeshire countryside heading for the Capital. 19) Class 180 Adelante speeds for the south. 20) A pair of 66s head a very long freight northbound. 21) 66s 238 & 131. 22) 91131 races north. 23) Another full NXEC liveried HST is London bound. 25) Perfectly fromed by the foliage, this silver and white Power Car heads a rake of GNER blues towards London. 27) Just the leading Power Car and the white

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]]> Thu May 28 2009 60163 TORNADO at KING'S CROSS in 2009. http://stevie-b.fotopic.net/c1702248.html Saturday 23rd. May 2009 saw the LNER's A1 Pacific at the head of "The Cathedrals Express" to York. This fully booked Steam Dreams 08.18 departure was waiting in platform 1 as my train pulled into "The Cross". I was on my way to the Eastleigh Centenary event by train / tube / train and stopped to furnish this small collection for our collective pleasures. Saturday 23 May 2009: Saturday 23rd. May 2009 saw the LNER's A1 Pacific at the head of "The Cathedrals Express" to York. This fully booked Steam Dreams 08.18 departure was waiting in platform 1 as my train pulled into "The Cross". I was on my way to the Eastleigh Centenary event by train / tube / train and stopped to furnish this small collection for our collective pleasures.

905) 67019 901) 60163 TORNADO simmering at 902) King's Cross plays host to 60163. 903) A TORNADO in LONDON! 904) East Coast power; two generations there of! 91131 rubs shoulders with 60163.

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]]> Sat May 23 2009 An HOUR or so at EASTLEIGH. http://stevie-b.fotopic.net/c1702179.html An hour or so at Eastleigh station, both before and after the "Main Event," records the continual flow of SWT's Class 444s et al. There were two Railtours converging upon Eastleigh for the centinary event; one was steam hauled from London Victoria, whilst a pair of DRS 37s brought the other from Crewe. The former organised by Past-time Railtours; the latter by Spitfire Railtours. Both are covered within this collection. Hope you enjoy this collection of some of that day's action. Saturday 23 May 2009: An hour or so at Eastleigh station, both before and after the "Main Event," records the continual flow of SWT's Class 444s et al. There were two Railtours converging upon Eastleigh for the centinary event; one was steam hauled from London Victoria, whilst a pair of DRS 37s brought the other from Crewe. The former organised by Past-time Railtours; the latter by Spitfire Railtours. Both are covered within this collection. Hope you enjoy this collection of some of that day's action.

701) 444001 with Portsmouth Harbour train at Eastleigh's platform 2. 703) 66081 sits in the siding with half a container train. The other half is stuck through the 704) 08482 runs through to the site of the derailment. 707) Class 444s 041 (Southampton bound) and 008 (Waterloo bound) pass. 706) 08482 in the Eastleigh yard. 709) The site of the derailment during the previous night. 712) A sea of Hi-Viz suits pondering as 444020 heads for the capital. 714) 158885 departs from platform 1. 715) One of the Hi-Viz 717) 450569 hurries through on the Down Fast. 719) 444002 rushes through on the Up Fast whilst 444045 waits at the station. 721) 158885 gains the Down Main. 723) Arriva XC's unidentified Class 220 rushes through on the Down Main. 724) Past-time Railtours' 726) Merchant Navy Class, 35028 CLAN LINE. 728) 444031 and 35028 pass. 730) 35028 CLAN LINE heads out of the station. 733) Bringing up the rear is 66005. 738) 158886. 740) After taking the railtour stock out of platform 1, 66005 now takes the stock onto the Portsmouth line to turn and store the train for its return later. 741) Spitfire Railtours' pair if DRS 37s slows into platform 2. 742) 37602 leading 37069, both in the Company's 745) Another Class 444, this time Unit No. 038 storms past 37602 on the Up Fast. 750) Both unidentified; an Arriva XC Super Voyager and another Class 444 pass / leave the station. 801) 66501 with a Freightliner container train is Southampton bound on the down-fast. 803) 158885 enters platform 1 as 66005 eases the Past-time Railour stock out of the sidings. 806) 444029. 807) 444011. 809) 35028 CLAN LINE patiently awaits its passengers. 810) 35028 & 158885. 811) 220007 rushes an Arriva XC set through on the up-main. 812) 35028 CLAN LINE heads back to London Victoria on a circuitous route. 815) 66081 at Eastleigh says this photo! 818) Class 66s, 005 & 142, on light engine movements. 820) 158886.

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]]> Sat May 23 2009 EASTLEIGH 100 CELEBRATORY OPEN WEEKEND 2009 http://stevie-b.fotopic.net/c1702134.html The Eastleigh depot held its centenary open weekend throughout the Spring Bank Holiday (Witsun to those of a certain age!!). It was a "coming together" of an excellent line up of locomotives (and stock). To quote the Eastleigh 100 website:- "The primary aim of the weekend was to raise money for a number of local and national charities". I think it must have done that judging by the masses that thronged the site on the first day (Saturday). The weather was thankfully, very kind and a great day out was had by this happy chappie. Thanks and congratulations to ALL concerned for a fabulous event. Saturday 23 May 2009: The Eastleigh depot held its centenary open weekend throughout the Spring Bank Holiday (Witsun to those of a certain age!!). It was a "coming together" of an excellent line up of locomotives (and stock). To quote the Eastleigh 100 website:- "The primary aim of the weekend was to raise money for a number of local and national charities". I think it must have done that judging by the masses that thronged the site on the first day (Saturday). The weather was thankfully, very kind and a great day out was had by this happy chappie. Thanks and congratulations to ALL concerned for a fabulous event.

01) The main diesel 03) 07007. 04) 33002 SEA KING. 07) 850 LORD NELSON. 08) 41312. 10) 37608. 11) 37422 CARDIFF CANTON, 37308 & 73136 PERSEVERANCE. 65) D1015 WESTERN CHAMPION. 68) D1015, 45060 & 47580. 12) West Coast Railway's 37516 plus stablemate. 19) 20305, 20314 & 20110. 22) 47712 PRIDE of CARLISLE. 25) 66730. 27) 37059. 30) 33103 SWORDFISH. 32) D6990 / 37411 CAREPHILLY CASTLE. 33) D6990 / 37411 CAREPHILLY CASTLE. 34) Class 73s 006, 109 & 119. 35) 73006, 73109 & 73119. 38) 73119, 73109 BATTLE of BRITAIN & 73006. 13) 37516. 39) 31108. 42) 59001 YEOMAN ENDEAVOUR. 43) 59206 JOHN F. YEOMAN. 46) 59103 VILLAGE of MELLS. 47) 50026 INDOMITABLE. 49) 73201 BROADLANDS. 51) 50135 ARK ROYAL after the rededication ceremony. 54) 50135 55) 50135 ARK ROYAL. 45) 59001 & 59206. 56) 20309. 57) 20301. 58) 35005 CANADIAN PACIFIC, 34070 MANSTON & 34028 EDDYSTONE. 15) The pair of West Coast Railway's Class 37s. 61) Class 25, D7612. 70) Western & Peak. 71) Peak & Deltic. 72) Deltic & 06) 33002 SEA KING. 73) 41312. 74) 35005, 34070 & 34028. 75) Southern's No. 53 on brake van ride duties. 28) D6990 / 37411 CAREPHILLY CASTLE. 20) 20110, 20314 & 20305 29) D6990 / 37411 & 37059. 26) 66730. 23) 47712 PRIDE of CARLISLE. 67) A Western, Peak, Deltic alongside a 47. 62) 47580 PRIDE of ESSEX, 55022 ROYAL SCOTS GREY, 45060 SHERWOOD FORESTER & D1015 WESTERN CHAMPION.

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]]> Sat May 23 2009 GRAND CENTRAL RAILWAY (NOTTINGHAM) SPRING 2009 DIESEL GALA. http://stevie-b.fotopic.net/c1698453.html The Ruddington (Nottingham) to Loughborough preserved line and Heritage Centre hosted an excellent line up of locos, both local and imported, for their Spring Diesel Gala, so a visit was imperative! I was not disappointed ... well ... except for the weather ... showery at best. Saturday 16 May 2009: The Ruddington (Nottingham) to Loughborough preserved line and Heritage Centre hosted an excellent line up of locos, both local and imported, for their Spring Diesel Gala, so a visit was imperative! I was not disappointed ... well ... except for the weather ... showery at best.

01) The first train of this gala arrives at its destination. 13180 leading D8007 & 47292 (both on the rear) bring the 09.15 Ruddington departure into Rushcliffe Halt. 03) The narrow platform plays host to hoards of fans in front of 47292. 05) GCRN Diesel Group's Class 47. 47292 runs into the RH up access to await its next outing. 11) D8007 rests in the morning sun at Rushcliffe Halt. 13) D8007 hauls the 10.30 out of Rushcliffe Halt back to Ruddington. 17) 66731 brings the 10.15 ex Ruddington past 13180 and the resting 47292 at Rushcliffe Halt. 20) 56097 looking immaculate at Rushcliffe Halt. 23) GBRf's 66731 heads towards Loughborough from Rushcliffe Halt with the 10.50 from the latter. 25) Arriving back at Ruddington and a deserved lay-over, 13180 slowly enters the Heritage Centre. 29) D7629 heads out of the Heritage Centre with the 11.15 for Loughborough. 30) 20154 brings up the rear of the 11.15 departure out of Ruddington. 36a) 50035 was also involved with the Diesel Gala! This is the 7 37a) D1000 WESTERN ENTERPRISE was also involved with the Diesel Gala! This is the 7 46) The Growler Group's 37248 in West Coast Railway's livery is about to run onto the stock that will form the 12.15 Ruddington departure. 48) 56097 runs into the Heritage Centre at Ruddington. 49) 37248 starts the 12.15 for Loughborough. 56) 66731 enters Ruddington. 64) Swapping places, D7629 66) Class 25 D7629 is off for a rest at Ruddington. 68) 56097 with the 13.15 Ruddington departure. 75) 66731 approaches Rushcliffe Halt as 20154 waits in the loop on the rear of the 13.17 departure awaiting the GBRf loco to clear the main line. 47292 is resting. 76) 66731 enters Rushcliffe Halt from Ruddington. 78) S.T.O.P. - it's 47292. 80) B.E.W.A.R.E. - it's 47292 - again. 82) With the 14.17 departure from Loughborough, this is 56097 entering Rushcliffe Halt. 87) 20154 / 47292 / 66731 at Rushcliffe Halt. 89) 37248 / 47292 / 66731 at Rushcliffe Halt. 90) 37248 on the rear heading for Loughborough. 91) 37248 at Rushcliffe Halt. 92) 20154 and 37248 heading out of Rushcliffe Halt for Loughborough with the 14.39 departure from the former.

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]]> Sat May 16 2009 SWANAGE RAILWAY DIESEL GALA 2009. http://stevie-b.fotopic.net/c1694873.html A marvellous day out and well worth the three and a quarter hour drive to get there! I've never been to the Swanage line before but was thoroughly impressed. A professionally run organisation; expertly kept (and clean) stations; pleasant scenery and the "natives" were very friendly and ... the sun shone on day one (Friday). My sincere thanks to all concerned. A return is definitely "on the cards." Friday 8 May 2009: A marvellous day out and well worth the three and a quarter hour drive to get there! I've never been to the Swanage line before but was thoroughly impressed. A professionally run organisation; expertly kept (and clean) stations; pleasant scenery and the "natives" were very friendly and ... the sun shone on day one (Friday). My sincere thanks to all concerned. A return is definitely "on the cards."

02) 45060, SHERWOOD FORESTER arrives into Norden on it's first trip of the gala. 07) Bringing up the rear of the 10.10 local to Harman's Cross, 45060 SHERWOOD FORESTER is dwarfed by the towering site of Corfe Castle. 08) 26007 is crossed at Corfe Castle station by 33103 SWORDFISH leading 55022 ROYAL SCOTS GREY. 09) 33103 SWORDFISH departs Corfe Castle. 12) The DELTIC enters Corfe Castle. 14) ROYAL SCOTS GREY meats SHERWOOD FORESTER. 16) 55022 ROYAL SCOTS GREY at Swanage with the 10.30 ex Norden. 20) Self explanatory I think ... 20107 at Swanage! 25) The very picturesque setting of Harmans Cross with the silence shattered by 20107 detarting for Norden. 28) Harman's Cross; 31108 arrives right time with the local from Norden. 33111 (on t'other end) will take the train back to Norden imminently. 30) The semaphores guarding Harman's Cross from the Swanage direction frames the Deltic. 33) 45060 Swanage bound out of Harman's Cross with the delayed 12.03 departure. 37) 33111 crosses 20107. 43) 31108 awaits the 30 minute late 26007. 45) 31108 and 26007 framed by the footbridge laticework at Corfe Castle. 46) 26007 and the ruins viewed through the departing DMU (used as coaching stock). 48) SWORDFISH in the siding at Harman's Cross. 50) 33103 couples up to the front of the returning local to Norden. 51) 31108 on the rear of the departing local from Harman's Cross. 52) 55) 55022 ROYAL SCOTS GREY arrives at Harman's Cross from Norden. 57) With bluebells still in bloom, 31108 blasts its way out of Norden with the half hour late 13.50 departure. 59) 26007 & 45060 rest in the sunshine at Norden. 60) Shattering the tranquility at Norden, 33103 SWORDFISH arrives at the end of the line. 65) SWORDFISH waits to be unhitched at Norden. 67) The Peak viewed from 70) Corfe Catle station viewed from Corfe Castle. 71) 33103 leads 26007 towards Norden. 73) 26007 enters Corfe Castle station. 74) SWORDFISH on the rear entering Corfe Castle station. 76) Rattling the windows of the local houses, 55022 departs Corfe Castle for Norden. 79) 33103 and 20107 cross at the western end of the station. 80) Gossiping at the end of the platform! 83) Being allowed past the semaphores, 45060 slows for the Harman's Cross station stop. 84) A SWORDFISH, as pretty as a picture. 87) A chopper passes the signal box at Swanage. 89) 20107 and its crew anticipate the Swanage departure. 91) 26007 screeched to a halt with seized brakes in Harman's Cross with the 16.43 for Swanage. The offender caused the track circuits to fail as it straddled the 95) The FORESTER runs onto the stock of the 17.10 from Norden. 96) 45060 SHERWOOD FORESTER departs from Norden in the late afternoon sunshine below an unmistakeable landmark.

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]]> Fri May 8 2009 MID NORFOLK RAILWAY DIESEL GALA SPRING 2009 - DAY THREE. http://stevie-b.fotopic.net/c1674022.html Following on from the MNR Diesel Gala - Day 1 (my last collection), day 3 was as good, if not better, than day 1. The weather was kinder and a shed visit was offered, and readily accepted by yours truly! I arrived at Dereham (just) in time to catch the first train of the day (50019 RAMILIES doing the honours) at 09.00. The only blot on the day will be (I suspect in the near future), a demand letter from "The Old Bill" for £60 and the "honour" of them putting three points put on my licence. A camera van just a couple of hundred yards inside a 50mph zone at 08.10 on a Sunday morning .... now let them insist that the cameras AREN'T a way of printing money!!!!!!! Sunday 29 March 2009: Following on from the MNR Diesel Gala - Day 1 (my last collection), day 3 was as good, if not better, than day 1. The weather was kinder and a shed visit was offered, and readily accepted by yours truly! I arrived at Dereham (just) in time to catch the first train of the day (50019 RAMILIES doing the honours) at 09.00. The only blot on the day will be (I suspect in the near future), a demand letter from "The Old Bill" for _60 and the "honour" of them putting three points put on my licence. A camera van just a couple of hundred yards inside a 50mph zone at 08.10 on a Sunday morning .... now let them insist that the cameras AREN'T a way of printing money!!!!!!!

01) 50019 RAMILIES awaits 03) At Wymondham Abbey, 50019 (with 60059 in trailing position) waits to take the train into the loop. 07) 60059 SWINDEN DALESMAN heads out of the loop ay Wymondham Abbey. 08) 50019 on trailer duty now, head out of the Wymondham Abbey loop. 12) 56040 OYSTERMOUTH is about to be coupled up to the trailing end of the 10.50 Dereham departure. 15) 37425 PRIDE of the VALLEYS will head the 10.50 Dereham departure. 20) Off and running, 37425 growls away from Dereham. 24) D8069 on shed. 25) 31438 on shed. 26) 31438; 50019 & 08631 in this view. 29) 5662 (Class 31) on shed. 30) RAMILIES & EAGLE. 32) In view from left to right:- 47580; 66144; 60059; 37003; 73210 & D8069. 33) 47580 COUNTY of ESSEX on static display. 37) 56040 OYSTERMOUTH returns the 11.45 from Wymondham to Dereham. 40) 66144 & 67008 power the 12.45 ex Dereham past Crownthorpe. 43) 66144 & 67008 Wymondham bound past Crownthorpe. 45) 60059 Dereham bound past Crownthorpe. 50) 67008 & 66144 disappear in the Dereham direction through Garvestone. 47) 37425 & D8069 await the Classes 66; 67 & 60 combination to arrive from Wymondham at Dereham. 49) 37425 & 60059 side by side at Dereham. 52) 60059 SWINDEN DALESMAN. 54) 37425 PRIDE of the VALLEYS. 56) 37003 on shed at Dereham. 57) Framed through a semaphore ladder can be spied 73210; 31438; 50019 & 67008. 61) 60059 & D8069 back onto the Mk2 blue / greys ready for the 14.45 Dereham departure. 63) D8069 & 60059 buffer up. 64) D8069 & 60059 await 66) D8069; 60059; 66144 & 37003 - a magnificent line up. 69) Two residents and two guests:- Just visible are 47584 & 37003 alongside 67008 & 66144 all resting at Dereham.

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]]> Sun Mar 29 2009 MID NORFOLK RAILWAY DIESEL GALA SPRING 2009 - DAY ONE http://stevie-b.fotopic.net/c1673073.html The all diesel (no steam ... for now) Preserved Railway held its annual gala over the long (Friday to Sunday) weekend of 27th to 29th March. Billed as a "heavy haulage" event, DB Schenker sent some old and new(ish) heavyweights to join with the locals for an entertaining first day. The newly restored 56040 OYSTERMOUTH, had its first outing on the 10.20 Dereham to Wymondham Abbey and 11.20 return which was very well supported, considering it was a Friday! Don't any of these rail enthusiasts have jobs!! Friday 27 March 2009: The all diesel (no steam ... for now) Preserved Railway held its annual gala over the long (Friday to Sunday) weekend of 27th to 29th March. Billed as a "heavy haulage" event, DB Schenker sent some old and new(ish) heavyweights to join with the locals for an entertaining first day. The newly restored 56040 OYSTERMOUTH, had its first outing on the 10.20 Dereham to Wymondham Abbey and 11.20 return which was very well supported, considering it was a Friday! Don't any of these rail enthusiasts have jobs!!

01) Awaiting its departure time of 10.20 from Dereham, this is 56040 OYSTERMOUTH. Newly restored, this is the first, very well supported public run to Wymondham Abbey. 03) 37425 PRIDE of the VALLEYS; another heavyweight visitoe courtesy of DB Schenker. 07) 56040 at Wymondham. 09) 56040 OYSTERMOUTH, in the process of running round the blue / grey Mk2s. 11) Running back into Wymondham Abbey station from the loop. 12) Framed nicely, this is 60059 SWINDEN DALESMAN, backing onto the stock of the next Dereham departure. 13) Departing Dereham with the 12.10 for Wymondham, this is 60059 SWINDEN DALESMAN. 15) In the middle of the 16) 47580 COUNTY of ESSEX was on show and not featured in the gala. 18) 67008 + 66144. 22) 73210 SELHURST was immaculate. 25) 66144 / 67008 / 73210 await, in the sunshine, their next 26) A nice pair (??!!??) 28) 50019 RAMILIES is worked on and not starring in today's show. 30) 47584 in the 31) 31438 also not scheduled to be starring in this gala. 32) 31530, looking very sorry for itself. 34) The complete 35) 67008 + 66144 wait to take up pole position on the 14.00 Dereham departure for Wymondham Abbey. 38) The 56040 & 60059 combination arrive back at Dereham with the 13.00 Wymondham departure. 39) 56040 OYSTERMOUTH arriving at Dereham. 41) The 14.00 departure with the EWS liveried heavyweights of 66144 leading 67008 with 56040 out of sight bringing up the rear and about to enjoy a 42) 73210 SELHURST opposite 37425 PRIDE of the VALLEYS. 43) 60059 SWINDEN DALESMAN passes 37425 PRIDE of the VALLEYS. 44) 50019 RAMILIES coughs and splutters into life. 49) 60059 SWINDEN DALESMAN at Dereham awaiting its next trip to Wymondham Abbey.

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]]> Fri Mar 27 2009 NENE VALLEY RAILWAY SPRING 2009 DIESEL GALA. http://stevie-b.fotopic.net/c1663743.html Up the A1 for 25 miles I drove on Saturday 7th March 2009 to Wansford, or more specifically, Orton Mere, where my visit to this NVR gala started. The "imports" this time, alongside the usual mix of the "locals," were in the guise of 37667 from DRS; 66732 from GBRf and D5401 (27056) from the GCR. Unfortunately 60074 TEENAGE SPIRIT was pulled from the show by D.B. Schenker; this being previously notified on the NVR website, so was not a shock upon arrival! Day one of this Spring Gala looked a bit quieter (punterwise) than previous galas. Hopefully this is not a bad omen for the survival of the twice-annually future of NVR Diesel Galas. Saturday 7 March 2009: Up the A1 for 25 miles I drove on Saturday 7th March 2009 to Wansford, or more specifically, Orton Mere, where my visit to this NVR gala started. The "imports" this time, alongside the usual mix of the "locals," were in the guise of 37667 from DRS; 66732 from GBRf and D5401 (27056) from the GCR. Unfortunately 60074 TEENAGE SPIRIT was pulled from the show by D.B. Schenker; this being previously notified on the NVR website, so was not a shock upon arrival! Day one of this Spring Gala looked a bit quieter (punterwise) than previous galas. Hopefully this is not a bad omen for the survival of the twice-annually future of NVR Diesel Galas.

01) D306 ATLANTIC CONVEYOR arrives at Orton Mere from Peterborough with the 10.28 for Wansford. 03) D306 awaits the 05) D306 & 31271 STRATFORD 1840 - 2001 06) Wansford-bound out of Orton Mere is the ATLANTIC CONVEYOR, D306. 10) DRS' 37667 13) Arriving back into Orton Mere, 37667 is now in charge of the 11.42 ex-Peterborough departure for Wansford. 15) Orton Mere; 37667, D306 & D5401 18) 19) Under grey skies (thankfully no rain though on the Saturday), 37667 crosses The River Nene and is about to reach its destination of Wansford. 21) 66732 heads the 12.15 out of Wansford for Peterborough. 23) Running light across the River Nene, the pair of 37s are positioning themselves on the rear of the 12.35 Wansford to Yarwell Junction departure. 25) Snuggled up on the rear, 37518 & 37667 await the 12.35 departure time. 26) The 12.35 Wansford departure for Yarwell Junction is in the hands of D9516. 28) 47270 sneaks into the 29) 31271 simmers on shed at Wansford. 31) 38518 & 37667 at the head of the 12.57 Wansford departure for Peterborough. 34) The infamous Wansford 37) The D5401 / D306 combination arrives at Wansford with the 12.24 ex-Peterborough. 40) Visitor D5401 at Wansford. 43) 47270 (1971) SWIFT on a positioning move. 46) 66732 arriving at Wansford, its destination. 48) The 47270 / D5401 head the 13.39 out of Wansford and across the River Nene past the signal box. 55) 66732 waits to head the 14.00 departure to Yarwell Junction. 56) A double dose of 58) 31271 is off and running for Peterborough with the 14.21 from Wansford. 59) 37667 positions itself across the River Nene. 61) 66732 & 37518 rest at Wansford. 62) 37518 on shed at Wansford awaiting its next duty. 66) 37518, 66732, 47270, D5401 and D9520 in this busy view of Wansford. 67) 15.05 is the departure time here for DRS' 37667.

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]]> Sat Mar 7 2009 The EIGHT COUNTIES RAILTOUR to LINCOLN. http://stevie-b.fotopic.net/c1621155.html This was one of four railtours going to the city of Lincoln for the first day of the 2008 Christmas Market. Our railtour took a circuitous route (through eight counties - ged-it!!) and was hauled by 67005 QUEEN'S MESSENGER throughout. London Euston, Watford Junction, Leyton Buzzard and Bedford were the pick-ups (the latter being my joining point) for this ramble to Lincoln. Taking (from Bedford) nearly three and a half hours, we were taken via Kettering, Harringworth Viaduct, Oakham, Loughborough, Nottingham and Newark. Our train was the last of the railtours to reach its destination that day. Thankfully, after allowing us a stay of four hours, we were also the last to leave for the more direct route home via Leicester. Friday 5 December 2008: This was one of four railtours going to the city of Lincoln for the first day of the 2008 Christmas Market. Our railtour took a circuitous route (through eight counties - ged-it!!) and was hauled by 67005 QUEEN'S MESSENGER throughout. London Euston, Watford Junction, Leyton Buzzard and Bedford were the pick-ups (the latter being my joining point) for this ramble to Lincoln. Taking (from Bedford) nearly three and a half hours, we were taken via Kettering, Harringworth Viaduct, Oakham, Loughborough, Nottingham and Newark. Our train was the last of the railtours to reach its destination that day. Thankfully, after allowing us a stay of four hours, we were also the last to leave for the more direct route home via Leicester.

01) With half an hour spare before my departure time; Bedford, the northern terminus of the Thameslink franchise made for some entertaining photos. A quartet of class 319s rest in the station. 03) Also being a port of call for EAST MIDLAND TRAINS, here 222023 (alongside 319451) 222023 restarts its train bound for St. Pancras International in London. 04) Framed nicely by the over bridge, the five car Class 222 (222020) disappears southbound. 06) 222023, 319441 & 319425 at Bedford Midland. 07) Taken form our tailtour train whilst crossing the flat junction at Newark, this is the ECML looking north to the bridge over the River Trent. 09) The Eight Counties Railtour behind 67005 QUEEN'S MESSENGER after arrival in Lincoln. With platform 3 only eight coaches long, our twelve coach train literally blocks half of the eastern end of the station to disgorge its passengers. 11) 67005 and its 12 coach load at Lincoln. 12) The Eight Counties Railtour after arrival at its destination. 30) Linclon's Christmas Market; the first day. 31) Lincoln's Christmas Market and some of the 300 stalls. 21) Lincoln's High Street and some of the Christmas decorations. 47) 67005 QUEEN'S MESSENGER in its burgundy livery awaits its return to Euston from Lincoln. 48) 67005 QUEEN'S MESSENGER at platform 4 just before departure at 17.42 for London Euston.

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]]> Fri Dec 5 2008 An HOUR or so at LINCOLN (2). http://stevie-b.fotopic.net/c1620310.html My second (and much better) visit to Lincoln was via one of the four railtours that descended upon the city for the first day of the Christmas Market 2008. Three 67s (021 in the company of 019; 005 QUEEN'S MESSENGER), two 47s (804 & 826) and an ex Battle of Britain class steamer (34067 TANGMERE) brought hoards of visitors to the 26th year of Europe's biggest Christmas Market. Held in the area surrounding the cathedral and castle, the open market containing some 300 stalls plus bands, buskers, choirs, barrel organs and street theatre, entertained the gathered hoards. My camera, for an hour or so, captured a variety of traction. Friday 5 December 2008: My second (and much better) visit to Lincoln was via one of the four railtours that descended upon the city for the first day of the Christmas Market 2008. Three 67s (021 in the company of 019; 005 QUEEN'S MESSENGER), two 47s (804 & 826) and an ex Battle of Britain class steamer (34067 TANGMERE) brought hoards of visitors to the 26th year of Europe's biggest Christmas Market. Held in the area surrounding the cathedral and castle, the open market containing some 300 stalls plus bands, buskers, choirs, barrel organs and street theatre, entertained the gathered hoards. My camera, for an hour or so, captured a variety of traction.

09) The arrival of the last of four railtours to Lincoln on the first day of Lincoln's Christmas Market. 67005 QUEEN'S MESSENGER arrives virtually right time. 11) 67005 QUEENS'S MESSENGER and its load 12 after arrival in platform 3. 13) 153319 / 153385 in EMT / Central Trains liveries respectively stand in platform 5. 14) 153326 / 153383 in EMT / Central Trains liveries respectively arrive into platform 4. 16) On the 17) The 153 combination of 319 & 385 depart eastbound from platform 5. 18) 156411 terminates in platform 3. 20) 66618 in Freightliner livery traverses the 21) About to take the Barnetby route, 66618 slows for the diverging speed limit. 23) 153385 / 153319 & 156411. 25) 142020 in the eye catching Northern Rail livery terminates in platform 3. 29) 66182 / 66007 combination take the 33) Rushing across the High Street level crossing, 43074 (with 43047 on the rear) heads the Nottingham to Lincoln HST 34) A station view from the High Street level crossing. 35) Disappearing out of platform 3, 43074 (now on the rear) heads the HST 36) 47804 is in charge of the first of the four railtours to depart from Lincoln on this first day of the Christmas Market. The WCR Class 47 waits to return the S.R.P.S. Railtour to Linlithgow. 38) Under the wintery sky, West Coast Railways' 47804 awaits its departure time. 39) A superb view of Lincoln station. 40) 158901 in the colourful Northern Railways livery stands at platform five. 41) EMT's 153321 rests in one of the bays. 43) The third of the four railtours to visit Lincoln on this day is steamer 34067 TANGMERE. She awaits her departure back to London King's Cross. 45) 34067 TANGMERE steams off into the night with the 46) Back again; 43047 (43074 on t'other end) shuttle their way between Nottingham and Lincoln for the Christmas Market visitors. 47) 67005 QUEEN'S MESSENGER in the mirk waits for me to join my fellow passengers and the return to Bedford and eventually London Euston. 48) 67005 QUEEN'S MESSENGER awaits the 17.42 booked departure time of the

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