LSGs Getting Out n About

[47403]

Only had one once, Ashford to Hastings as part of a dubious circular day out as part of the cheap March tickets offer back in the 80s.

Very nice, I mean its not a loco but for a unit they sound like one. I vaguely remember a few lads telling me about the cereal packet offer and going down to Bath, Bristol and Westbury for the day. Was a lad fishquinn who used loophole tickets for various bizzare journeys too, only a few years back.

 

[47403]

#SpoonMan​

Way back in November, Im looking on twitter (I know its X but I still call it twitter) and saw that 47714 had been rescued out of Donny Works and was heading for a new life in preservation. Now i know we all know what become of 47714 but bear with me here.
On a side note, Does anyone know the answer, of this question, if so please let me know. What becomes of 47703, a long time partner of 714 at Donny. I mean aesthetically, its more than fair to say, 47703 is not exactly looking its best and thats being polite. Is there enough meat on the bones to save it outright or is it a case of just stripping her of all usable components and scrap the rest? I hope it can be saved, maybe LSL could take a punt on it, restore it back to ScotRail glory, give them Saint Mungo plates back and partner with 47712. That nostalgic old farts back again, he may come back too.

Back to 47714, I was never a fan of the Anglian livery, so when news broke they were going to repaint it, this nostalgic old fart, hoped they'd repaint it to ole Banger blue, give it her dominoes headbox back and renumber it back to 47511 Thames. Well one can but dream.

credit to Chris Gee for this photo of 714s last run before a repaint
​

Nostalgic hopes went out the window when the Wensleydale revealed the pics of the newly painted 47714 in RES Livery, I was wide eyed, my jaw dropped and I just thought, Wow that looks stunning!!. It reminded me instantly of the Low Fell Parcels. Seeing the RES 47s, 86s and 90s leaving Tyne Yard with matching parcel vans and then watching them go South later on, its such a fond memory for me. So to have a RES Livery loco in preservation got my instant thumbs up.

Then to have it announced as a guest loco at the KWVR Diesel gala, literally had me shouting at the laptop screen. KWVR, please take my money now. I ran it past my 37 loving friend indoors, I know she likes the KWVR and she loves staying in Howarth and why not its a beautiful place. I also put 37075 into the equation and a little whisper I'd heard, about the possibility of a Colas 37 being a guest too and 55009. She was in. We'd booked our guesthouse as the guest list grew and grew but we had yet to get our gala tickets. When 47715 got added to the list too, I sent a cheeky little tweet to KWVR, surely you have to run 47714 and 47715 double headed at the Gala. Their reply of, "it would be rude not too" had me a tad excited. Although Mr xot probably not as much. Whilst I needed a lie down with a cold compress, Mr xot probably wanted to suffocate me with a pillow

With plans afoot for Keighley in motion, the Wensleydale announced a mini diesel gala curve ball and 47714s first run in its new pyjamas over the May bank holiday. Now in my defence, the last time I had 47714 it was on the push pull turns between Edinburgh and Queen Street. The chance to ride behind it again was sorely sorely tempting, add in 37250 and 33035, I was humming and harring for about a day, do I or do.i wait for Keighley. Ofcourse I couldn't wait but do I justify spending the money. You bet your sweet ass, I justified it. The beloved driver justified it too, she just loves 37250 in the EWS Livery too. My daughter heard the plans and said to my other half, you better send me a video of his face. He'll be like a kid at Christmas.

We booked a rover ticket for that Saturday of 47714s first run. It was also my first ever visit to the line, I've passed it many a time in folks cars, I always wanted to say, can we quickly call in but never ever had. On arrival onto the station I'm met by flowerpot 03144 of which, was a cop for all time. I have no old spotting logs from days gone by and from research on Google, it was said, the flowerpot spent 17yrs of its life in Belguim between 1976 and 1993 and was a Western Region shunter based at Swindon, Worcester and at Landore. Which probably explains why it was a cop. I tried to explain seeing these shunters to the other half and how most stations used 08s but for years but Newcastle, seemed to love the 03s and they were the norm at Central, pretty much till they got withdrawn from service. I tried to explain, the catch wagon that was attached to 03s, I think i got it right, saying, it was to extend the length of the shunter to trip the track circuits. I seem to remember there was about 5 of these stored on the ash heaps at Gateshead shed. She didnt yawn straight away but when I told her, one of these had to travel from Berwick to Gateshead shed and back for servicing and exams, under its own power
at around 20mph full speed, she said, wow, i pity the poor blokes that got that job. I think we all did love, was my reply.

37250 started the day and boy did she start it. The thrash up to Leyburn was a majestic full throated growl, even the other half failed from her seat. I wasn't at the droplight, a young lad was waiting for that, he got on and waited in the vestibule, a guy said to me, go on get yourself on before me, I'm gonna be at the window, I said, I think that young lads laying claim to that mate, hes been stood there since I arrived there to get a pic. The guy laughed and said, I guess I'm not then.

37250 looking gorgeous, as usual
​

At Leyburn I visited the gift shop the other half went for the coffees, as a small token of thanks for driving down, i got her a fridge magnet, she loves a fridge magnet and is building a sizable collection from preserved railways now. Her prized one is one of 37075 I got her from the KWVR. I got back aboard the 37 and passed her the fridge magnet and in return of thanks, I'm passed a coffee and a wedge of carrot cake. Talk about a cracking swap. If you like carrot cake, I fully recommend it, I could've eaten the whole cake on the evidence of that one sizable slice.

It was a gentler roll down the hill with the 37 the odd bit of 37 thrash thrown in but it was no less pleasurable being behind 37250 again. At Leeming Bar it was off and onto the platform for 47714. I can almost hear Mr xot scratching his head and shaking his head vigorously, in disgust at me for bailing off said 37.

Oh doesn't she look wonderful
​

Duffs aren't for everyone, even calling it a duff, some folk take offence and say its a derogatory term for a 47. Its never bothered me, I don't take offence at all, it's a term of endearment to them for me, even if its not even meant to be. A few young uns took up spaces in the guards van whilst I managed to snag the back window of the guards van. That was more than close enough for me.

The driver of 47714 eased us out of Leeming Bar and out past the 142s stabled in the Sidings and past 47786, another question of wondering of another 47s fates likely to be. I had barely time to ponder that very question, when 47714 erupted, oh it was joy personified for me. For well over a minute after clearing the back coach over the points out the station, then the 47 thrashed it guts out, then the Brush noise up the hills to Leyburn was just sheer music to my ears. We did get talking to.one of the guys involved in 47714s restoration, he was showing us the photos, from rubbing it down to telling us about what had to be cut away and replaced, it was fascinating stuff.

Off from Leyburn we stuck with 47714 all the way back down to Scruton. Where 33035 took us back to Leeming Bar. Here we bailed for a bite to eat and a coffee.

Suitably replenished. 37250 with 33035 on the rear took us back to Scruton and the crompton brought us back. Here, I made a bit of an error, I mis-read the timetable wrong. I thought if we took the 37 and 33 back to Scruton again, we'd be able to do the 33 all the way up.to Leyburn. Sadly my schoolboy error, meant by doing this, not only did we miss the last run of the day with 47714 we'd be stuck at Leeming Bar,

as both the 33 and 37 were finished for the day. It wasnt the end of the world. I'd get out and get them again soon enough. So I just waited on Leeming Bar to get a few last pics of the day and one last pic of the 47 before setting off, on the relative shorter journey home, than we usually have. We both had an excellent day out behind some quality traction. All 3 locos sounded superb and that Carrot Cake, Wow!!

Heeds oot, if you love a Duff​

Lastly, if anyone in the know, knows what fate there is 47786, I'd love to think it will be repaired and refurbed again but i fear, it will probably end up as a parts donor to keep 47714 running? Again, for this nostalgic old fart, it would be very nice to have an EWS 47 alongside an EWS 37 in preservation too.

 

[xotGD]

I definitely approve of going for a day out behind a big Gateshead 37.

Just a pity you had to take a 47 as a fill-in move.

The 33 is one of the relatively small number I had in service

I'm not so keen on 250 carrying a non-authentic EWS colour scheme. This is how I remember it:

Looking forward to the next installment!

 

[47403]

I definitely approve of going for a day out behind a big Gateshead 37.

Just a pity you had to take a 47 as a fill-in move.

The 33 is one of the relatively small number I had in service

I'm not so keen on 250 carrying a non-authentic EWS colour scheme. This is how I remember it:

Looking forward to the next installment!

Where was that shot of the 37, is it approaching Eaglescliffe? I know what you mean about the BR Blue, especially as a self professed nostalgic old fart but I do think it suits the EWS Livery its in too and YES she was a big GD Loco.

Just a pity you had to take a 47 as a fill-in move.

Ooh that's a savage riposte, Mr Xot but it made me giggle rather loudly too. You'll love this, I knew the answer before I asked and jokingly asked the other half, was the 47 better than the 37. After she nearly choked on her coffee, she rather rudely went Erm....No!!

 

[xotGD]

Where was that shot of the 37, is it approaching Eaglescliffe?

Dunston. My local station, as was.

Ooh that's a savage riposte, Mr Xot but it made me giggle rather loudly too.

I'm pleased you took it in good humour - that's how it was intended. The 47 does look very smart in RES.

 

[47403]

Dunston. My local station, as was.

I'm pleased you took it in good humour - that's how it was intended. The 47 does look very smart in RES.

I'm not that precious to take offence, if we all liked the same thing, life would be incredibly boring.
I wasnt sure if it was on the Tyne Valley or Eaglescliffe. Still lit ooked like the days of the great DMU shortage. We made hay them days. Some fine traction out for them turns, those days.
YES, the 47 does look very nice.

 

[The_Train]

Just catching up - more great tales of great days out @47403

47714 is an absolute stunner and same as you brings back memories of seeing those RES trains with the same livery throughout all the coaches. I remember as a kid being in awe at watching parcels being loaded or unloaded on platforms - not always gracefully or with any care but they got the job done efficiently

 

[47403]

Just catching up - more great tales of great days out @47403

47714 is an absolute stunner and same as you brings back memories of seeing those RES trains with the same livery throughout all the coaches. I remember as a kid being in awe at watching parcels being loaded or unloaded on platforms - not always gracefully or with any care but they got the job done efficiently

Yeah I remember those days on Newcastle Central too. There'd be various trains, where the parcel bags would be passed out the guards vans onto the cages, then they'd be taken away to the Post Office directly behind the Station. Then around 9pm they'd all reappear from the Post office and load all the post onto what was to become the 1A40. There'd be brutes and cages, full to the brim, the full length of the platform and as you say, those loading the parcel vans, would be throwing them parcel bags on, like an angry Russian Shot putter who'd just been asked, Is that the best you can do?

Happy Days indeed.

Thanks for the kind words too Matt.

 

[47403]

#AVeryWorthwhileVisit​

The plan for Keighley, was to travel down Thursday, do the Friday n Saturday at the Gala and drive home. On booking the Gala tickets, I realise for an extra 18 quid each we can do 3 days, I quickly ring the designated driver (shes the designated driver, cos I can't drive) and explain the situation. To cut a long story short, we agree, we'll set off early, check into the b n b and go straight down and start the gala as soon as we can.

We leave what is a beautifully sunny morning on Tyneside around 7.45am, the drive from Harrogate to Haworth takes in some stunning views and I dont mind admitting it. We arrive in Howarth around half 10. After checking in, its bags dropped, quick drink and back into the car for the 5 minute drive to Haworth Station.

At Haworth, as we make our way to the ticket office for our gala tickets, I'm greeted by a familiar face. A young lad, of whom I was introduced to by @The_Train at the SVR Diesel Gala known as Tom. I knew him from twitter, so it was nice to pin a face to a name. Tom's a nice lad and see as hes much younger than the other half and I, sadly a lot are these days, we call him 'Young Tom'. Tom's holding up the queue, as hes becoming a member of the KWVR, eventually they take him in the office, as the queues building behind us. Tickets obtained, we go onto the platform and young Tom joins us and we have a good catch up. Then we find, the replica nameplate stall by the footbridge, Where I have to use great constraint not to buy a replica nameplate from 47403, "The Geordie" nameplate is rather rather tempting, However, where the and how the hell do I hang it in the house? I decide not to buy it but if its still there Saturday, the where and how will be off the table and it'll join us on the journey home.

First loco of the Gala is a quite familiar one. Hello again 47714. The three of us jump aboard but young Tom is only going to Ingrow West to go back up the line, whilst we stay aboard to Keighley. The ole girl gives a fine bit of thrash as we leave Howarth for a fine start to the Gala. We say our goodbyes for now to young Tom and proceed onwards to Keighley.

At Keighley we decide a coffee is the order of the day for now, the other half finds a space in the sun, as I wander up the platform to await the loco that's next.

Off one 47/7 and onto another just reminds me of arriving into Waverley, Queen Street or Falkirk and dashing onto the next one out, albeit both locos aren't in Jock Rail livery these days. We get onboard and after easing out out the platform and picking up the token, the driver of 47715 nudges up and then opens up the power handle, much to my delight we get some Duff thrash all the way up the ski slope and all the way to the top of the hill, the 47 struts her stuff all the way to Oxenhope again much to my delight. She always was a rather loud minx, especially when she was allowed to strut her stuff. At Oxenhope I got off for the obligatory picture and on returning back to the coach, I'm asked, Please don't tell me, you planted a kiss on that 47, with all those people who walked up to get a picture of it. Ofcourse not, was my reply.

The paintworks a bit battered but she still looks good and sounds very nice​

However back at Keighley, I did just that. The other half was looking and she shot me a look that had, Oh my God, Really!! written all over it Having been out sharp that morning, we were feeling slightly parky, a quick waltz up the platform and found a stall that sold hot sarnies, I went for pulled beef, she went for pulled pork. They weren't cheap by any stretch of the imagination, especially when you add drinks too. However they were very nice indeed. After a sit in the shade from the ever increasing heat, I decided to take wander over the platform, to get pics of the brake van rides locos and keep an eye on the mainline platform, to see if I could eek out any of my required 195s for the book of sights. Its there where I got a shot of 37508 and 50021 arriving in.

EE action in all its glory​

i wandered back from whence I'd came, as I got to the seat where the other half was, i shouted, lets get on here love, its Deltic time and her maiden voyage by Deltic.
The first 2 winners of the day and a pair of locos I'd never envisaged id have for haulage, top n tailed maybe, as a pair never. Enter 37508 and 55009. On leaving the platform, the loco on the inside 55009, took the lead, with that infamous deltic drone, for what was quite a spectacular start, as they picked up the token, the driver in the lead loco 37508 responded likewise, 37508 spat out a cloud of black smoke and noise that those in the front coach emphatically responded to as both locos then proceeded to roar up the ski slope with an absolute racket of noise, talk about playing to your audience.This they did all the way up until we got to Howarth loop, when the 37 sadly came off. The deltic took over the proceedings and I can safely tell you, the other half has found another loco to love. She's well impressed with Deltics. The ride back to Keighley was a more sedate journey but Aly, did have her moments back, especially leaving Oxenhope and Haworth, which got an approving purse of the lips by the other half and myself.

Next up, come a loco that we were sadly disappointed with at last year's Gala, 50021. Rumour has it 50021s inclusion was a way for their owners to have their loco redeem itself. Last year, they couldn't get it out of notch 2. I felt sorry for them then but apparently when they remedied it, when partnered with 50008 and the racket they both caused was supposed to be a joy to behold. Sadly I was at home when that happened. We chambered aboard after going for a much needed visit to the loo. As we held our breath for 50021s redemption, I looked out the window before the off and saw Teddy D9520 was on the front too. I hadnt even realised it was on. We needn't have worried cos even though the teddy got us off and away, when 50021 opened up, it sounded amazing up the ski slope, EE Traction sounds magnificent when thrashing and the real Rodders was certainly here, so we sat back and enjoyed the noise of both locos up to Oxenhope.


To be continued.........

 

[The_Train]

#AVeryWorthwhileVisit​

The plan for Keighley, was to travel down Thursday, do the Friday n Saturday at the Gala and drive home. On booking the Gala tickets, I realise for an extra 18 quid each we can do 3 days, I quickly ring the designated driver (shes the designated driver, cos I can't drive) and explain the situation. To cut a long story short, we agree, we'll set off early, check into the b n b and go straight down and start the gala as soon as we can.

We leave what is a beautifully sunny morning on Tyneside around 7.45am, the drive from Harrogate to Haworth takes in some stunning views and I dont mind admitting it. We arrive in Howarth around half 10. After checking in, its bags dropped, quick drink and back into the car for the 5 minute drive to Haworth Station.

At Haworth, as we make our way to the ticket office for our gala tickets, I'm greeted by a familiar face. A young lad, of whom I was introduced to by @The_Train at the SVR Diesel Gala known as Tom. I knew him from twitter, so it was nice to pin a face to a name. Tom's a nice lad and see as hes much younger than the other half and I, sadly a lot are these days, we call him 'Young Tom'. Tom's holding up the queue, as hes becoming a member of the KWVR, eventually they take him in the office, as the queues building behind us. Tickets obtained, we go onto the platform and young Tom joins us and we have a good catch up. Then we find, the replica nameplate stall by the footbridge, Where I have to use great constraint not to buy a replica nameplate from 47403, "The Geordie" nameplate is rather rather tempting, However, where the and how the hell do I hang it in the house? I decide not to buy it but if its still there Saturday, the where and how will be off the table and it'll join us on the journey home.

First loco of the Gala is a quite familiar one. Hello again 47714. The three of us jump aboard but young Tom is only going to Ingrow West to go back up the line, whilst we stay aboard to Keighley. The ole girl gives a fine bit of thrash as we leave Howarth for a fine start to the Gala. We say our goodbyes for now to young Tom and proceed onwards to Keighley.

At Keighley we decide a coffee is the order of the day for now, the other half finds a space in the sun, as I wander up the platform to await the loco that's next.
View attachment 184947
Off one 47/7 and onto another just reminds me of arriving into Waverley, Queen Street or Falkirk and dashing onto the next one out, albeit both locos aren't in Jock Rail livery these days. We get onboard and after easing out out the platform and picking up the token, the driver of 47715 nudges up and then opens up the power handle, much to my delight we get some Duff thrash all the way up the ski slope and all the way to the top of the hill, the 47 struts her stuff all the way to Oxenhope again much to my delight. She always was a rather loud minx, especially when she was allowed to strut her stuff. At Oxenhope I got off for the obligatory picture and on returning back to the coach, I'm asked, Please don't tell me, you planted a kiss on that 47, with all those people who walked up to get a picture of it. Ofcourse not, was my reply.
View attachment 184968

The paintworks a bit battered but she still looks good and sounds very nice​

However back at Keighley, I did just that. The other half was looking and she shot me a look that had, Oh my God, Really!! written all over it Having been out sharp that morning, we were feeling slightly parky, a quick waltz up the platform and found a stall that sold hot sarnies, I went for pulled beef, she went for pulled pork. They weren't cheap by any stretch of the imagination, especially when you add drinks too. However they were very nice indeed. After a sit in the shade from the ever increasing heat, I decided to take wander over the platform, to get pics of the brake van rides locos and keep an eye on the mainline platform, to see if I could eek out any of my required 195s for the book of sights. Its there where I got a shot of 37508 and 50021 arriving in.
View attachment 184969

EE action in all its glory​

i wandered back from whence I'd came, as I got to the seat where the other half was, i shouted, lets get on here love, its Deltic time and her maiden voyage by Deltic.
The first 2 winners of the day and a pair of locos I'd never envisaged id have for haulage, top n tailed maybe, as a pair never. Enter 37508 and 55009. On leaving the platform, the loco on the inside 55009, took the lead, with that infamous deltic drone, for what was quite a spectacular start, as they picked up the token, the driver in the lead loco 37508 responded likewise, 37508 spat out a cloud of black smoke and noise that those in the front coach emphatically responded to as both locos then proceeded to roar up the ski slope with an absolute racket of noise, talk about playing to your audience.This they did all the way up until we got to Howarth loop, when the 37 sadly came off. The deltic took over the proceedings and I can safely tell you, the other half has found another loco to love. She's well impressed with Deltics. The ride back to Keighley was a more sedate journey but Aly, did have her moments back, especially leaving Oxenhope and Haworth, which got an approving purse of the lips by the other half and myself.

Next up, come a loco that we were sadly disappointed with at last year's Gala, 50021. Rumour has it 50021s inclusion was a way for their owners to have their loco redeem itself. Last year, they couldn't get it out of notch 2. I felt sorry for them then but apparently when they remedied it, when partnered with 50008 and the racket they both caused was supposed to be a joy to behold. Sadly I was at home when that happened. We chambered aboard after going for a much needed visit to the loo. As we held our breath for 50021s redemption. We needn't have worried. 50021 was faultless, she sounded superb up the ski slope, EE Traction sounds magnificent when thrashing and the real 50021 was here and more than redeemed herself, so we sat back and enjoyed the noise up to Oxenhope.
View attachment 184972

To be continued.........

A great start to a superb weekend!

 

[47403]

A great start to a superb weekend!

Cheers Matt. I had to edit that last move, stupidly i forgot to add the teddy was with us. Major schoolboy error on my behalf. Message to self read your notes properly.

 

[47403]

The Continuation Returns
​

So sorry about the delay, I've been busy doing other non railway related stuff, which i wont bore you with. However I will endeavour to catch up.

So let me begin.......

After getting off for a pic at Oxenhope, I returned back to the coach to find the other half snoring away. It had been a long day for us, up early, her doing the driving, the heat and lack of sustenance, meant we'd call.it a day at Haworth. Rodders called it a day at Haworth loop and the Teddy finished the rest of the day for us. We let it depart and made our way over to the Co-Op for cold drinks. I did feel like climbing in one of their freezers for half an hour but felt its probably not best not to.

One the short journey back to base camp for the next few days, we reflected on what had been a great first day. 50021 had certainly redeemed itself from last years trials and tribulations, its owners had experienced then. How little they knew, there was more to come.

After a shower and a change of clothes we went out for some scran, where after a bit of a mix up with our order, as a way of apologising the kitchen gave us much more than we ordered, our table was akin to man vs food. Anyone having a beer was told to help themselves to some of what we were given. For the record our food was lovely, the service was to, just a misunderstanding between the waiter and the kitchen. The local punters seemed happy enough eating the spare chips and onion rings and one of the lasses on the bar said, she'd had a nicer dinner break than she normally had. Needless to say we waddled out the pub afterwards in nigh on full food coma.

Back at basecamp, the other half flaked out on the bed, whilst i went and sat outside, having a ciggy with a few cold drinks playing, Name that Tune. I say tune, it was more name that song but not necessarily in that tune. The large percentage of the locals were doing a marvelous job, massacring well known songs and the two lasses butchering Dollys, working 9 ro 5 are as close to getting on X Factor as i have to getting a full time contract at a Premiership football club. Still they had a go. All good fun to listen to though.
After a while i returned the room, climbed into bed and promptly flaked out till 0630 the next morning. Where I'll take the rest of this up and next days shenanigans, while you read this bit.

 

[47403]

Day 2 #AVeryWorthwhileVisit
​

After a shower and a cuppa, i went outside to enjoy a ciggy and the early morning sunshine, when I step out the front door, I'm just getting comfy on a wall, when I'm startled by this, just casually having a stroll round the street. I have to say, its not my everyday occurrence.

Today we'd be meeting up with @The_Train who was doing a whistle stop sojourn to Keighley for today's proceedings before he was off on a 3 day land cruise tour of Scotland, with a pair of 20s and 37403. Lucky swine.

We've had many a good day out with Mr Train, its fair to say we have many a laugh when were together, especially when the other half n Matt get together, the banter normally ends up at my expense but I'm so thick skinned, you couldnt mark me with a pick.

After getting a meal deal and some much needed cold fluids for the days escapades, we arrive on Haworth just before 8am, i get a cheery wave from the top of the platform and recognise Staffs finest, Matt had decided to start here instead and not Keighley as we expected.
After a good catch up, its was down to our plans for the day. Matt would go his seperate ways but we'd meet up on certain trains throughout the day. He was after getting everything in before returning home, whilst we would take it easy.
First move of the day fell to none other than, the then tooth paste liveried 47715, a one required by Matt, in which the other half took a bit joy in telling him, oh you need this one do you? both the 47s are dud for me before giggling.

Matt took it in the good humour it was meant in. Dud or not, i bet its no time before he kisses it whilst pointing at me. We all readily agreed and I for one, wont deny Its a habit of mine for preserved 47s. The other half just gives me the, Really !!!! Looks, then walks away in total disgust, when I do it.

At Keighley we werent quick enough and took a wrong turn to get over to platform 3 meaning we missed getting onto 37508, fortunately Matt had, so it wasnt all bad news. So we just got a coffee instead and jumped back onto the coaches 47715 was coupled up to, settled back and we'd go to go and meet up with the returning 37 at Ingrow. No harm done.
At Ingrow we jumped aboard the returning 37508, only this time 20007 had joined at the party too. Both locos gave a spirited departure out of Ingrow and a bit of EE symphonics certainly stirred the soul.

Back at Keighley we pondered what next, the other half had earmarked a full spin up to Oxenhope with the deltic. So we took 37508 back up to Ingrow and come back with 47715 and after bailing that, it allowed us half an hour to peruse the stalls and then find a decent seat to enjoy some napier sound up to Oxenhope. I had a look out the coach window, to see if it was worth venturing up the platform to try and a pic of Alycidon. I took one look and sat down thinking I dont think I'll bother, welll it was much more industrial than that but you get the gist.

Alycidon's infamous Deltic drone filled the air, as we took off up the ski slope, the power handle seemed to be going up a notch as we climbed, the other half loves the sound of them and the smile on her face told a million stories too. When i told her its only running on one engine, she simply said wow, god knows what they sound like on two. By the time we went through Ingrow tunnel them napier sounds were reverberating off the walls, i kinda knew what was coming as we entered the light, the smell of diesel fumes gave it away but the other half was shocked to see the light blue hue lingering within our coach. She said, christ, its like the days when you could smoke in places, its like going in the old bookies on Grand National Day. I said, your not as far off as you think. this Deltics actually named after a famous racehorse. I then began to tell her the Deltic depots for the Racehorses and Regiments, she did listen too and looked genuinely interested, honest. Deltic 9 stormed up to Oxenhope in a rather enjoyable fashion. The quest for a decent Deltic pic was forlorn. I stood at the top of Oxenhope platform, trying again to get a pic but one guy seemed intent on getting about 7 million photos of every rivet n bolt. I gave it up as a bad job and thought i'll get one at Keighley, when it comes off. How wrong I was.

The other half actually had her head out the window after Ingrow, so I think its fair to say the Deltics have made an impression on her. At Keighley i made my way over to platform 3 in hope to get a pic as the Deltic was uncoupled, Sadly for me they just switched it off and thats as good as i could get.

However, on the mainline station, the 195s and 331s kept my attention for the book of sights. I did nab a couple, which was a Brucie Bonus. It also meant I was in place to see one of the Galas guests arrive, the Colas 37 had arrived, so I was in place to get a pic of 37057, every cloud an all that folks. I mean, who doesnt love a split box 37. I've always been of the opinion, split box 37s hauling coaches looks more beastly than central ones. If that makes any sense to anyone, I know what I mean.
We decided to have a bit sit and take a time out, until we jumped aboard a partnership i thought would ever get. I know anythings possible in galas but 50021 and 55009 was too good an option to miss out on. The two of them going up the ski slope was up there in the top 3 moments of the Gala for me. The roar of the Deltic and Rodders EE clatter sounded fantastic and spells up to Oxenhope sounded just as nice too. This pairing was never on my bucket list but I'm an half glad I was in place to experience it. The journey down was a more sedate affair but things were starting to gear up for the main event of the day. We werent wanting to be too far away from Keighley for the 15.45. The other half decided it was time for lunch, so we got them pulled pork sarnies, she had coffee, whilst i went and got a pint of Guiness to wash my sarnie down. I did contemplate buying a few things from the stalls but thought, oh i'll just get something tomorrow. The other half got herself another fridge magnet, she loves a fridge magnet, I've said to her, one day she'll walk past that fridge and she'll be drawn in and stuck to it and the only way she'll get free, is by releasing the catch on her pandora bracelet. For the record shes bought more since but no harm has come of it yet but if the moon starts moving further North, you know who to blame.

Matt had reappeared and we had a good natter and done what we usually do, take the p**s out of each other. Oh he's only kissed 47715 earlier and wanted me to take a pic of him doing it. Matt just laughed and said, well I hope you did. I had no choice really Matt. I told her to stop being so ungrateful and remember how lucky she was. I got that look and a dissaproving shake of the head and called a daft so n so before we all laughed.
The main event of the day rolked tound, trying to get a seat was a challenge, getting a window to stick ye head out, at least near the front, was impossible. The pairing of 37508 and 37057 had many a tad giddy, ourselves included. I might be wrong but im sure Mr xot of this very parish has told of the incident within these very walls. The 37s took off towards the ski slope in very loud typical 37 fashion. It sounded excellent until we ground to very abrupt halt. Im not sure if the driver of 37508 over amped it or not but to coin a phrase by the very knowledgable Mr xot, 37508 fagged out, after a brief spell of inactivity, we were treated to 37057, on the inside of the duo doing the hard graft. 37057 sounded absolutely glorious all the way up to Oxenhope. Sadly I never got a pic, so I must give huge thanks and credit to Andrew Hern, for his permission to use his pic. This excellent pic was on X and i think you'll agree, The pairing look stunning.

I might just be imagining this but i cant really remember, I THINK 37508 might've been removed at Haworth loop, it may have just been put on the naughty step at Keighley. Someone please enlighten me.

Back at Keighley it was time for a bit more duff action. This time in the form of RES 47714, I got a nice seat in the front coach 2nd window down from the droplight. Matt and the other half, looking at me saying, Ah look at his face bless him. I took no notice whatsoever. I was blissfully standing head out the window, waiting for those blessed sulzer tones, whilst I got lost in the rhythmic rolling strumming as we idled awaiting the off.
47714 was as good if not better than when we had it on the Wenslydale a few weeks earlier, a winner for Matt too, again the other half chipped in with a dud comment to Matt, saying shes only on cos Matt n I were onboard too I couldnt resist another pic at Oxenhope. So for you 47 haters, look away now. If your still here, i think those at the Wensleydale have done a superb job of the repaint, even though i was hoping it would go BR Blue with domino headboard, reaquainted with its Thames nameplates and renumbered back to 47511, I still love it though.

I know I'm grasping at straws, I'd love to see 47712, 714 and 715 altogether doing some form of push pulls specials out of Edinburgh, albeit theres only 712 in Jock Rail livery these days. We can but dream.

The journey back to Keighley, we just had a really good natter about Matt's impending trip the next day, his mileage over the course of the year and ofcourse life in general, as well as sharing old bashing tales(ours are tame when you read some of those in the excellent "back in the day" thread) and future plans.

One more spin was the order of the day Matt was staying a little bit later to maximise his mileage. So we kindly let Barbara do the honours and the lovely lady didnt let us down. Typical 37 growlage all the way up the hill, great fun indeed.

On the way back down we said our goodbyes to Matt and best wishes for the Tour the next day before bailing at Haworth, waving as the 37 growled away. The day for us at least was over but what a 2nd day it had been. We were ready for some bait and a rest. Roll on Day 3 but i did wonder what entertainment the local pubs would throw our way tonight. In the car on the way back to base camp, the other half proclaimed she'd really enjoyed today but was a bit apprehensive about tomorrow, as she'd heard the Saturdays could be manic, when the young uns come out to play. I just said, we'll just do what we want, we've had most on offer, we can have a later start then pick n choose what we do, this at least seemed to settle her nerves.
Lastly to Matt, great to meet up again mate, hopefully we'll get to see you sooner rather than later. I think she may be putting adoption papers in for you n young Tom soon.

 

[xotGD]

A great read, as ever.

Just to note that 508 came back to life while we were standing in Damems loop, so we were treated to both Syphons working from there to Oxenhope. But as you say, 057 working on its own, with a dead 37 on the front and a pair of dead 20s on the back, was immense.

I was in the second coach, with a window above the table, enjoying every moment!

 

[The_Train]

Day 2 #AVeryWorthwhileVisit
​

After a shower and a cuppa, i went outside to enjoy a ciggy and the early morning sunshine, when I step out the front door, I'm just getting comfy on a wall, when I'm startled by this, just casually having a stroll round the street. I have to say, its not my everyday occurrence.
View attachment 189805
Today we'd be meeting up with @The_Train who was doing a whistle stop sojourn to Keighley for today's proceedings before he was off on a 3 day land cruise tour of Scotland, with a pair of 20s and 37403. Lucky swine.

We've had many a good day out with Mr Train, its fair to say we have many a laugh when were together, especially when the other half n Matt get together, the banter normally ends up at my expense but I'm so thick skinned, you couldnt mark me with a pick.

After getting a meal deal and some much needed cold fluids for the days escapades, we arrive on Haworth just before 8am, i get a cheery wave from the top of the platform and recognise Staffs finest, Matt had decided to start here instead and not Keighley as we expected.
After a good catch up, its was down to our plans for the day. Matt would go his seperate ways but we'd meet up on certain trains throughout the day. He was after getting everything in before returning home, whilst we would take it easy.
First move of the day fell to none other than, the then tooth paste liveried 47715, a one required by Matt, in which the other half took a bit joy in telling him, oh you need this one do you? both the 47s are dud for me before giggling.
View attachment 189816
Matt took it in the good humour it was meant in. Dud or not, i bet its no time before he kisses it whilst pointing at me. We all readily agreed and I for one, wont deny Its a habit of mine for preserved 47s. The other half just gives me the, Really !!!! Looks, then walks away in total disgust, when I do it.

At Keighley we werent quick enough and took a wrong turn to get over to platform 3 meaning we missed getting onto 37508, fortunately Matt had, so it wasnt all bad news. So we just got a coffee instead and jumped back onto the coaches 47715 was coupled up to, settled back and we'd go to go and meet up with the returning 37 at Ingrow. No harm done.View attachment 189823
At Ingrow we jumped aboard the returning 37508, only this time 20007 had joined at the party too. Both locos gave a spirited departure out of Ingrow and a bit of EE symphonics certainly stirred the soul.

Back at Keighley we pondered what next, the other half had earmarked a full spin up to Oxenhope with the deltic. So we took 37508 back up to Ingrow and come back with 47715 and after bailing that, it allowed us half an hour to peruse the stalls and then find a decent seat to enjoy some napier sound up to Oxenhope. I had a look out the coach window, to see if it was worth venturing up the platform to try and a pic of Alycidon. I took one look and sat down thinking I dont think I'll bother, welll it was much more industrial than that but you get the gist.

Alycidon's infamous Deltic drone filled the air, as we took off up the ski slope, the power handle seemed to be going up a notch as we climbed, the other half loves the sound of them and the smile on her face told a million stories too. When i told her its only running on one engine, she simply said wow, god knows what they sound like on two. By the time we went through Ingrow tunnel them napier sounds were reverberating off the walls, i kinda knew what was coming as we entered the light, the smell of diesel fumes gave it away but the other half was shocked to see the light blue hue lingering within our coach. She said, christ, its like the days when you could smoke in places, its like going in the old bookies on Grand National Day. I said, your not as far off as you think. this Deltics actually named after a famous racehorse. I then began to tell her the Deltic depots for the Racehorses and Regiments, she did listen too and looked genuinely interested, honest. Deltic 9 stormed up to Oxenhope in a rather enjoyable fashion. The quest for a decent Deltic pic was forlorn. I stood at the top of Oxenhope platform, trying again to get a pic but one guy seemed intent on getting about 7 million photos of every rivet n bolt. I gave it up as a bad job and thought i'll get one at Keighley, when it comes off. How wrong I was.

The other half actually had her head out the window after Ingrow, so I think its fair to say the Deltics have made an impression on her. At Keighley i made my way over to platform 3 in hope to get a pic as the Deltic was uncoupled, Sadly for me they just switched it off and thats as good as i could get.
View attachment 189879
However, on the mainline station, the 195s and 331s kept my attention for the book of sights. I did nab a couple, which was a Brucie Bonus. It also meant I was in place to see one of the Galas guests arrive, the Colas 37 had arrived, so I was in place to get a pic of 37057, every cloud an all that folks. I mean, who doesnt love a split box 37. I've always been of the opinion, split box 37s hauling coaches looks more beastly than central ones. If that makes any sense to anyone, I know what I mean.View attachment 189877
We decided to have a bit sit and take a time out, until we jumped aboard a partnership i thought would ever get. I know anythings possible in galas but 50021 and 55009 was too good an option to miss out on. The two of them going up the ski slope was up there in the top 3 moments of the Gala for me. The roar of the Deltic and Rodders EE clatter sounded fantastic and spells up to Oxenhope sounded just as nice too. This pairing was never on my bucket list but I'm an half glad I was in place to experience it. The journey down was a more sedate affair but things were starting to gear up for the main event of the day. We werent wanting to be too far away from Keighley for the 15.45. The other half decided it was time for lunch, so we got them pulled pork sarnies, she had coffee, whilst i went and got a pint of Guiness to wash my sarnie down. I did contemplate buying a few things from the stalls but thought, oh i'll just get something tomorrow. The other half got herself another fridge magnet, she loves a fridge magnet, I've said to her, one day she'll walk past that fridge and she'll be drawn in and stuck to it and the only way she'll get free, is by releasing the catch on her pandora bracelet. For the record shes bought more since but no harm has come of it yet but if the moon starts moving further North, you know who to blame.

Matt had reappeared and we had a good natter and done what we usually do, take the p**s out of each other. Oh he's only kissed 47715 earlier and wanted me to take a pic of him doing it. Matt just laughed and said, well I hope you did. I had no choice really Matt. I told her to stop being so ungrateful and remember how lucky she was. I got that look and a dissaproving shake of the head and called a daft so n so before we all laughed.
The main event of the day rolked tound, trying to get a seat was a challenge, getting a window to stick ye head out, at least near the front, was impossible. The pairing of 37508 and 37057 had many a tad giddy, ourselves included. I might be wrong but im sure Mr xot of this very parish has told of the incident within these very walls. The 37s took off towards the ski slope in very loud typical 37 fashion. It sounded excellent until we ground to very abrupt halt. Im not sure if the driver of 37508 over amped it or not but to coin a phrase by the very knowledgable Mr xot, 37508 fagged out, after a brief spell of inactivity, we were treated to 37057, on the inside of the duo doing the hard graft. 37057 sounded absolutely glorious all the way up to Oxenhope. Sadly I never got a pic, so I must give huge thanks and credit to Andrew Hern, for his permission to use his pic. This excellent pic was on X and i think you'll agree, The pairing look stunning.
View attachment 189966
I might just be imagining this but i cant really remember, I THINK 37508 might've been removed at Haworth loop, it may have just been put on the naughty step at Keighley. Someone please enlighten me.

Back at Keighley it was time for a bit more duff action. This time in the form of RES 47714, I got a nice seat in the front coach 2nd window down from the droplight. Matt and the other half, looking at me saying, Ah look at his face bless him. I took no notice whatsoever. I was blissfully standing head out the window, waiting for those blessed sulzer tones, whilst I got lost in the rhythmic rolling strumming as we idled awaiting the off.View attachment 189890
47714 was as good if not better than when we had it on the Wenslydale a few weeks earlier, a winner for Matt too, again the other half chipped in with a dud comment to Matt, saying shes only on cos Matt n I were onboard too I couldnt resist another pic at Oxenhope. So for you 47 haters, look away now. If your still here, i think those at the Wensleydale have done a superb job of the repaint, even though i was hoping it would go BR Blue with domino headboard, reaquainted with its Thames nameplates and renumbered back to 47511, I still love it though.
View attachment 189891
I know I'm grasping at straws, I'd love to see 47712, 714 and 715 altogether doing some form of push pulls specials out of Edinburgh, albeit theres only 712 in Jock Rail livery these days. We can but dream.

The journey back to Keighley, we just had a really good natter about Matt's impending trip the next day, his mileage over the course of the year and ofcourse life in general, as well as sharing old bashing tales(ours are tame when you read some of those in the excellent "back in the day" thread) and future plans.

One more spin was the order of the day Matt was staying a little bit later to maximise his mileage. So we kindly let Barbara do the honours and the lovely lady didnt let us down. Typical 37 growlage all the way up the hill, great fun indeed.

On the way back down we said our goodbyes to Matt and best wishes for the Tour the next day before bailing at Haworth, waving as the 37 growled away. The day for us at least was over but what a 2nd day it had been. We were ready for some bait and a rest. Roll on Day 3 but i did wonder what entertainment the local pubs would throw our way tonight. In the car on the way back to base camp, the other half proclaimed she'd really enjoyed today but was a bit apprehensive about tomorrow, as she'd heard the Saturdays could be manic, when the young uns come out to play. I just said, we'll just do what we want, we've had most on offer, we can have a later start then pick n choose what we do, this at least seemed to settle her nerves.
Lastly to Matt, great to meet up again mate, hopefully we'll get to see you sooner rather than later. I think she may be putting adoption papers in for you n young Tom soon.

Great read mate, always great to revisit past trips and bring back the memories of an amazing day.

Always a pleasure to catch up with you both and I am sure we will do so on more than one occasion for Gala season in 2026

 

[47403]

A great read, as ever.

Just to note that 508 came back to life while we were standing in Damems loop, so we were treated to both Syphons working from there to Oxenhope. But as you say, 057 working on its own, with a dead 37 on the front and a pair of dead 20s on the back, was immense.

I was in the second coach, with a window above the table, enjoying every moment!

Thank you for reminding me and the kind words. i'd totally forgot the 20s came along for the ride. We were mid to back coaches but thanks for reminding me regardless.

Great read mate, always great to revisit past trips and bring back the memories of an amazing day.

Always a pleasure to catch up with you both and I am sure we will do so on more than one occasion for Gala season in 2026

Thanks mate, kind words indeed. Yeah i have no doubt we'll rock up together somewhere, hopefully with Mr xot too. I know you can't wait to practice your Geordie tones with us or much easier, I can just bamboozle Ted with mine. Poor soul looked lost, we tend to forget how quick we talk and with the accent, the other half had to say, I dont think Ted understood a word you just said We've met so many times before now, at least you can vaguely understand us. Mr xot is obviously fluent in Geordie, hes an exiled but no less blessed native of the North East.

 

[Cowley]

Thread reopened for Mickey to update.

 

[xotGD]

If he's going to post about 47s, please close the thread again!

 

[Cowley]

If he's going to post about 47s, please close the thread again!

Nope. We absolutely won’t be doing that.

 

[47403]

Thanks xot.

 

[47403]

Thank you for re-opening the thread folks. Much appreciated.

Introduction
Lastly my apologies for not finishing the galas thread, sadly life and circumstance got in the way. I wont bore you with the personal details However thats all in the past now. To the matter in hand.

At quiet times, every now and again, I look through my NREA and I look at the the great swathes of requirements I need and contemplate, how I can put that right. I was busy formulating a plan, when the other half asked, what you looking at ? When I told her what I was thinking, we formulated a plan together. However it wasnt cheap, we also had a weekend away at The Sidings for her Birthday to pay for too.

Due to cost of going away for the other halfs Birthday and going away for this trip. It has meant we've had to forgo the Galas scene this summer and Id be lying my arse off, if I said it didnt kill me, seeing the videos, hearing the tales and seeing the photos of the Galas going by without us there, gave me severe move envy That said, we did break the curfew we put on ourselves, by having a day at the Wensleydale. 37250, 47714, 33035 and a guest appearance from a Colas 37/4, was too great an ordeal to turn down, All looked bad when the Colas 37/4 got pulled, however, to their credit, those at the Wensleydale managed to convince Colas to replace 37421 with 37254, which would be a winner for haulage for me and judging by the crowds, over the weekend, not just me either. As a result, 37254 became a bit of a major draw and for those excellent folk at the Wensleydale, I hope they raised some well needed funds for the line. What a day it turned out to be too. Both 37250 and 37254 were faultless and sounded awesome and even better when double headed. So was 47714 too but the syphons certainly stole the show.

We had a great weekend away at the Sidings and on the Sunday the day of her Birthday, we were sitting in the beer garden, having a morning coffee, when I said, I've arranged your Birthday pressy but we have to stay here a bit. I hadn't really organised it, I was winging it but a look at Realtime earlier, I'd saw a working to Slateford, I just hoped it wasnt one of the network Rail skateboard. Fortunately it wasn't and she was thrilled to see 37418 and Caroline merrily thrash its way past us.
That done, we set off and enjoyed a lovely afternoon in Harrogate, including a visit to Harrogate Station before a certain Azuma was going to be there. Being 30mins down, the thoughts were better late, than never. 800206 arrived and the Clearance Cannons sounded on all of Elanors devices, for sight. That done, it was back to the Sidings for a 3 Course Sunday Lunch for mademoiselle Birthday.

After our weekend break, the wheels were firmly put in motion, the hotel was already booked, it was now up to me to sort the relevant Rovers and tickets. The Great swathes in the NREA requirements list, included, all but 4 of GWR's IET's, all but 2 of TFW's new units and hopes of picking up those errant units in the FoSS area too.

In the house, this became known as "The Great Cucumber Hunt", which basically was A Freedom of Severn and Solent with add ons. After I'd explained the boundaries of the FoSS, I was asked, is that near the sea wall, I'd love to do that, I said it'll cost us roughly an extra £12 each but yeah we can do that by getting a Devon Day Ranger. I'm told, I'm fine with that and As long as we can go along the Sea Wall, you can plan to your hearts content Happy Days.

 

[47403]

The Great Cucumber Hunt​

This is basically a Spotting trip, no great classic locos for haulage sadly but I hope it entertains nonetheless. It may even give some folk a few ideas, if like me, you're looking to fill ye NREA, Platform 5 or ICRS books, even though most on here are a damn sight more knowledgable than I but if its helps just one of you, then fair enough.
08.15 we leave the North East for 5 nights away, with our Base Camp in Bristol. A mere 15min walk away from Bristol Temple Meads, a place I nicknamed Shirleys Temple and will do in this piece too.

However Im getting ahead of myself, the other half is driving us down to Bristol, however we have planned stops too, Wetherby services for a toilet stop, a ciggy break for me and ofcourse a Gregs bacon sarnie and a coffee, before setting off to Tamworth for a few hours. The aim is to be at Tamworth for 12. A feat we managed quite comfortably.

The rest for the other half, is much appreciated, as is getting me here in time for the 4Q27 Daventry to Coatbridge modal, as DRS are testing the new minty flakes (93s)on an Intermodal duties Also fair game are the new 730s and and Avanti's Eviro's, I've got a few but a few gap fillers wouldn't harm either. As it was, 730236 became the first cop of the day (of which, I'd set the bar quite high, judging by what was needed on this trip too) it wouldn't be the last one either. Not long after, the Minty Flake duly arrived and my first sighting of a 93 full stop. Needless to say 93009 entered the book of sights.

Afterwards I made for the High Level to get some shots of passing freight, who knows maybe even cop something. I wasnt too hopeful, the 3 last GB Sheds I'm after were nowhere near Tamworth. I do need a few Fred's and a couple of freightliners plugs. Of which one is on Midland Road. So that left 1. However, the 730s and Eviros kept my interest too. I did see the Lumo Meridian 222601 for the first time, I didnt count it as a cop, maybe its half a one. They kinda suit the Lumo Livery but its a bit like the new voyager livery, looks ok but how much can you actually polish a turd.

A fair few freight came through on both levels too, nowt startlingly exciting but given freight in the North East is relatively dire, I hope can be forgiven for actually seeing some, wether or not its predominantly sheds.

All was not lost though, I was stood at the top of the stairs on the High Level, looking in my bag when I heard something rumbling towards me, I turned to see a Freighliner plug, almost upon me, you know when you see something and you think, did I really see that. So i asked a young lad if it was indeed the number I thought I'd saw, he duly confirmed it was what I thought I'd saw, so 70015 was in the bag now too, I was delighted to get it too but was also slightly dissapointed, I'd never got a pic of it too. Life gans on.

I have to admit I do like visiting Tamworth, it rarely disappoints, however if you're from that neck of the woods, even if you've seen everything, at least the freight can keep you relatively entertained.

The few hours there flew by and to add more than a few new lines into the book as well, was like job done. The 730s were most fruitful to my NREA, as were the Enviros but It was now time to head further South and get to Bristol but only after visiting an Asda to source a few cold drinks and some food, if not for the car journey but for later in the room.

We arrived at Base Camp around 6 ish and after checking in, I had a quick cuppa, a freshen up and it was onto google maps to find my way to Shirleys Temple(my nickname for Temple Meads and a reference i will use for the duration of this trip report) to get the Great Cucumber Hunt started. Following Google maps was a bit of a mission, as it took.me left right, left but in 15 mins I was there. However I was nearly flattened by 3 bloody cyclists, I was sure they were aiming for me. Luckily I made it to Shirley in one piece and after asking at the gate to go on the platform, the hunt was officially on.

Whilst here on my last FoSS, the Zings(HSTs) reigned supreme on GWR Metals then, Im not a huge fan of zings, i have a begrudgingly respect for them but even I'll admit they're better than Hitachi's ultra modern tat, 150s and 158s done the local turns too. The 150s seem to be replaced by 165s and 166s. Im sure the older ones among us can remember the 80s at Shirley, 33s, 45s, 47s, 50s and some may remember the Westerns to name a few notable locos that used to frequent the place. I had a good 2 and half hours on Shirley, I stood on them platforms thinking about stuff coming and going from Bath Road Depot, whilst picking up a multitude of new cops, like I did on my very first trip here. Today its the IET's not 33s and 50s. Below is an old grainy pic of mine of 33109(still with us too) at Shirley in the mid 80s on a glorious Summer Saturday, having probably arrived from somewhere salubrious like Weymouth. I bet David Bailey didnt lose any sleep over my photography skills.

I did add one of my errant GWR 158s and a couple of 166s too. Giving me a rough total of 20 odd cops for the day, in what was only a positioning day. In my head, that wasnt a bad start at all. Tomorrow the FoSS starts. Let's hope its a good un.

 

[xotGD]

Great stuff. Some of us were very happy that 37421 didn't make it to Wensleydale and 254 produced instead!

Looking forward to the next installment...

 

[47403]

Great stuff. Some of us were very happy that 37421 didn't make it to Wensleydale and 254 produced instead!

Looking forward to the next installment...

Thank you kind words Mr xot. Yeah, when i heard you were going for 37254, I guessed it must be one of the rarer ones for haulage. I even done something I'd never done for years, well as a kid really. I asked if I could cab a loco and sat in the drivers seat of 37250. I'd forgotten how high up the cabs are, when I jumped out the cab onto the platform, I had the grace of a building brick falling from the top.of a block if flats, I mean, I didnt fall but the jump down genuinely came as a shock

 

[xotGD]

Thank you kind words Mr xot. Yeah, when i heard you were going for 37254, I guessed it must be one of the rarer ones for haulage. I even done something I'd never done for years, well as a kid really. I asked if I could cab a loco and sat in the drivers seat of 37250. I'd forgotten how high up the cabs are, when I jumped out the cab onto the platform, I had the grace of a building brick falling from the top.of a block if flats, I mean, I didnt fall but the jump down genuinely came as a shock

I think the last time I cabbed a loco was a Deltic on 1V93!

Meanwhile, back at the Wensleydale Railway on a very hot day...

 

[47403]

Let's Get the FoSS Out of Here​

So were up n out early for the First Day, we park the car up and get onto Shirley via a WH Smiths meal deal and a coffee, we make our way to Platform 12 for our first move to Taunton. It pains me to say it, sadly we have to start in the most underwhelming way. Ok they were both winners but 221121 and 220024 thats more down to the fact, I tend to avoid them like the plague. These barely set the tone when starting a FoSS with Voyagers, it's almost painfuI admitting it, however in my defence it was down to timings honest m'lud.

The new sightings on Shirley kinda glossed over the vommit comets. The plan of the day, sees our boundaries extended down to Plymouth by adding a Devon Day Ranger. That plan incorporates the Sea Wall and a trip down to Paignton. Never been to the place and a place I wanted to visit, cos one of my fave moves in the 80s Summer Saturday timetable was the Paignton to Newcastle double peds move. By the time we got to Taunton, we soon realised that move was off. The pictures and videos of the fire there looked horrendous and early reports that it was allegedly arson, doesn't make it any better either. I felt for the lady who was actually meant to be going there too, to see her family and have the day out with her Grand kids, she was having to arrange being picked up at Newton Abbott from family who were obviously at work and were now scurrying round, finding someone to pick her up, instead of just getting a taxi from Paignton to their house. Thankfully she got sorted. Anyway I digress, at Taunton another few IETs added themselves to the no longer required list, as we awaited our first trip on one of the Cucumbers.

Winners for eveything 802017 and 802018 done the honours to Exeter St David's and apart from the leg room on GWRs is a lot better to their LNER cousins, they're obviously no different to the Azumas, they just wear different pyjamas. I dont know if I was expecting anything different but I wasnt surprised but at least now I can say, Ive done them now. I will do some more too. Fortunately the air con was working nicely too, the heat outside was ramping up big time, not that I'm complaining about that, I dont mind the heat, as we complain all year, we're bloody freezing.

At Exeter, I see a couple of 150s but sadly they're not required but I do click a couple of 159s needed. After a bit something rolls in for the ride to Plymouth, now I'd forgotten these had been transferred down here. 175114 was needed for everything and was one of the 2 I needed for sight, clearing the sub class. Initially we were turned away from getting on, as the doors had closed. Luckily it couldnt leave because two delayed trains were due in before it could leave, so the guard reopened the doors and on we got for a ride along the sea wall on a winner for everything 175114. My first ever ride on the Sea Wall too, i was holding off to maybe ride along it with a bit of Classic traction but sadly that never ever materialised for no other reason, than I never ever got it sorted. Ive been on bus trips going to the depots. I have to say, its to my detriment I haven't done it before now because to be truthful, we both loved it. What an epic journey it was and now I regret not doing it behind classic traction, what was I thinking, not doing this before now. I couldve had a 31, 47 or a 50 along here. As we neared Plymouth I was all eyes for Laira hoping to pick off some units or even zhe gronk for sight, sadly the vegetation blocked any hope of that and the Gronk was too far away to be ID'd. I did get help from Matt from this very parish but he said, LA has 2 gronks both look identical so it could be 08641 or 08644. So I guess I'll never know which one it was, neither were required so I'm lucky on that front.

At Plymouth I went for a ciggy before calling into a shop to get us cold drinks. With no trains to Paignton, they were terminating at Newton Abbot and running into Plymouth to turn back, so that helped me claw a couple more cucumbers for sight. There was very little to set the pulse racing so.we decided, we'd get the next required IET back to Exeter for a quick running along the Sea Wall before doubling back at Exeter and getting off at Dawlish, to have a meander along the wall and round Dawlish itself.

Winner 800315 done the honours back along the sea wall and at Exeter it was onto the first winning stopper to get to Dawlish. That came in the form of winner 165101. Its been a while since I had a 165 or 166, probably the last time was out of Paddington, when going to Ealing Broadway Class 59 hunting, to see if any of the 5 requirements were going into Acton Yard, which is a plan for this FoSS too, just not today.

We jumped off at Dawlish, whilst the other half took a pew to overlook the sea, whilst I had a wander along the Sea Wall for the obligatory pic, which is the law when in this neck of the woods. It was an absolutely stunningly hot day but the sea breeze was absolute heaven too.

One going West and one going East, maybe?
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After the pics, I made back along to where the other half was sat before we went off to get ourselves some ice creams, when asked, what can i get you ? by the young lady at the counter, I did ask for a spoon to try the lot, she laughed but didnt pass a spoon over sadly. After we devoured our Ice Creams we had a little meander round before returning to Dawlish Station, as we had agreed to meet a certain person at the Imperial in Exeter for around 7pm and I wouldn't wanna be late for that. I managed to add a few more bits n pieces to the no longer required step before winner 158958 took us back to Exeter.


We were gonna walk up to the Imperial but decided to get a taxi instead, glad we did too. That hill would've killed us two in this heat, even in the early Evening.

It was nice to finally meet up with Mr Cowley of this very parish. Ive got to know him quite well via here and speak quite regularly on WhatsApp but despite thinking I'd quickly met him at the SVR gala, I find out it wasn't him. So whoever i spoke to a while back, i have no idea who you were and they probably left as confused as hell, as I spoke to them as if I knew them, when they quite clearly didnt have a clue who I was.
However it was great to finally meet Nick in person, we got ourselves a few drinks, soft ones for the other half, she was driving us back from Shirley to base camp. We ordered some much needed some food too and the couple of hours in the Imperial just flew over. We had a bloody good laugh too. Sadly we had to make tracks back to base camp, as we were both starting to flag. I dont know how many more beers Nick had but our taxi turned up and we said our goodbyes. Was an absolute pleasure to meet you Nick and thanks for the hospitality young sir.

Back at Exeter, we waited for the next train back to Shirley and winner for everything 166219 that took us back. After a quick look around Shirleys Temple, to see if there was any needed for sight, sadly there wasnt, so we made our way back to the car and back to base camp, to change out of our sweaty clothes and relax for the evening. Another 20 odd winners for sight, taking me close to nearly 50 for the 2 days so far. Which made me rather happy to say the least because if all goes to plan, tomorrow I should make hay.

 

[47403]

I think the last time I cabbed a loco was a Deltic on 1V93!

Meanwhile, back at the Wensleydale Railway on a very hot day...

View attachment 208346

Phwooarr what a Beast. Love that pic Mr xot

 

[Cowley]

Just one more beer I think Mickey, before going for the easy option of a taxi ride home.

Great to finally meet you too and the missus too. I was side swiped by the fact that you hadn’t done the sea wall before and yes, obviously it was great behind locos back in the day. Saying that though, it’s a lovely journey whatever you’re in going along there.

Loved the reports and the photos, who you are always comes through in your writings. Which is no bad thing!

 

[Techniquest]

Loved your return to this parish good sir, you definitely had a great time on just those two days!

37254 would almost certainly have been a winner for me too, mind you to be brutally honest I don’t remember what I have and haven’t had over the years right now. I have most of my 37s noted but not where or when, I’ll have to check my notes when I get back from this epic adventure. I don’t have my spotting books with me you see.

I’ve never set foot on the sea wall myself, been along it many times of course. Not the same doing so on the likes of a 166, after the days of things like proper First Class on HSTs in decades gone by.

 

[47403]

Just one more beer I think Mickey, before going for the easy option of a taxi ride home.

Great to finally meet you too and the missus too. I was side swiped by the fact that you hadn’t done the sea wall before and yes, obviously it was great behind locos back in the day. Saying that though, it’s a lovely journey whatever you’re in going along there.

Loved the reports and the photos, who you are always comes through in your writings. Which is no bad thing!

Extremely kind words Nick, thank you. Much appreciated. Taunton was as far as i'd been on GWR Metals. I've been in the Stations of Exeter, Plymouth, Penzance, maybe even Par, my mind escapes me but I'm fairly positive I have, if there was a shunter there, then I almost definitely have but I maybe getting confused with St Blazley. Only on bus trips though, going round the depots and stabling points down there. Just the one pint Nick. I thought you'd be there for the neet as we say up here.

Loved your return to this parish good sir, you definitely had a great time on just those two days!

37254 would almost certainly have been a winner for me too, mind you to be brutally honest I don’t remember what I have and haven’t had over the years right now. I have most of my 37s noted but not where or when, I’ll have to check my notes when I get back from this epic adventure. I don’t have my spotting books with me you see.

I’ve never set foot on the sea wall myself, been along it many times of course. Not the same doing so on the likes of a 166, after the days of things like proper First Class on HSTs in decades gone by.

Well hello Tech, how the devil are you? More to the point, I'll ask the question, where is Tech? Are you on the Tour De France. You've never set foot on the Sea Wall, wow!! Thank you for your kind words to Tech. Much appreciated.

Nice to hear you lads done the wall on something you appreciated. A zing is probably better than unit but I've waited too long to do it, Wasted my opportunities sadly. However, unit or IET, we did enjoy the trip along it. Its some feat of engineering and the view was stunning, nonetheless.