Techniquest
Veteran Member
A bit of a scenery change there! I'm about to drop you a PM, just so you're aware 
Enjoy the trip to Darlo!
Enjoy the trip to Darlo!
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Noddy's Trip Reports
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March 23rd
Trip to London
So continuing on from my update post .As I said I was on the train to Paddington. It left Plymouth at 0530. I had set my alarm for 0420. Everything was packed so all i needed to do was eat something, make a tea and have a shower. I had planned to be out the door by 0450 but (and I have no idea how!) it turned into 0457! Its a good mile and half from my place to the station and I still needed to get my tickets from the machine. I needed to get a move on. I obviously made it but was hot already (I really must make sure when I do these things I leave myself time for a gentle walk!). This was the first time I had caught an early morning Plymouth service for a long time. Usually I head up on the sleeper the night before but having been away for the weekend and not entirely sure what time I would be back I thought the morning service was a safer bet.
The journey to Paddington was uneventful with not a lot to note. I spotted dud 70804 heading through Exeter St Thomas (a quick look for information found it was heading to Heathfield), a few dud 66s at Westbury (and another 70 that i couldnt ID) and the same at Acton. Where the hell is 66114 (my last DB one! Not seen anything about it since my Scottish trip last November!). But en route details about the extension of the franchise was announced and Firsts plans. Wow! Wasnt expecting it! New trains galore, even in my neck of the woods! Now I love the HST but it cant go on forever so new trains is great news for the South West (if it goes ahead). As long as the interior is carefully thought through there is no reason why they cant be comfortable and a decent inter city train. As I said the HSTs cannot go on forever!
Upon arriving at Paddington my off peak travel card was purchased and I headed down to the tube and waited for the gates let me through. I had a few things I wanted to do whilst in London. I knew I was planning to meet Techniquest on the Thursday so I needed to try and do certain things today. These were clear the 332s, 357s and Victoria Line stock. This meant it was going to potentially be a day of few winners (but they have got to be done at some point). With that in mind Heathrow first so off I went. The barrier wouldnt let me through (must have still not been 0930!) but they let me through. First up was winning S Class pair 21365/366 to Earls Court. Bonus as these are proving harder for me to get now (not that I am trying). Units 172 and 445 (172 winning) took me to Heathrow from here. I was on a T4 service so I decided to stay on it and get the loop into T4 and back round to T123 to get that bit of track in. If all goes to plan I wont be needing to come back here again (unless I go on holiday and fly from Heathrow!). After the eternal wait at T4 we were off and into T123 for the walk to Express platforms.
So I needed three units to clear the class. For those that dont know as a train comes in from Paddington to T123 another train is waiting to leave T5. As you leave T123 you miss whats on the T5 set so you dont know whats on it. For this reason you potentially need to fester down here for ages. I played the strategy of getting on what i needed and then waiting for the next train. At T123 I let the first train go through to T5. I then saw that the one that left was not required. The Heathrow T4 shuttle came and went and then I got going! 332012 and 332008 arrived and I jumped on with 008 being the winner! Now these trains are comfortable! Seats like these for the IEP would be great (although they wouldnt be in 2+1 formation). At T5 I let the sets I came in on go. This turned out to be the right thing to do. In rolled 332001 and more importantly 332002. Back to T123 and now I was down to one set needed! If I remember correctly (I dont right any notes except what I travel on and see if its new!) I let another train go before I finally got 332003 and 332005 with 005 being the important one! Yes! Back to T5 and i didnt spend as long here as I could have potentially needed! with the 332s clear I headed back into central London. Not quite planned but I decided to stay on the Piccadilly line and go for some units here. I havent had many at this point so should rack up quite a lot of winning units quite quickly. From Acton Town I bailed at each stop and did this all the way to Holloway Road. Why Holloway Road? I needed something to eat and a required Wetherspoon was here. After lunch I decided to head up to Cockfosters, thus completing the Piccadilly line as well (Already done the Uxbridge branch years ago). Time was getting on now and I needed to get to Fenchurch Street for the start of the c2c rush hour. So I went back to Holburn for the Central line to Bank. I should point out that on the Piccadilly line I had managed to pick up 31 winning units so was quite pleased with that. From Central to Bank I got three new units. Then I headed for the DLR to Limehouse. I would set up here for a bit but there is no good place to setup for the c2c!
I needed four units to clear the 357s. I waited for about 20 minutes before I finally saw one of the units i needed, 357216. It was heading into Fenchurch ECS. A quick look at what it was working back out saw it going non stop through the London zones! Great! That was not helpful. I tried to work out if it was coming back but I lost track of what it was going to do after an ECS move at its destination. Another few minutes passed and finally a train I could get on and contained a winner in the form of 357035. I took this to West Ham. An island platform it meant I had the choice of in and out (providing it stopped at Barking or Upminster). Most of what was at Fenchurch Street I knew I didnt need though so it was only what was coming in that was important. About half an hour passed and another required unit stopped. Goody! 357045 was bagged and I thought I might as well go whilst I was up. I had been at it for an hour and i knew one of the two units left was not about. An hour and two units was good enough for me considering. I was going to bail at Limehouse and get the DLR to Lewisham. Only problem we didnt stop! Doh! Now I had to either come back out or walk to the DLR (and its a right pain walking about round there). Nothing was leaving shortly and stopping at Limehouse so I had to walk!
Once at the DLR I jumped on and the train had 88 and 24 in the consist that were winning. As we plodded along the main line railway I spotted my final 357. It was an ECS move into Fenchurch but I checked to see what it was doing out. I could bail at Limehouse then and get to where i needed. Couldnt believe it. Non stop! And that is why there is no good place to be for c2c! At least I didnt waste time waiting for it. I stayed on the DLR to Lewisham. It was than a quick drink at the spoons before I got a bus to Lee for another one (was hell of a lot quicker than negotiating the roadworks at Lewisham for a train). It was then back to the trains. Lee was a new shack in the book for another new shack at Sidcup (on dud pair 465192 and 177). Again I popped out to the spoons (there is a festival on so plenty of new ales to try and I also ate here, the new Mexican Monday is great!).
After dinner I headed back to the station and continued to head eastwards. This time I bailed at Alberny Park for a new station and headed back the opposite way for New Eltham (192 and 177 had returned). Then it was winning sets 465034, 238 and 466042 for the ride round to Slade Green. I needed the toilet now so wasnt impressed when a 376 turned up, especially as it was dud :-x! 376005 to Bexley (new shack) and then hopefully a train with a toilet in the opposite direction. Two more 376s! Grrrrr! I got on as 376030 was one of them and required. I bailed at Abbey Wood for the new shack and waited for a train behind (wasnt too long thankfully). 465041, 007 and 466024 with all but 007 needed. At least now I could finally go to the toilet too!
Time was getting on so I stayed on the train to Waterloo East. I would then take the short walk over to Waterloo for the next train to Earlsfield where I would head to my Sisters for the night. Pleasantly surprised to see two 456s with a 455 I got on. I have only (not sure how) only had one 456 (003) for haulage before and here it was! Doh! Well the other had to be winner and it was 006 which was my final 456 for sight. Result! the 455 was 5737 (thought it was asking for too much to be one of my last four SWT ones
).
With that I got to Earlsfield and jumped on the bus to my sisters. En route I rang my wife as I knew my sister and her fiancee would have already gone to bed and didnt want to wake them with me being on the phone when i got there! A pretty good day. Cleared the 332s and halved my 357 requirements. I didnt manage the Victoria line but itll still be there next time! As with all my trips I have no idea of my mileage yet but was good to finally spend a day bashing again.
Trip to London
So continuing on from my update post .As I said I was on the train to Paddington. It left Plymouth at 0530. I had set my alarm for 0420. Everything was packed so all i needed to do was eat something, make a tea and have a shower. I had planned to be out the door by 0450 but (and I have no idea how!) it turned into 0457! Its a good mile and half from my place to the station and I still needed to get my tickets from the machine. I needed to get a move on. I obviously made it but was hot already (I really must make sure when I do these things I leave myself time for a gentle walk!). This was the first time I had caught an early morning Plymouth service for a long time. Usually I head up on the sleeper the night before but having been away for the weekend and not entirely sure what time I would be back I thought the morning service was a safer bet.
The journey to Paddington was uneventful with not a lot to note. I spotted dud 70804 heading through Exeter St Thomas (a quick look for information found it was heading to Heathfield), a few dud 66s at Westbury (and another 70 that i couldnt ID) and the same at Acton. Where the hell is 66114 (my last DB one! Not seen anything about it since my Scottish trip last November!). But en route details about the extension of the franchise was announced and Firsts plans. Wow! Wasnt expecting it! New trains galore, even in my neck of the woods! Now I love the HST but it cant go on forever so new trains is great news for the South West (if it goes ahead). As long as the interior is carefully thought through there is no reason why they cant be comfortable and a decent inter city train. As I said the HSTs cannot go on forever!
Upon arriving at Paddington my off peak travel card was purchased and I headed down to the tube and waited for the gates let me through. I had a few things I wanted to do whilst in London. I knew I was planning to meet Techniquest on the Thursday so I needed to try and do certain things today. These were clear the 332s, 357s and Victoria Line stock. This meant it was going to potentially be a day of few winners (but they have got to be done at some point). With that in mind Heathrow first so off I went. The barrier wouldnt let me through (must have still not been 0930!) but they let me through. First up was winning S Class pair 21365/366 to Earls Court. Bonus as these are proving harder for me to get now (not that I am trying). Units 172 and 445 (172 winning) took me to Heathrow from here. I was on a T4 service so I decided to stay on it and get the loop into T4 and back round to T123 to get that bit of track in. If all goes to plan I wont be needing to come back here again (unless I go on holiday and fly from Heathrow!). After the eternal wait at T4 we were off and into T123 for the walk to Express platforms.
So I needed three units to clear the class. For those that dont know as a train comes in from Paddington to T123 another train is waiting to leave T5. As you leave T123 you miss whats on the T5 set so you dont know whats on it. For this reason you potentially need to fester down here for ages. I played the strategy of getting on what i needed and then waiting for the next train. At T123 I let the first train go through to T5. I then saw that the one that left was not required. The Heathrow T4 shuttle came and went and then I got going! 332012 and 332008 arrived and I jumped on with 008 being the winner! Now these trains are comfortable! Seats like these for the IEP would be great (although they wouldnt be in 2+1 formation). At T5 I let the sets I came in on go. This turned out to be the right thing to do. In rolled 332001 and more importantly 332002. Back to T123 and now I was down to one set needed! If I remember correctly (I dont right any notes except what I travel on and see if its new!) I let another train go before I finally got 332003 and 332005 with 005 being the important one! Yes! Back to T5 and i didnt spend as long here as I could have potentially needed! with the 332s clear I headed back into central London. Not quite planned but I decided to stay on the Piccadilly line and go for some units here. I havent had many at this point so should rack up quite a lot of winning units quite quickly. From Acton Town I bailed at each stop and did this all the way to Holloway Road. Why Holloway Road? I needed something to eat and a required Wetherspoon was here. After lunch I decided to head up to Cockfosters, thus completing the Piccadilly line as well (Already done the Uxbridge branch years ago). Time was getting on now and I needed to get to Fenchurch Street for the start of the c2c rush hour. So I went back to Holburn for the Central line to Bank. I should point out that on the Piccadilly line I had managed to pick up 31 winning units so was quite pleased with that. From Central to Bank I got three new units. Then I headed for the DLR to Limehouse. I would set up here for a bit but there is no good place to setup for the c2c!
I needed four units to clear the 357s. I waited for about 20 minutes before I finally saw one of the units i needed, 357216. It was heading into Fenchurch ECS. A quick look at what it was working back out saw it going non stop through the London zones! Great! That was not helpful. I tried to work out if it was coming back but I lost track of what it was going to do after an ECS move at its destination. Another few minutes passed and finally a train I could get on and contained a winner in the form of 357035. I took this to West Ham. An island platform it meant I had the choice of in and out (providing it stopped at Barking or Upminster). Most of what was at Fenchurch Street I knew I didnt need though so it was only what was coming in that was important. About half an hour passed and another required unit stopped. Goody! 357045 was bagged and I thought I might as well go whilst I was up. I had been at it for an hour and i knew one of the two units left was not about. An hour and two units was good enough for me considering. I was going to bail at Limehouse and get the DLR to Lewisham. Only problem we didnt stop! Doh! Now I had to either come back out or walk to the DLR (and its a right pain walking about round there). Nothing was leaving shortly and stopping at Limehouse so I had to walk!
Once at the DLR I jumped on and the train had 88 and 24 in the consist that were winning. As we plodded along the main line railway I spotted my final 357. It was an ECS move into Fenchurch but I checked to see what it was doing out. I could bail at Limehouse then and get to where i needed. Couldnt believe it. Non stop! And that is why there is no good place to be for c2c! At least I didnt waste time waiting for it. I stayed on the DLR to Lewisham. It was than a quick drink at the spoons before I got a bus to Lee for another one (was hell of a lot quicker than negotiating the roadworks at Lewisham for a train). It was then back to the trains. Lee was a new shack in the book for another new shack at Sidcup (on dud pair 465192 and 177). Again I popped out to the spoons (there is a festival on so plenty of new ales to try and I also ate here, the new Mexican Monday is great!).
After dinner I headed back to the station and continued to head eastwards. This time I bailed at Alberny Park for a new station and headed back the opposite way for New Eltham (192 and 177 had returned). Then it was winning sets 465034, 238 and 466042 for the ride round to Slade Green. I needed the toilet now so wasnt impressed when a 376 turned up, especially as it was dud :-x! 376005 to Bexley (new shack) and then hopefully a train with a toilet in the opposite direction. Two more 376s! Grrrrr! I got on as 376030 was one of them and required. I bailed at Abbey Wood for the new shack and waited for a train behind (wasnt too long thankfully). 465041, 007 and 466024 with all but 007 needed. At least now I could finally go to the toilet too!
Time was getting on so I stayed on the train to Waterloo East. I would then take the short walk over to Waterloo for the next train to Earlsfield where I would head to my Sisters for the night. Pleasantly surprised to see two 456s with a 455 I got on. I have only (not sure how) only had one 456 (003) for haulage before and here it was! Doh! Well the other had to be winner and it was 006 which was my final 456 for sight. Result! the 455 was 5737 (thought it was asking for too much to be one of my last four SWT ones
).With that I got to Earlsfield and jumped on the bus to my sisters. En route I rang my wife as I knew my sister and her fiancee would have already gone to bed and didnt want to wake them with me being on the phone when i got there! A pretty good day. Cleared the 332s and halved my 357 requirements. I didnt manage the Victoria line but itll still be there next time! As with all my trips I have no idea of my mileage yet but was good to finally spend a day bashing again.
Techniquest
Veteran Member
A very productive day indeed! I really need to get on with the Piccadilly line myself one day, I need almost all the shacks on it after all.
I haven't been trying for the S stocks either really, although if time allows I will let one pair go or whatever amount until one does. Had to do that a while ago on the Victoria line which is becoming difficult to get winners on!
Well done on clearing the 456s for sight!
I haven't been trying for the S stocks either really, although if time allows I will let one pair go or whatever amount until one does. Had to do that a while ago on the Victoria line which is becoming difficult to get winners on!
Well done on clearing the 456s for sight!
alexf380
Established Member
Sounds like a great day was had. Can't wait for the rest of it!
Not sure if we have Mexican Monday at my local 'Spoons, shall have to check. Was it any good?
Not sure if we have Mexican Monday at my local 'Spoons, shall have to check. Was it any good?
I think so. I like Mexican food though. Ive seen it in my local spoons as well as the ones I went to in London that day (I obviously only ate in one of them!)
Thanks. I just felt that as I had done the HEx I might as well complete the line that gets me to it cheaply. All I need to do now is get the units without need to leave the centre of the line.
OK. Day 2
March 24th
Day in the North East
When I was planning these four days away it was a combination of trying to get as much done as I could and as cheap as I could. I also had two East Coast Reward tickets to use up so I needed to plan that in as well. So for day two I decided on the North East. Still Heaton based units I need up there and I could get there for nothing. The only problem was I couldnt find any cheap accommodation. More on that later and what I ended up doing.
So I was up at 0500. I grabbed a shower before my future Brother in law got up (dont want to ruin their morning routine). I didnt eat any breakfast (they use skimmed milk which is just disgusting!) but made a strong cup of tea which i just about drinkable using the same rubbish! Dont know what made them go for that milk! I know for a fact me and my sister never had it growing up! Anyway, as it so happens I was ready to go before anyone even surfaced so I quietly left and made my way to Tooting Broadway station (my sister lives half way between Earlsfield and Tooting Broadway). It was a 15 minute walk to the station and I could already feel the hunger kicking in. McDonalds when I get to Kings Cross I think. The journey was straightforward but seemed to take ages. No changes but it was a dud pair of units (most northern units I have done have literally been as I go to and from my sisters) so not doing to bad with them to be honest. I went and got the required tickets for the day (and the next). Now it was about 0640. Train leaves in 20. I decided against the McDonalds idea (probably was enough time still but I didnt want to be carrying loads of stuff with me!) so went for a sausage baguette from Upper Crusts. I didnt bother with a drink (Id just get one on the train).
At this point RTT suggested the platform was 7 for my train. Off I went to see what my ride was. Dud 91130. Oh well. It was now 0650 and still no mention of the trains officially on the screens. So I headed back to the end of the platform and then they announced my train was from 5. So off I went then to see what was at the end of 5! Winning 91124 complete with its new Virgin livery!
20150324-London Kings Cross-91124 by The Guinness King, on FlickrI think it looks pretty smart the new livery but at least I scored a winning 91! 7 left to get. The 67 at the Cross was one of my final three required for haulage. Wonder if I will ever get it? I found my seat and got what I needed for the journey out of my bag. For once I was on the right hand side of the train (always seem to be on the left) which was better for when passing Peterborough. There wasnt much there though. In fact of the few locos I did see en route I didnt need any of them. I was hopeful when passing Doncaster and could see a Colas 70 and 60 stabled I needed one of them but they were both dud (70806 and 60002). The day before, 68001 was at York (my dad had seen it on his way to Edinburgh) but that was gone this morning. Never mind.
We soon arrived into Darlington where I would be leaving the train. My plan was to try and get some new stations whilst hoping that units I needed would drop. I have been in the area a few times before and its not the easiest of areas (I think) to try and get units ticked off. Potentially there is a lot of festering. So first up was the next train to Saltburn. 142016. Winner! Good start. Now I have all the route up here so it was to Marske I would take this and then wait for its return.
20150324-Marske-142016 by The Guinness King, on FlickrNow to save time (and relieve the waiting time) I walked to Long Beck and got it from there for another new station. Only South Bank and British Steel Redcar (never gonna happen) on the branch left.
20150324-Longbeck-142016 by The Guinness King, on FlickrNext up was to pop into Stockton (via Thornaby) for a quick drink in the Spoons before going to Stockton (winning station) for a train to Nunthorpe. This is when all my plans went out the window. Up until I left the Spoons the weather had been glorious! Then a big black cloud gathered itself and the heavens opened. Heavy rain and hail. I didnt even have anything waterproof! My plan was totally out of the window as it involved walking between close stations to get them (like I had done with Marske and Long Beck).
20150324-Stockton-142024 by The Guinness King, on FlickrSo i flagged 142024 heading to Nunthorpe (was dud anywhere but you can see the rain in the photo!) and got dud 142021 to Sunderland. I forgot how long this takes but as we got further round the coast the weather cleared up and the sun came out again. I looked behind me and it still looked evil so I think I made the right decision not to go to Nunthorpe. At Sunderland I went for an early lunch. I still needed two of the three spoons there so popped to one for a quick drink and then the other for lunch.
It was then back to the station. I got there and had to wait a while before anything i could catch turned up. The first train was one back in the direction of Hartlepool. I checked and could see a move to Seaham with a 20 minute fester. That would do, as I could quickly get to the town and get the Spoons in (will be a damn sight easier when I have done them all!). Needed the shack as well. In rolled 142091. I needed it so that was a bonus. As we approached Seaham we slowed and stopped! Strange. We then got going again and crawled over a level crossing. There must be a TSR there as going the other way we were at line speed. Anyway the result was 5 late into Seaham. 15 minutes till i leave here. I went for it anyway. Into the town centre, into spoons, quick drink and back. I was a little warm and not only had the fleece come off by the time i was back at the station but also my jumper!
142015 came in (not required) and I decided I needed to go to Newcastle. One I got there I wondered round to see what was about. A required 185 was waiting but not due to leave for a bit. Then I saw a southbound 91 heading in. I headed in that direction and went to see what was on the back. 91103. Needed that. That will do nicely. First stop Darlington. With that in the book I waited for the TPE service behind and got that to Northallerton. Another in the book.
91109 was in shortly after and I went back to Darlington. I spotted 142027 in the bay ready to leave for Saltburn. Very much required so I jumped on that. I spotted some moves that meant I could get a couple of new shacks in short succession. I bailed at Dinsdale and waited for the unit behind. 142084 took me to Allens West where I waited a short while for 142016 (again) to take me back to Darlington. Only (and never likely to happen) Teeside Airport station left on that part of the line! I was a little worried when i arrived at Allens West. To cross you need to use the road and I feared the gates wouldnt go up as it wasnt long between 142084 left and 142016 had arrived. They did thankfully.
Once I got back to Darlington I spotted 185125 heading south. It was needed so back to Northallerton I went.
20150324-Northallerton-185125 by The Guinness King, on FlickrIt was then the turn of the Flying Scotsman to take me north. I got off at Darlington and waited for the HST behind. 43206 was leading. Thank you. Needed that one! Four to go. Dud 43318 was
assisting from behind. We started slowing though and some signalling problems at Newcastle meant we went into the station from the North side. The train would then be reversing to head onto Scotland.
At this point I should say where I was staying for the night. Bradford. Sounds mad! I couldnt find any reasonably priced places to stay so looked further south which then meant whilst planning I had looked at doing a West Yorkshire Rover. Bradford eventually came up with the cheapest place. This all worked out brilliantly in the end. But today made me realise getting the last of the Heaton based units is going to be a pain. Id got a few today but the trains in the area here are regular but the stops are quite spaced out. Anyway Ill worry about that another day! Not sure that makes much sense but I know what I mean.
So now I had an hour and half left. There were no moves I could make out and back that wasnt too risky (or with a winner) at this time (this is my problem up here and it seems worse in the evening). Into Burger King I went for something to eat whilst I tried to decide what to do. After there was still nothing. So I went for dud 43300/43308 to Darlington. I would get my train south from there.
20150324-Darlington-43308 by The Guinness King, on FlickrIm really not sure about the old East Coast livery with the Virgin splash. The purple stripe just isnt right. What didnt they remove it?
I had a long wait here for the TPE unit to Leeds. I used this time to ring my wife. It was cold now on Darlington station too. So into the toasty warm waiting room I went. The long wait flew by to be honest whilst I was on the phone. 185123 was the dud unit that took me to Leeds. I found a table seat and plugged my phone in to charge. I like the 185 units. They are comfortable and quick. The only issue is they are too short for most services they work on. At Leeds i had about 20 minutes (although was more in the end as my next train was running late) so took a look round.
20150324-Leeds-91111 by The Guinness King, on Flickr
20150325-Leeds-91111 Nameplate by The Guinness King, on FlickrI finally got to get a picture of the fantastic looking 91111. Ok not the best photo of it but its better than nothing. It was then over to where my next train was due. As I said it was late. I didnt care as long as it was no more than 6 or 7 late. I had connection at Shipley. The platform was filling up (such to my surprise, it was 2230ish on a Tuesday night). Then i could see our train. As it got closer I realised it was a 144. Really? I stupidly assumed it would be a 321 or 322 as it came from Doncaster. Oh well I thought a three car will be alright. Nope. two car! Didnt need any 2 car ones! Great! It was standing only too! Cant believe that this is what is diagrammed for this service (I tweeted Northern who informed me this is normal for this service). I know they have a shortage of carriages but not at this time of the day! Unbelievable! We made it to Shipley, just. Me and several others ran across the car park for 333006 that was waiting to head Bradford.
And that was it. I headed to the Travelodge (pretty much next to the station). Greeted by a very friendly member of staff and I must get lucky because I never have issues with Travelodges (only once have i not been happy and that was the one at Burton on the A38). How do I sum up the day? Well the numbers. 8 winning trains and 7 new shacks (and 4 new spoons)! Doesnt sound a lot but i did enjoy myself. As I said finishing off the Heaton based units maybe tricky!
Techniquest
Veteran Member
Know the feeling on finishing Heaton's DMUs, it's going to take a long time. More than likely the 142s will be gone before I finish them! Same with the 91s!
I do like the Tyne and Tees Day Ranger, plenty of moves available and I managed quite well when I did it. Think I scored 6 or 7 142s that I needed up there, not bad to be fair. That was with just going for shacks let alone just going for winners. Goodness knows what I'd have managed otherwise!
I do like the Tyne and Tees Day Ranger, plenty of moves available and I managed quite well when I did it. Think I scored 6 or 7 142s that I needed up there, not bad to be fair. That was with just going for shacks let alone just going for winners. Goodness knows what I'd have managed otherwise!
Day 3
March 25th - South Pennines
When I originally planned this trip I was going to do a West Yorkshire Rover. It was on my way to London on the Monday I suddenly wondered about the peak restrictions Northern had introduced. I had quickly looked up the restrictions and it didnt apply to rangers but it did apply to the West Yorkshire Rover! Not impressed. I needed to be away from Leeds at 1945 to head back to London and with the Rover not kicking in until 0930 then the 1601 - 1829 restriction I felt the day wasnt going to be as productive as it could be. With that in mind and the fact I was staying in Bradford I decided a South Pennines was maybe a better idea. I could get further, start earlier and no stupid restriction during the day. It also gave me more freedom should I need it. As it turned out I am glad i did!
After a good sleep I woke at about 0700 and got ready. I decided that breakfast was to be had at Todmorden Wetherspoons. New station and new spoons. I looked at the times of the trains and saw if I get an earlier train (and pay the single fare) I could get to Todmorden have breakfast and then the Ranger would kick in from there at 0856. Sorted. Or was it? I negotiated my way through Bradford (lots of building works going on which seemed to dictate my route to the station) and went and got my single ticket. Then up to the concourse I went to discover Grand Central unit 180105 in one of the bays. This was obviously a London train but very much required. Hmmmm. A few moments later the Manchester train (which I was due to catch) came in. A dud. Change of plan.
I let that go and got the 180 to Halifax.
20150325-Halifax-180105 by The Guinness King, on Flickr
I now had a 20 odd minute wait for the next train due for Manchester. Because I had to wait I popped out of the station to find something to eat. A sausage bap was had and I went and waited for the train. It was 158754, not required but I obviously got on. I bailed at Todmorden to get the station in as planned and the train after was the 0856 which would be valid on the Ranger! The 0856 was in the hands of 156440. Not required but I knew once at Manchester I would have much more choice.
Once at Victoria I had a scoot round to see what was here. 142032 and 142036 were waiting to leave. I forget where but I wasnt going to go further than Salford Crescent anyway. I jumped on as 142036 was needed. My plan was to get round to Piccadilly as I knew it would be more productive there (and I wanted to look for 170/3s before the become 168s!). But once I arrived at Crescent everything seemed to be going to Victoria. The number of trains that pass through here though means its not that long a wait. The next train that turned up though was winner for sight 150113 and Victoria bound. It was also required. I got on and bailed at Salford Central. I knew the train behind was a winning 142035 (with 142004). How did I know? It had already run into Crescent in the other platform whilst i was boarding 150113. So I was now back at Victoria but a very productive 20 odd minutes! Will I get all the 142s that remain before they are gone? Time will tell.
So it was time to try again! I had spotted 156482 outside Victoria waiting to come in to form a service. I needed it so was glad when it came in and I was able to get on and leave within minutes. This time at Salford Crescent nothing i needed came in heading to Victoria (I think I let about 5 trains pass) and when the first Piccadilly bound train came in I got on. This was 185139, a dud.
Once I was at Piccadilly I headed for the terminating platforms to see what was here. I didnt get very far. A Chester bound train in the form of 150116 was due to leave. I got on and took this to Stockport. As I got off I could see a 323 running in the otherside. I pegged it down the stairs (but didnt get very far - ticket checks!) and then across to the other side (more ticket checks!). I made the train which was 323223. It was not required but I took it to Levenshulme for a winning shack. The next train due was going in the other direction so I crossed over and waited. 323235 came in which was a winner so that was a bonus. I took this to Heaton Chapel for another new station. Time to get back to Piccadilly. Dud 156486 did the honours.
Another look round and I found winning 142042. I took this to Ashburys. Whilst here TPE 170304 passed though! Required! All I needed now was my train to arrive and into Piccadilly onto the 170! The only problem was my train was now (for some reason) about 5 late! Was I going to miss? Eventually my train turned up (winning 323229) and we were off. Then we waited and waited outside Piccadilly! When we eventually pulled up 170304 revved up and left! When was it back? I worked out it should be back late in the afternoon and made at note of it.
Having missed the 170 I set about looking for my next move. Another 323. This time 323230 which was first stop Stockport. Thatll do. I didnt have to wait long at Stockport for the next train back which was to be a Pendolino. The bonus was it was wining 390016. Another move from Piccadilly to Ashburys and back saw me pick up winning units 150135 and dud 323236 before I headed to Staybridge on winning 185129. As I have done on all previous visits to Stalybridge I popped into the pub for a pint (a fantastic one at that - Earl Grey IPA). I had a 20 odd minutes before 150220 (winning for sight also) to Manchester Victoria.
20150325-Stalybridge-150220 by The Guinness King, on Flickr
Now I had ended up back at Victoria I needed to get back to Piccadilly. Nothing was heading to Staybridge so it was the quicker way via Salford again. I took winning 142040 to Salford Crescent. 60011 was in the stone terminal but not needed for sight. At Salford Crescent I waited for the next Piccadilly bound train. This was a dud 185139. As we arrived into platform 13 I saw 150211 on Platform 14. I needed it so I got on and bailed at Oxford Road. Dud 185113 took me back to Piccadilly but it wasnt long before I was back. This time on 323225 which was required. Whilst waiting for the more comfortable hop back (pair of 185s, 185117 and 142) to Piccadilly 67001 arrived and passed through the station.
20150325-Manchester Oxford Road-67001 by The Guinness King, on Flickr
20150325-Manchester Piccadilly-142 Consist by The Guinness King, on Flickr
I headed back into the main station and looked round. A mega (although this might be normal!) 142 lash up arrived consisting of five units (046, 054, 007, 028 and 012). This then splits forming services leaving quite quickly one after another in quick succession. I didnt need any of them so continued to look round. Eventually winning 323226 was had to Levenshulme and then I came back on wining 323238. Doing alright on these today! Now if my plans worked out 170304 should be shortly due back in. I was right. It had also now been attached to 170309. 309 wasnt required but that didnt matter. I got on 304 and we headed to Staybridge. Now only one required 170/3.
20150325-Stalybridge-170304 by The Guinness King, on Flickr
Time was now getting on and I knew I couldnt stray too far as I needed to get to Leeds in time for my train back to London. I got on the next train back to Piccadilly which was dud 185150. When I got to Piccadilly there were no moves I could make before the train i needed to get left. This was 185104 which was a dud. I had planned to get this straight to Leeds. This changed when I got to Huddersfield and spotted 142095. I needed this so a quick look on RTT saw me able to make a move on it to Wakefield Westgate and then onto Leeds for my train back! This is what I did. Wakefield Westgate had changed since I was last here and the station works had finished. I got on 144019 to Leeds. It wasnt required. At Leeds I grabbed a tea and headed for my waiting train to London. 91114 was doing the honours but was not required. It was dark now too so I couldnt see anything outside. We arrived into Kings Cross on time so all was good.
20150325-London Kings Cross-91114 by The Guinness King, on Flickr
At Kings Cross I realised I was very hungry. I pondered getting a McDonalds. I decided I would but when I got to Tooting as I was near my sisters then. Dud Northern units took me to Tooting and then it was off to McDonalds before the walk back to my sisters. A very enjoyable day with 21 winners had. I also got three new stations.
One day left to report on. Will try to get it typed up as soon as but I have an intense 7 days of work ahead of me and until next Tuesday no late shifts.
March 25th - South Pennines
When I originally planned this trip I was going to do a West Yorkshire Rover. It was on my way to London on the Monday I suddenly wondered about the peak restrictions Northern had introduced. I had quickly looked up the restrictions and it didnt apply to rangers but it did apply to the West Yorkshire Rover! Not impressed. I needed to be away from Leeds at 1945 to head back to London and with the Rover not kicking in until 0930 then the 1601 - 1829 restriction I felt the day wasnt going to be as productive as it could be. With that in mind and the fact I was staying in Bradford I decided a South Pennines was maybe a better idea. I could get further, start earlier and no stupid restriction during the day. It also gave me more freedom should I need it. As it turned out I am glad i did!
After a good sleep I woke at about 0700 and got ready. I decided that breakfast was to be had at Todmorden Wetherspoons. New station and new spoons. I looked at the times of the trains and saw if I get an earlier train (and pay the single fare) I could get to Todmorden have breakfast and then the Ranger would kick in from there at 0856. Sorted. Or was it? I negotiated my way through Bradford (lots of building works going on which seemed to dictate my route to the station) and went and got my single ticket. Then up to the concourse I went to discover Grand Central unit 180105 in one of the bays. This was obviously a London train but very much required. Hmmmm. A few moments later the Manchester train (which I was due to catch) came in. A dud. Change of plan.
I let that go and got the 180 to Halifax.
20150325-Halifax-180105 by The Guinness King, on FlickrI now had a 20 odd minute wait for the next train due for Manchester. Because I had to wait I popped out of the station to find something to eat. A sausage bap was had and I went and waited for the train. It was 158754, not required but I obviously got on. I bailed at Todmorden to get the station in as planned and the train after was the 0856 which would be valid on the Ranger! The 0856 was in the hands of 156440. Not required but I knew once at Manchester I would have much more choice.
Once at Victoria I had a scoot round to see what was here. 142032 and 142036 were waiting to leave. I forget where but I wasnt going to go further than Salford Crescent anyway. I jumped on as 142036 was needed. My plan was to get round to Piccadilly as I knew it would be more productive there (and I wanted to look for 170/3s before the become 168s!). But once I arrived at Crescent everything seemed to be going to Victoria. The number of trains that pass through here though means its not that long a wait. The next train that turned up though was winner for sight 150113 and Victoria bound. It was also required. I got on and bailed at Salford Central. I knew the train behind was a winning 142035 (with 142004). How did I know? It had already run into Crescent in the other platform whilst i was boarding 150113. So I was now back at Victoria but a very productive 20 odd minutes! Will I get all the 142s that remain before they are gone? Time will tell.
So it was time to try again! I had spotted 156482 outside Victoria waiting to come in to form a service. I needed it so was glad when it came in and I was able to get on and leave within minutes. This time at Salford Crescent nothing i needed came in heading to Victoria (I think I let about 5 trains pass) and when the first Piccadilly bound train came in I got on. This was 185139, a dud.
Once I was at Piccadilly I headed for the terminating platforms to see what was here. I didnt get very far. A Chester bound train in the form of 150116 was due to leave. I got on and took this to Stockport. As I got off I could see a 323 running in the otherside. I pegged it down the stairs (but didnt get very far - ticket checks!) and then across to the other side (more ticket checks!). I made the train which was 323223. It was not required but I took it to Levenshulme for a winning shack. The next train due was going in the other direction so I crossed over and waited. 323235 came in which was a winner so that was a bonus. I took this to Heaton Chapel for another new station. Time to get back to Piccadilly. Dud 156486 did the honours.
Another look round and I found winning 142042. I took this to Ashburys. Whilst here TPE 170304 passed though! Required! All I needed now was my train to arrive and into Piccadilly onto the 170! The only problem was my train was now (for some reason) about 5 late! Was I going to miss? Eventually my train turned up (winning 323229) and we were off. Then we waited and waited outside Piccadilly! When we eventually pulled up 170304 revved up and left! When was it back? I worked out it should be back late in the afternoon and made at note of it.
Having missed the 170 I set about looking for my next move. Another 323. This time 323230 which was first stop Stockport. Thatll do. I didnt have to wait long at Stockport for the next train back which was to be a Pendolino. The bonus was it was wining 390016. Another move from Piccadilly to Ashburys and back saw me pick up winning units 150135 and dud 323236 before I headed to Staybridge on winning 185129. As I have done on all previous visits to Stalybridge I popped into the pub for a pint (a fantastic one at that - Earl Grey IPA). I had a 20 odd minutes before 150220 (winning for sight also) to Manchester Victoria.
20150325-Stalybridge-150220 by The Guinness King, on FlickrNow I had ended up back at Victoria I needed to get back to Piccadilly. Nothing was heading to Staybridge so it was the quicker way via Salford again. I took winning 142040 to Salford Crescent. 60011 was in the stone terminal but not needed for sight. At Salford Crescent I waited for the next Piccadilly bound train. This was a dud 185139. As we arrived into platform 13 I saw 150211 on Platform 14. I needed it so I got on and bailed at Oxford Road. Dud 185113 took me back to Piccadilly but it wasnt long before I was back. This time on 323225 which was required. Whilst waiting for the more comfortable hop back (pair of 185s, 185117 and 142) to Piccadilly 67001 arrived and passed through the station.
20150325-Manchester Oxford Road-67001 by The Guinness King, on Flickr
20150325-Manchester Piccadilly-142 Consist by The Guinness King, on FlickrI headed back into the main station and looked round. A mega (although this might be normal!) 142 lash up arrived consisting of five units (046, 054, 007, 028 and 012). This then splits forming services leaving quite quickly one after another in quick succession. I didnt need any of them so continued to look round. Eventually winning 323226 was had to Levenshulme and then I came back on wining 323238. Doing alright on these today! Now if my plans worked out 170304 should be shortly due back in. I was right. It had also now been attached to 170309. 309 wasnt required but that didnt matter. I got on 304 and we headed to Staybridge. Now only one required 170/3.
20150325-Stalybridge-170304 by The Guinness King, on FlickrTime was now getting on and I knew I couldnt stray too far as I needed to get to Leeds in time for my train back to London. I got on the next train back to Piccadilly which was dud 185150. When I got to Piccadilly there were no moves I could make before the train i needed to get left. This was 185104 which was a dud. I had planned to get this straight to Leeds. This changed when I got to Huddersfield and spotted 142095. I needed this so a quick look on RTT saw me able to make a move on it to Wakefield Westgate and then onto Leeds for my train back! This is what I did. Wakefield Westgate had changed since I was last here and the station works had finished. I got on 144019 to Leeds. It wasnt required. At Leeds I grabbed a tea and headed for my waiting train to London. 91114 was doing the honours but was not required. It was dark now too so I couldnt see anything outside. We arrived into Kings Cross on time so all was good.
20150325-London Kings Cross-91114 by The Guinness King, on FlickrAt Kings Cross I realised I was very hungry. I pondered getting a McDonalds. I decided I would but when I got to Tooting as I was near my sisters then. Dud Northern units took me to Tooting and then it was off to McDonalds before the walk back to my sisters. A very enjoyable day with 21 winners had. I also got three new stations.
One day left to report on. Will try to get it typed up as soon as but I have an intense 7 days of work ahead of me and until next Tuesday no late shifts.
Kite159
Veteran Member
Sounds like a good day in Manchester, although isn't the South Pennines ranger only valid to the east of the Manchester stations not west to Salford?
Good news on getting your 2nd last 170/3, has there been any sort of confirmation which 4 are remaining with TPE for a few extra months after the first batch go down to Chiltern?
Good news on getting your 2nd last 170/3, has there been any sort of confirmation which 4 are remaining with TPE for a few extra months after the first batch go down to Chiltern?
Keith Jarrett
Member
142024 - that's one of the few 142s that I still need outright, let alone just for the 10 miles status. Be aware that some of the stations around Nunthorpe are pretty close together so it's probably practical to go to say Nunthorpe and walk to the next one, especially if it's a reasonable wait for something back (e.g. if you go up on a Whitby and it's 30 minutes until the next Nunthorpe - Hexham.
It is only valid east of Manchester stations, I didn't realise until I'd already done it a few times.
As for the four staying with TPE, I don't know. Hopefully my last one will stay with them long enough for me to get it as a 170.
My original plan (before the heavens opened) was to do exactly what you have described from Nunthorpe. Maybe next time.
Techniquest
Veteran Member
Gypsy Lane is very close to Nunthorpe, but the route by foot is a fair bit out and around a lot of houses, so would take some time.
Jealous of you getting 390016 as that's my last 390/0 to get!
Very good time had indeed there, shame the opportunity to get the Todmorden Spoons didn't work out in the end! I still haven't got around to counting up my visited Spoons, but the total is still rather low.
And crikey that peak restriction on the West Yorkshire Rover is taking the mick, just short of 2.5 hours to kill in Leeds. Could get through a meal and a number of pints in that time! Or spot a LOT of buses
Jealous of you getting 390016 as that's my last 390/0 to get!
Very good time had indeed there, shame the opportunity to get the Todmorden Spoons didn't work out in the end! I still haven't got around to counting up my visited Spoons, but the total is still rather low.
And crikey that peak restriction on the West Yorkshire Rover is taking the mick, just short of 2.5 hours to kill in Leeds. Could get through a meal and a number of pints in that time! Or spot a LOT of buses
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I believe the Day Rover is still valid in the evening peak on buses so you could have a run on a few if they take your fancy.
I'm not into them so can't say for certain (plus I have an M-Card so have no need to buy a rover in West Yorkshire).
Regarding the report - another very interesting read from an area I know quite well.
Thanks for posting.
I'm not into them so can't say for certain (plus I have an M-Card so have no need to buy a rover in West Yorkshire).
Regarding the report - another very interesting read from an area I know quite well.
Thanks for posting.
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I've enjoyed writing them so glad people are enjoying them. I think you are correct re buses in the peak but i have absolutely no interest in them whatsoever!
45135
Member
- Joined
- 15 Dec 2014
- Messages
- 107
Good read and good photos too, particularly the 142s in the sun and shadows at Picc.
As West Yorkshire's my local area I've been looking at the best way to overcome the ridiculous evening peak restriction (if I ever get the spare time during the week to do a Day Rover...). As long as you board before 1601 and don't change trains, you can travel as far as the boundary station, so for example the 1548 from Garforth to Hebden Bridge (1652) would be valid. A pleasant 20 minute stroll along the Rochdale Canal towpath to the Stubbing Wharf and a pint or two should get you back to the station in time for the 1834.
As West Yorkshire's my local area I've been looking at the best way to overcome the ridiculous evening peak restriction (if I ever get the spare time during the week to do a Day Rover...). As long as you board before 1601 and don't change trains, you can travel as far as the boundary station, so for example the 1548 from Garforth to Hebden Bridge (1652) would be valid. A pleasant 20 minute stroll along the Rochdale Canal towpath to the Stubbing Wharf and a pint or two should get you back to the station in time for the 1834.
You and me both, I was just picking up on what Techniquest said.
Techniquest
Veteran Member
Clearly neither of you have ever sampled a step-entrance Dennis Dart, fully loaded, giving it all it has climbing Middle Hill Road in Swansea then, or for that matter a Marshall Dart doing its best to outrun a snail up Mount Pleasant Hill in Swansea City Centre! "Phwoar!" doesn't come even close to the former, let alone the former! Nope, even "Hellfire!" doesn't cut it!
Excuse me, I need to have a flail...
*Flails massively*
Ahem, sorry I couldn't help myself, I had to enjoy those memories! I know neither noddy1878 nor yourself will understand what I'm on about, but fellow bus enthusiasts will do, especially those who've had the fortune to enjoy those two roads in particular on Darts!
Of course, this is going back to 2004 and 2005 so a long time ago, and buses have changed quite a lot in the last 10 years. Swansea's not crammed full of Darts any more, quite I have no idea what those things are down there now. Long gone are the steppy Darts, the Marshall Darts, the Leyland Tigers, the Leyland Olympians, the Volvo B10M coaches...Heck, I think even the SLF Darts have been banished too now!
*Ahem, excuse me, nostalgia overload!*
What I'm getting at is that I'm not sure even I could enjoy 2.5 hours in Leeds on buses these days. Mind you, there's only one way to find out I suppose!
alexf380
Established Member
Volvo...Volvo......Volvo.....oh look, a Volvo! Edinburgh's the same these days, no more Olympians now. Not for a few years!
Apologies noddy, we appear to have hijacked your thread.
Kristofferson
Member
- Joined
- 23 Nov 2012
- Messages
- 1,132
Just caught up on the first 3 days - interesting stuff indeed, well done clearing the 332s. I like the idea of spotting Wetherspoons pubs!
Incidentally... My father-in-law (to be) is a bus spotter/photter - not my cuppa tea either to be honest. Despite my best efforts to get him into trains, it doesn't seem to be happening!
Incidentally... My father-in-law (to be) is a bus spotter/photter - not my cuppa tea either to be honest. Despite my best efforts to get him into trains, it doesn't seem to be happening!
Techniquest
Veteran Member
Yeah I noticed when I was up in Edinburgh back in October that there was nothing exciting running now. I daresay the Eclipse Geminis are gone now too, last time I did much at all on buses up there it was on the N22 back in December 2008, when it was all Eclipse Geminis on that route on that morning.
Yes, we have indeed kinda taken the poor lad's thread off topic here. Good thing I didn't post any video or photo links really isn't it, that might have been a bit much!
Looking forward to seeing noddy1878's version of events from the day we were both in London, although I reckon if he's had as tough a day as I did he'll not be touching a keyboard tonight!
Lol! I dont mind the hijack but to me a bus is a way to get from A to B if there is no rail method of getting there and I want to drink!
It was a fellow enthusiast who got me into Spoons. I wasnt bothered and then whenever we went somewhere hed go to the Spoons. He then introduced me to the person who introduced him and it snowballed. Its not always good though as you end up trying to do more and then there is more to go wrong (as youll find out in a minute!). I like my ale and Wetherspoons in general serve up a decent pint and reasonable food for not very much money. So is also cheap way of eating when out. I have currently been to 624 of them (that does include some that have now closed). Anyway Im going to try and finish Day 4 report tonight after dinner.
--- old post above --- --- new post below ---
Day 4
March 26th - London Day Trip
I had bought my travel card the night before so it meant I could jump on the bus from my sisters to the station (saves 15 minutes). I got up at 0645 as everyone else was done in the bathroom and off to work so it meant I wasnt in the way. I left the house just after 0700 and decided that I would head onto the Southern network. Plenty of units required there and a handy Wetherspoons in Purley that I needed.
A dud pair of Northern units took me to Balham. I didnt have to wait long before a pair of 455s turned up. 455837 and 810 (the later being required) took me to Selhurst where I waited for the train behind (377701 - dud) that happened to be passing through Purley. I decided to not bail at Purley though (it wasnt quite 0800 - the time most spoons open) and continued to Kenley for a new shack and the unit back to Purley. It was 455815 which was a dud. At Purley I left the station for the short walk to the Spoons. Much to my annoyance it wasnt open. As I got there a delivery driver and the manager were coming out the door. She told then they werent open until 1000. What Spoons doesnt open at 0800! It turns out lots in this area! As I was going down the hill to head back to the station I spotted a bus which was heading to Selsdon where I knew there is an awkward spoons (i.e. i needed the bus!) so I jumped on. Not to fall completely could of the stupid opening time again I looked it up! 1000! Again! Another change of plan. I bailed from the bus near Riddlesdown station. It was a new shack so that was good and whilst I was waiting 377311 passed in the opposite direction for one of my final 377s for sight. After a short wait 377461 and 145 turned up and 145 and I got on. 145 was required.
At this stage I was slightly annoyed as I had wasted a bit of time trying to get some breakfast. One last chance. I needed the spoons at Norwood Junction (and this one was open) so I made a plan to get there. The only problem was Southern network was starting to fall over and everything was starting to run late and trying to plan connections was a nightmare! I got off at East Croydon and waited for a train to Norwood Junction. Then I did something stupid! I got on a train to Norbury! I have no idea what I was thinking! And to make it worse it was 377701 again! As you can imagine I got slightly annoyed with myself! Things could only get better!
The next pair of 455s to roll in had 455819 (winner) and 455802 (dud) so I took this to West Croydon and then took a tram (2545 - winner) to East Croydon. This time I would get on the right train. Nothing had got any better with the timings but eventually 377442 turned up and I got this to Norwood Junction and it was a winner too! After (a now well deserved!!) breakfast I headed back to the station. Everything was running later and later! I needed to get off the Southern! Winning 377602 took me to London Bridge (part of me wanted to see what was happening even though I knew half the problems were being caused by it). I got there and I saw 387108 & 109 in the platform next too me. The lure was too strong. I jumped on for my first 387 haulage to East Croydon.
Right now it was time to get off the Southern. It was also getting on for me to be heading to Euston to meet Techniquest. I jumped onto a Thameslink service for Farringdon (consisted of dud 377517, 521 and 211) and it took ages! Eventually I arrived into Farringdon and I headed for what was a dud pair of S Class units (21440/439) to Euston Square. I headed to the pre arranged meeting place and waited for Techniquest. After a couple of minutes we finally met for the first time and it was good to finally meet you!
I will have to try and finish this off tomorrow. I didnt get back to this straight after dinner and tiredness has caught up with me!
Just caught up on the first 3 days - interesting stuff indeed, well done clearing the 332s. I like the idea of spotting Wetherspoons pubs!
It was a fellow enthusiast who got me into Spoons. I wasnt bothered and then whenever we went somewhere hed go to the Spoons. He then introduced me to the person who introduced him and it snowballed. Its not always good though as you end up trying to do more and then there is more to go wrong (as youll find out in a minute!). I like my ale and Wetherspoons in general serve up a decent pint and reasonable food for not very much money. So is also cheap way of eating when out. I have currently been to 624 of them (that does include some that have now closed). Anyway Im going to try and finish Day 4 report tonight after dinner.
--- old post above --- --- new post below ---
Day 4
March 26th - London Day Trip
I had bought my travel card the night before so it meant I could jump on the bus from my sisters to the station (saves 15 minutes). I got up at 0645 as everyone else was done in the bathroom and off to work so it meant I wasnt in the way. I left the house just after 0700 and decided that I would head onto the Southern network. Plenty of units required there and a handy Wetherspoons in Purley that I needed.
A dud pair of Northern units took me to Balham. I didnt have to wait long before a pair of 455s turned up. 455837 and 810 (the later being required) took me to Selhurst where I waited for the train behind (377701 - dud) that happened to be passing through Purley. I decided to not bail at Purley though (it wasnt quite 0800 - the time most spoons open) and continued to Kenley for a new shack and the unit back to Purley. It was 455815 which was a dud. At Purley I left the station for the short walk to the Spoons. Much to my annoyance it wasnt open. As I got there a delivery driver and the manager were coming out the door. She told then they werent open until 1000. What Spoons doesnt open at 0800! It turns out lots in this area! As I was going down the hill to head back to the station I spotted a bus which was heading to Selsdon where I knew there is an awkward spoons (i.e. i needed the bus!) so I jumped on. Not to fall completely could of the stupid opening time again I looked it up! 1000! Again! Another change of plan. I bailed from the bus near Riddlesdown station. It was a new shack so that was good and whilst I was waiting 377311 passed in the opposite direction for one of my final 377s for sight. After a short wait 377461 and 145 turned up and 145 and I got on. 145 was required.
At this stage I was slightly annoyed as I had wasted a bit of time trying to get some breakfast. One last chance. I needed the spoons at Norwood Junction (and this one was open) so I made a plan to get there. The only problem was Southern network was starting to fall over and everything was starting to run late and trying to plan connections was a nightmare! I got off at East Croydon and waited for a train to Norwood Junction. Then I did something stupid! I got on a train to Norbury! I have no idea what I was thinking! And to make it worse it was 377701 again! As you can imagine I got slightly annoyed with myself! Things could only get better!
The next pair of 455s to roll in had 455819 (winner) and 455802 (dud) so I took this to West Croydon and then took a tram (2545 - winner) to East Croydon. This time I would get on the right train. Nothing had got any better with the timings but eventually 377442 turned up and I got this to Norwood Junction and it was a winner too! After (a now well deserved!!) breakfast I headed back to the station. Everything was running later and later! I needed to get off the Southern! Winning 377602 took me to London Bridge (part of me wanted to see what was happening even though I knew half the problems were being caused by it). I got there and I saw 387108 & 109 in the platform next too me. The lure was too strong. I jumped on for my first 387 haulage to East Croydon.
Right now it was time to get off the Southern. It was also getting on for me to be heading to Euston to meet Techniquest. I jumped onto a Thameslink service for Farringdon (consisted of dud 377517, 521 and 211) and it took ages! Eventually I arrived into Farringdon and I headed for what was a dud pair of S Class units (21440/439) to Euston Square. I headed to the pre arranged meeting place and waited for Techniquest. After a couple of minutes we finally met for the first time and it was good to finally meet you!
I will have to try and finish this off tomorrow. I didnt get back to this straight after dinner and tiredness has caught up with me!
Techniquest
Veteran Member
I understand that tiredness thing, no doubt it's been exhausting at your lot too. I spent all day lazing around doing very little, even needing a short nap later on in the afternoon to keep going, on my Easter Sunday because the week had finally caught up with me!
I see what you meant about a very bad morning on the Southern, if you had said you needed that awkward Spoons we could have gone for it, since I obviously need it too Never mind, next time!
At least it wasn't a total failure of a morning, although I'd imagine it was nothing like you were expecting it to be like!
Looking forward to seeing the rest of this when it's ready
I see what you meant about a very bad morning on the Southern, if you had said you needed that awkward Spoons we could have gone for it, since I obviously need it too
Never mind, next time!At least it wasn't a total failure of a morning, although I'd imagine it was nothing like you were expecting it to be like!
Looking forward to seeing the rest of this when it's ready
I was working yesterday as well. Easier than locking down and got loads done. As for the morning, no it wasn't total failure. I'd picked winners so that was good but it wasn't what I had in mind. Off to work in a bit so will try and finish the report tonight.
--- old post above --- --- new post below ---
Must try and finish this! Works been so knackering the last few days but here goes!
It wasn’t long before we decided to head back to the Farringdon (on 21317/318 - dud) and try and go for some 319s. I needed 12 more to clear them and wanted to try and get some more before they head north (or wherever they may end up). I can’t remember how many Techniquest needed but it was more than me, so i knew I was going to have to be patient and inevitably I would be jumping on units that were not required. 319006 & 007 were first up. We took these to City Thameslink as Tech needed one or two of them. Next up was 319214 and 423 (both dud for me). At Blackfriars 319013 was in the bay. Very much required but wasn’t in service. Must have been driver training as it was doing ECS moves.
Anyway whilst at Blackfriars we headed to the other side (what a pain this station is for platform changing especially as the barriers threw a hissy fit as we went out and in within minutes). It was a good decision as 319428 (winner!) came in on its own and we headed to City Thameslink. Now the next five moves were not good for me. If i recall correctly all but one move was good for Tech (I think we got bored and wanted to move!). So 319376 & 460 we did to Farringdon. We then crossed back to the otherside and did 319381 & 432 back to City Thameslink. 377515 & 520 was had to Blackfriars before we went on to Elephant & Castle on 319001 & 440. The final dud move for me was 319012 & 319010 back to Blackfriars.
The next two moves were on pairs of 387s, all winners. 387124 & 126 was Blackfriars to City Thameslink. Then another pair of 387s (119 & 122) to Farringdon. Next up was a pair of winning 319s! This was more like it! 319383 and 438 saw us at St Pancras for the first time! We were going to head off at this point. We wanted to get something to eat before the rush started over on the Greater Anglia areas from Liverpool Street. Before we left we waited to see what was behind. Winning 319375 with dud 453 meant we had to head further north. We did so to Kentish Town and then back down to on 319009 & 448.
Now as expected it was to be a Spoons for dinner. Now I don’t need many in London now and my choices of new ones are diminishing! To get to the Greater Anglia area we headed on the Victoria Line (all duds 11023/024, 11044/043 and 11028/027) to Seven Sisters and then over to Silver Street (pair of expected duds 315851 & 857) for the short walk to the required Spoons there. Not the greatest of areas but the food was fine and washed down with a nice pint of Shipwreck IPA. After this we needed to get to Liverpool Street. Another pair of dud 315s (831 & 839) took us there. We then headed towards ‘waiting' to depart 321s! This was what we went after. First up was a 12 car mega winner! 321444, 423 & 348 took us to Stratford. We already saw what was in an adjacent platform and it said (well we thought it said) that it stopped at Romford. So the plan was to get this from Stratford straight after! We did do this (but it wasn’t before the stupid move of us heading to the wrong platform wrongly assuming that is where the train would be pathed!
So after realising we were not stopping for Romford, it was to be Shenfield we would stop! Anyway it was another three units (321435, 337 & 315) with 435 being a winner. Whilst here 90015 passed light engine.
20150326-Shenfield-90015 by The Guinness King, on Flickr
It was back to Stratford on 321447 (winner) and 314. We waited for the train behind which produced winning 321425 with 321356. This was proving to be a productive time. Another two moves from Liverpool Street to Stratford and back saw me pick up another five 321s (getting really tired now and can’t be bothered to list the units involved!). I did look at doing another out and back move but it meant a really tight connection for my train back home. It was safer to just head to Paddington now.
We jumped on the first train that came which was 21055/056 and bailed at Farringdon. Behind that was 21411/412 which we took to Paddington. All we dud for me. At Paddington we headed to the Mad Bishop and Bear for a cracking pint! With that had, I headed for my train home. 43022 and 43128 were doing the honours.
It was a great four days with plenty of variety from either end of the country! It was also great to finally meet another forum member. When I had come home I didn’t know what my next trip was going to be. But I can confirm that I will now be heading to the NVR on Saturday. Then hopefully a Great Escape a week Thursday!
--- old post above --- --- new post below ---
Must try and finish this! Works been so knackering the last few days but here goes!
It wasn’t long before we decided to head back to the Farringdon (on 21317/318 - dud) and try and go for some 319s. I needed 12 more to clear them and wanted to try and get some more before they head north (or wherever they may end up). I can’t remember how many Techniquest needed but it was more than me, so i knew I was going to have to be patient and inevitably I would be jumping on units that were not required. 319006 & 007 were first up. We took these to City Thameslink as Tech needed one or two of them. Next up was 319214 and 423 (both dud for me). At Blackfriars 319013 was in the bay. Very much required but wasn’t in service. Must have been driver training as it was doing ECS moves.
Anyway whilst at Blackfriars we headed to the other side (what a pain this station is for platform changing especially as the barriers threw a hissy fit as we went out and in within minutes). It was a good decision as 319428 (winner!) came in on its own and we headed to City Thameslink. Now the next five moves were not good for me. If i recall correctly all but one move was good for Tech (I think we got bored and wanted to move!). So 319376 & 460 we did to Farringdon. We then crossed back to the otherside and did 319381 & 432 back to City Thameslink. 377515 & 520 was had to Blackfriars before we went on to Elephant & Castle on 319001 & 440. The final dud move for me was 319012 & 319010 back to Blackfriars.
The next two moves were on pairs of 387s, all winners. 387124 & 126 was Blackfriars to City Thameslink. Then another pair of 387s (119 & 122) to Farringdon. Next up was a pair of winning 319s! This was more like it! 319383 and 438 saw us at St Pancras for the first time! We were going to head off at this point. We wanted to get something to eat before the rush started over on the Greater Anglia areas from Liverpool Street. Before we left we waited to see what was behind. Winning 319375 with dud 453 meant we had to head further north. We did so to Kentish Town and then back down to on 319009 & 448.
Now as expected it was to be a Spoons for dinner. Now I don’t need many in London now and my choices of new ones are diminishing! To get to the Greater Anglia area we headed on the Victoria Line (all duds 11023/024, 11044/043 and 11028/027) to Seven Sisters and then over to Silver Street (pair of expected duds 315851 & 857) for the short walk to the required Spoons there. Not the greatest of areas but the food was fine and washed down with a nice pint of Shipwreck IPA. After this we needed to get to Liverpool Street. Another pair of dud 315s (831 & 839) took us there. We then headed towards ‘waiting' to depart 321s! This was what we went after. First up was a 12 car mega winner! 321444, 423 & 348 took us to Stratford. We already saw what was in an adjacent platform and it said (well we thought it said) that it stopped at Romford. So the plan was to get this from Stratford straight after! We did do this (but it wasn’t before the stupid move of us heading to the wrong platform wrongly assuming that is where the train would be pathed!
So after realising we were not stopping for Romford, it was to be Shenfield we would stop! Anyway it was another three units (321435, 337 & 315) with 435 being a winner. Whilst here 90015 passed light engine.
20150326-Shenfield-90015 by The Guinness King, on FlickrIt was back to Stratford on 321447 (winner) and 314. We waited for the train behind which produced winning 321425 with 321356. This was proving to be a productive time. Another two moves from Liverpool Street to Stratford and back saw me pick up another five 321s (getting really tired now and can’t be bothered to list the units involved!). I did look at doing another out and back move but it meant a really tight connection for my train back home. It was safer to just head to Paddington now.
We jumped on the first train that came which was 21055/056 and bailed at Farringdon. Behind that was 21411/412 which we took to Paddington. All we dud for me. At Paddington we headed to the Mad Bishop and Bear for a cracking pint! With that had, I headed for my train home. 43022 and 43128 were doing the honours.
It was a great four days with plenty of variety from either end of the country! It was also great to finally meet another forum member. When I had come home I didn’t know what my next trip was going to be. But I can confirm that I will now be heading to the NVR on Saturday. Then hopefully a Great Escape a week Thursday!
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Techniquest
Veteran Member
Love the idea of heading to Sheffield on GA 321s!
As of arriving at Euston, I needed a total of 36 319s, I now need 22, including those which are already with Northern
Jealous of you doing the NVR, never done that one. It's on the list to do eventually, must look into when the next diesel gala is, or will be for when I can do it.
As of arriving at Euston, I needed a total of 36 319s, I now need 22, including those which are already with Northern
Jealous of you doing the NVR, never done that one. It's on the list to do eventually, must look into when the next diesel gala is, or will be for when I can do it.
Love the idea of heading to Sheffield on GA 321s!
As of arriving at Euston, I needed a total of 36 319s, I now need 22, including those which are already with Northern
Jealous of you doing the NVR, never done that one. It's on the list to do eventually, must look into when the next diesel gala is, or will be for when I can do it.
I'm so tired that it took me a while to realise what you meant! Computer autocorrected it (incorrectly) as when i went to correct it it did it again! (You know what i mean
) I've not done NVR either so providing all goes to plan it will be a whole load of winning locos!
Techniquest
Veteran Member
Apologies, I should have made it clear what I meant! I don't allow AutoCorrect (or whatever it's called) on my phone or anything else, it's just inviting mis-communication. If it suggests I've spelt it wrong I'll happily see what it thinks I mean (guarantee used to be such a word, there's a couple I do tend to get wrong still) but no chance of letting it fix it for me!
Fingers crossed all goes to plan for you on the NVR bash, a well earnt break without any doubt. Certainly I can't wait for Monday, it's been tough lately and have earnt the Great Escape! Especially after this weekend...
Fingers crossed all goes to plan for you on the NVR bash, a well earnt break without any doubt. Certainly I can't wait for Monday, it's been tough lately and have earnt the Great Escape! Especially after this weekend...
April 10/11th - Nene Valley Diesel Gala
So the 10th arrived and I was so ready for it, a day off! I had worked the previous 9 (although it was my choice to work Easter Sunday for various reasons) and now had three days off. It was the weekend of the Nene Valley Diesel Gala and I have never been there before. Im always jealous of what I miss but this time I could make it. Most of Friday (in fact it was Saturday by the time i left Plymouth) was spent with my wife. She dropped me at the station for the sleeper to London just before its expected arrival. It was running slightly late and by the time it came in (57303) and left it was just after midnight.
I was meeting my mate at Exeter (he was on a job that finished minutes before we were due to arrive and hed already let me know that he was on time). This meant his Friends and Family ticket wouldnt kick in for me until Exeter so I needed to get a ticket. The cheapest way through Devon in the evening is a Devon Evening Ranger with a Devon and Cornwall Railcard. £3.30 lighter (would have been £5.95 if Id bought a single!!) it was onwards to London. My mate got on at Exeter (he also had another mate with him) and it had been a while since we had last seen each other so it was time for a catch up. It was after Taunton before we tried to get some kip.
Tonights route was via Bristol Parkway. The bonus however was (although it might be diagrammed to do this now) we went over the new flyover at Reading. Thats that bit of track in the book (Im not too fussed with both directions and crossovers, thats something I must not get into!!!). Once at Paddington it there was no rush. We were going for the UK Railtours charter train from Finsbury Park to Cleethorpes for a part fare and that didnt leave till 0715.
We headed to the Hammersmith line and got on the first train that came in. 21334/333 provided a winning ride to Kings Cross St Pancras! Nice start. I then went and got my ticket from the machines. There was time then to do a couple of trips to and from Finsbury Park. This was good for me as I havent had (in fact I was surprised to realise how few) many 365s. First up however was 321420 which was winning (I really must try and get over here sometime and try and make an effort with these too). It was then back to the Cross with double pair 365, 001 & 002. Both required. Minutes later we were on 365538 back to Finsbury Park, another winner.
There was enough time for another trip back to Kings Cross and back so even though it was a dud, we jumped onto 313058. It wasnt particularly warm so a dud train was better option (it was needed for 2015!) Then dud 365513 bought us back out. Next up was 66047 leading the tour. Another winning 66! Mind you I have had so few id be annoyed if I was getting duds already! We took this to Potters Bar (new station) and paid a very reasonable £5 for the privilege.
20150411-Potters Bar-66003 by The Guinness King, on Flickr
The tour was off to Cleethorpes and sound like a cracking tour to be honest. But when it was announced I was working this weekend and wasnt till very late I was off. Then there would be the problem of getting home! 66003 was on the rear and also needed but anyway, moving on ..
At Potters Bar the plan was for me to get the next train to Peterborough and for my mates to do something slightly different (they were joining me at the NVR a lot later as they only needed the 66/7 that was going to be there). Oh dear. The next train was cancelled. And the next one! We had over an hour to wait (assuming the one after wasnt cancelled!) So change of plan. I clearly wouldnt be at the NVR for the first train of the day, or second! We decided to go to the Spoons for breakfast (needed for two of us). With that had we headed back to the station and were relieved to see the train had left the Cross and was on the way.
317348 soon turned up and we got on. I said my goodbyes to the others at Hitchin and continued to Peterborough. When we arrived I could see 60001 at the platform. That was the second service of the day and I knew I was never gonna make that. So I had 45 minutes to kill. I needed both spoons in Peterborough so I off I went. I had a half in each and it was on to the NVR. Its not a straight forward walk to the railway and I was at times not sure I was going in the right direction. Yes there are signs but theyre not entirely convincing. Especially when it looks someone has slightly twisted them. As it was I made it no probs and went and got my ticket.
20150411-Peterborough, NVR by The Guinness King, on Flickr
Now I already knew before I got here everything I got behind was to be a winner, so here goes! I should also add my plans were completely out the window due to being here late. No matter Im sure there was a way I could get all i needed! First up was 31271. I took this to Wansford where clearly everything happens. I didnt have much time here though as it was over the bridge onto the waiting train hauled by 56104. I was on this as far as Ferry Meadows. I couldnt get a picture though. Too many people and it was hanging off the end of the platform. The return to Wansford was behind 9529. I now had a little but of time to take it all in. I saw a window where I could get the Sweedish Railcar (1212) in up to Yarwell Junction and back. Its a weird looking thing and although low seems massive!
20150411-Wansford, NVR-1212 by The Guinness King, on Flickr
Once back at Wansford we waited for the all clear for 31601 to depart. Once again this was to Ferry Meadows and before the return to Wansford behind double headed 50008 and 50015. 33109 was up next and youve guessed it, to Ferry Meadows for the (now returning 31601) trip back to Wansford. Now for 60001 with 31271. The next train back to Wansford was 33109 and if all had gone well the GBRF 66/7 would be on the back. It was and was 66757 which was also a winner for sight. My mate had got off at Ferry Meadows and waited for its return from there. I didnt know this at this point and I had got on to get back to Wansford. I would get it from there and get the whole line in with it.
20150411-Wansford, NVR-66757 by The Guinness King, on Flickr
We got back to Peterborough (by now the timetable had slipped by about 40 minutes) and headed back to the mainline station with about 5 spare. All was going well. Winning 365511 was had back to the Cross. I was struggling to stay awake now though. The Sun was beating in the carriage and obviously I hadnt had much sleep the night before. We made it on time and then it was over to Edgware on dud 21311/312. We changed here so wed be the right end of Paddington. 21440/439 to Paddington were dud but we just wanted food. We went and got fish and chips before finding our train. 43009 and 177 did the honours. Heres some of the other photos I got from the day.
20150411-Wansford, NVR-50015 by The Guinness King, on Flickr
20150411-Wansford, NVR-31271, 60001 by The Guinness King, on Flickr
20150411-Wansford, NVR-9529 by The Guinness King, on Flickr
20150411-Wansford, NVR-31601(2) by The Guinness King, on Flickr
20150411-Wansford, NVR-56104(2) by The Guinness King, on Flickr
20150411-Wansford, NVR-33109 by The Guinness King, on Flickr
20150411-Peterborough, NVR-66757 by The Guinness King, on Flickr
What a fantastic day. Ok i knew i was going to get a lot of winning locos but even still. The bonus of the 66 to Potters Bar, ten locos at the NVR, six units to and from London and not forgetting one S stock pair. Plus new route (the NVR and a flyover) as well as three new Spoons! Next up is a Great Escape on Thursday, starting Wednesday night on the up sleeper!
So the 10th arrived and I was so ready for it, a day off! I had worked the previous 9 (although it was my choice to work Easter Sunday for various reasons) and now had three days off. It was the weekend of the Nene Valley Diesel Gala and I have never been there before. Im always jealous of what I miss but this time I could make it. Most of Friday (in fact it was Saturday by the time i left Plymouth) was spent with my wife. She dropped me at the station for the sleeper to London just before its expected arrival. It was running slightly late and by the time it came in (57303) and left it was just after midnight.
I was meeting my mate at Exeter (he was on a job that finished minutes before we were due to arrive and hed already let me know that he was on time). This meant his Friends and Family ticket wouldnt kick in for me until Exeter so I needed to get a ticket. The cheapest way through Devon in the evening is a Devon Evening Ranger with a Devon and Cornwall Railcard. £3.30 lighter (would have been £5.95 if Id bought a single!!) it was onwards to London. My mate got on at Exeter (he also had another mate with him) and it had been a while since we had last seen each other so it was time for a catch up. It was after Taunton before we tried to get some kip.
Tonights route was via Bristol Parkway. The bonus however was (although it might be diagrammed to do this now) we went over the new flyover at Reading. Thats that bit of track in the book (Im not too fussed with both directions and crossovers, thats something I must not get into!!!). Once at Paddington it there was no rush. We were going for the UK Railtours charter train from Finsbury Park to Cleethorpes for a part fare and that didnt leave till 0715.
We headed to the Hammersmith line and got on the first train that came in. 21334/333 provided a winning ride to Kings Cross St Pancras! Nice start. I then went and got my ticket from the machines. There was time then to do a couple of trips to and from Finsbury Park. This was good for me as I havent had (in fact I was surprised to realise how few) many 365s. First up however was 321420 which was winning (I really must try and get over here sometime and try and make an effort with these too). It was then back to the Cross with double pair 365, 001 & 002. Both required. Minutes later we were on 365538 back to Finsbury Park, another winner.
There was enough time for another trip back to Kings Cross and back so even though it was a dud, we jumped onto 313058. It wasnt particularly warm so a dud train was better option (it was needed for 2015!) Then dud 365513 bought us back out. Next up was 66047 leading the tour. Another winning 66! Mind you I have had so few id be annoyed if I was getting duds already! We took this to Potters Bar (new station) and paid a very reasonable £5 for the privilege.
20150411-Potters Bar-66003 by The Guinness King, on FlickrThe tour was off to Cleethorpes and sound like a cracking tour to be honest. But when it was announced I was working this weekend and wasnt till very late I was off. Then there would be the problem of getting home! 66003 was on the rear and also needed but anyway, moving on ..
At Potters Bar the plan was for me to get the next train to Peterborough and for my mates to do something slightly different (they were joining me at the NVR a lot later as they only needed the 66/7 that was going to be there). Oh dear. The next train was cancelled. And the next one! We had over an hour to wait (assuming the one after wasnt cancelled!) So change of plan. I clearly wouldnt be at the NVR for the first train of the day, or second! We decided to go to the Spoons for breakfast (needed for two of us). With that had we headed back to the station and were relieved to see the train had left the Cross and was on the way.
317348 soon turned up and we got on. I said my goodbyes to the others at Hitchin and continued to Peterborough. When we arrived I could see 60001 at the platform. That was the second service of the day and I knew I was never gonna make that. So I had 45 minutes to kill. I needed both spoons in Peterborough so I off I went. I had a half in each and it was on to the NVR. Its not a straight forward walk to the railway and I was at times not sure I was going in the right direction. Yes there are signs but theyre not entirely convincing. Especially when it looks someone has slightly twisted them. As it was I made it no probs and went and got my ticket.
20150411-Peterborough, NVR by The Guinness King, on FlickrNow I already knew before I got here everything I got behind was to be a winner, so here goes! I should also add my plans were completely out the window due to being here late. No matter Im sure there was a way I could get all i needed! First up was 31271. I took this to Wansford where clearly everything happens. I didnt have much time here though as it was over the bridge onto the waiting train hauled by 56104. I was on this as far as Ferry Meadows. I couldnt get a picture though. Too many people and it was hanging off the end of the platform. The return to Wansford was behind 9529. I now had a little but of time to take it all in. I saw a window where I could get the Sweedish Railcar (1212) in up to Yarwell Junction and back. Its a weird looking thing and although low seems massive!
20150411-Wansford, NVR-1212 by The Guinness King, on FlickrOnce back at Wansford we waited for the all clear for 31601 to depart. Once again this was to Ferry Meadows and before the return to Wansford behind double headed 50008 and 50015. 33109 was up next and youve guessed it, to Ferry Meadows for the (now returning 31601) trip back to Wansford. Now for 60001 with 31271. The next train back to Wansford was 33109 and if all had gone well the GBRF 66/7 would be on the back. It was and was 66757 which was also a winner for sight. My mate had got off at Ferry Meadows and waited for its return from there. I didnt know this at this point and I had got on to get back to Wansford. I would get it from there and get the whole line in with it.
20150411-Wansford, NVR-66757 by The Guinness King, on FlickrWe got back to Peterborough (by now the timetable had slipped by about 40 minutes) and headed back to the mainline station with about 5 spare. All was going well. Winning 365511 was had back to the Cross. I was struggling to stay awake now though. The Sun was beating in the carriage and obviously I hadnt had much sleep the night before. We made it on time and then it was over to Edgware on dud 21311/312. We changed here so wed be the right end of Paddington. 21440/439 to Paddington were dud but we just wanted food. We went and got fish and chips before finding our train. 43009 and 177 did the honours. Heres some of the other photos I got from the day.
20150411-Wansford, NVR-50015 by The Guinness King, on Flickr
20150411-Wansford, NVR-31271, 60001 by The Guinness King, on Flickr
20150411-Wansford, NVR-9529 by The Guinness King, on Flickr
20150411-Wansford, NVR-31601(2) by The Guinness King, on Flickr
20150411-Wansford, NVR-56104(2) by The Guinness King, on Flickr
20150411-Wansford, NVR-33109 by The Guinness King, on Flickr
20150411-Peterborough, NVR-66757 by The Guinness King, on FlickrWhat a fantastic day. Ok i knew i was going to get a lot of winning locos but even still. The bonus of the 66 to Potters Bar, ten locos at the NVR, six units to and from London and not forgetting one S stock pair. Plus new route (the NVR and a flyover) as well as three new Spoons! Next up is a Great Escape on Thursday, starting Wednesday night on the up sleeper!
Kite159
Veteran Member
The NVR is a nice little line, good distance as well.
You could have stayed on the tour until Peterborough where a lot more passengers boarded.
You could have stayed on the tour until Peterborough where a lot more passengers boarded.
I could have but would have cost £20. I didn't realise the units behind had been cancelled. As it so happened it had no effect on the day as I still got everything that ran.
Techniquest
Veteran Member
A most productive time had, despite GN's best efforts to derail the plan!
I swear I've got the Spoons ticking thing too now, I scored 2 Spoons (note I'm not going out of my way to do them yet!) yesterday and no doubt I'll be after more of them soon!
I swear I've got the Spoons ticking thing too now, I scored 2 Spoons (note I'm not going out of my way to do them yet!) yesterday and no doubt I'll be after more of them soon!
- Status