Recent content by Jez

Does anyone know how this will impact the number of 197s being booked into service from the 19th October to cover these Cambrian diagrams? What is the total number required and will TFW be able to cover all booked diagrams ?

Blimey that's a massive delay. However even the post COVID date where everything was put back it was meant to be before the end of 2024.

As far as I know the Cambrian 197s (003 and 022-041) are the ones fitted but they can be used on other routes much the same as 158s are also used elsewhere. It just feels like it is taking so long for them to start services on the Cambrian - wasnt it supposed to happen by September 2024 - a 2...

Exactly. They need to get their act together and sort out issues with 398, 197 and MK4's as this has gone on long enough. Then the 231's can be where they need to be long term.

There seems to be 2 issues. MK4's being unreliable and most weekdays this year has seen at least 1 diagram out of the 5 being subbed. Even today there is only 3 out of 4 diagrams covered which is 75% Therefore 197s are covering regularly which is making some Manchester-South Wales short...

Maybe TFW are waiting to see how things go between now and December - even though the Bristol extension will only require one extra diagram they cant really afford any more 197 diagrams as things stand at the moment as the existing booked diagrams are not covered - Maesteg and Ebbw Vale has been...

Hope you had a good journey. Just how busy was it in Swansea in First Class? I have always wondered if anyone would bother given there is no 'free' drinks and snacks until at least Newport.

I would imagine it would be a 2 car 197 given that these are extentions of West Wales to Cardiff services which also interwork with Manchester services. i.e. Manchester-Fishguard-Cardiff-Milford Haven etc It will only require an extra unit I think as 1 train every 2 hours doing a 2 hour round...

Interesting. There must have been some spare 153s around yesterday then! I wonder how long will be before a 197 is tested on the HOWL. They are busy with the Cambrian at the moment but hopefully a 197 will make it on the HOWL ECS at some point. No plans for any booked work but it will be...

Likely moving sets between North and South as required?

Thanks. I knew one swapped and different one went to Holyhead in the evening but wasnt sure which!

Can anyone tell me if the 1053 will be a MK4 or Unit tomorrow - cant remember whether thats formed off a Crewe or Holyhead diagram. Thanks.

Looking like both 1W13 and 1W57 are units today.

21/9/26 197041 My first new 197 for a while and only 2 more to get out of 77.

I noticed on 197111 the catering cupboard has been painted and has 'food on the move' on it Is the plan to order food at your seat happening soon then ? Today it was just the usual trolley service. It would be good if this area was put to use seen as it takes up space.