Colas (?) Haulage / Workings

[the Rat]

Cycling around Berkshire as I do, frequently wishing that so-called 'heritage diesels' were still in operation, I have been pleasantly surprised twice recently:

First, having just got off at Bramley (Hants) to cycle back to Reading, the level crossing gates remained down and I waited to see the inevitable Class 66 pass. Instead I was rewarded with a Class 47, light engine, hurrying towards Reading. It was about 10.45-ish on a Wednesday.

Then, today, at about 10am-ish, making my way along the Kennet & Avon between Burghfield and Southcote Junction, I glimpsed what appeared to be an engineers' working, top and tailed by Class 58s.

Both workings were by Colas (?), who are new to me, which leads me to wonder what other delights might be in store for me as I cycle through the Berkshire countryside. Was I simply in the right place at the right time, or are there regular workings I should be looking to incorporate into my cycle rides?

 

[The Planner]

They won't be 58s, 56s possibly.

 

[the Rat]

Thanks, but definitely not 56's. Must have been 70's then.

 

[cactustwirly]

Thanks, but definitely not 56's. Must have been 70's then.

Probably a 70, seen a few around Reading

 

[Aws87024]

Your 70s where
70807 COLO OXFORD 746C981C28 C * WESTBURYY N
70808 COLO OXFORD 746C981C28 C * WESTBURYY N

I would say this was a one off or short term engineers working.

Could probably find the 47 if you had the date.

 

[Condor7]

I am not very familiar with the area but I believe Reading has class 59's, and 70's reasonably regularly, and the occasional 67.

 

[DarloRich]

Then, today, at about 10am-ish, making my way along the Kennet & Avon between Burghfield and Southcote Junction, I glimpsed what appeared to be an engineers' working, top and tailed by Class 58s.

They sound like trains to/from Westbury off an engineering site somewhere - no doubt 70 hauled. Colas haul quite a few trains from Westbury now.

 

[Drogba11CFC]

Saw 47727 pass through Winchester recently.