Kristofferson
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Sounds pretty hardcore but enjoying the read and photos so far 
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Noddy's Trip Reports
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Techniquest
Veteran Member
I can sympathise with the going back to work, it's hard work after the luxury of a week of heaven (or 2 weeks) on an ALR! I'm going to suffer enough on Tuesday when I get back from my London bash, so I know how you feel!
A productive first day at least, even with unknowledgeable grips/barrier staff! I had it happen on my last ALR too, I think they only know the Anglia one, insisting that an ALR is valid to more than just Ipswich!
A productive first day at least, even with unknowledgeable grips/barrier staff! I had it happen on my last ALR too, I think they only know the Anglia one, insisting that an ALR is valid to more than just Ipswich!
D841 Roebuck
Established Member
Seems like you required much the same lines in Anglia as I still do! To that end, your report is a useful pointer as to how to get them done in the future.
Looking forward to the rest idc.
Looking forward to the rest idc.
Iskra
Established Member
Sounds like a good day. I'm not convinced that it's actually possible to get a decent sleep on the Riviera. Are there no better ways you could start your bashes? Ie with an cheap advance on a very early train?
First day back at work and I survived!
If you think thats hardcore you aint seen nothing yet! (although 47403 doing an all nighter at Carlisle is way more hardcore in my eyes!)
As I said work wasnt too bad in the end and I left on time!
If I had had more winners I might have been happier but in hindsight it set me up which you will see!
You are right about that. The earliest train off Plymouth still wouldnt get me into London until after 0900. Sometimes I start on that train (but advances at a nice price are rare!) so the Night Riviera is the best option in terms of time!
One thing I forgot to add to the last post was my mileage for day 1! It came in at 645 including the sleeper up (I would normally count the 245 from the sleeper as one day as this was the previous day, all be it by 6 minutes!)
11th October - Day 2
So I was up at 0630 and I felt good. I had had a good nights sleep which I clearly needed! I had a shower and packed my stuff into my bags (I did the whole trip with two rucksacks). After today was also the last time I would probably be able to charge my phone properly which I was a little concerned about as I use it a lot for RTT and working out where things are when I see them). I had bought an external charger from Amazon but had no idea how long it would last. In theory it would charge my phone from more or less flat to full 6 times but wed have to wait and see!
It was on then on the station via McDonalds (again I know, but it would be the last time on the trip!). Once at the station I noted down everything in the yard. Five 66s, one 70 and four 90s. All Freightliner (of which I dont need any of for sight). My first train of the day was the 0751 Ipswich to Harwich International to get the single track via Manningtree North and East junctions. I have got to admit I wasnt expecting a 153 but I needed so that was good.
20151011-Ipswich-153322 by Steven Booth, on Flickr
An empty 153322 (well me and two other people!) headed out to Harwich International non stop. Four 66s in the yard were noted and now I had two options. Wait for the next train (30 odd minutes) or a quick walk to Dover Court. The advantage of the later option was an additional new shack and no fester. The disadvantage it was a 1.9 mile walk. It also didnt look very walk friendly when I looked out from the station across the ferry terminal area! Hmmmm.
I went for it. Very glad I did too. Luckily the satellite images are out of date and new housing made for a more comfortable walk than it looked like. I made it the station with a couple of minutes to spare and waited for the train to come in and take me to Harwich Town. I was expecting a 321 (no idea why - i had no reason to assume that is what i would be!) but was delighted to see it was 360120! My final 360 to clear the class! So although yesterday I didnt have many winners the 360s were obviously big!
20151011-Harwich Town-360120 by Steven Booth, on Flickr
So with the branch complete it was back to Manningtree on 360120 to get the other curve onto the branch done. 321436 and 321352 were shortly along and on to Ipswich once more. I then took 90011 to Stowmarket for 170273 (same as yesterday) forward to March. The route from Ely was needed until Peterborough.
20151011-March-170273 by Steven Booth, on Flickr
I did want to go the Spoons here but we got held outside March for ages (about 10 minutes) due to a level crossing issue, so my 23 minute window shrank by nearly half. I had no idea if the XC train behind would be held by the same issue so didnt risk it. Good job it only lost a couple of minutes. As it arrived I could see it was four carriages! This got my hopes up. Two 2 carriage units. My final set was a 2 carriage one! But it was 170117 and 170521. Doh!
Onto Peterborough then. The rest of the days plan was basically an East Coast Bash! I didnt really know how to attack so just went with it! A Mark 4 set was in the platform when I got there and went for it as it wad due to leave. I caught it to Grantham and discovered dud 91116 leading when i got there. I let a few trains go north and south and decided that the Hull train service due I would get on whether I needed it or not (otherwise it would have meant an hour at Grantham). There was a 75% i needed so I had high hopes. It arrived in the form of 180110, the only Hull Trains set I have had! Oh well. Kings Cross beckoned. Theyll be more choice there.
As we passed Peterborough I noted a lot of 66s stabled nearby. Of the eight there I needed 66756 and 66765 so that was good. Once at Kings Cross I had a wonder round to see what was in. Nothing I needed. I waited for a while and soon I saw a 91 set with a winner on it and an HST came in with a winner on it. The about 30 minutes until the 91 left and a bit longer for the HST. A fill in move was needed. A jumped onto a pair of 365s to Finsbury park. 365516 and 365539 up and 313052 back. I then went over to the train with 91128 leading and jumped on. Wasnt long before it was due to leave now. I took this to Peterborough and bailed for the HST behind. I cant quite remember where it was but I spotted 91111 heading south and worked out where it would be later. So 43272 and 43307 powered me north to Doncaster. I spotted an incredible 15 locos in and around Doncaster (and that was only the ones I got numbers for) even better was three 66s and two 60s amongst them were required for sight! Very happy with that!
20151011-Doncaster-60095, 60076, 56113 and 67030 by Steven Booth, on Flickr
I didnt want to wait here for too long. I decided I would jump on the Grand Central 180 due and take that to Wakefield Kirkgate. 180112 was the unit in question.
20151011-Wakefield Kirkgate-180112 by Steven Booth, on Flickr
This was the first time I had been here since the refurb had finished completely. Yes it is better but the station is still disjointed in my opinion. 158905 was in a few minutes later and I took this to Leeds. I didnt have long here and 322485 (I think i must stalk this 322!) took me back to Doncaster. Finally 91111 made a reappearance and I took this to Wakefield Westgate.
It was now time to head back to London. 91107 was propelling 82216 (I log the DVTs if the are in control of the train and also my final 82/2 for sight). We were in on time and I took the short walk up to Euston. The wind had got up and the temperature had dropped. I went and got a Burrito to eat and set about trying to find some wifi! I wanted to download the F1 race for the iPlayer app. Nothing I found worked (throttled the download). I had to search out the Cloud because that doesnt throttle. I found it but it was outside in a cafe that was shutting. I ended up standing outside just about getting a signal but it worked. I downloaded the highlights it was only a 650meg file instead of 2.5gig. 10 minutes was better than 45 odd minutes! With that done it was off to find my train.
Down to Platform 15 and off up to the front. 90044. Happy with that. Back to my coach. I spoke to the hosts as I wanted a shower coupon for Glasgow. With that done I found my seat. Luckily the guy that was supposed to be opposite me seemed to get miffed off about something and disappeared. Meant I had all the space all night! But these seats are awful! Why put people opposite each other? The ones facing the back of someone are much better. Anyway, I went and got a beer from the buffet and settled down to watch the F1. Much to my delight Hamilton won! Surely the title is Hamiltons now? So with that watched I was in a great mood as we headed North. I plugged my phone into my charger and settled down for some kip. A very good day. 9 winning trains (10 if you include the DVT!) four new stations and I cleared the ton! 1063 miles travelled! But dont forget, I include the entire sleeper journey as it started today! The sleeper incidently was my first Caledonian Sleeper taken north bound and was routed via Birmingham International and then Tame Bridge Parkway.
Sounds pretty hardcore but enjoying the read and photos so far
If you think thats hardcore you aint seen nothing yet! (although 47403 doing an all nighter at Carlisle is way more hardcore in my eyes!)
As I said work wasnt too bad in the end and I left on time!
The lines are bit of a pain to be honest and I am glad they are now done.
If I had had more winners I might have been happier but in hindsight it set me up which you will see!
You are right about that. The earliest train off Plymouth still wouldnt get me into London until after 0900. Sometimes I start on that train (but advances at a nice price are rare!) so the Night Riviera is the best option in terms of time!
One thing I forgot to add to the last post was my mileage for day 1! It came in at 645 including the sleeper up (I would normally count the 245 from the sleeper as one day as this was the previous day, all be it by 6 minutes!)
11th October - Day 2
So I was up at 0630 and I felt good. I had had a good nights sleep which I clearly needed! I had a shower and packed my stuff into my bags (I did the whole trip with two rucksacks). After today was also the last time I would probably be able to charge my phone properly which I was a little concerned about as I use it a lot for RTT and working out where things are when I see them). I had bought an external charger from Amazon but had no idea how long it would last. In theory it would charge my phone from more or less flat to full 6 times but wed have to wait and see!
It was on then on the station via McDonalds (again I know, but it would be the last time on the trip!). Once at the station I noted down everything in the yard. Five 66s, one 70 and four 90s. All Freightliner (of which I dont need any of for sight). My first train of the day was the 0751 Ipswich to Harwich International to get the single track via Manningtree North and East junctions. I have got to admit I wasnt expecting a 153 but I needed so that was good.
20151011-Ipswich-153322 by Steven Booth, on FlickrAn empty 153322 (well me and two other people!) headed out to Harwich International non stop. Four 66s in the yard were noted and now I had two options. Wait for the next train (30 odd minutes) or a quick walk to Dover Court. The advantage of the later option was an additional new shack and no fester. The disadvantage it was a 1.9 mile walk. It also didnt look very walk friendly when I looked out from the station across the ferry terminal area! Hmmmm.
I went for it. Very glad I did too. Luckily the satellite images are out of date and new housing made for a more comfortable walk than it looked like. I made it the station with a couple of minutes to spare and waited for the train to come in and take me to Harwich Town. I was expecting a 321 (no idea why - i had no reason to assume that is what i would be!) but was delighted to see it was 360120! My final 360 to clear the class! So although yesterday I didnt have many winners the 360s were obviously big!
20151011-Harwich Town-360120 by Steven Booth, on FlickrSo with the branch complete it was back to Manningtree on 360120 to get the other curve onto the branch done. 321436 and 321352 were shortly along and on to Ipswich once more. I then took 90011 to Stowmarket for 170273 (same as yesterday) forward to March. The route from Ely was needed until Peterborough.
20151011-March-170273 by Steven Booth, on FlickrI did want to go the Spoons here but we got held outside March for ages (about 10 minutes) due to a level crossing issue, so my 23 minute window shrank by nearly half. I had no idea if the XC train behind would be held by the same issue so didnt risk it. Good job it only lost a couple of minutes. As it arrived I could see it was four carriages! This got my hopes up. Two 2 carriage units. My final set was a 2 carriage one! But it was 170117 and 170521. Doh!
Onto Peterborough then. The rest of the days plan was basically an East Coast Bash! I didnt really know how to attack so just went with it! A Mark 4 set was in the platform when I got there and went for it as it wad due to leave. I caught it to Grantham and discovered dud 91116 leading when i got there. I let a few trains go north and south and decided that the Hull train service due I would get on whether I needed it or not (otherwise it would have meant an hour at Grantham). There was a 75% i needed so I had high hopes. It arrived in the form of 180110, the only Hull Trains set I have had! Oh well. Kings Cross beckoned. Theyll be more choice there.
As we passed Peterborough I noted a lot of 66s stabled nearby. Of the eight there I needed 66756 and 66765 so that was good. Once at Kings Cross I had a wonder round to see what was in. Nothing I needed. I waited for a while and soon I saw a 91 set with a winner on it and an HST came in with a winner on it. The about 30 minutes until the 91 left and a bit longer for the HST. A fill in move was needed. A jumped onto a pair of 365s to Finsbury park. 365516 and 365539 up and 313052 back. I then went over to the train with 91128 leading and jumped on. Wasnt long before it was due to leave now. I took this to Peterborough and bailed for the HST behind. I cant quite remember where it was but I spotted 91111 heading south and worked out where it would be later. So 43272 and 43307 powered me north to Doncaster. I spotted an incredible 15 locos in and around Doncaster (and that was only the ones I got numbers for) even better was three 66s and two 60s amongst them were required for sight! Very happy with that!
20151011-Doncaster-60095, 60076, 56113 and 67030 by Steven Booth, on FlickrI didnt want to wait here for too long. I decided I would jump on the Grand Central 180 due and take that to Wakefield Kirkgate. 180112 was the unit in question.
20151011-Wakefield Kirkgate-180112 by Steven Booth, on FlickrThis was the first time I had been here since the refurb had finished completely. Yes it is better but the station is still disjointed in my opinion. 158905 was in a few minutes later and I took this to Leeds. I didnt have long here and 322485 (I think i must stalk this 322!) took me back to Doncaster. Finally 91111 made a reappearance and I took this to Wakefield Westgate.
It was now time to head back to London. 91107 was propelling 82216 (I log the DVTs if the are in control of the train and also my final 82/2 for sight). We were in on time and I took the short walk up to Euston. The wind had got up and the temperature had dropped. I went and got a Burrito to eat and set about trying to find some wifi! I wanted to download the F1 race for the iPlayer app. Nothing I found worked (throttled the download). I had to search out the Cloud because that doesnt throttle. I found it but it was outside in a cafe that was shutting. I ended up standing outside just about getting a signal but it worked. I downloaded the highlights it was only a 650meg file instead of 2.5gig. 10 minutes was better than 45 odd minutes! With that done it was off to find my train.
Down to Platform 15 and off up to the front. 90044. Happy with that. Back to my coach. I spoke to the hosts as I wanted a shower coupon for Glasgow. With that done I found my seat. Luckily the guy that was supposed to be opposite me seemed to get miffed off about something and disappeared. Meant I had all the space all night! But these seats are awful! Why put people opposite each other? The ones facing the back of someone are much better. Anyway, I went and got a beer from the buffet and settled down to watch the F1. Much to my delight Hamilton won! Surely the title is Hamiltons now? So with that watched I was in a great mood as we headed North. I plugged my phone into my charger and settled down for some kip. A very good day. 9 winning trains (10 if you include the DVT!) four new stations and I cleared the ton! 1063 miles travelled! But dont forget, I include the entire sleeper journey as it started today! The sleeper incidently was my first Caledonian Sleeper taken north bound and was routed via Birmingham International and then Tame Bridge Parkway.
47403
Established Member
Top read Noddy, really looking forward to the rest of this ALR Report.
No Noddy thats not hardcore, that was just plain silly
However, every cloud and all that, it got me, my last 2 Caledonian sleeper coaches, 2 90's for sight and 2 winning 37's for haulage. Even if I was zombiefied for the majority of the day and the next day
No Noddy thats not hardcore, that was just plain silly
However, every cloud and all that, it got me, my last 2 Caledonian sleeper coaches, 2 90's for sight and 2 winning 37's for haulage. Even if I was zombiefied for the majority of the day and the next day
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Techniquest
Veteran Member
I've done 2 or 3 Carlisle all-nighters, they should be used by the NHS for madness tests! Conversely, anyone who manages one deserves a medal!
That said, Bristol Temple Meads all-nighter in summer 2004. Imagine the racket a 180 makes under that huge roof during the day, and intensify it massively. Horrid noise to endure and the 143 to Taunton via Weston super Mare was a welcome move afterwards! I want a fudging medal for that night...
Anyway, back on topic! I did the same thing with sleepers and day's mileages on my ALR, just easier than working out a point after midnight!
A rather good second day there, especially clearing your 360s, congratulations!
That said, Bristol Temple Meads all-nighter in summer 2004. Imagine the racket a 180 makes under that huge roof during the day, and intensify it massively. Horrid noise to endure and the 143 to Taunton via Weston super Mare was a welcome move afterwards! I want a fudging medal for that night...
Anyway, back on topic! I did the same thing with sleepers and day's mileages on my ALR, just easier than working out a point after midnight!
A rather good second day there, especially clearing your 360s, congratulations!
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HMS Ark Royal
Established Member
Best get my name stamped onto that medal then
Kite159
Veteran Member
Is the waiting room left open all night though?
Sounds a couple interesting days so far
12th October - Day 3
Arrival into Glasgow Centrals platform 1 was on time. I gathered my stuff and got off the train. Also much to my surprise I felt alright and got quite a bit of sleep. I found the Caledonian Sleeper seats more comfortable than the Night Riviera. I grabbed a photo and went off to find the showering facilities.
20151012-Glasgow Central-90044 by Steven Booth, on Flickr
To be fair they werent bad and did the job. They were clean and the water was hot enough. It certainly did the trick in waking me properly and set me up for the day! For a fiver I thought it was worth it. I decided my first job was to get some breakfast. It may come of no surprise a visit to a required Spoons was needed. So I headed out to Paisley Gilmour Street on 380015 and waited for the Gourock train behind. The only problem (well not a problem as such!) was a winning 380105 rolled into the adjacent platform heading to Central. So back I went on 380105 and 380017. Once back here I got onto the next train direct to Gourock. Not requiring the branch I bailed at Greenock Central for the short walk to the Spoons. I ordered my breakfast and it wasnt long before I was tucking into a large Scottish Breakfast! It went down a treat!
It was then back to the station. The next train East wasnt for a while so saw I had time to go one stop west before heading back. 380108 was taken to Greenock West before 314205 took me all the way back to Central. Now was time to go for what I needed as I saw it. First up 380109 which i took to Johnstone. It was back to Central on 380017 which, providing I timed right would see me pick up 314210. It did. So I took this onto the Paisley Canal Branch. I didnt really want to do the whole branch so went for the slightly tight move (which I did last time I was in Glasgow) to Dumbreck! I had a +1 here but its not a straight forward platform change. Its up to the road, over the bridge and then back down! I was half way back down when 214213 was just opening its doors! Made it! Even better was it being a winner!
Back into Central and my final 380 for sight was waiting! 380011 was obviously boarded and it was to Paisley Gilmour.
20151012-Paisley Gilmour Street-380011 by Steven Booth, on Flickr
Paisley is as good a spot to wait for any 380s so I hung around here for a while. It wasnt long before 380114 was had to Bishopton.
20151012-Bishopton-380114 by Steven Booth, on Flickr
The train I met coming the other way was 380002 which I took all the way back to Central. I got to admit this part of the line was getting tedious now! lol! But as I arrived I saw two required units! Both were on the way to Ayr! Not together though! So I jumped onto 380020 which I took to first stop Kilwinning. I now had to go back a stop (more to save festering) for the second unit on the way. 380018 was had back to Dalry before 380013 arrived to take me back to Kilwinning.
It had now gone well past lunchtime (not that I was hungry) but time was getting on. I hadnt done any track I was after (Lanark and Larkhall branches) and that wasnt going to happen! Time was getting on and I needed to be at Edinburgh before the evening rush hour. So 380014 back to Glasgow Central was had. I spotted 320301 and 318260 about to leave. I jumped on this to Uddingston. It was now back to Central on 158869 before heading to the low level platforms. 320307 took me to Partick. I was now going to start heading to Edinburgh. I went via the Bathgate line as I wanted to make a couple of stops en route. 334035 and 334015 to Airdrie first. A quick dash up the hill and a swift one at the spoons before 334001 and 334012 to Livingstone North. There are two spoons here that I need to visit and they were more urgent now as one is due to be sold off. The only problem is they are some way from the station (about 2.5 miles). Now a mate of mine said the bus stop was just by the station and he was right. But there werent any due and I didnt have much longer than an hour! Sod it. Back to the station.
334029 for the final leg to Edinburgh. Well Haymarket. I was torn between here or Waverley. I couldnt really go far so just hoped what ever I needed was heading East. After about 30 mins a winning 158 finally turned up! 158735 for the short hop through the tunnels to Waverley. There was nothing here I needed for a hopeful quick out and back. I think its obvious what I was planning next! So I went down wait for the first Fife Circle 68 turn. My first ride behind one! Finally (a few minutes late arriving but on time leaving!) 68007 left! What a noise! I like!
20151012-Rosyth-68007 by Steven Booth, on Flickr
This was had to Rosyth. This meant I could get a new shack and the one behind! My second!
20151012-Rosyth-68003 by Steven Booth, on Flickr
20151012-Lochgelly-68003 by Steven Booth, on Flickr
As you can I took 68003 to Lochgelly for another new shack. It is annoying though that second diagram doesnt go all the way round! Mind you at least i knew! I was talking to a fellow enthusiast who was hoping to go all the way round! To say he was annoyed when I told him it didnt is an understatement.
After what seems like an eternity 170403 finally arrived and it was on to Glenrothes with Thornton. After looking at doing this for a long while I finally went ahead and did it! I needed the spoons in Glenrothes but its about 3.5 miles away. So having looked up buses I saw that I could do what I wanted within the hour I had. So a short walk to the bus stop and I waited for the number 38A. It arrived on time and off into Glenrothes I went. The bus took 9 minutes but we only stopped once (and waited to be in line with timetable). The spoons was right by the bus station which was handy. I had a drink and was back outside waiting for the bus back. This is where it was tight. I had a +3 and clocked the taxi rank. I decided if the bus was even a second late I would go for the taxi.
The bus turned up bang on time. I hopped on, off we went and it all went wrong. I dont know if the bus driver thought it was the last Sunday on earth or something but drove like a right so and so! I was seething! We stopped twice to drop people off (so not exactly time wasting!) and we arrived at the station 4 minutes late! That was my +3 gone and the train! I was so angry! How did he loose 4 minutes in 3.5 miles! No traffic and no passengers!
I was now looking at my options. The next train was in an hour! worse still I had planned to be in Perth for dinner and to meet the sleeper back south. At worst I could get the sleeper further south but I was now annoyed. I noticed that I could meet the train I was to catch to Perth at Markinch. Only problem was I needed to be at Markinch which was 3.6 miles away! I had an hound half! I wasnt catching a bus again (I hate them at the best of times but I was not in the mood now!). So I set off. More or less retracing my steps I had just done for a lot of the way (which wound me up more!) after just short of 3 miles the street lights ran out! I thought that pavement had too at first but it hadnt. All I had was my torch light from my phone. It was a little creepy wondering round in an unknown area. The temperature had dropped, the wind was howling through the small forrest I seemed to have descended into, and there was a cold sounding (I think that makes sense!) river below me as I crossed the bridge. It was then up the hill and i could see lights! I finally arrived at the station! I had powered that walk and had just under half an hour to wait! I spotted a little cafe and popped in! It was still open just but had one of the nicest pints Id ever had! It was a Weihenstephaner Hefeweissbier (I had to check untappd for that! I cant even say let alone spell it!).
Once I was back at the station it was almost a relief to finally see 158782 and get away from the area! Once at Perth I headed into the town. I had a Chilli Dog and then rung the missus! It was then back to station for a wait for the Sleeper.
20151012-Perth-67007 by Steven Booth, on Flickr
It was double headed 67011 and 67007. Not sure why they have started doubling these up. Ive done this before and one 67 coped fine. Either way I got on and found my seat. Not one facing another seat thank goodness. I went and grabbed a beer from the buffet and settled down to some tunes. I also took the opportunity to charge my phone using my external battery again which was working a treat!
It wasnt long before I was asleep. That walk had taken it out of me! Nevertheless a very good day. I had only travelled 369 miles but I scored 12 winners (including my first 68s!) and 12 new shacks, but did I mention I hate buses?
Arrival into Glasgow Centrals platform 1 was on time. I gathered my stuff and got off the train. Also much to my surprise I felt alright and got quite a bit of sleep. I found the Caledonian Sleeper seats more comfortable than the Night Riviera. I grabbed a photo and went off to find the showering facilities.
20151012-Glasgow Central-90044 by Steven Booth, on FlickrTo be fair they werent bad and did the job. They were clean and the water was hot enough. It certainly did the trick in waking me properly and set me up for the day! For a fiver I thought it was worth it. I decided my first job was to get some breakfast. It may come of no surprise a visit to a required Spoons was needed. So I headed out to Paisley Gilmour Street on 380015 and waited for the Gourock train behind. The only problem (well not a problem as such!) was a winning 380105 rolled into the adjacent platform heading to Central. So back I went on 380105 and 380017. Once back here I got onto the next train direct to Gourock. Not requiring the branch I bailed at Greenock Central for the short walk to the Spoons. I ordered my breakfast and it wasnt long before I was tucking into a large Scottish Breakfast! It went down a treat!
It was then back to the station. The next train East wasnt for a while so saw I had time to go one stop west before heading back. 380108 was taken to Greenock West before 314205 took me all the way back to Central. Now was time to go for what I needed as I saw it. First up 380109 which i took to Johnstone. It was back to Central on 380017 which, providing I timed right would see me pick up 314210. It did. So I took this onto the Paisley Canal Branch. I didnt really want to do the whole branch so went for the slightly tight move (which I did last time I was in Glasgow) to Dumbreck! I had a +1 here but its not a straight forward platform change. Its up to the road, over the bridge and then back down! I was half way back down when 214213 was just opening its doors! Made it! Even better was it being a winner!
Back into Central and my final 380 for sight was waiting! 380011 was obviously boarded and it was to Paisley Gilmour.
20151012-Paisley Gilmour Street-380011 by Steven Booth, on FlickrPaisley is as good a spot to wait for any 380s so I hung around here for a while. It wasnt long before 380114 was had to Bishopton.
20151012-Bishopton-380114 by Steven Booth, on FlickrThe train I met coming the other way was 380002 which I took all the way back to Central. I got to admit this part of the line was getting tedious now! lol! But as I arrived I saw two required units! Both were on the way to Ayr! Not together though! So I jumped onto 380020 which I took to first stop Kilwinning. I now had to go back a stop (more to save festering) for the second unit on the way. 380018 was had back to Dalry before 380013 arrived to take me back to Kilwinning.
It had now gone well past lunchtime (not that I was hungry) but time was getting on. I hadnt done any track I was after (Lanark and Larkhall branches) and that wasnt going to happen! Time was getting on and I needed to be at Edinburgh before the evening rush hour. So 380014 back to Glasgow Central was had. I spotted 320301 and 318260 about to leave. I jumped on this to Uddingston. It was now back to Central on 158869 before heading to the low level platforms. 320307 took me to Partick. I was now going to start heading to Edinburgh. I went via the Bathgate line as I wanted to make a couple of stops en route. 334035 and 334015 to Airdrie first. A quick dash up the hill and a swift one at the spoons before 334001 and 334012 to Livingstone North. There are two spoons here that I need to visit and they were more urgent now as one is due to be sold off. The only problem is they are some way from the station (about 2.5 miles). Now a mate of mine said the bus stop was just by the station and he was right. But there werent any due and I didnt have much longer than an hour! Sod it. Back to the station.
334029 for the final leg to Edinburgh. Well Haymarket. I was torn between here or Waverley. I couldnt really go far so just hoped what ever I needed was heading East. After about 30 mins a winning 158 finally turned up! 158735 for the short hop through the tunnels to Waverley. There was nothing here I needed for a hopeful quick out and back. I think its obvious what I was planning next! So I went down wait for the first Fife Circle 68 turn. My first ride behind one! Finally (a few minutes late arriving but on time leaving!) 68007 left! What a noise! I like!
20151012-Rosyth-68007 by Steven Booth, on FlickrThis was had to Rosyth. This meant I could get a new shack and the one behind! My second!
20151012-Rosyth-68003 by Steven Booth, on Flickr
20151012-Lochgelly-68003 by Steven Booth, on FlickrAs you can I took 68003 to Lochgelly for another new shack. It is annoying though that second diagram doesnt go all the way round! Mind you at least i knew! I was talking to a fellow enthusiast who was hoping to go all the way round! To say he was annoyed when I told him it didnt is an understatement.
After what seems like an eternity 170403 finally arrived and it was on to Glenrothes with Thornton. After looking at doing this for a long while I finally went ahead and did it! I needed the spoons in Glenrothes but its about 3.5 miles away. So having looked up buses I saw that I could do what I wanted within the hour I had. So a short walk to the bus stop and I waited for the number 38A. It arrived on time and off into Glenrothes I went. The bus took 9 minutes but we only stopped once (and waited to be in line with timetable). The spoons was right by the bus station which was handy. I had a drink and was back outside waiting for the bus back. This is where it was tight. I had a +3 and clocked the taxi rank. I decided if the bus was even a second late I would go for the taxi.
The bus turned up bang on time. I hopped on, off we went and it all went wrong. I dont know if the bus driver thought it was the last Sunday on earth or something but drove like a right so and so! I was seething! We stopped twice to drop people off (so not exactly time wasting!) and we arrived at the station 4 minutes late! That was my +3 gone and the train! I was so angry! How did he loose 4 minutes in 3.5 miles! No traffic and no passengers!
I was now looking at my options. The next train was in an hour! worse still I had planned to be in Perth for dinner and to meet the sleeper back south. At worst I could get the sleeper further south but I was now annoyed. I noticed that I could meet the train I was to catch to Perth at Markinch. Only problem was I needed to be at Markinch which was 3.6 miles away! I had an hound half! I wasnt catching a bus again (I hate them at the best of times but I was not in the mood now!). So I set off. More or less retracing my steps I had just done for a lot of the way (which wound me up more!) after just short of 3 miles the street lights ran out! I thought that pavement had too at first but it hadnt. All I had was my torch light from my phone. It was a little creepy wondering round in an unknown area. The temperature had dropped, the wind was howling through the small forrest I seemed to have descended into, and there was a cold sounding (I think that makes sense!) river below me as I crossed the bridge. It was then up the hill and i could see lights! I finally arrived at the station! I had powered that walk and had just under half an hour to wait! I spotted a little cafe and popped in! It was still open just but had one of the nicest pints Id ever had! It was a Weihenstephaner Hefeweissbier (I had to check untappd for that! I cant even say let alone spell it!).
Once I was back at the station it was almost a relief to finally see 158782 and get away from the area! Once at Perth I headed into the town. I had a Chilli Dog and then rung the missus! It was then back to station for a wait for the Sleeper.
20151012-Perth-67007 by Steven Booth, on FlickrIt was double headed 67011 and 67007. Not sure why they have started doubling these up. Ive done this before and one 67 coped fine. Either way I got on and found my seat. Not one facing another seat thank goodness. I went and grabbed a beer from the buffet and settled down to some tunes. I also took the opportunity to charge my phone using my external battery again which was working a treat!
It wasnt long before I was asleep. That walk had taken it out of me! Nevertheless a very good day. I had only travelled 369 miles but I scored 12 winners (including my first 68s!) and 12 new shacks, but did I mention I hate buses?
HMS Ark Royal
Established Member
Very entertaining read
I look forward to your next one
I look forward to your next one
47403
Established Member
12th October - Day 3
Arrival into Glasgow Centrals platform 1 was on time. I gathered my stuff and got off the train. Also much to my surprise I felt alright and got quite a bit of sleep. I found the Caledonian Sleeper seats more comfortable than the Night Riviera. I grabbed a photo and went off to find the showering facilities.
To be fair they werent bad and did the job. They were clean and the water was hot enough. It certainly did the trick in waking me properly and set me up for the day! For a fiver I thought it was worth it. I decided my first job was to get some breakfast. It may come of no surprise a visit to a required Spoons was needed. So I headed out to Paisley Gilmour Street on 380015 and waited for the Gourock train behind. The only problem (well not a problem as such!) was a winning 380105 rolled into the adjacent platform heading to Central. So back I went on 380105 and 380017. Once back here I got onto the next train direct to Gourock. Not requiring the branch I bailed at Greenock Central for the short walk to the Spoons. I ordered my breakfast and it wasnt long before I was tucking into a large Scottish Breakfast! It went down a treat!
It was then back to the station. The next train East wasnt for a while so saw I had time to go one stop west before heading back. 380108 was taken to Greenock West before 314205 took me all the way back to Central. Now was time to go for what I needed as I saw it. First up 380109 which i took to Johnstone. It was back to Central on 380017 which, providing I timed right would see me pick up 314210. It did. So I took this onto the Paisley Canal Branch. I didnt really want to do the whole branch so went for the slightly tight move (which I did last time I was in Glasgow) to Dumbreck! I had a +1 here but its not a straight forward platform change. Its up to the road, over the bridge and then back down! I was half way back down when 214213 was just opening its doors! Made it! Even better was it being a winner!
Back into Central and my final 380 for sight was waiting! 380011 was obviously boarded and it was to Paisley Gilmour.
Paisley is as good a spot to wait for any 380s so I hung around here for a while. It wasnt long before 380114 was had to Bishopton.
The train I met coming the other way was 380002 which I took all the way back to Central. I got to admit this part of the line was getting tedious now! lol! But as I arrived I saw two required units! Both were on the way to Ayr! Not together though! So I jumped onto 380020 which I took to first stop Kilwinning. I now had to go back a stop (more to save festering) for the second unit on the way. 380018 was had back to Dalry before 380013 arrived to take me back to Kilwinning.
It had now gone well past lunchtime (not that I was hungry) but time was getting on. I hadnt done any track I was after (Lanark and Larkhall branches) and that wasnt going to happen! Time was getting on and I needed to be at Edinburgh before the evening rush hour. So 380014 back to Glasgow Central was had. I spotted 320301 and 318260 about to leave. I jumped on this to Uddingston. It was now back to Central on 158869 before heading to the low level platforms. 320307 took me to Partick. I was now going to start heading to Edinburgh. I went via the Bathgate line as I wanted to make a couple of stops en route. 334035 and 334015 to Airdrie first. A quick dash up the hill and a swift one at the spoons before 334001 and 334012 to Livingstone North. There are two spoons here that I need to visit and they were more urgent now as one is due to be sold off. The only problem is they are some way from the station (about 2.5 miles). Now a mate of mine said the bus stop was just by the station and he was right. But there werent any due and I didnt have much longer than an hour! Sod it. Back to the station.
334029 for the final leg to Edinburgh. Well Haymarket. I was torn between here or Waverley. I couldnt really go far so just hoped what ever I needed was heading East. After about 30 mins a winning 158 finally turned up! 158735 for the short hop through the tunnels to Waverley. There was nothing here I needed for a hopeful quick out and back. I think its obvious what I was planning next! So I went down wait for the first Fife Circle 68 turn. My first ride behind one! Finally (a few minutes late arriving but on time leaving!) 68007 left! What a noise! I like!
This was had to Rosyth. This meant I could get a new shack and the one behind! My second!
As you can I took 68003 to Lochgelly for another new shack. It is annoying though that second diagram doesnt go all the way round! Mind you at least i knew! I was talking to a fellow enthusiast who was hoping to go all the way round! To say he was annoyed when I told him it didnt is an understatement.
After what seems like an eternity 170403 finally arrived and it was on to Glenrothes with Thornton. After looking at doing this for a long while I finally went ahead and did it! I needed the spoons in Glenrothes but its about 3.5 miles away. So having looked up buses I saw that I could do what I wanted within the hour I had. So a short walk to the bus stop and I waited for the number 38A. It arrived on time and off into Glenrothes I went. The bus took 9 minutes but we only stopped once (and waited to be in line with timetable). The spoons was right by the bus station which was handy. I had a drink and was back outside waiting for the bus back. This is where it was tight. I had a +3 and clocked the taxi rank. I decided if the bus was even a second late I would go for the taxi.
The bus turned up bang on time. I hopped on, off we went and it all went wrong. I dont know if the bus driver thought it was the last Sunday on earth or something but drove like a right so and so! I was seething! We stopped twice to drop people off (so not exactly time wasting!) and we arrived at the station 4 minutes late! That was my +3 gone and the train! I was so angry! How did he loose 4 minutes in 3.5 miles! No traffic and no passengers!
I was now looking at my options. The next train was in an hour! worse still I had planned to be in Perth for dinner and to meet the sleeper back south. At worst I could get the sleeper further south but I was now annoyed. I noticed that I could meet the train I was to catch to Perth at Markinch. Only problem was I needed to be at Markinch which was 3.6 miles away! I had an hound half! I wasnt catching a bus again (I hate them at the best of times but I was not in the mood now!). So I set off. More or less retracing my steps I had just done for a lot of the way (which wound me up more!) after just short of 3 miles the street lights ran out! I thought that pavement had too at first but it hadnt. All I had was my torch light from my phone. It was a little creepy wondering round in an unknown area. The temperature had dropped, the wind was howling through the small forrest I seemed to have descended into, and there was a cold sounding (I think that makes sense!) river below me as I crossed the bridge. It was then up the hill and i could see lights! I finally arrived at the station! I had powered that walk and had just under half an hour to wait! I spotted a little cafe and popped in! It was still open just but had one of the nicest pints Id ever had! It was a Weihenstephaner Hefeweissbier (I had to check untappd for that! I cant even say let alone spell it!).
Once I was back at the station it was almost a relief to finally see 158782 and get away from the area! Once at Perth I headed into the town. I had a Chilli Dog and then rung the missus! It was then back to station for a wait for the Sleeper.
It was double headed 67011 and 67007. Not sure why they have started doubling these up. Ive done this before and one 67 coped fine. Either way I got on and found my seat. Not one facing another seat thank goodness. I went and grabbed a beer from the buffet and settled down to some tunes. I also took the opportunity to charge my phone using my external battery again which was working a treat!
It wasnt long before I was asleep. That walk had taken it out of me! Nevertheless a very good day. I had only travelled 369 miles but I scored 12 winners (including my first 68s!) and 12 new shacks, but did I mention I hate buses?
Cracking read Noddy, Glad you got the 68's in, they are indeed awesome, hopefully you'll do the Chiltern turns too and you'll get more in, Shame about the missed connection and the walk back, however the double headed 67 at least made up for that. Can only echo Ark Royal's sentiments about the next trip report.
Techniquest
Veteran Member
As always, an excellent read! I don't blame you for being miffed off with the bus move, Stagecoach can be awkward for such things. I had a bad experience with them coming from the RHDR last year, I forget how late the bus was but I think we lost around 12 minutes on the route and we were already more than 20 down. If there hadn't been a queue for the last bus, with connections at least, to Canterbury to get me to Faversham I'd have missed it and been super bowled!
The 68s are hellfire beasts, so I'm glad you're joining the fan club!
You sure did well up there, did I read correctly you've now cleared your 380s? If so my congratulations!
The 68s are hellfire beasts, so I'm glad you're joining the fan club!
You sure did well up there, did I read correctly you've now cleared your 380s? If so my congratulations!
Kristofferson
Member
- Joined
- 23 Nov 2012
- Messages
- 1,132
Great read and photos so far! Congrats on clearing the 360s and 380s hopefully the rest of the trip doesn't turn out too tiring eh
hopefully the rest of the trip doesn't turn out too tiring ehGreat read and photos so far! Congrats on clearing the 360s and 380s
Not quite cleared my 380s yet I'm afraid to say.
backontrack
Established Member
Agreed. A great read, looking forward to your next leg. Your photos are really good as well, especially 90044 and the last three (the two at Rosyth and the one at Lochgelly).
Apparently next you'll be doing 'HS1 connections on and off the classic network followed by an East Midlands bash'. I'm intrigued to what that means but will have to wait and see. A complete stab in the dark here, but does it involve St Pancakes?
Apparently next you'll be doing 'HS1 connections on and off the classic network followed by an East Midlands bash'. I'm intrigued to what that means but will have to wait and see. A complete stab in the dark here, but does it involve St Pancakes?
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Kristofferson
Member
- Joined
- 23 Nov 2012
- Messages
- 1,132
Ah I thought I read that you'd done the 380s for sight though?
Fair enough. But why would that be any different to the fort william leg or Aberdeen?
Thanks!
That is true. I cleared them for sight. I forgot that bit!
--- old post above --- --- new post below ---
13th October - Day 4
Arriving into Euston on time I gathered my stuff and got off the train. Down to the end to discover winning 90042 had bought me down from Edinburgh.
20151013-Euston-90042 by Steven Booth, on FlickrI hadnt even woken up during the layover at Edinburgh despite the joining of various portions. I then went off to find the showering facilities. These turned out to be in the Virgin First Class lounge area. I showed them my ticket and the gave me a towel. No shower gel or shampoo? I got them in Glasgow! I didnt question it to be honest cos I had them with me but that was besides the point! I found the shower and then discovered the supplies were in there! No worries then! The shower was a pain though. Whilst it was better that the shower was either off or on (in Glasgow you had to keep pushing the button) if you wanted any warmth the pressure was rubbish! Nevertheless it did the job. I was clean and ready for the day ahead.
Being just after 0800 I was restricted on certain TOCs I could use. So it was down to St Pancras and onto the South Eastern network via HS1. I hadnt done any Javelin stock since the Olympics. The main thing I wanted to do here was the HS1 connections onto the classic network. First up was 395023 which I took to Strood. This was where the crossover was to come back. Not a lot at Hoo Junction (08623 and two 66s). 395024 took me back onto HS1. I bailed at Ebbsfleet International where I was going to then head down to Ashford International. The next train I saw was 395027 but this was going the wrong direction.
20151013-Ebbsfleet International-395027 by Steven Booth, on FlickrI needed it though so it was onto Gravesend where I decided I needed to get a drink and something to eat. I settled for a tea and bacon bap from Pumpkin. Back to Ebbsfleet on 395013 and then over to the other half of the station. Whilst waiting for the train a pair of Class 374 arrived (4007 & 4008) on a driver training run. They look fantastic but I was unable to get a photo as it was behind all the barriers. I ended up talking to a guy who drives the 395s. He was telling that in the cab they are something else. These much less power than the 373s and go faster quicker. Obviously there is 25 years between them but he said that a 395 getting and going 140mph uses less power than a 373 just sat at a station waiting to be boarded!
Eventually 395016 arrived and he got in the cab as I boarded. The run to Ashford is the best part of HS1. The first part is all tunnels and then if you go to North Kent its classic network pretty much after Ebbsfleet. To Ashford you got a nice run at 140mph (I measured us hitting and maintaining 139mph). I had a +1 at Ashford which I seriously hoped Id make. Otherwise it was another 30 odd minute wait. I did make and it was the cross platform change. Winning 395014 all the way back into St Pancras and now was time to hit East Midlands!
As we arrived I saw 43050 at the front of an HST set. Thatll do! It was off about 20 minutes later. 43060 was on the rear. Leicester was where I bailed. I knew behind was 222101 and this was where I could get it. It was off to Loughborough on this then. I decided to go for lunch. I headed into town (going against the tide of Brush workers who appeared to have been into town for lunch) and found the spoons. I settled for a large mixed grill which left me well and truly stuffed! I had no time to waste though and I moved onto the second spoons before heading back to the station. I headed back to Leicester where there are more options on 222020. I spent a lot longer here than I had hoped. Was just over an hour I think.
20151013-Leicester-66089 by Steven Booth, on FlickrWhilst I was there 66089 passed though the station and test train 73138 and 73212. The yard was pretty full as well but its a tad tricky to spot everything there with the forest that appears to have grown between it and the main line. After a very long wait finally a winning train arrived. HST with 43058 and 43075 took me to East Midlands Parkway. This would lead to me catching 222022 onto Derby. I wanted to catch the train that went via Corby (last bit of route I needed on the main East Midlands network). After passing RVEL at Derby (absolutely loads here still) I arrived into the station. Next to the station was a Colas 60 and four 20s. Then much to my annoyance I spotted 170112 in the station. Arrrgghhhh! I needed that! My final XC train to clear them! I ignored it. I wasnt on the right platform anyway! I went over to get a photo of the 60.
20151013-Derby-60076, 20118, 20110 by Steven Booth, on Flickr170112 was still there. I then discovered it was here for another 5 minutes. A quick look at RTT saw it being non stop to Nottingham. My mind went into overdrive. Could I get off Nottingham and back to East Midlands before the train I wanted to Corby? A +2 at Nottingham. Very tight but I went for it! 170112 in the book to Nottingham .we arrived I had a +1! I ran up the stairs and over to the platform and made the HST (43075 and 43058) with about 20 seconds before the doors locked! Once at East Midlands I had 7 minutes before the train I had gone to Derby for!
222103 arrived and I jumped on. I took the opportunity to use the power points and give my external battery a boost (dont like charging my phone for short stints as it screws the battery up) as it was the longest I had been on a train with a plug for days. I bailed at Kettering because I had a plan! First part of the plan I went to the spoons for a drink. It was then back to the station for an HST which I had seen earlier (well the back of it which was now the front). It was and I got on with 43048 leading onto Market Harborough. After I got off and the train left I was delighted to see 43046 on the rear! Result!
Time was getting on now and there wasnt really enough time for any other moves this far from London. So I headed south on 43060 and 43050 for the second time today! It was about 2000 by now so I went back to the SE platforms. A spotted 395003 in the platform so I got on (I love this ticket!!!!!). I bailed at Stratford. I flagged two trains back and two more out as they were all dud. It got to the point where I was going to head back anyway as I wanted to get to Euston. I would have gone anyway! Double set 395012 and 395009 came in.
Once at Euston I popped to the Euston Tap (cant believe this was my first time here!) Yes its expensive (London Prices) but wow! What amazing beers I drank. Easy Jack (I rated 4.25 out of 5!) and then Ale of the IMP! Wow! 5 out of 5! I love my IPAs but this Double hit the spot and at 8% was beautiful! I bought a bottle of Sabertooth IPA for the train and then went to the train. 86101 was at the blocks having bout the train in.
20151013-Euston-86101 by Steven Booth, on FlickrI boarded and found my seat was a crap one! Why do they put them opposite each other? I moved as half the coach was not reserved! I grabbed two seats (I had seen others doing it the previous days so I thought I would!) and went to the buffet. So I was now to experience bad Caledonian Customer Service. The previous nights (after asking on the first night) saw me get my shower token from the buffet service host. Not tonight! He point blankly refused saying it wasnt his job and he would get someone else to see me. Ok then! So I then asked if I could get a drink. The answer? I will open the hatch later! Wow! He peeved me off enough to not go back. I just opened the bottle I had just got from the Tap and drank it from the bottle.
We set off (by the way it was 90042 again) on time and the guard came round to check tickets. About 10 minutes later he came to me about the shower token. He mumbled something about coming back to me later. Guess what he didnt! I couldnt be bothered to chase it. Save myself a fiver.
So 1175 miles travelled and 12 winners. Three new stations visited, some new route and cleared my XC fleet! I cant believe I was four days in but I was absolutely loving it!
Techniquest
Veteran Member
Congratulations on clearing the XC fleet!
I love HS1 and the blindingly fast run on a 395, so much fun! Need to do it again, been way too long!
The East Midlands was certainly kind to you, lucky connection in Nottingham too!
Bad service indeed on the Cally Insomnie, I thought the showers were payable on arrival. Never used them personally anywhere but they are a good idea.
I know only too well your pain on the seated sleeper, if you've got one next to someone it is incredibly difficult to sleep!
I love HS1 and the blindingly fast run on a 395, so much fun! Need to do it again, been way too long!
The East Midlands was certainly kind to you, lucky connection in Nottingham too!
Bad service indeed on the Cally Insomnie, I thought the showers were payable on arrival. Never used them personally anywhere but they are a good idea.
I know only too well your pain on the seated sleeper, if you've got one next to someone it is incredibly difficult to sleep!
HMS Ark Royal
Established Member
I'm jealous - I've never done the Javelins before... Must do a quick trip on them next time I am that way
backontrack
Established Member
They're a bit sterile, if anything. Fast, but there's no real heart to them. That's why I prefer Sprinters, 91s and HSTs.
Good question!
I've done a bit of digging and found this (from https://nigelburkin.wordpress.com/2015/08/24/last-summer-of-class-67s-on-the-caledonian-sleepers/)
"Following a problem with a Class 67 recently where one over-heated on the Inverness-Euston service (eventually cancelled) when climbing to Slochd Summit.........Caledonian Sleeper services are now double-headed on the Highland Line leg"
So there you go, I must admit I thought they had suffered problems on more than one occasion.
Anyway, another enjoyable read, I'm looking forward to day 5
Kite159
Veteran Member
The ticket worked the HS1 barriers at St Pancras?
Blimey!
Blimey!
HMS Ark Royal
Established Member
How is that surprising?
Kristofferson
Member
- Joined
- 23 Nov 2012
- Messages
- 1,132
Hmm shame about the poor sleeper service - I've said I'll do it once the new carriages are all bedded in. Will have done all the track to the highlands anyway on a railtour by then, but will still be an experience
47403
Established Member
Another great read Noddy, think I'd be like a kid locked in a sweet shop with an ALR.
Looking forward to the next installment.
Looking forward to the next installment.
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