Archive-2019

THE ARCHIVE FILES > Archive-2019
2019 was a pretty tumultuous year on the railways with the disappearance of the fabled HSTs from all but the Midland Mainline and with them set to increase on that line for the next eighteen months at least. It has also been a year when the much-derided Pacers have started to be withdrawn. In theory, by 31.12.19 they should all have been out of service but as is all too common on our railways, this deadline has slipped due to issues with the introduction of new stock. Personally, 2019 was a record-breaker in terms of the number of trips out. I have also got extremely close to taking two thousand images. I enjoyed some smashing trips out with Mike, a retired and former work colleague. My big trip of the year was with Andy and to Scotland again - this time sampling Caledonian Sleeper's new Mk.V accommodation. As can be seen, despite the efforts of the operator, things were far from perfect! I hope that 2020 finds me out and about as much as it did in 2019. Here's to it!

Statistics - 89 trips, 1,338 photgraphs, 98.6 GB
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1. New Year's Day on the NLR-01.01.19 In common with previous years, my wife, son and I visited the Northampton and Lamport railway for a walk, a ride on the train and a mince pie. A great way to start off the year and even better this year as the sun was out!
In common with previous years, my wife, son and I visited the Northampton and Lamport railway for a walk, a ride on the train and a mince pie. A great way to start off the year and even better this year as the sun was out!
2. The Pennine Explorer II-03.01.19 Just over forty years ago, I visited this area on the Pennine Explorer railtour that traversed the Woodhead Line prior to its closure. See..... https://www.ontheupfast.com/v/photos/21936chg/C318869404/x22-pennine-explorer-14-10-78 This is the first time that I have seen anything of the Woodhead Line since its closure. Turning up at Penistone in the half-light of a winter's afternoon was an eerie experience! I went with Andy travelling in his blue Nissan Micra that included a thrash over Saddleworth Pass and crossing the moors down into the Colne valley.
Just over forty years ago, I visited this area on the Pennine Explorer railtour that traversed the Woodhead Line prior to its closure. See..... https://www.ontheupfast.com/v/photos/21936chg/C318869404/x22-pennine-explorer-14-10-78 This is the first time that I have seen anything of the Woodhead Line since its closure. Turning up at Penistone in the half-light of a winter's afternoon was an eerie experience! I went with Andy travelling in his blue Nissan Micra that included a thrash over Saddleworth Pass and crossing the moors down into the Colne valley.
3. SM & J walk-11.01.19 Having done the jobs and with the sun putting in a welcomed appearance I went for a walk from home. I found myself between the villages of Roade and Hartwell crossing the route of the long-closed Stratford-upon-Avon and Midland Junction Railway (SM & J). Over fifty years after its closure, remnants of this once strategic railway route still exist.
Having done the jobs and with the sun putting in a welcomed appearance I went for a walk from home. I found myself between the villages of Roade and Hartwell crossing the route of the long-closed Stratford-upon-Avon and Midland Junction Railway (SM & J). Over fifty years after its closure, remnants of this once strategic railway route still exist.
4. ECML drags-13.01.19 A second and final weekend of drags on the Great Eastern line due to the ECML being closed south of Peterborough, persuaded me out early on a Sunday morning. I was hoping for better weather but it was the middle of January! I visited various locations between Peterborough and March until the rain forced me home in my trusty Combo van. There were a fair number of folks out and about doing the same as me but, away from the stations, I saw nobody!
A second and final weekend of drags on the Great Eastern line due to the ECML being closed south of Peterborough, persuaded me out early on a Sunday morning. I was hoping for better weather but it was the middle of January! I visited various locations between Peterborough and March until the rain forced me home in my trusty Combo van. There were a fair number of folks out and about doing the same as me but, away from the stations, I saw nobody!
5. 0K68 LEs move-19.01.19 A walk across the field from home on a particularly dull day to see the 0K68 light engine move that had been flagged up on the internet. I took the opportunity to take the cutters to undertake some pruning of the brambles that had started to obscure the view at this spot. I spent a good half an hour cutting these back and it opened up the spot again but I'll need to keep on top of it!
A walk across the field from home on a particularly dull day to see the 0K68 light engine move that had been flagged up on the internet. I took the opportunity to take the cutters to undertake some pruning of the brambles that had started to obscure the view at this spot. I spent a good half an hour cutting these back and it opened up the spot again but I'll need to keep on top of it!
6. Sunday infrastructure workings-20.01.19 A stunning winter morning so I ventured out for an hour to Victoria bridge south of Roade on the WCML to capture no fewer than three infrastructure trains following on from overnight possessions on the fast lines.
A stunning winter morning so I ventured out for an hour to Victoria bridge south of Roade on the WCML to capture no fewer than three infrastructure trains following on from overnight possessions on the fast lines.
7. 5Z11 Caledonian Sleeper test run-22.01.18 Gen on the internet suggested that Caledonian Sleeper were undertaking a fully loaded test run of their new stock from Glasgow to Euston. I got up early to discover the run was on and so donned my extra coat, hat and gloves to get out an see it passing Roade. It was running a little late by the time it got to me, but al least the sun had come up by the time it passed. However, things went wrong further south as it got caught up on the run into London behind local workings as it was pathed on the up slow.
Gen on the internet suggested that Caledonian Sleeper were undertaking a fully loaded test run of their new stock from Glasgow to Euston. I got up early to discover the run was on and so donned my extra coat, hat and gloves to get out an see it passing Roade. It was running a little late by the time it got to me, but al least the sun had come up by the time it passed. However, things went wrong further south as it got caught up on the run into London behind local workings as it was pathed on the up slow.
8. Sunday freight-27.01.19 In order to maintain my daily 10 000 paces, I took a brisk walk around the village with my camera over my shoulder! This happened to coincide with the passing of two infrastructure trains and the regular as clockwork 4L98 Freightliner.
In order to maintain my daily 10 000 paces, I took a brisk walk around the village with my camera over my shoulder! This happened to coincide with the passing of two infrastructure trains and the regular as clockwork 4L98 Freightliner.
9. A cold Castlethorpe-31.01.19 After a brilliantly bright but extremely cold start to the day complete with an impressive display of hoar frost I was looking forward to getting out and taking some local pictures. However, by the time I was able to get out, it had clouded up but it still remained extremely cold. I stuck it out as I wanted to capture one of TPE's test runs of its new Mk. V CAF stock.
After a brilliantly bright but extremely cold start to the day complete with an impressive display of hoar frost I was looking forward to getting out and taking some local pictures. However, by the time I was able to get out, it had clouded up but it still remained extremely cold. I stuck it out as I wanted to capture one of TPE's test runs of its new Mk. V CAF stock.
10. Victoria bridge in the snow-01.02.19 After some overnight snow and completing the chores at I home, I took my afternoon constitutional! I walked across the fields to Victoria bridge and spent an hour before I got too cold and headed for home, 14 000 paces today; a good start to February!
After some overnight snow and completing the chores at I home, I took my afternoon constitutional! I walked across the fields to Victoria bridge and spent an hour before I got too cold and headed for home, 14 000 paces today; a good start to February!
11. The Winter Cumbrian Mountain Express-02.02.19 Another cold morning but I wanted to get out and see the first of the year's Cumbrian Mountain Express'. I decided on a risky location that I had seen but not used and one that had been opened up by some recent Network Rail tree clearance near to Bugbrooke on the Weedon loop.
Another cold morning but I wanted to get out and see the first of the year's Cumbrian Mountain Express'. I decided on a risky location that I had seen but not used and one that had been opened up by some recent Network Rail tree clearance near to Bugbrooke on the Weedon loop.
12. New A45 road bridge, Weedon-13.02.19 As I had to drive out to Weedon to drop my old Power Mac off for repair at the excellent Apple Village www.applevillage.co.uk I thought that I would see what the new bridge, constructed for the A45 bypass, was like for photographic opportunities. The bypass was opened in December 2018 to relieve the blight of traffic through both Weedon and Flore. I was delighted to find that the bridge offers some great new views of the line and I will be visiting again but parking the car nearby is a problem!
As I had to drive out to Weedon to drop my old Power Mac off for repair at the excellent Apple Village www.applevillage.co.uk I thought that I would see what the new bridge, constructed for the A45 bypass, was like for photographic opportunities. The bypass was opened in December 2018 to relieve the blight of traffic through both Weedon and Flore. I was delighted to find that the bridge offers some great new views of the line and I will be visiting again but parking the car nearby is a problem!
13. Valentine trip to London-14.02.19 A trip to London with my lovely wife as a joint Valentine day. We visited the excellent Churchill war rooms museum under Whitehall. It was a stunning day with the weather feeling more like April than mid February! After some retail therapy we visited our favourite Greek restaurant for a lovely meal followed by a snooze home on the train!
A trip to London with my lovely wife as a joint Valentine day. We visited the excellent Churchill war rooms museum under Whitehall. It was a stunning day with the weather feeling more like April than mid February! After some retail therapy we visited our favourite Greek restaurant for a lovely meal followed by a snooze home on the train!
14. The Kent & Sussex downsman-17 & 18.02.19 A day and overnight stay with Andy. We had further business in Kent and on the south coast. We drove down in my Combo van to mid Kent for our overnight stay at Dover. After our customary evening curry and a good night's sleep we headed along the south coast until we ran out of light. Andy filled in some gaps in his station book and I gained a surprising number of signal boxes.
A day and overnight stay with Andy. We had further business in Kent and on the south coast. We drove down in my Combo van to mid Kent for our overnight stay at Dover. After our customary evening curry and a good night's sleep we headed along the south coast until we ran out of light. Andy filled in some gaps in his station book and I gained a surprising number of signal boxes.
15. A L&Y Odyssey-21.02.19 A trip to Yorkshire returning via Lancashire with Andy. This was a work-related day out as I had to collect a windscreen from a vendor in Bradford. Andy and I travelled in my Combo van. It was a great day apart from the sat nav sending us on a bizarre route that then got us the wrong side of a road closure in Mytholmroyd. This necessitated a huge diversion via Littleborough that caused considerable disruption to our day!
A trip to Yorkshire returning via Lancashire with Andy. This was a work-related day out as I had to collect a windscreen from a vendor in Bradford. Andy and I travelled in my Combo van. It was a great day apart from the sat nav sending us on a bizarre route that then got us the wrong side of a road closure in Mytholmroyd. This necessitated a huge diversion via Littleborough that caused considerable disruption to our day!
16. The Winter Cumbrian Mountain Express-23.02.19 A Saturday morning trip to Weedon to collect my Mac from the repair shop. I combined this with seeing the Winter on the Cumbrian Mountain Express railtour. I decided to try the new A45 road bridge that bypasses Weedon. I visited it a couple of weeks ago but the foggy conditions of today made it a slightly different proposition.
A Saturday morning trip to Weedon to collect my Mac from the repair shop. I combined this with seeing the Winter on the Cumbrian Mountain Express railtour. I decided to try the new A45 road bridge that bypasses Weedon. I visited it a couple of weeks ago but the foggy conditions of today made it a slightly different proposition.
17. A Sunday walk around Roade-24.02.19 A beautiful Sunday afternoon got me out into the village for a walk and get another 10 000+ pace count. I explored another section of the former S&J railway the route of which passes just on front of my house.
A beautiful Sunday afternoon got me out into the village for a walk and get another 10 000+ pace count. I explored another section of the former S&J railway the route of which passes just on front of my house.
18. Trip to Slough-27.02.19 Unfortunately, my elderly aunt was admitted to Wexham Park Hospital so I visited her. I travelled from Northampton by train to Euston. I then rode my Brompton across to Paddington and took the train to Slough where I was met by my cousin. I managed my first trip on an IET and have written some comments on this in the picture section. The return journey was a mirror image of the outward one but I travelled back to Paddington on a Turbostar.
Unfortunately, my elderly aunt was admitted to Wexham Park Hospital so I visited her. I travelled from Northampton by train to Euston. I then rode my Brompton across to Paddington and took the train to Slough where I was met by my cousin. I managed my first trip on an IET and have written some comments on this in the picture section. The return journey was a mirror image of the outward one but I travelled back to Paddington on a Turbostar.
19. The Winter Cumbrian Mountain Express-02.03.19 A particularly dismal morning after the recent spell of lovely weather found me out locally to see the 1Z86 The Winter Cumbrian Mountain Express hauled, as usual, by 86259.
A particularly dismal morning after the recent spell of lovely weather found me out locally to see the 1Z86 The Winter Cumbrian Mountain Express hauled, as usual, by 86259.
20. Trip to Leeds-08 & 09.03.19 A trip to Leeds with my wife and son in order to visit Leeds Beckett university as a possible contender for him next year. On Friday, whilst my wife and son were exploring the retail opportunities, I had a quick run out to York.
A trip to Leeds with my wife and son in order to visit Leeds Beckett university as a possible contender for him next year. On Friday, whilst my wife and son were exploring the retail opportunities, I had a quick run out to York.
21. Burton Ot Wetmore to Wembley ECS move-15.03.19 In between doing the chores at home, I had a walk out for an hour on what was blustery and bright early spring day. The main purpose was to see a class 67 hauled Burton Ot Wetmore to Wembley ECS move.
In between doing the chores at home, I had a walk out for an hour on what was blustery and bright early spring day. The main purpose was to see a class 67 hauled Burton Ot Wetmore to Wembley ECS move.
22. The Cumbrian Coast Express & afternoon walk-16.03.19 Amazingly, having managed to get Andy's 23-year-old Nissan Serena yet another MOT at work, I drove it to Wolverton and met him at the station with him having driven one of his Micras from his home. We met at Wolverton to see the 1Z86 Cumbrian Coast Express pass with 86259 doing the honours as usual. Due to it being delayed by about twenty minutes, control kept it on the down fast so we positioned ourselves on platform two. Despite the grey weather, a reasonable photograph was produced. We then drove both cars to Andy's home and he popped me back to Roade.....what a complicated morning! In the afternoon, to maintain my nine-day unbroken record of getting 10 000 steps, I went for a blowy walk around the village. Coincidentally, a freight was passing under Hyde Road bridge as I did so!
Amazingly, having managed to get Andy's 23-year-old Nissan Serena yet another MOT at work, I drove it to Wolverton and met him at the station with him having driven one of his Micras from his home. We met at Wolverton to see the 1Z86 Cumbrian Coast Express pass with 86259 doing the honours as usual. Due to it being delayed by about twenty minutes, control kept it on the down fast so we positioned ourselves on platform two. Despite the grey weather, a reasonable photograph was produced. We then drove both cars to Andy's home and he popped me back to Roade.....what a complicated morning! In the afternoon, to maintain my nine-day unbroken record of getting 10 000 steps, I went for a blowy walk around the village. Coincidentally, a freight was passing under Hyde Road bridge as I did so!
23. Trip to Sheffield-23.03.19 A second trip to the city of Sheffield with my wife and son in order for him and the lovely 'Mrs. On the up Fast' to have another look at Sheffield Hallam University. For speed we went from Wellingborough this time but it was an expensive trip, as it usually is with East Midlands.
A second trip to the city of Sheffield with my wife and son in order for him and the lovely 'Mrs. On the up Fast' to have another look at Sheffield Hallam University. For speed we went from Wellingborough this time but it was an expensive trip, as it usually is with East Midlands.
24. Trip to Warrington-25.03.19 A very early start for a trip to Warrington in order to collect a car for a customer at work. I chose and interesting route that may have taken a little longer but one that was very cheap. Northampton to Stafford, then to Liverpool South Parkway then back to Warrington. I had a nice drive back to Northampton in a VW Golf that included a slight diversion off the M6 to get a signal box that had eluded me for a number of years.
A very early start for a trip to Warrington in order to collect a car for a customer at work. I chose and interesting route that may have taken a little longer but one that was very cheap. Northampton to Stafford, then to Liverpool South Parkway then back to Warrington. I had a nice drive back to Northampton in a VW Golf that included a slight diversion off the M6 to get a signal box that had eluded me for a number of years.
25. Steam Dreams Excursion with Mayflower-30.03.19 After meeting Andy in Tesco's car park of all places, we drove to a spot that I had reconnoitred in order to capture ex LNER Thompson Class B1 61306 'Mayflower' out on the mainline soon after the completion of its overhaul. In the evening, I went out again back to Northampton station to capture it in the dark.
After meeting Andy in Tesco's car park of all places, we drove to a spot that I had reconnoitred in order to capture ex LNER Thompson Class B1 61306 'Mayflower' out on the mainline soon after the completion of its overhaul. In the evening, I went out again back to Northampton station to capture it in the dark.
26. Grand National special & The Snowdonia Panorama-06.04.19 A walk across the field from home to see two excursions within a few minutes of each other. There was the added bonus of three freights too. The first excursion was a Northern Belle charter to Merseyside for the afternoon's Grand National that was won in some style by Tiger Roll at 4:1. This was the first back to back win for a horse since the fabled Red Rum forty five years ago. The second charter was run by UK Railtours, The Snowdonia Panorama from Euston to Llandudno. For April it was a very cold morning with a keen easterly wind bowing and I was pleased to get back home for a cup of tea and breakfast!
A walk across the field from home to see two excursions within a few minutes of each other. There was the added bonus of three freights too. The first excursion was a Northern Belle charter to Merseyside for the afternoon's Grand National that was won in some style by Tiger Roll at 4:1. This was the first back to back win for a horse since the fabled Red Rum forty five years ago. The second charter was run by UK Railtours, The Snowdonia Panorama from Euston to Llandudno. For April it was a very cold morning with a keen easterly wind bowing and I was pleased to get back home for a cup of tea and breakfast!
27. Trip to London-07-09.04.19 A trip to London with my wife and son. The main purpose of our visit was to visit the Russian visa section or order to submit our applications for our forthcoming visit. My wife and I also spent a very enjoyable evening at the Bridge Theatre watching Dame Maggie Smith perform the monologue, A German Life; a quite outstanding performance. Whilst my wife and son were busy spending our money, I went to the East End to an art exhibition ending up at Bethnal Green station photographing the soon to be withdrawn class 31X EMUs.
A trip to London with my wife and son. The main purpose of our visit was to visit the Russian visa section or order to submit our applications for our forthcoming visit. My wife and I also spent a very enjoyable evening at the Bridge Theatre watching Dame Maggie Smith perform the monologue, A German Life; a quite outstanding performance. Whilst my wife and son were busy spending our money, I went to the East End to an art exhibition ending up at Bethnal Green station photographing the soon to be withdrawn class 31X EMUs.
28. The Pennine Blackpool Express-13.04.19 A very cold and frosty morning walk across the filed from home to see 86259 heading north but, for a change, working the The Pennine Blackpool Express running with its usual reporting number of 1Z86. This time, the AC electric hauled the train to Blackpool along the newly electrified route. Then steam would take over for a run to Hellifield. After running round, the steam would then take the train back to Preston for the electric to bring the train back South again from Carlisle.
A very cold and frosty morning walk across the filed from home to see 86259 heading north but, for a change, working the The Pennine Blackpool Express running with its usual reporting number of 1Z86. This time, the AC electric hauled the train to Blackpool along the newly electrified route. Then steam would take over for a run to Hellifield. After running round, the steam would then take the train back to Preston for the electric to bring the train back South again from Carlisle.
29. A Yorkshire Ramble-15 & 16.04.19 A couple of days with an overnight stay in York with Andy. On the way up, we sampled a few workings on the ECML before the arrival of the Azumas. We then headed to east Yorkshire going up the wolds to Scarborough. On the second day, we traversed the Esk valley popping out at Battersby Junction to then do the Redcar area before returning home, again with a brief stop on the ECML. Andy copped a number of station and I managed some new signal boxes.
A couple of days with an overnight stay in York with Andy. On the way up, we sampled a few workings on the ECML before the arrival of the Azumas. We then headed to east Yorkshire going up the wolds to Scarborough. On the second day, we traversed the Esk valley popping out at Battersby Junction to then do the Redcar area before returning home, again with a brief stop on the ECML. Andy copped a number of station and I managed some new signal boxes.
30. Easter on the NLR-21.04.19 An Easter Sunday visit with my wife and son to the Northampton and Lamport Railway for a walk and a drink in the superb spring (dare I say summer like?) weather.
An Easter Sunday visit with my wife and son to the Northampton and Lamport Railway for a walk and a drink in the superb spring (dare I say summer like?) weather.
31. Sleeper-01.05.19 A dash out whilst the family were stirring to get a shot of the Sleeper passing still made up of Mk. IIIs and a class 90 hauling - few opportunities left now I would have thought?
A dash out whilst the family were stirring to get a shot of the Sleeper passing still made up of Mk. IIIs and a class 90 hauling - few opportunities left now I would have thought?
32. Trip to London-02.05.19 A solo trip to London to visit the Russian Embassy's visa section again in order to get my paperwork sorted for our summer holiday. However, I should have checked their website as the department was closed all week for the Labour Day Public Holiday! That single public Holiday is the same length as all ours put together! Never mind, this gave me the opportunity to ride my Brompton across London to Paddington where I saw two HSTs - possibly my last sightings at Paddington? It must be getting near the end as a film crew were on platform one from BBC South-West doing a piece on them!
A solo trip to London to visit the Russian Embassy's visa section again in order to get my paperwork sorted for our summer holiday. However, I should have checked their website as the department was closed all week for the Labour Day Public Holiday! That single public Holiday is the same length as all ours put together! Never mind, this gave me the opportunity to ride my Brompton across London to Paddington where I saw two HSTs - possibly my last sightings at Paddington? It must be getting near the end as a film crew were on platform one from BBC South-West doing a piece on them!
33. Trip to London-05-06.05.19 A short overnight trip to London with the lovely Mrs. On the up Fast to see the incredible Sérgio Mendes in concert at the Royal Festival Hall. Due to the closure of Euston for HS2 work, we travelled down and back on the Midland Mainline from Wellingborough.
A short overnight trip to London with the lovely Mrs. On the up Fast to see the incredible Sérgio Mendes in concert at the Royal Festival Hall. Due to the closure of Euston for HS2 work, we travelled down and back on the Midland Mainline from Wellingborough.
34. Trip to London-10.05.19 For my birthday, my wife treated me to an afternoon and evening in London the main purpose was to see the superb play The Last Temptation of Boris Johnson by the playwright Jonathan Maitland. Once again, we made the journey out to Finsbury Park to one of our favourite theatres .

For my birthday, my wife treated me to an afternoon and evening in London the main purpose was to see the superb play The Last Temptation of Boris Johnson by the playwright Jonathan Maitland. Once again, we made the journey out to Finsbury Park to one of our favourite theatres.
35. The Canterbury & White Cliffs Statesman-11.05.19 A quick ride out on the Brompton to Roade cutting in order to see The Canterbury & White Cliffs Statesman railtour. A largely sunny half hour with just the sun diving behind a cloud as the pičces de résistance arrived!
A quick ride out on the Brompton to Roade cutting in order to see The Canterbury & White Cliffs Statesman railtour. A largely sunny half hour with just the sun diving behind a cloud as the pičces de résistance arrived!
36. 0Z56 & 6Z56-12.05.19 In between Sunday jobs, I nipped out to see and unusual out and back move. Some wagons were collected from Willesden DC Rail Sidings by a pair of UKRL class 56s. First, they worked down from their Leicester base and a couple of hours later they worked back towards Derby.
In between Sunday jobs, I nipped out to see and unusual out and back move. Some wagons were collected from Willesden DC Rail Sidings by a pair of UKRL class 56s. First, they worked down from their Leicester base and a couple of hours later they worked back towards Derby.
37. Azuma launch day on the ECML-15.05.19 A superb trip out on the ECML that was the final day before the introduction into revenue earning service of the Azumas. Despite this, there was, in fact, a press and invited celebrity return working from King's Cross to Leeds as well as a number of staff training and mileage accumulation runs. I was accompanied by fellow enthusiast Mike with us traveling in my Combo van. The weather can only be described as stunning!
A superb trip out on the ECML that was the final day before the introduction into revenue earning service of the Azumas. Despite this, there was, in fact, a press and invited celebrity return working from King's Cross to Leeds as well as a number of staff training and mileage accumulation runs. I was accompanied by fellow enthusiast Mike with us traveling in my Combo van. The weather can only be described as stunning!
38. Irchester-16.05.19 With an hour or so to spare prior to a curry night with some friends, I stopped off at Irchester on the Midland Main Line. After yesterday's stunning weather, things had returned to type! It was interesting to note that little has changed with regards to the electrification and re-installation of the second relief line since my last visit in October. However, the major work being undertaken was the removal of the old A45 bridge that was causing huge inconvenience to people using the road.
With an hour or so to spare prior to a curry night with some friends, I stopped off at Irchester on the Midland Main Line. After yesterday's stunning weather, things had returned to type! It was interesting to note that little has changed with regards to the electrification and re-installation of the second relief line since my last visit in October. However, the major work being undertaken was the removal of the old A45 bridge that was causing huge inconvenience to people using the road.
39. Trip to London & The Highlands & Islands-17.05.19 A third trip to London to apply for my visa to visit Russia in the summer as the previous two were unsuccessful such is Russian beurocracy! I was booked on the first off-peak train of the day but due to signalling problems in the Coventry area there was a fair amount of chaos. Restrictions were lifted so I got on the next available up train that got me into London a little earlier than planned. I then rode my Brompton to the visa section and finally ended up at King's Cross for an hour or so. When I got home, I nipped out in my van locally to see the final leg of the epic nine-day long Highlands and Islands railtour returning down the WCML with 60136 'Mayflower' hauling.
A third trip to London to apply for my visa to visit Russia in the summer as the previous two were unsuccessful such is Russian beurocracy! I was booked on the first off-peak train of the day but due to signalling problems in the Coventry area there was a fair amount of chaos. Restrictions were lifted so I got on the next available up train that got me into London a little earlier than planned. I then rode my Brompton to the visa section and finally ended up at King's Cross for an hour or so. When I got home, I nipped out in my van locally to see the final leg of the epic nine-day long Highlands and Islands railtour returning down the WCML with 60136 'Mayflower' hauling.
40. The Cumbrian Mountain Express -18.05.19 A walk through the village on a very dull morning to see yet another Cumbrian Mountain Express passing north with 86259 at the helm.
A walk through the village on a very dull morning to see yet another Cumbrian Mountain Express passing north with 86259 at the helm.
41. Trip to London-19.05.19 A Sunday trip to London with my lovely wife in order to see the unlikely combination of Sting and Shaggy in concert. The concert was at The Roundhouse venue in Camden. The Roundhouse, as the name suggests, was a former railway structure built by the London and Birmingham Railway in 1846 but was only in use for ten years as locomotives became too big for it! Standing inside the venue, many original features still exist, and it was a strange feeling to be inside such a building watching two artists in concert!
A Sunday trip to London with my lovely wife in order to see the unlikely combination of Sting and Shaggy in concert. The concert was at The Roundhouse venue in Camden. The Roundhouse, as the name suggests, was a former railway structure built by the London and Birmingham Railway in 1846 but was only in use for ten years as locomotives became too big for it! Standing inside the venue, many original features still exist, and it was a strange feeling to be inside such a building watching two artists in concert!
42. Two railtours and the Sleeper-01.06.19 Before work, I managed to see two railtours near to home and, in between these, captured the 'highland' sleeper on what was, possibly, its last run utilising the Mk. III stock before their retirement to be replaced by the Mk. IVs. In the evening after dinner, I nipped out to see one of the railtours return.
Before work, I managed to see two railtours near to home and, in between these, captured the 'highland' sleeper on what was, possibly, its last run utilising the Mk. III stock before their retirement to be replaced by the Mk. IVs. In the evening after dinner, I nipped out to see one of the railtours return.
43. Trip to Birmingham-06.06.19 A trip to Birmingham to see a performance of Captain Corelli's Mandolin at the Rep. Unfortunately, I went on my own as my lovely wife was poorly.
A trip to Birmingham to see a performance of Captain Corelli's Mandolin at the Rep. Unfortunately, I went on my own as my lovely wife was poorly.
44. The Crewe Open Day & Medieval Chester-08.06.19 What a foul day! I had to nip into work and this coincided with the passing of The Crewe Open Day and Medieval Chester railtour operated by UK Railtours. Unfortunately, this was heavily delayed on leaving Euston but it did make it in the end. In the evening, I took a walk through the village to see it on its return; at least the weather had improved by then!
What a foul day! I had to nip into work and this coincided with the passing of The Crewe Open Day and Medieval Chester railtour operated by UK Railtours. Unfortunately, this was heavily delayed on leaving Euston but it did make it in the end. In the evening, I took a walk through the village to see it on its return; at least the weather had improved by then!
45. The Oxford 175 Express & 175 Luncheon Circular-15.06.19 After an appalling week of weather with five days of what seemed like continual rain, a slight break coincided with the Oxford 175 Express and Oxford 175 Luncheon Circular to celebrate, as the names suggest, 175 years of the railway between Didcot and Oxford. The tour was composed of four parts all hauled by 7029 'Clun Castle'. Leg one - 1Z50 Solihull to Oxford then hauled back to Oxford Parkway by D1755. Leg two - 1Z70 Oxford Parkway to Princess Risborough via Didcot and Greenford Junction. Leg three - 1Z71 Princess Risborough to Oxford then to Didcot to turn on the triangle and back to Oxford. Leg four - 1Z65 Oxford to Solihull. A great day out dodging the rain showers with Mike travelling in his Audi A3.
After an appalling week of weather with five days of what seemed like continual rain, a slight break coincided with the Oxford 175 Express and Oxford 175 Luncheon Circular to celebrate, as the names suggest, 175 years of the railway between Didcot and Oxford. The tour was composed of four parts all hauled by 7029 'Clun Castle'.

Leg one - 1Z50 Solihull to Oxford then hauled back to Oxford Parkway by D1755.
Leg two - 1Z70 Oxford Parkway to Princess Risborough via Didcot and Greenford Junction.
Leg three - 1Z71 Princess Risborough to Oxford then to Didcot to turn on the triangle and back to Oxford.
Leg four - 1Z65 Oxford to Solihull.

A great day out dodging the rain showers with Mike travelling in his Audi A3.
46. Sleeper & trip to Birmingham-21.06.19 The longest day was forecast to be bright and sunny so I decided to get up extra early and get the two sleepers and, in addition, the FO Irvine to Wembley china clay empties that, unusually, runs via the Weedon loop. However, things then went wrong, the 1M11 lowland sleeper was heavily delayed so I waited for the china clay and went home. Unfortunately, I had missed that the 6B10 Peak Forest to Bletchley was just behind it! I did go out and see the highland sleeper that was running to time but had a camera issue (or more likely a user issue!) so the shot was not great. Later in the morning, I nipped to Birmingham to collect a nice little Renault Clio for a customer; I'm pleased to report that all went to plan with this!
The longest day was forecast to be bright and sunny so I decided to get up extra early and get the two sleepers and, in addition, the FO Irvine to Wembley china clay empties that, unusually, runs via the Weedon loop. However, things then went wrong, the 1M11 lowland sleeper was heavily delayed so I waited for the china clay and went home. Unfortunately, I had missed that the 6B10 Peak Forest to Bletchley was just behind it! I did go out and see the highland sleeper that was running to time but had a camera issue (or more likely a user issue!) so the shot was not great. Later in the morning, I nipped to Birmingham to collect a nice little Renault Clio for a customer; I'm pleased to report that all went to plan with this!
47. Delayed Father's Day on the NLR-23.06.19 As the previous Sunday was so miserable, we delayed our Father's Day bike ride along the Brampton Valley way to the Northampton and Lamport Railway. So, with the weather forecast looking good the following weekend, I loaded up the bikes and off we went. After a snack on the platform at the station and a visit to the bookshop, euphemistically called the 'emporium', we rode back. A really nice day out with my wife and son.
As the previous Sunday was so miserable, we delayed our Father's Day bike ride along the Brampton Valley way to the Northampton and Lamport Railway. So, with the weather forecast looking good the following weekend, I loaded up the bikes and off we went. After a snack on the platform at the station and a visit to the bookshop, euphemistically called the 'emporium', we rode back. A really nice day out with my wife and son.
48. The Gloucestrshire & Warwickshire Railway-27.06.19 A lovely day out with Mike to visit the Gloucestershire and Warwickshire Railway ostensively to have a look at their new station at Broadway. The weather played ball with it being a completely cloud-free summer's day! On the way, we stopped off at Moreton-in-Marsh and before returning home we had an hour or two on the Midland line south of Worcester. Thanks again to Mike for driving his Audi A3.
A lovely day out with Mike to visit the Gloucestershire and Warwickshire Railway ostensively to have a look at their new station at Broadway. The weather played ball with it being a completely cloud-free summer's day! On the way, we stopped off at Moreton-in-Marsh and before returning home we had an hour or two on the Midland line south of Worcester. Thanks again to Mike for driving his Audi A3.
48. The final Mk. III sleeper?-29.06.19 An early morning walk out through the village to see the final up sleeper composed of Mk. III stock....or is it? Fifteen minutes before the highland sleeper passed, the very late lowland one, again minus ts Glasgow portion, headed south. A very foggy morning that turned into a glorious summer day!
An early morning walk out through the village to see the final up sleeper composed of Mk. III stock....or is it? Fifteen minutes before the highland sleeper passed, the very late lowland one, again minus ts Glasgow portion, headed south. A very foggy morning that turned into a glorious summer day!
50. A summer evening at Milton Malsor-05.07.19 A superb summer's evening got me out to nearby Milton Malsor. Unfortunately, there were only three freight workings that all came later in the evening within fifteen minutes of each other and all on the up.
A superb summer's evening got me out to nearby Milton Malsor. Unfortunately, there were only three freight workings that all came later in the evening within fifteen minutes of each other and all on the up.
51. Trip to London-11-13.07.19 An extended trip to London with my wife and son. The main purpose was to attend a Jools Holland concert in the open air at Kew Gardens. For a change, we based ourselves in southwest London staying in Richmond. I combined the visit to the capital with getting Bertie Brompton serviced and an enjoyable afternoon just north of King's Cross whilst my wife and son sent our savings!.
An extended trip to London with my wife and son. The main purpose was to attend a Jools Holland concert in the open air at Kew Gardens. For a change, we based ourselves in southwest London staying in Richmond. I combined the visit to the capital with getting Bertie Brompton serviced and an enjoyable afternoon just north of King's Cross whilst my wife and son sent our savings!.
52. DRS (Carlisle) open day & steam charters-20.07.19 A fantastic and varied day out with great company! Not only did Mike, Andy and I attend DRS' Kingmoor open day we also had the pleasure of seeing two steam charters at Carlisle station. The added bonus was that we met some mutual friends and ex working colleagues who were on one of the charters. After a pretty dire weather forecast, it turned out to be a very reasonable day and all the trains ran to time...'Ker-ching!'
A fantastic and varied day out with great company! Not only did Mike, Andy and I attend DRS' Kingmoor open day we also had the pleasure of seeing two steam charters at Carlisle station. The added bonus was that we met some mutual friends and ex working colleagues who were on one of the charters. After a pretty dire weather forecast, it turned out to be a very reasonable day and all the trains ran to time...'Ker-ching!'
53. A North British Extravaganza-24-28.07.19 For our annual 'big trip' away, Andy and I headed north to Scotland again. Part of the trip was to sample Caledonian Sleeper's new stock on the Lowland route to Edinburgh. Andy had unfinished business at Dundee so we hired a car from Waverley and travelled around the Fife Circle returning down to the Central Belt. Finally, we headed south again via the northeast coast to Newcastle where I had enjoyed some hardcore signal box action that had been on my 'to-do' list for a long time! It was a busy four days but resulted in some excellent station cops for Andy and some interesting observations.
For our annual 'big trip' away, Andy and I headed north to Scotland again. Part of the trip was to sample Caledonian Sleeper's new stock on the Lowland route to Edinburgh. Andy had unfinished business at Dundee so we hired a car from Waverley and travelled around the Fife Circle returning down to the Central Belt. Finally, we headed south again via the northeast coast to Newcastle where I had enjoyed some hardcore signal box action that had been on my 'to-do' list for a long time! It was a busy four days but resulted in some excellent station cops for Andy and some interesting observations.
54. Community Shield footex-04.08.19 To mark the start of the 2019/20 football season Liverpool played Manchester City at Wembley in the curtain-raising Community Sheild. A footex was charted from Merseyside for the Liverpool supporters and I made the effort to get out locally and see it twice on the out and return working. Unfortunately, for the Liverpool fans, their journey home would have been a little quiet as they lost 5-4 on penalties.
To mark the start of the 2019/20 football season Liverpool played Manchester City at Wembley in the curtain-raising Community Sheild. A footex was charted from Merseyside for the Liverpool supporters and I made the effort to get out locally and see it twice on the out and return working. Unfortunately, for the Liverpool fans, their journey home would have been a little quiet as they lost 5-4 on penalties.
55. 1Z86 & 1Z74-10.08.19 An early morning walk from home to Roade cutting for two railtours within minutes of each other! Firstly, the Cumbrian Mountain Express headed north with 86259 at the helm and then three class 37 were on the outward leg of The Cosham Completer.
An early morning walk from home to Roade cutting for two railtours within minutes of each other! Firstly, the Cumbrian Mountain Express headed north with 86259 at the helm and then three class 37 were on the outward leg of The Cosham Completer.
56. A day in the 'Wet' Midlands-14.08.19 This particular day must rank up there as one of the wettest days that I have had the displeasure of being out in taking train photographs! Andy and I were supposed to be heading to the Manchester area but scaled back our plans and I am glad we did. We travelled in my Combo van and, almost other things followed the route of the recently electrified line from Walsall to Rugeley Trent Valley.
This particular day must rank up there as one of the wettest days that I have had the displeasure of being out in taking train photographs! Andy and I were supposed to be heading to the Manchester area but scaled back our plans and I am glad we did. We travelled in my Combo van and, almost other things followed the route of the recently electrified line from Walsall to Rugeley Trent Valley.
57. The Royal Windsor Statesman-17.08.19 A morning and evening trip out from home to see the outwards and return Royal Windsor Statesman railtour.
A morning and evening trip out from home to see the outwards and return Royal Windsor Statesman railtour.
58. Trip back from Didcot-23.08.19 After selling my mum's old car (following the installation of a replacement engine) I drove it to exchange the car at Didcot. After the deal was done, I caught the train back to Bicester Parkway where I was then forced to take an X5 bus to Milton Keynes and an X6 back to home in Roade. I enjoyed the rail travel but the busses were tiresome and proportionally a lot more expensive. This journey perfectly illustrates the need for the prompt re-opening of the East-West rail link beyond Bicester.
After selling my mum's old car (following the installation of a replacement engine) I drove it to exchange the car at Didcot. After the deal was done, I caught the train back to Bicester Parkway where I was then forced to take an X5 bus to Milton Keynes and an X6 back to home in Roade. I enjoyed the rail travel but the busses were tiresome and proportionally a lot more expensive. This journey perfectly illustrates the need for the prompt re-opening of the East-West rail link beyond Bicester.
59. The sleeper & The Palatine-24.08.19 A busy day....out early for the up Highland sleeper, yes, still Mk. III stock! Then an hour or so later back out again for the outward Palatine railtour from Euston to Crewe. Finally, in the evening after dinner, I went out again to see the Palatine return in glorious weather at Milton Malsor.
A busy day....out early for the up Highland sleeper, yes, still Mk. III stock! Then an hour or so later back out again for the outward Palatine railtour from Euston to Crewe. Finally, in the evening after dinner, I went out again to see the Palatine return in glorious weather at Milton Malsor.
60. Roade Cutting-29.08.19 With all the packing done for our holiday to Russia I was sent from the house for an hour to get out from under my wife’s feet. I rode my bike to Roade cutting for an hour. Unfortunately, there was no freight in that time but a parade of Voyagers.
With all the packing done for our holiday to Russia I was sent from the house for an hour to get out from under my wife’s feet. I rode my bike to Roade cutting for an hour. Unfortunately, there was no freight in that time but a parade of Voyagers.
61. Holiday in Russia-29.08.05.09.19 Our summer holiday this year was to Russia. A two centre holiday based initially in St. Petersburg and then to Moscow. This involved some train travel between the two cities. I managed some railway activity and was pleasantly surprised at what I found.
Our summer holiday this year was to Russia. A two centre holiday based initially in St. Petersburg and then to Moscow. This involved some train travel between the two cities. I managed some railway activity and was pleasantly surprised at what I found.
62. Sleeper-13.09.19 A superb autumn morning tempted me out to see the Highland sleeper, I keep saying it, but will THIS be the last time I'll see the Mk. III stock?
A superb autumn morning tempted me out to see the Highland sleeper, I keep saying it, but will THIS be the last time I'll see the Mk. III stock?
63. The Cumbrian Mountain Express-14.09.19 On a stunning September morning, I took a walk across the fields from home to see the Cumbrian Mountain Express pass.
On a stunning September morning, I took a walk across the fields from home to see the Cumbrian Mountain Express pass.
64. 0Z88 & 4L98-15.09.19 As summer morphs into autumn, there is often a run of lovely days as a blocking high pressure takes over. When this happens, it is often pleasantly warm with a nice quality of light combined with the subtle changes taking place in the vegetation as the leaves begin to change colour in the 'season of mellow fruitfulness'. Taking full advantage of one such day, I popped out on a Sunday lunchtime on my bike to Roade cutting to catch the returning class 86 following yesterday's railtour duties. This coincided with the regular 4L98 Freightliner from Daventry.
As summer morphs into autumn, there is often a run of lovely days as a blocking high pressure takes over. When this happens, it is often pleasantly warm with a nice quality of light combined with the subtle changes taking place in the vegetation as the leaves begin to change colour in the 'season of mellow fruitfulness'. Taking full advantage of one such day, I popped out on a Sunday lunchtime on my bike to Roade cutting to catch the returning class 86 following yesterday's railtour duties. This coincided with the regular 4L98 Freightliner from Daventry.
65. The final Mk. III sleeper-again?-20.09.19 This really will be the last morning with enough light to capture the sleeper passing this section of the southern WCML. Therefore, it is probably gonged to be the last time that I will photograph the Mk. III stock before the CAF Mk. Vs are introduced....or will it be?
This really will be the last morning with enough light to capture the sleeper passing this section of the southern WCML. Therefore, it is probably gonged to be the last time that I will photograph the Mk. III stock before the CAF Mk. Vs are introduced....or will it be?
66. The CME & a Worcestershire wander-28.09.19 A lovely Autumn day out with Andy travelling in his Nissan Micra. We first saw the usual procession of the Cumbrian Mountain Express passing Roade then took a drive across the country to Ledbury (not technically Worcestershire I know!). We then worked back east across Worcestershire stopping at various stations that Andy required for pages 37 and 38 in his Rail Atlas. A first for both of us was to see Lickey with electrification masts, it has changed quite dramatically!
A lovely Autumn day out with Andy travelling in his Nissan Micra. We first saw the usual procession of the Cumbrian Mountain Express passing Roade then took a drive across the country to Ledbury (not technically Worcestershire I know!). We then worked back east across Worcestershire stopping at various stations that Andy required for pages 37 and 38 in his Rail Atlas. A first for both of us was to see Lickey with electrification masts, it has changed quite dramatically!
67. 0Z88 & Sunday freights-29.09.19 A Sunday walk spent dodging the showers took me to a spot in Roade that has been created by the recent construction of the vast new housing estate on the former Pianoforte factory site. My visit coincided with the passing of the class 86 0Z88 light engine move and two Sunday freights.
A Sunday walk spent dodging the showers took me to a spot in Roade that has been created by the recent construction of the vast new housing estate on the former Pianoforte factory site. My visit coincided with the passing of the class 86 0Z88 light engine move and two Sunday freights.
68. Trip to Cardiff -02.10.19 In connection with the collection of a car in Cardiff, I had to travel to the Welsh capital by train from Northampton. It was an early start but meant that I arrived early in Cardiff and was able to take a few pictures on the platform. Following the collection of a reasonable Mini Clubman, I drove back to Northampton stopping off at three spots in South Wales to assess the impact of the arrival of the electrification; it was not pleasant!
In connection with the collection of a car in Cardiff, I had to travel to the Welsh capital by train from Northampton. It was an early start but meant that I arrived early in Cardiff and was able to take a few pictures on the platform. Following the collection of a reasonable Mini Clubman, I drove back to Northampton stopping off at three spots in South Wales to assess the impact of the arrival of the electrification; it was not pleasant!
69. Trip to Manchester-10-13.10.19 A short break to Manchester with my wife. The main purpose was for us to visit the East Lancashire Railway in connection with a birthday present in the form of a steam train ride gift experience. We travelled to and from the north-west from Milton Keynes with Virgin, possibly my last trip with them until their franchise expires in a few weeks time.
A short break to Manchester with my wife. The main purpose was for us to visit the East Lancashire Railway in connection with a birthday present in the form of a steam train ride gift experience. We travelled to and from the north-west from Milton Keynes with Virgin, possibly my last trip with them until their franchise expires in a few weeks time.
70. Roade Cutting-17.10.19 Having completed my chores for the day and as the sun had come out after some rain I took a walk to Roade cutting. The hour I spent coincided with the passage of four freights through the cutting.
Having completed my chores for the day and as the sun had come out after some rain I took a walk to Roade cutting. The hour I spent coincided with the passage of four freights through the cutting.
71. The Yorkshireman-19.10.19 An early morning run out to the newly electrified MML to see steam-hauled Yorkshireman railtour. It was a lovely sunny morning that meant that I had to think carefully about where to take a photograph to avoid looking into the sun!
An early morning run out to the newly electrified MML to see steam-hauled Yorkshireman railtour. It was a lovely sunny morning that meant that I had to think carefully about where to take a photograph to avoid looking into the sun!
72. Autumn walk-27.10.19 A lovely autumn Sunday afternoon got me out for a walk that included a stop at my local Victoria bridge between Ashton and Roade on the southern WCML.
A lovely autumn Sunday afternoon got me out for a walk that included a stop at my local Victoria bridge between Ashton and Roade on the southern WCML.
73. Trip to London-28 & 29.10.19 A brief overnight trip to London with my wife. The main purpose was for her to achieve a life-long ambition of seeing the Spanish superhero Julio Iglesias live in concert. Not only did she achieve this ambition but it was at one of her favourite venues, the glorious Royal Albert Hall. We travelled to and from Kensington Olympia from Northampton. Unfortunately, both the outward and return journies were blighted by delays. In the case of the return, a severe delay resulting in the cancellation of the service from Northampton and delay-repay submission.
A brief overnight trip to London with my wife. The main purpose was for her to achieve a life-long ambition of seeing the Spanish superhero Julio Iglesias live in concert. Not only did she achieve this ambition but it was at one of her favourite venues, the glorious Royal Albert Hall. We travelled to and from Kensington Olympia from Northampton. Unfortunately, both the outward and return journies were blighted by delays. In the case of the return, a severe delay resulting in the cancellation of the service from Northampton and delay-repay submission.
74. A south Birmingham forray-30.10.19 A work day-trip to Birmingham in my Combo van with Andy to collect a bonnet for a customer's car. We managed to combine the collection from central Birmingham with a leisurely run south of the city following the Chiltern line ending the day at a very busy Leamington Spa.
A work day-trip to Birmingham in my Combo van with Andy to collect a bonnet for a customer's car. We managed to combine the collection from central Birmingham with a leisurely run south of the city following the Chiltern line ending the day at a very busy Leamington Spa.
75. Roade cutting-02.11.19 After the wind and rain of the morning, it cleared up so I went for my afternoon constitutional complete with my camera over my shoulder!
After the wind and rain of the morning, it cleared up so I went for my afternoon constitutional complete with my camera over my shoulder!
76. Wellingborough station-06.11.19 Whilst en-route out for a curry with my former work colleagues, I stopped off at Wellingborough station to see how work was progressing with the electrification and the reinstatement of platform four (the former platform five). I tested my camera's capabilities by taking some pictures in the darkness of a November evening and it coped admirably!
Whilst en-route out for a curry with my former work colleagues, I stopped off at Wellingborough station to see how work was progressing with the electrification and the reinstatement of platform four (the former platform five). I tested my camera's capabilities by taking some pictures in the darkness of a November evening and it coped admirably!
77. Trip to Swansea-08.11.19 A trip on the train to Swansea with my boss to collect two cars. We left Northampton on a cold, grey and wet morning but by the time we reached Swansea, it was a lovely sunny day. We travelled, using our usual split ticketing from Northampton to Birmingham New Street, then to Cardiff and on to Swansea. Whilst my boss drove home a nice Mini, I made do with a mediocre Pugeaot 207!
A trip on the train to Swansea with my boss to collect two cars. We left Northampton on a cold, grey and wet morning but by the time we reached Swansea, it was a lovely sunny day. We travelled, using our usual split ticketing from Northampton to Birmingham New Street, then to Cardiff and on to Swansea. Whilst my boss drove home a nice Mini, I made do with a mediocre Pugeaot 207!
78. Trip to Knaresborough-13.11.19 A very early start marked a great trip to Knaresborough with Mike in order to collect a car for work. After travelling from Northampton via Birmingham, Derby, Doncaster and York we had a delightful drive home in a 1999 Citroen Saxo! Mike and I spent an hour or so at York station fully expecting to see all of the new order trains in service. However, we were both surprised that very little had changed. Only two Azumas were seen and, just as we were leaving, one of the TPE new Nova 1 units follwoed by one of their loco. hauled sets on test. There were still plenty of Pacers too!
A very early start marked a great trip to Knaresborough with Mike in order to collect a car for work. After travelling from Northampton via Birmingham, Derby, Doncaster and York we had a delightful drive home in a 1999 Citroen Saxo! Mike and I spent an hour or so at York station fully expecting to see all of the new order trains in service. However, we were both surprised that very little had changed. Only two Azumas were seen and, just as we were leaving, one of the TPE new Nova 1 units follwoed by one of their loco. hauled sets on test. There were still plenty of Pacers too!
79. Trip to London-14.11.19 Yet another of our trips to London to the theatre! My wife and I went to see the fantastic Miriam Margolyes at our favourite London theatre, The park. She was staring in an interesting and poignant play Sydney and the old girl. As usual, we went to and from London by train but both journeys were, once again, blighted by awful delays. I really think that London NorthWestern has got some serious issues to deal with, even more so as a series of weekend strikes are taking place during the run-up to Christmas over driver-only operated trains.
Yet another of our trips to London to the theatre! My wife and I went to see the fantastic Miriam Margolyes at our favourite London theatre, The park. She was staring in an interesting and poignant play Sydney and the old girl. As usual, we went to and from London by train but both journeys were, once again, blighted by awful delays. I really think that London NorthWestern has got some serious issues to deal with, even more so as a series of weekend strikes are taking place during the run-up to Christmas over driver-only operated trains.
80. The Severn Valley Autumn Special-16.11.19 A Saturday morning walk through the village to see the outward run of The Severn Valley Autumn Special excursion from Euston to Kidderminster. I went to see it at the footbridge that spans the lines on the site of the former Roade station. This bridge has been closed for nearly two years due to building work taking place but it has recently 'unofficially' reopened! After the charter had passed, I took a long walk home via the cutting.
A Saturday morning walk through the village to see the outward run of The Severn Valley Autumn Special excursion from Euston to Kidderminster. I went to see it at the footbridge that spans the lines on the site of the former Roade station. This bridge has been closed for nearly two years due to building work taking place but it has recently 'unofficially' reopened! After the charter had passed, I took a long walk home via the cutting.
81. The Northern Belle-23.11.19 In between building some Ikea furniture, I took a walk across the incredibly muddy fields to see the passing of a southbound Northern Belle. It was a very grey, damp and drab autumn day but at least it got me away from flatpack construction!
In between building some Ikea furniture, I took a walk across the incredibly muddy fields to see the passing of a southbound Northern Belle. It was a very grey, damp and drab autumn day but at least it got me away from flatpack construction!
82. The York Yuletide Express-20.11.19 On the coldest morning of the new season, I left home early in my Combo van on a very foggy morning to get to the ECML in order to see 60009 'Union of South Africa' hauling The York Yuletide Express. With the temperature now reaching minus four degrees, I was rewarded, after reaching my chosen spot, with the news that the A4 had failed and been substituted. I stayed the short time until its passing consoling myself by getting some class 91 and HST images in the bag!
On the coldest morning of the new season, I left home early in my Combo van on a very foggy morning to get to the ECML in order to see 60009 'Union of South Africa' hauling The York Yuletide Express. With the temperature now reaching minus four degrees, I was rewarded, after reaching my chosen spot, with the news that the A4 had failed and been substituted. I stayed the short time until its passing consoling myself by getting some class 91 and HST images in the bag!
83. Wellingborough-03.12.19 Following attending a funeral in Wellingborough, I visited the station for the second time in four weeks to assess electrification progress. Even in that relatively short time things had moved on quite significantly. The up and down slow lines have been connected and construction of the new platform four (former platform five) has continued apace. At the southern end of the station, the extension of platforms one, two and three have commenced. Also, the steel tower that will house the lift that will serve platform four was in place. Finally, the electrification mast that will carry the wires through the station has been erected punching its way through the canopy of platform two and now in the middle of the platform!
Following attending a funeral in Wellingborough, I visited the station for the second time in four weeks to assess electrification progress. Even in that relatively short time things had moved on quite significantly. The up and down slow lines have been connected and construction of the new platform four (former platform five) has continued apace. At the southern end of the station, the extension of platforms one, two and three have commenced. Also, the steel tower that will house the lift that will serve platform four was in place. Finally, the electrification mast that will carry the wires through the station has been erected punching its way through the canopy of platform two and now in the middle of the platform!
84. Christmas visit to mum & Sharon's-07-10.12.19 A pre-Christmas trip to my mum and her partner's house found my wife and I travelling down to Frome on the train. It was a historic trip in one way as we took our last trip with Virgin Trains travelling back three days later with the new WCML operator, Avanti West Coast. It's early days for the new operator that, in some ways, has a tough act to follow, but initial impressions were not encouraging.
A pre-Christmas trip to my mum and her partner's house found my wife and I travelling down to Frome on the train. It was a historic trip in one way as we took our last trip with Virgin Trains travelling back three days later with the new WCML operator, Avanti West Coast. It's early days for the new operator that, in some ways, has a tough act to follow, but initial impressions were not encouraging.
85. ECML HST farewell, Let's go Round Again-21.12.19 I cannot believe that some forty-two years after their introduction on the ECML in 1977 that I have gone out, along with thousands of other enthusiasts, many of whom were not even born in Silver Jubilee Year, to see the final run of this iconic train. Full credit to the team at Craigentinny depot who painted the power cars and those at Doncaster who painted the stock into its BR 'as launched' livery for the final four-day railtour that covered all the routes that the East Coast sets worked on. There is talk that this set will be retained and maintained for railtour use; I'm sure that it will prove to be a hit. Who would have thought that the flying banana would have taken on this cult status back in the 1970s when us more seasoned spotters never even gave them a second look resenting their arrival as they ousted other classic locomotives!
I cannot believe that some forty-two years after their introduction on the ECML in 1977 that I have gone out, along with thousands of other enthusiasts, many of whom were not even born in Silver Jubilee Year, to see the final run of this iconic train. Full credit to the team at Craigentinny depot who painted the power cars and those at Doncaster who painted the stock into its BR 'as launched' livery for the final four-day railtour that covered all the routes that the East Coast sets worked on. There is talk that this set will be retained and maintained for railtour use; I'm sure that it will prove to be a hit. Who would have thought that the flying banana would have taken on this cult status back in the 1970s when us more seasoned spotters never even gave them a second look resenting their arrival as they ousted other classic locomotives!
86. 0Z91 LE move-22.12.19 My pre-Christmas visit to my train buddy Andy (mentioned in these pages many times!) happened to coincide with a Sunday light engine move worth waiting for. I briefly stopped off at Victoria bridge to witness its passage. I also photographed my first Avanti West Coast liveried Pendolino.
My pre-Christmas visit to my train buddy Andy (mentioned in these pages many times!) happened to coincide with a Sunday light engine move worth waiting for. I briefly stopped off at Victoria bridge to witness its passage. I also photographed my first Avanti West Coast liveried Pendolino.
87. Christmas Eve walk-24.12.19 A Christmas Eve walk from home found me passing the WCML twice with my camera casually over my shoulder!
A Christmas Eve walk from home found me passing the WCML twice with my camera casually over my shoulder!
88. Trip to London-28-30.12.19 A short break in London with my wife and son. It was for no other reason than for them to visit the Westfield shopping centre at Shepherds Bush. I decided not to join them taking a trip to Paddington and King's Cross both now weirdly devoid of HSTs! The other strange thing at Paddington that I noticed was how quiet it was. I don't mean in terms of passengers travelling, there were plenty of them, but in terms of ambient noise. With the complete absence of diesel engines, it was a very different place to the Paddington I grew up with!
A short break in London with my wife and son. It was for no other reason than for them to visit the Westfield shopping centre at Shepherds Bush. I decided not to join them taking a trip to Paddington and King's Cross both now weirdly devoid of HSTs! The other strange thing at Paddington that I noticed was how quiet it was. I don't mean in terms of passengers travelling, there were plenty of them, but in terms of ambient noise. With the complete absence of diesel engines, it was a very different place to the Paddington I grew up with!
89. East Coast HST FINAL farewell & Roade cutting-31.12.19 My final trip out of the year and a very fitting one it was too! It had been revealed through internet postings that the celebrity HST set used for the farewell Let's go Around Again railtour earlier in the month was to undertake its final move from Craigentinny for storage at Ely Papworth to await possible future developments. I decided to see it away from its usual routes and the wires of the ECML so drove to the edge of the Fens east of Peterborough. For my efforts, I was rewarded with a bit of sunshine for the occasion and felt this to be a very fitting end to the year and the decade for that matter! When I got home I had a short walk from home to Roade cutting but the weather was rather more dismal by this time. HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL MY READERS. HERE'S TO 2020!
My final trip out of the year and a very fitting one it was too! It had been revealed through internet postings that the celebrity HST set used for the farewell Let's go Around Again railtour earlier in the month was to undertake its final move from Craigentinny for storage at Ely Papworth to await possible future developments. I decided to see it away from its usual routes and the wires of the ECML so drove to the edge of the Fens east of Peterborough. For my efforts, I was rewarded with a bit of sunshine for the occasion and felt this to be a very fitting end to the year and the decade for that matter! When I got home I had a short walk from home to Roade cutting but the weather was rather more dismal by this time.

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL MY READERS. HERE'S TO 2020!
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