Archive-2020

THE ARCHIVE FILES > Archive-2020
At the start of 2020, I titled this page with the phrase 'The new decade begins.....'. I kept it in place throughout the year as the COVID-19 pandemic gradually enveloped us and came to dominate every aspect of our collective lives. It certainly affected my railway activities with far more trips out as part of my permitted bout of daily exercise throughout the first lockdown. Consequently, 2020 has me out far more times than any other year at one hundred and fourteen. However, the actual number of photographs taken is well down at a mere seven hundred and sixty largely as a reflection of no big trips away with Andy. All our plans that we had for 2020 have been pushed forward to 2021 that is if the much-heralded vaccines are rolled out to the masses sooner than later and that the dreaded R Number falls well below one.

Statistics - 114 trips, 760 photgraphs, 56.4 GB
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1. New Year's Day on the NLR-01.01.20 Our traditional New Year's Day trip to the Northampton and Lamport Railway. After a short walk along the side of the line on part of the Brampton Valley Way my wife and I enjoyed a trip on the train sampling the final mince pie of the season and an orange juice! There is continued talk of the route which the NLR occupies that a short section will re-open linking the WCML at Northampton to the MML at Market Harborough. The line finally closed in 1981 but I suspect that trains will not run along its thirteen mile length in my lifetime!
Our traditional New Year's Day trip to the Northampton and Lamport Railway. After a short walk along the side of the line on part of the Brampton Valley Way my wife and I enjoyed a trip on the train sampling the final mince pie of the season and an orange juice! There is continued talk of the route which the NLR occupies that a short section will re-open linking the WCML at Northampton to the MML at Market Harborough. The line finally closed in 1981 but I suspect that trains will not run along its thirteen mile length in my lifetime!
2. An Isle of Wight Adventure-02 & 03.01.20 In order to sample the delights of the Island Line's 1938 stock before its imminent withdrawal from service, Mike, Andy and I travelled south on the second day of the year. On an incredibly dull January day, we took in the Wessex Line between Wool and the New Forest before an overnight stay in Chichester. Then, we took the ferry to Ryde Pierhead from Portsmouth and travelled all day on the Island Line's eighty years old stock operated by South West Trains. If I'm honest, we found a very rundown railway that was crying out for some serious investment.
In order to sample the delights of the Island Line's 1938 stock before its imminent withdrawal from service, Mike, Andy and I travelled south on the second day of the year. On an incredibly dull January day, we took in the Wessex Line between Wool and the New Forest before an overnight stay in Chichester. Then, we took the ferry to Ryde Pierhead from Portsmouth and travelled all day on the Island Line's eighty years old stock operated by South West Trains. If I'm honest, we found a very rundown railway that was crying out for some serious investment.
3. A Sunday walk around Roade-12.01.20 My daily constitutional coincided with three Sunday freight workings - what a coincidence!
My daily constitutional coincided with three Sunday freight workings - what a coincidence!
4. Sunday freight-19.01.20 A stunning winter's day got me out for an afternoon walk around the village coinciding with two freights passing. Unfortunately, it would have been three as an infrastructure train just beat me as it was running an eye-watering three hours late and I hadn't spotted it!
A stunning winter's day got me out for an afternoon walk around the village coinciding with two freights passing. Unfortunately, it would have been three as an infrastructure train just beat me as it was running an eye-watering three hours late and I hadn't spotted it!
5. SMJR discovery-23.01.20 I took a walk from home to Towcester in order to meet my wife for lunch. My cross-country walk took me across some incredibly muddy fields and under the closed SMJR (Stratford-upon-Avon and Midland Junction Railway) just east of Towcester in the grounds of Easton Neston house. I only managed some pictures on my i-phone but I will return again in better weather and with a better camera to undertake a bit more exploration!
I took a walk from home to Towcester in order to meet my wife for lunch. My cross-country walk took me across some incredibly muddy fields and under the closed SMJR (Stratford-upon-Avon and Midland Junction Railway) just east of Towcester in the grounds of Easton Neston house. I only managed some pictures on my i-phone but I will return again in better weather and with a better camera to undertake a bit more exploration!
6. 'The Robert Burns'-25.01.20 In absolutely appalling light I took a morning walk through the village to capture my first charter of the year. To celebrate the birth of Robert Burns on 25th January 1759 UK Railtours named their first event of the year after him but, interestingly, rather than ending up in Scotland its destination was York!
In absolutely appalling light I took a morning walk through the village to capture my first charter of the year. To celebrate the birth of Robert Burns on 25th January 1759 UK Railtours named their first event of the year after him but, interestingly, rather than ending up in Scotland its destination was York!
7. NMT-28.01.20 With the days just beginning to lengthen ever so slightly, there was just enough light to capture the weekly new measurement train passing Roade on the WCML.
With the days just beginning to lengthen ever so slightly, there was just enough light to capture the weekly new measurement train passing Roade on the WCML.
8. A local walk-06.02.20 I have been decorating again! In between coats of paint drying I was able to take a walk out on a superb and crisp winter's day. I wanted to observe the frenetic activity across the field from home on the embankments of the WCML just south of Roade and got asked questions as to why I was taking some pictures....what a suspicious old world we live in now!
I have been decorating again! In between coats of paint drying I was able to take a walk out on a superb and crisp winter's day. I wanted to observe the frenetic activity across the field from home on the embankments of the WCML just south of Roade and got asked questions as to why I was taking some pictures....what a suspicious old world we live in now!
9. Wellingborough-07.02.20 As per yesterday, again between coats of paint being applied, I took a couple of hours out as it was such a lovely winter's day. I popped over to Wellingborough after picking up Mike. We were able to observe the advanced work expanding the station, reinstating the fourth relief line and installing the electrification equipment.
As per yesterday, again between coats of paint being applied, I took a couple of hours out as it was such a lovely winter's day. I popped over to Wellingborough after picking up Mike. We were able to observe the advanced work expanding the station, reinstating the fourth relief line and installing the electrification equipment.
10. A busy Saturday lunchtime around Roade-08.02.20 The day prior to the arrival of Storm Ciara was bright and a little blowy. I took my usual walk around the village that coincided with the passage of three freights and an interesting light engine movement that itself was associated with Storm Ciara.
The day prior to the arrival of Storm Ciara was bright and a little blowy. I took my usual walk around the village that coincided with the passage of three freights and an interesting light engine movement that itself was associated with Storm Ciara.
11. A north London ramble-18.02.20 An interesting day in north London with Andy and Mike. As well as exploring the Parkland Walk from Finsbury Park to Highgate, we went in search of the remaining mechanical signalling in London. A great day out ending up with a meal before returning home.
An interesting day in north London with Andy and Mike. As well as exploring the Parkland Walk from Finsbury Park to Highgate, we went in search of the remaining mechanical signalling in London. A great day out ending up with a meal before returning home.
12. Trip to London-20-22.02.20 A short break in London with my wife to celebrate our tenth wedding anniversary..... has it really been that long?
A short break in London with my wife to celebrate our tenth wedding anniversary..... has it really been that long?
13. 'The Cumbrian Mountain Express'-29.02.20 A filthy and miserable late February morning got me out from home to see 'The Cumbrian Mountain Express' pass. I thought twice about doing this but as there had been precious few of these excursions this winter I decided to make the extra effort!
A filthy and miserable late February morning got me out from home to see 'The Cumbrian Mountain Express' pass. I thought twice about doing this but as there had been precious few of these excursions this winter I decided to make the extra effort!
14. 0Z89 light engine move-01.03.20 Following its jaunt yesterday on 'The Cumbrian Mountain Express' 86259 was captured passing north again to take up its stabling point in Rugby's carriage sidings.
Following its jaunt yesterday on 'The Cumbrian Mountain Express' 86259 was captured passing north again to take up its stabling point in Rugby's carriage sidings.
15. Holiday in Kraków-02-06.03.20 With our son away at university my wife and I took the opportunity of a short break to the beautiful city of Kraków in Poland. We also visited Auschwitz-Birkenau and this reinforced my view that everybody needs to go there and be quite clear as to what went on at this dreadful time in history. Whilst we did not actually enjoy any rail travel on PKP (The Polish Railway network) I did visit Kraków Glówny (Main) station three times. No barriers, no questions, freedom to roam and other spotters were seen - all very reassuring.
With our son away at university my wife and I took the opportunity of a short break to the beautiful city of Kraków in Poland. We also visited Auschwitz-Birkenau and this reinforced my view that everybody needs to go there and be quite clear as to what went on at this dreadful time in history. Whilst we did not actually enjoy any rail travel on PKP (The Polish Railway network) I did visit Kraków Glówny (Main) station three times. No barriers, no questions, freedom to roam and other spotters were seen - all very reassuring.
16. The Yorkshireman-07.03.20 A Saturday morning drive to Wellingborough in my Combo van to witness 60009 'Union of South Africa' pass through on one of its final ever runs before coming out of service. With no prospect of it being restored again, it will probably become a static exhibit somewhere and deteriorate badly. At the current time, this leaves no streamlined A4 Pacifics in operation which seems a bit of a travesty given the class' historical importance.
A Saturday morning drive to Wellingborough in my Combo van to witness 60009 'Union of South Africa' pass through on one of its final ever runs before coming out of service. With no prospect of it being restored again, it will probably become a static exhibit somewhere and deteriorate badly. At the current time, this leaves no streamlined A4 Pacifics in operation which seems a bit of a travesty given the class' historical importance.
17. Northern Rail move-14.03.20 A chance to get out and capture one of the Northern Rail EMU moves which coincided with my afternoon walk. These moves mean the rare sight of a Class 323 on the WCML running from the north-west for attention at Wolverton Works. This one nearly caught me out as, by chance, I discovered that it was running over an hour early.
A chance to get out and capture one of the Northern Rail EMU moves which coincided with my afternoon walk. These moves mean the rare sight of a Class 323 on the WCML running from the north-west for attention at Wolverton Works. This one nearly caught me out as, by chance, I discovered that it was running over an hour early.
18. Caledonian Sleeper-16.03.20 With the mornings just getting light enough and with the sun supposed to be out I took a walk across the field to see the passage of the Highland Sleeper.
With the mornings just getting light enough and with the sun supposed to be out I took a walk across the field to see the passage of the Highland Sleeper.
19. 5Z60 & 0K69-21.03.20 With the effects and response to the COVID-19 pandemic really beginning to bite, the railways are feeling the effects along with everybody else. With the banning of mass gatherings and the guidance not to undertake non-essential travel on public transport, all railtours and charters have been cancelled. Taking my daily, but suitably socially distanced, walk I was able to see the results of one of these cancellations.
With the effects and response to the COVID-19 pandemic really beginning to bite, the railways are feeling the effects along with everybody else. With the banning of mass gatherings and the guidance not to undertake non-essential travel on public transport, all railtours and charters have been cancelled. Taking my daily, but suitably socially distanced, walk I was able to see the results of one of these cancellations.
20. A weird day out-23.03.20 With the country gradually shutting down due to the COVID-19 crisis I took a bike ride out along empty country lanes on a beautiful spring day. I ended up isolating myself on Wolverton station for an hour observing empty trains passing as part of an emergency timetable that had just been put in place. It was all very surreal and then, to cap it off, when I went back to Roade, control was sending freights on the up and down fast lines due to them being reduced to a train every half hour or so.
With the country gradually shutting down due to the COVID-19 crisis I took a bike ride out along empty country lanes on a beautiful spring day. I ended up isolating myself on Wolverton station for an hour observing empty trains passing as part of an emergency timetable that had just been put in place. It was all very surreal and then, to cap it off, when I went back to Roade, control was sending freights on the up and down fast lines due to them being reduced to a train every half hour or so.
21. A second weird day out-24.03.20 After the government shut down most of the country and imposed a lockdown in all but name I was able to get out on another glorious day to undertake my daily single bout of exercise. Of course, my camera also came with me. With far fewer passenger services racing up and down the WCML there seemed to be more freight, but that could be my imagination? Looking at RTT, London Northwestern have completely recast their timetable to take into account the limited travelling restrictions in place. All of their services now carry 2ZXX reporting numbers to reflect this.
After the government shut down most of the country and imposed a lockdown in all but name I was able to get out on another glorious day to undertake my daily single bout of exercise. Of course, my camera also came with me. With far fewer passenger services racing up and down the WCML there seemed to be more freight, but that could be my imagination? Looking at RTT, London Northwestern have completely recast their timetable to take into account the limited travelling restrictions in place. All of their services now carry 2ZXX reporting numbers to reflect this.
22. A third weird day & fast becoming the norm-25.03.20 The internet had announced that Grand Central was moving a locomotive from Crewe to Wembley and I was hoping that it would be one of its repainted 90s ready for the introduction of its new services. Unfortunately, it was not a freshly painted black version but a bright red DB locomotive. Never mind, once again I got out to the quiet railway and undertook my appropriately isolated self exercise on another stunning early spring day!
The internet had announced that Grand Central was moving a locomotive from Crewe to Wembley and I was hoping that it would be one of its repainted 90s ready for the introduction of its new services. Unfortunately, it was not a freshly painted black version but a bright red DB locomotive. Never mind, once again I got out to the quiet railway and undertook my appropriately isolated self exercise on another stunning early spring day!
23. A fourth weird day & the sun keeps shining!-26.03.20 And still the sun shines! Another lovely day with the country in a virtual shutdown and an emergency timetable running on the railways. I took an early morning walk from home to the garage in the village with the ground covered in frost.
And still the sun shines! Another lovely day with the country in a virtual shutdown and an emergency timetable running on the railways. I took an early morning walk from home to the garage in the village with the ground covered in frost.
24. A fifth weird day with a camera malfunction-27.03.20 The fifth day of the strangest week of our lives ends again with another beautiful and sunny day. For a change, I went out with my 'big' camera to get the Highland Sleeper passing across the field from home. I tried to take a picture before it passed and the camera threw up a card error fault, thinking I had left the card at home from the previous day. I kicked myself and resorted to a pan shot with my iPhone. On checking later, the card was in the camera but I don't think that it was pressed home properly. We'll see if this problem arises again; hopefully not! Later in the day I took my second walk (naughty me!) and in about half an hour recorded the same number of freight as passenger trains passing Roade - such is the nature of our railways at the moment.
The fifth day of the strangest week of our lives ends again with another beautiful and sunny day. For a change, I went out with my 'big' camera to get the Highland Sleeper passing across the field from home. I tried to take a picture before it passed and the camera threw up a card error fault, thinking I had left the card at home from the previous day. I kicked myself and resorted to a pan shot with my iPhone. On checking later, the card was in the camera but I don't think that it was pressed home properly. We'll see if this problem arises again; hopefully not! Later in the day I took my second walk (naughty me!) and in about half an hour recorded the same number of freight as passenger trains passing Roade - such is the nature of our railways at the moment.
25. Roade cutting-31.03.20 My daily exercise routine took me to Roade cutting. After checking that there were no drones watching me I took a seat on the grass in the warm afternoon sunshine and waited for the freights due to pass. As has become common practice, two were on the up and down fast lines via Weedon. In addition, I was pleased to see the weekly Dowlow to Theale limestone train that shortly ran into trouble partially blocking the WCML.
My daily exercise routine took me to Roade cutting. After checking that there were no drones watching me I took a seat on the grass in the warm afternoon sunshine and waited for the freights due to pass. As has become common practice, two were on the up and down fast lines via Weedon. In addition, I was pleased to see the weekly Dowlow to Theale limestone train that shortly ran into trouble partially blocking the WCML.
26. A second forbidden walk!-02.04.20 I broke the rules today by taking a second walk. However, as it was across the field from home and that I only saw a distant dog walker I feel that this posed no risk. The purpose of my law-breaking was to get a picture of a Class 37 making a light engine move back from Wolverton to its Leicester base.
I broke the rules today by taking a second walk. However, as it was across the field from home and that I only saw a distant dog walker I feel that this posed no risk. The purpose of my law-breaking was to get a picture of a Class 37 making a light engine move back from Wolverton to its Leicester base.
27. Northern's 5J70 move-04.04.20 To coincide with my 'permitted exercise' today I went to Roade cutting to capture the Northern transfer to Wolverton Works. As well as regular other work, Wolverton is repainting and refurbishing much of Northern's fleet of stock. This has involved some unusual visitors to the southern end of the WCML even if they are lowly units!
To coincide with my 'permitted exercise' today I went to Roade cutting to capture the Northern transfer to Wolverton Works. As well as regular other work, Wolverton is repainting and refurbishing much of Northern's fleet of stock. This has involved some unusual visitors to the southern end of the WCML even if they are lowly units!
28. 5Z90 LSL ECS move-06.04.20 The internet is a wonderful thing! Somebody posted (thanks to 56022, a poster on uk-rail@groups) that Locomotive Services Ltd (LSL) was running a set of former Greater Anglia Mk. III stock from Norwich to Crewe. I tracked it from its East Anglian starting point and combined seeing it with my permitted once-a-day walk. Unfortunately, there are few spots to take decent pictures when the sun is out at this time of day so I had to compromise a little.
The internet is a wonderful thing! Somebody posted (thanks to 56022, a poster on uk-rail@groups) that Locomotive Services Ltd (LSL) was running a set of former Greater Anglia Mk. III stock from Norwich to Crewe. I tracked it from its East Anglian starting point and combined seeing it with my permitted once-a-day walk. Unfortunately, there are few spots to take decent pictures when the sun is out at this time of day so I had to compromise a little.
29. 5Z90 LSL ECS move-07.04.20 For the second day on the trot, Locomotive Services Ltd (LSL) was taking a former Greater Anglia's Mark III set, a Class 90 and two DVTs from Norwich to their base at Crewe. After yesterday's poor lighting I made a decisive move to get a better image but it needed a fairly long walk from home. However, it was a grand spring day so the walk across the fields there and back was very pleasant.
For the second day on the trot, Locomotive Services Ltd (LSL) was taking a former Greater Anglia's Mark III set, a Class 90 and two DVTs from Norwich to their base at Crewe. After yesterday's poor lighting I made a decisive move to get a better image but it needed a fairly long walk from home. However, it was a grand spring day so the walk across the fields there and back was very pleasant.
30. 6Z66-08.04.20 A dreadful day on the railways that just goes to prove what a dangerous working environment it is despite the often much-maligned and seemingly over obsession with health and safety. A contractor working on the embankment repairs opposite across the field from our home was hit by a train while working trackside. With all four lines stopped for the bulk of the day the various services attended and spent the day on-site doing their necessary work with the up and down fast lines opening in the early afternoon. My thoughts are with all those involved. In these strange times, it only serves to remind us of the fragility of life.
A dreadful day on the railways that just goes to prove what a dangerous working environment it is despite the often much-maligned and seemingly over obsession with health and safety. A contractor working on the embankment repairs opposite across the field from our home was hit by a train while working trackside. With all four lines stopped for the bulk of the day the various services attended and spent the day on-site doing their necessary work with the up and down fast lines opening in the early afternoon. My thoughts are with all those involved. In these strange times, it only serves to remind us of the fragility of life.
31. 0Z60 & 5Z24-11.04.20 I had spotted the 0Z60 on the RTT and was curious as to what it could be. Half expecting it not to run I casually had a look late morning and found not only was it running but that it was very early and due soon. I grabbed my camera and went for my once-a-day permitted walk across the field from home that became more of a jog! After it had passed, I was casually again looking at Open Train Times and noticed that the 5Z24 was already sitting at Wolverton's North Release siding meaning that it too was going to leave soon and, again, very early so I waited for that as well before walking home for a cup of tea.
I had spotted the 0Z60 on the RTT and was curious as to what it could be. Half expecting it not to run I casually had a look late morning and found not only was it running but that it was very early and due soon. I grabbed my camera and went for my once-a-day permitted walk across the field from home that became more of a jog! After it had passed, I was casually again looking at Open Train Times and noticed that the 5Z24 was already sitting at Wolverton's North Release siding meaning that it too was going to leave soon and, again, very early so I waited for that as well before walking home for a cup of tea.
32. 5Q25 scrap move-16.04.20 There had been considerable chatter on the forums as to what this scrap move was likely to be with various theories put forward. I went out for my daily walk after seeing that it had departed from Wembley. I had the usual problem as to where to go due to the positioning of the sun. I had a feeling that control would route the train on the down fast and I wasn't wrong so I was glad that I chose Victoria bridge. After a run of superb spring days, this day was a little more hazy.
There had been considerable chatter on the forums as to what this scrap move was likely to be with various theories put forward. I went out for my daily walk after seeing that it had departed from Wembley. I had the usual problem as to where to go due to the positioning of the sun. I had a feeling that control would route the train on the down fast and I wasn't wrong so I was glad that I chose Victoria bridge. After a run of superb spring days, this day was a little more hazy.
33. Mysterious working - disappointing though! -17.04.20 Getting a little bored now of the extension to the COVID-19 lockdown I have taken to scouring RTT every morning looking for anything different or unusual and make that the purpose of my daily walk. Today all I saw was a strange working from Banbury to Bletchley. Normally this would be a track machine but today delving a bit deeper revealed that it was a 'diesel locomotive trailing 800 tons' so I thought that it was worth a short walk out from home. In the event, it was a track machine but at least I got out!
Getting a little bored now of the extension to the COVID-19 lockdown I have taken to scouring RTT every morning looking for anything different or unusual and make that the purpose of my daily walk. Today all I saw was a strange working from Banbury to Bletchley. Normally this would be a track machine but today delving a bit deeper revealed that it was a 'diesel locomotive trailing 800 tons' so I thought that it was worth a short walk out from home. In the event, it was a track machine but at least I got out!
34. 0L66 route learner-19.04.20 This was a strange one! In a time of two-metre social distancing, how could a route learner operate I ask myself? Are the driver's and secondman's seats the requisite distance? I suspect not! Either way, I popped out late on Sunday morning to see a lone Class 66 pass - that's how desperate things have got!
This was a strange one! In a time of two-metre social distancing, how could a route learner operate I ask myself? Are the driver's and secondman's seats the requisite distance? I suspect not! Either way, I popped out late on Sunday morning to see a lone Class 66 pass - that's how desperate things have got!
35. 5XXX (am) & NMT (pm)-21.04.20 I took two walks out today. One was to get supplies from the local garage necessitating me crossing the railway, by coincidence, as a working I had spotted was passing. Later in the day, I took my daily exercise to coincide with the weekly passage of the NMT train.
I took two walks out today. One was to get supplies from the local garage necessitating me crossing the railway, by coincidence, as a working I had spotted was passing. Later in the day, I took my daily exercise to coincide with the weekly passage of the NMT train.
36. A quartet of freight & a VERY late Sleeper-23.04.20 Taking my usual morning walk to the village garage to buy supplies found me crossing the railway. Today this coincided with the passage of four freight workings within ten minutes! Later in the morning, I went for my daily walk a little earlier than normal in order to catch the passing of the up Highland Sleeper running an eye-watering three and a quarter hours late!
Taking my usual morning walk to the village garage to buy supplies found me crossing the railway. Today this coincided with the passage of four freight workings within ten minutes! Later in the morning, I went for my daily walk a little earlier than normal in order to catch the passing of the up Highland Sleeper running an eye-watering three and a quarter hours late!
37. Another morning foursome & an afternoon walk!-24.04.20 In a repeat of yesterday, I went out to see four freights that pass Roade within a few minutes of each other and they did not disappoint meaning I could get straight back home for breakfast! Later in the day, I went out across the fields from home again for another four freight workings.
In a repeat of yesterday, I went out to see four freights that pass Roade within a few minutes of each other and they did not disappoint meaning I could get straight back home for breakfast! Later in the day, I went out across the fields from home again for another four freight workings.
38. Another Northern 5J70 move-25.04.20 There were two scheduled workings into Wolverton Works showing on RTT and one out on this particular Saturday. In the event only one ran but I did manage to capture it whilst out on my daily 'lockdown walk'!
There were two scheduled workings into Wolverton Works showing on RTT and one out on this particular Saturday. In the event only one ran but I did manage to capture it whilst out on my daily 'lockdown walk'!
39. Two 90s, two 66s & two 86s-01.05.20 What has now become a pretty regular jaunt out during the strange COVID-19 times is an early morning walk across the fields from home to capture four freights within ten minutes of each other if everything is running as it should! RTT seemed to give me the thumbs up so off I set. Today, two Class 90s, two Class 86s and a couple of Class 66s formed the quartet of workings and I was back home for some tea and toast within fifteen minutes! In the afternoon, I took a walk to get some provisions that happened to necessitate me crossing the railway twice!
What has now become a pretty regular jaunt out during the strange COVID-19 times is an early morning walk across the fields from home to capture four freights within ten minutes of each other if everything is running as it should! RTT seemed to give me the thumbs up so off I set. Today, two Class 90s, two Class 86s and a couple of Class 66s formed the quartet of workings and I was back home for some tea and toast within fifteen minutes! In the afternoon, I took a walk to get some provisions that happened to necessitate me crossing the railway twice!
40. 5Z23 Wolverton turn-02.05.20 Running an incredible ninety minutes early I could easily have missed the weekly 5Z23 move of a unit from Birmingham's Soho depot to Wolverton Works. However, I did miss the return working that ran back within an hour hearing it pass as I was hanging out the washing!
Running an incredible ninety minutes early I could easily have missed the weekly 5Z23 move of a unit from Birmingham's Soho depot to Wolverton Works. However, I did miss the return working that ran back within an hour hearing it pass as I was hanging out the washing!
41. 0V73 & a lockdown walk-04.05.20 I spotted an odd working on RTT half expecting it not to run but on checking found it was. Originating from Leicester LIP, which is better known as the headquarters of UKRL (UK Rail Leasing) and going to Old Oak Common it was going to be something interesting. As it was showing as a light engine I chose a spot where I knew one would fit in between electrical gantries. Later in the morning, I took a short walk to get some provisions to observe the work taking place in Roade cutting clearing trees and uncontrolled vegetation that have been steadily encroaching for a number of years.
I spotted an odd working on RTT half expecting it not to run but on checking found it was. Originating from Leicester LIP, which is better known as the headquarters of UKRL (UK Rail Leasing) and going to Old Oak Common it was going to be something interesting. As it was showing as a light engine I chose a spot where I knew one would fit in between electrical gantries. Later in the morning, I took a short walk to get some provisions to observe the work taking place in Roade cutting clearing trees and uncontrolled vegetation that have been steadily encroaching for a number of years.
42. 0E98-06.05.20 I took my walk to coincide with another ROG light engine move involving another of their Class 37s. This time, it was making its way from their Leicester base to Clacton. It was yet another stunning spring day with unbroken clear blue sky.
I took my walk to coincide with another ROG light engine move involving another of their Class 37s. This time, it was making its way from their Leicester base to Clacton. It was yet another stunning spring day with unbroken clear blue sky.
43. A busy day and a spectacular fail!-07.05.20 There was a lot happening locally today so I took my walk to coincide with most of it and it all played out perfectly. However, I also had my eye on the return of 37884 from Kilmarnock towing a GA unit back to Ilford. All was going well with it running increasingly early. So I popped out before I judged it would pass Roade cutting only to hear it as I was a minute from my spot running by now an hour early. That will teach me to take my eye off the ball - or the phone to be more literal!
There was a lot happening locally today so I took my walk to coincide with most of it and it all played out perfectly. However, I also had my eye on the return of 37884 from Kilmarnock towing a GA unit back to Ilford. All was going well with it running increasingly early. So I popped out before I judged it would pass Roade cutting only to hear it as I was a minute from my spot running by now an hour early. That will teach me to take my eye off the ball - or the phone to be more literal!
44. 0Z25 again-08.05.20 After not running for most of the week, the 0Z25 Norwich Crown Point to Crewe Basford Hall was showing up on RTT as having departed for the second day on the trot. After yesterday's debacle, I studied its progress throughout the morning with greater care and left home in plenty of time in order to capture it passing through Roade. After several days of clear blue skies and bright conditions, there was a little more cloud today but it was still a very warm day for early May.
After not running for most of the week, the 0Z25 Norwich Crown Point to Crewe Basford Hall was showing up on RTT as having departed for the second day on the trot. After yesterday's debacle, I studied its progress throughout the morning with greater care and left home in plenty of time in order to capture it passing through Roade. After several days of clear blue skies and bright conditions, there was a little more cloud today but it was still a very warm day for early May.
45. Another 'freight walk'-11.05.20 Once again I timed my daily walk with the passing of a few freights on the local WCML. In addition to this, there was a track machine moving sedately along the down slow that had to be carefully pathed as the up and down fast lines remain closed now for an unprecedented second week.
Once again I timed my daily walk with the passing of a few freights on the local WCML. In addition to this, there was a track machine moving sedately along the down slow that had to be carefully pathed as the up and down fast lines remain closed now for an unprecedented second week.
46. New unit for Merseyrail-13.05.20 By chance, I spotted a post from Ben Goldsmith on UK Rail saying that a Dollands Yard to Kirkdale move involving a new Merseyrail unit had just passed Berkhampstead. This gave me enough time to get dressed and get out and see it passing me at Roade. Of course, just before it arrived the sun was obliterated by a lone cloud in an otherwise cloudless sky!
By chance, I spotted a post from Ben Goldsmith on UK Rail saying that a Dollands Yard to Kirkdale move involving a new Merseyrail unit had just passed Berkhampstead. This gave me enough time to get dressed and get out and see it passing me at Roade. Of course, just before it arrived the sun was obliterated by a lone cloud in an otherwise cloudless sky!
47. A walk followed by 5Q08-14.05.20 I took my afternoon walk via Victoria bridge between Roade and Ashton. Later, on my return, I 'happened' to be crossing the line just as the weekly 5Q08 Ilford to Kilmarnock unit move was passing!
I took my afternoon walk via Victoria bridge between Roade and Ashton. Later, on my return, I 'happened' to be crossing the line just as the weekly 5Q08 Ilford to Kilmarnock unit move was passing!
48. 0V73, 0Z25 & 5Q50-15.05.20 I went out today for a couple of walks for three interesting workings. These were for a Leicester to Old Oak Common light engine move, the movement of five ex GE Class 90s off-lease to their new owner then, to round off the day, the return of a GA Class 317 following work at Wabtec's Kilmarnock facility.
I went out today for a couple of walks for three interesting workings. These were for a Leicester to Old Oak Common light engine move, the movement of five ex GE Class 90s off-lease to their new owner then, to round off the day, the return of a GA Class 317 following work at Wabtec's Kilmarnock facility.
49. A busy Saturday for Wolverton Works-16.05.20 Wolverton Works seem to be getting a lot of work at the moment with the almost daily movement of trains in and out of the facility. Even on a Saturday in the midst of the COVID-19 crisis there appeared to be five movements in and out of the works. I did not capture every one but recorded two from my home located just a few miles north of Wolverton.
Wolverton Works seem to be getting a lot of work at the moment with the almost daily movement of trains in and out of the facility. Even on a Saturday in the midst of the COVID-19 crisis there appeared to be five movements in and out of the works. I did not capture every one but recorded two from my home located just a few miles north of Wolverton.
50. Perhaps the workings of the month?-17.05.20 My fiftieth trip out of the year and quite a significant one! In what were probably the workings of the month two freights that never normally come south on the WCML from Daventry (DIRFT) did so due to engineering works somewhere 'up north'! Both the 4Z45 (Mossend) and 4M49 (Grangemouth) came south, around north London to then head north again along the ECML making journeys of over five hundred miles!
My fiftieth trip out of the year and quite a significant one! In what were probably the workings of the month two freights that never normally come south on the WCML from Daventry (DIRFT) did so due to engineering works somewhere 'up north'! Both the 4Z45 (Mossend) and 4M49 (Grangemouth) came south, around north London to then head north again along the ECML making journeys of over five hundred miles!
51. Wolverton-Neville Hill move-18.05.20 Just one image today taken on an early morning walk from my house shows a Northern unit after its release from Wolverton Works heading back home.
Just one image today taken on an early morning walk from my house shows a Northern unit after its release from Wolverton Works heading back home.
52. 6X29 delivery & 0Z69 convoy-20.05.20 Two trips out today. Firstly, an early morning walk to see another Merseyrail unit being taken northwards to Liverpool after arrival through The Tunnel from the continent. Secondly, in the early evening, I nipped out to see the passage of an impressive DRS convoy running from, initially, Eastleigh to their Crewe facility at Gresty Bridge.
Two trips out today. Firstly, an early morning walk to see another Merseyrail unit being taken northwards to Liverpool after arrival through The Tunnel from the continent. Secondly, in the early evening, I nipped out to see the passage of an impressive DRS convoy running from, initially, Eastleigh to their Crewe facility at Gresty Bridge.
53. Northern units & 6G53-23.05.20 Another Saturday sees more activity in and out of Wolverton works. Gemini Rail Services (GRS) certainly seems to be taking on a lot of work with Southern, SWT, EMR, Northern and LNER all having various stock in the works at the present time including 800109 that is having its accident damage repaired. I nipped out to see two Northern 323 units leaving and arriving and then, later in the day, to witness the passage of an infrastucture train heading to Ledburn Junction.
Another Saturday sees more activity in and out of Wolverton works. Gemini Rail Services (GRS) certainly seems to be taking on a lot of work with Southern, SWT, EMR, Northern and LNER all having various stock in the works at the present time including 800109 that is having its accident damage repaired. I nipped out to see two Northern 323 units leaving and arriving and then, later in the day, to witness the passage of an infrastucture train heading to Ledburn Junction.
54. Scottish freight diversion & engineering workings-24.05.20 For the second Sunday on the trot, the DIRFT to Mossend 'Tesco Express' was diverted south to London to then go north again on the ECML. Unfortunately, the similar Grangemouth did not run this week. There were also a number of infrastructure workings supporting extensive activity taking place south of Bletchley on the slow lines.
For the second Sunday on the trot, the DIRFT to Mossend 'Tesco Express' was diverted south to London to then go north again on the ECML. Unfortunately, the similar Grangemouth did not run this week. There were also a number of infrastructure workings supporting extensive activity taking place south of Bletchley on the slow lines.
55. Yet more Scottish diversions!-25.05.20 Due to engineering works for the second day on the trot the Anglo Scottish 'Tesco Express' Freightliners were diverted south to London before heading north again on the ECML. However, today, both the up and down workings passed within an hour of each other bringing two double-headed express freight services.
Due to engineering works for the second day on the trot the Anglo Scottish 'Tesco Express' Freightliners were diverted south to London before heading north again on the ECML. However, today, both the up and down workings passed within an hour of each other bringing two double-headed express freight services.
56. Freight & 1Q27 test train-27.05.20 After going out and meeting Andy yesterday for the first time in months we socially distanced on Victoria bridge for a few hours. There was a dearth of freight that was very disappointing and meant that I never actually removed my camera from its bag. Today was somewhat different with no fewer than four freights passing me within fifteen minutes. In addition, there was a Network Rail test train and a track machine working. It just reinforces that no day on our railways is the same as the next!
After going out and meeting Andy yesterday for the first time in months we socially distanced on Victoria bridge for a few hours. There was a dearth of freight that was very disappointing and meant that I never actually removed my camera from its bag. Today was somewhat different with no fewer than four freights passing me within fifteen minutes. In addition, there was a Network Rail test train and a track machine working. It just reinforces that no day on our railways is the same as the next!
57. 5Q28 GA unit move-28.05.20 Yet another Greater Anglia unit was being taken north to Kilmarnock for work with the likelihood that one will be returned the next day. These drags from the southeast (Essex) to the northwest (East Ayrshire) are handled by the Rail Operations Group who usually utilise one of their veteran but seemingly evergreen Class 37s.
Yet another Greater Anglia unit was being taken north to Kilmarnock for work with the likelihood that one will be returned the next day. These drags from the southeast (Essex) to the northwest (East Ayrshire) are handled by the Rail Operations Group who usually utilise one of their veteran but seemingly evergreen Class 37s.
58. 5Q50 GA unit move-29.05.20 Having taken a Greater Anglia unit north to Kilmarnock yesterday ,  the ROG's Class 37 returned south again with another unit destined for its Essex base. Yet another glorious late spring day without a cloud in the sky!

Having taken a Greater Anglia unit north to Kilmarnock yesterday,  the ROG's Class 37 returned south again with another unit destined for its Essex base. Yet another glorious late spring day without a cloud in the sky!
59. A liquorice allsorts day!-30.05.20 Another stunning day characterised by a brilliant blue sky. In between jobs in the garden, I took a couple of walks to coincide with some interesting workings.
Another stunning day characterised by a brilliant blue sky. In between jobs in the garden, I took a couple of walks to coincide with some interesting workings.
60. Scottish diversions again for the final time?-31.05.20 The third Sunday of Scottish diversions got me out again to capture these unusually routed Freightliner workings. Allegedly there is one more week remaining whilst improvements take place in the Borders with the closure of the WCML in the vicinity. On this particular day, I was joined at Victoria bridge by Richard Deny .

The third Sunday of Scottish diversions got me out again to capture these unusually routed Freightliner workings. Allegedly there is one more week remaining whilst improvements take place in the Borders with the closure of the WCML in the vicinity. On this particular day, I was joined at Victoria bridge by Richard Deny.
61. GC's 5Z90-01.06.20 With Grand Central shutting down its complete operation during the COVID pandemic and having a very doubtful future on the railways it has had to cancel its planned Blackpool to London services that were due to start this summer. With a set of former LNER stock and a smartly repainted Class 90 sitting in Wembley Yard since January awaiting testing and staff training runs (the unused twice daily slots have been in the working timetable since March) the time had come for everything to head north to await any developments. I hope that GC survives and that the new services are introduced bringing locomotive-hauled services back to the WCML for the first time since 2011.
With Grand Central shutting down its complete operation during the COVID pandemic and having a very doubtful future on the railways it has had to cancel its planned Blackpool to London services that were due to start this summer. With a set of former LNER stock and a smartly repainted Class 90 sitting in Wembley Yard since January awaiting testing and staff training runs (the unused twice daily slots have been in the working timetable since March) the time had come for everything to head north to await any developments. I hope that GC survives and that the new services are introduced bringing locomotive-hauled services back to the WCML for the first time since 2011.
62. 0Z93 & celebrity Class 66-02.06.20 On the last of a fantastic run of stunning early summer days before the cloud rolled in I went out to capture my first picture of one of the celebrity Class 66s that are in operation. This followed from a very useful internet posting from 55022 who had listed what the entire set was working on this particular day. The trip out coincided with the passage of a CS Crewe to Wembley light engine move.
On the last of a fantastic run of stunning early summer days before the cloud rolled in I went out to capture my first picture of one of the celebrity Class 66s that are in operation. This followed from a very useful internet posting from 55022 who had listed what the entire set was working on this particular day. The trip out coincided with the passage of a CS Crewe to Wembley light engine move.
63. A walk dodging the showers!-05.06.20 After a record-breaking sunny May, flaming June has not exactly got going yet! I took a walk out in between showers but still wore my waterproof and got a soaking! My two crossings of the railway coincided with the passage of two freights with both in a burst of sunshine.
After a record-breaking sunny May, flaming June has not exactly got going yet! I took a walk out in between showers but still wore my waterproof and got a soaking! My two crossings of the railway coincided with the passage of two freights with both in a burst of sunshine.
64. Wolverton & Eastleigh moves-06.06.20 As it's Saturday again, Wolverton Works accepts more trains for attention as well as others leaving so that means more interesting workings. Secondly, there was an extraordinarily convoluted drag starting from Long Marston heading for Eastleigh. There is an audio file of part of the event on my Youtube channel. Please check this out.

As it's Saturday again, Wolverton Works accepts more trains for attention as well as others leaving so that means more interesting workings. Secondly, there was an extraordinarily convoluted drag starting from Long Marston heading for Eastleigh. There is an audio file of part of the event on my Youtube channel. Please check this out.
65. An engineers' and stock moves & Scottish diversion-07.06.20 On a wet Sunday, I ventured out on Bertie the Brompton to capture three interesting trains all within an hour of each other. Firstly, a top and tailed long engineering working, secondly, a top and tailed Class 360 move and, thirdly, the final Mossend diversion.
On a wet Sunday, I ventured out on Bertie the Brompton to capture three interesting trains all within an hour of each other. Firstly, a top and tailed long engineering working, secondly, a top and tailed Class 360 move and, thirdly, the final Mossend diversion.
66. An afternoon walk-08.06.20 An afternoon walk giving my wife some time 'to work from home' with no distractions found me at one of my usual haunts!
An afternoon walk giving my wife some time 'to work from home' with no distractions found me at one of my usual haunts!
67. Castle Yard & MML ROG-DATS test train-09.06.20 An interesting day that involved two railway sessions. The first was at Northampton after having dropped my son off in order to catch a train to Leeds. The second session was in the evening and marked my first foray away from the home area and the WCML since the COVID-19 lockdown was imposed back in March. I went over to Irchester just south of Wellingborough as the ROG/DATS overhead line inspection train was operating again, bumping into other enthusiasts who had the same idea!
An interesting day that involved two railway sessions. The first was at Northampton after having dropped my son off in order to catch a train to Leeds. The second session was in the evening and marked my first foray away from the home area and the WCML since the COVID-19 lockdown was imposed back in March. I went over to Irchester just south of Wellingborough as the ROG/DATS overhead line inspection train was operating again, bumping into other enthusiasts who had the same idea!
68. Outwood & an afternoon walk-10.06.20 I had to venture to Leeds in order to collect my son and his possessions from his now closed University Halls of Residence. I had an allotted time slot to enter, collect and load his belongings and being a little early travelling on amazingly quiet roads reminiscent of the 1970s I stopped off at a station to kill some time. The nearest I could find to the M1 was Outwood on the Leeds to Wakefield line. After getting back home in a fully-loaded car in the afternoon I took a walk around the village to get my walking paces up to over ten thousand and just happened to capture four freights at different locations as I crisscrossed the WCML in Roade.
I had to venture to Leeds in order to collect my son and his possessions from his now closed University Halls of Residence. I had an allotted time slot to enter, collect and load his belongings and being a little early travelling on amazingly quiet roads reminiscent of the 1970s I stopped off at a station to kill some time. The nearest I could find to the M1 was Outwood on the Leeds to Wakefield line. After getting back home in a fully-loaded car in the afternoon I took a walk around the village to get my walking paces up to over ten thousand and just happened to capture four freights at different locations as I crisscrossed the WCML in Roade.
69. A day trip to Eastleigh-11.06.20 With apologies to Fiddler's Dram, 'Didn't we have a lovely time the day we went to "Eastleigh"!' 47712 enjoyed a day trip from Crewe to Eastleigh and back again hauling two different and very interesting stock. It's just a shame that the weather was so awful; what's happened to our summer?
With apologies to Fiddler's Dram, 'Didn't we have a lovely time the day we went to "Eastleigh"!' 47712 enjoyed a day trip from Crewe to Eastleigh and back again hauling two different and very interesting stock. It's just a shame that the weather was so awful; what's happened to our summer?
70. A Saturday afternoon walk-13.06.20 My Saturday afternoon walk coincided with four interesting workings within fifteen minutes of each other!
My Saturday afternoon walk coincided with four interesting workings within fifteen minutes of each other!
71. A GA move & a masked Pendolino-15.06.20 Two walks out from home within an hour of each other. The first, in humid but overcast conditions, contrasts markedly with strong late afternoon sunshine but a threatening sky a short time later. I love the British weather!
Two walks out from home within an hour of each other. The first, in humid but overcast conditions, contrasts markedly with strong late afternoon sunshine but a threatening sky a short time later. I love the British weather!
72. 0Z?? & 5Q08-19.06.20 I was concerned that work would get in the way of one of the regular Class 37 hauled ROG drags of former GA units; I was wrong! Not only did I manage a quick grab photograph of the up light engine move on the way to work but I also talked my boss into us stopping on the way to a job as the down Kilmarnock drag passed Northampton. In a slightly bemused manner, he observed the passing of the train and even did a video on his phone. He also appreciated the vintage engineering of the Class 37 as it roared past so I educated him in its finer details and commented on the smell of the exhaust gases!
I was concerned that work would get in the way of one of the regular Class 37 hauled ROG drags of former GA units; I was wrong! Not only did I manage a quick grab photograph of the up light engine move on the way to work but I also talked my boss into us stopping on the way to a job as the down Kilmarnock drag passed Northampton. In a slightly bemused manner, he observed the passing of the train and even did a video on his phone. He also appreciated the vintage engineering of the Class 37 as it roared past so I educated him in its finer details and commented on the smell of the exhaust gases!
73. 0A68 & 5Q50-20.06.20 Two moves got me away from home interrupting the somewhat problematic building of my wood store! Firstly, a trio of light engines from Crewe to Wembley and, secondly, the returning of a Class 317 from Kilmarnock to Ilford dragged by a Class 37 as the balancing working from yesterday .

Two moves got me away from home interrupting the somewhat problematic building of my wood store! Firstly, a trio of light engines from Crewe to Wembley and, secondly, the returning of a Class 317 from Kilmarnock to Ilford dragged by a Class 37 as the balancing working from yesterday.
74. Father's Day on the NLR-21.06.20 With the leisure sector still closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic our local heritage railway, the Northampton and Lamport Railway, opened its gift shop and station to visitors. After parking the car on Brampton Lane we took a short walk along the Brampton Valley Way and had a picnic. Whilst no trains were running there was a team working at the railway's new station on its southern extension. We were also able to observe the Railway's latest acquisitions!
With the leisure sector still closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic our local heritage railway, the Northampton and Lamport Railway, opened its gift shop and station to visitors. After parking the car on Brampton Lane we took a short walk along the Brampton Valley Way and had a picnic. Whilst no trains were running there was a team working at the railway's new station on its southern extension. We were also able to observe the Railway's latest acquisitions!
75. Grand Central stock move & Wolverton departure-27.06.20 With Grand Central's plans to run trains from Euston to the north-west now heavily delayed but thankfully back on track again, the movement of two rakes of its freshly repainted stock south from Runcorn to Wembley had to be worth seeing. Many others thought the same and I have never seen so many photographers at Milton Crossing to witness the event! One was Richard Denny who produced an equally tricky photograph as we all did given that the sun dived behind a cloud some ten seconds before the train passed only to emerge again after it had disappeared around the curve into the cutting! Later in the afternoon, I took a short walk to capture two of GBRf's superb Class 47s leaving Wolverton Works for overnight stabling at Rugby.

With Grand Central's plans to run trains from Euston to the north-west now heavily delayed but thankfully back on track again, the movement of two rakes of its freshly repainted stock south from Runcorn to Wembley had to be worth seeing. Many others thought the same and I have never seen so many photographers at Milton Crossing to witness the event! One was Richard Denny who produced an equally tricky photograph as we all did given that the sun dived behind a cloud some ten seconds before the train passed only to emerge again after it had disappeared around the curve into the cutting! Later in the afternoon, I took a short walk to capture two of GBRf's superb Class 47s leaving Wolverton Works for overnight stabling at Rugby.
76. 5Q36 unit drag-27.06.20 Another former GA Desiro unit was being moved from Ilford to Northampton for storage in preparation for further use on the MML when the electrification is completed. The unit was being moved by a pair of GBRf Class 47s that were seen yesterday passing Roade .

Another former GA Desiro unit was being moved from Ilford to Northampton for storage in preparation for further use on the MML when the electrification is completed. The unit was being moved by a pair of GBRf Class 47s that were seen yesterday passing Roade.
77. 5Q50 unit drag-29.06.20 In a change from normal, the Kilmarnock to Ilford GA unit drag was running a lot later passing Roade in the evening. I checked RTT after dinner to find it already approaching Rugby and that control had routed it via the Weedon line thus avoiding Northampton. I left the washing up grabbed my camera and dashed across the fields on what was a particularly dull and windy evening. I chose a spot that would have been useless if the sun had been out but one that was good for a train, to use the eponym, 'on the up fast'!
In a change from normal, the Kilmarnock to Ilford GA unit drag was running a lot later passing Roade in the evening. I checked RTT after dinner to find it already approaching Rugby and that control had routed it via the Weedon line thus avoiding Northampton. I left the washing up grabbed my camera and dashed across the fields on what was a particularly dull and windy evening. I chose a spot that would have been useless if the sun had been out but one that was good for a train, to use the eponym, 'on the up fast'!
78. 0Z?? ROG move-30.06.20 I took my daily walk to coincide with ROG's returning light engine move from Ilford following its dragging of a unit there yesterday . Whilst the sun was trying to come out the weather remained far from perfect for the last day of June!

I took my daily walk to coincide with ROG's returning light engine move from Ilford following its dragging of a unit there yesterday. Whilst the sun was trying to come out the weather remained far from perfect for the last day of June!
79. 6X29 new unit drag-08.07.20 During a long run of dismal and wet weather characterised by a procession of low-pressure systems passing over the country, I have not been getting out as much as in recent months. However, the passing of another heavily delayed delivery working of a pair of new Merseyrail Stadler units persuaded me to venture out with a camera in one hand and an umbrella in the other!
During a long run of dismal and wet weather characterised by a procession of low-pressure systems passing over the country, I have not been getting out as much as in recent months. However, the passing of another heavily delayed delivery working of a pair of new Merseyrail Stadler units persuaded me to venture out with a camera in one hand and an umbrella in the other!
80. An interesting hour at Victoria bridge!-14.07.20 A lot of excitement on the forums as a Class 87 in Swallow livery was scheduled to have a return run from Crewe to Euston with a matching Class 90 on the rear of the stock (outward run). Whilst waiting I saw no less than five freights in thirty minutes and a Northern unit. Who said our modern railways are boring?
A lot of excitement on the forums as a Class 87 in Swallow livery was scheduled to have a return run from Crewe to Euston with a matching Class 90 on the rear of the stock (outward run). Whilst waiting I saw no less than five freights in thirty minutes and a Northern unit. Who said our modern railways are boring?
81. 5Z36 & 5Z37 moves-15.07.20 Another dull day but some more Class 37 action got me out morning and evening! Also, during the day, I managed, by the skin of my teeth, to capture one of the GA Class 720 mileage accumulation runs. There are a couple of audio recordings of the Class 37 on my YouTube site.

Another dull day but some more Class 37 action got me out morning and evening! Also, during the day, I managed, by the skin of my teeth, to capture one of the GA Class 720 mileage accumulation runs. There are a couple of audio recordings of the Class 37 on my YouTube site.
82. 5Q50-24.07.20 Another GA unit being dragged back from Kilmarnock to Ilford was nearly missed as when I checked its progress mid-afternoon I found it was running ninety-nine minutes early and approaching Rugby! I grabbed the camera and drove to Gordon's Lodge only then to find the location totally overgrown with nettles at shoulder height. Not to be defeated, I plunged through them Dr. Livingstone style but receiving some collateral damage in the process!
Another GA unit being dragged back from Kilmarnock to Ilford was nearly missed as when I checked its progress mid-afternoon I found it was running ninety-nine minutes early and approaching Rugby! I grabbed the camera and drove to Gordon's Lodge only then to find the location totally overgrown with nettles at shoulder height. Not to be defeated, I plunged through them Dr. Livingstone style but receiving some collateral damage in the process!
83. 4H04 & 5Q66-25.07.20 I had to run for this one! Due to closure of the MML again the 4H04 Bletchley to Peak Forest empty stone train was diverted up the WCML. I noticed that it was underway as it was approaching Milton Keynes so I grabbed the camera and ran across two fields from home (the Prime Minister would be proud of my bout of exercise) managing to grab a broadside photograph of the train as it passed. I also waited the short time for the passage of another of West Midlands Train Class 172 returning from tyre turning at Ilford.
I had to run for this one! Due to closure of the MML again the 4H04 Bletchley to Peak Forest empty stone train was diverted up the WCML. I noticed that it was underway as it was approaching Milton Keynes so I grabbed the camera and ran across two fields from home (the Prime Minister would be proud of my bout of exercise) managing to grab a broadside photograph of the train as it passed. I also waited the short time for the passage of another of West Midlands Train Class 172 returning from tyre turning at Ilford.
84. A couple of pleasant hours at Irchester-29.07.20 A momentous day! An appropriately socially distanced coming together of Andy, Mike and myself on a railway bridge to have a catch-up, a natter and to see some trains together! We all made our own way to Irchester on the MML just south of Wellingborough on a pleasant late July day. We vowed that we must do it again soon - COVID-19 resurgence permitting!
A momentous day! An appropriately socially distanced coming together of Andy, Mike and myself on a railway bridge to have a catch-up, a natter and to see some trains together! We all made our own way to Irchester on the MML just south of Wellingborough on a pleasant late July day. We vowed that we must do it again soon - COVID-19 resurgence permitting!
85. Grand Central's 5Z90 move-07.08.20 Another much-anticipated running proving popular with photographers was Grand Central's 5Z90 from Widnes to Wembley with the return working running to Crewe in the early hours. It was even more interesting as it was a double set of its refurbished Mk.IVs with two DVTs and double-headed by a pair of its 90s. Unfortunately, the weather did not play ball with some extremely tricky lighting on what was the hottest August day since 2003.
Another much-anticipated running proving popular with photographers was Grand Central's 5Z90 from Widnes to Wembley with the return working running to Crewe in the early hours. It was even more interesting as it was a double set of its refurbished Mk.IVs with two DVTs and double-headed by a pair of its 90s. Unfortunately, the weather did not play ball with some extremely tricky lighting on what was the hottest August day since 2003.
86. A Sunday walk & a freight diversion-09.08.20 A very hot lunchtime walk out across the fields to get some Sunday freight action. Unusually, the Daventry to Doncaster Tescoliner was diverted south today to then head north up the ECML from London to its destination. There then followed a returning railtour ECS move, the regular 4L98 and 6M45 followed by a Class 360 drag. All within an hour - not bad for a hot Sunday lunchtime I'd say!
A very hot lunchtime walk out across the fields to get some Sunday freight action. Unusually, the Daventry to Doncaster Tescoliner was diverted south today to then head north up the ECML from London to its destination. There then followed a returning railtour ECS move, the regular 4L98 and 6M45 followed by a Class 360 drag. All within an hour - not bad for a hot Sunday lunchtime I'd say!
87. Castlethorpe with Andy-14.08.20 A rendezvous with Andy at Castlethorpe is not far off from being equidistant from our respective homes so it was chosen for us to meet for an hour or so. After the recent heatwave earlier in the week with three days of over thirty degrees Celsius today was a lot cooler and very overcast.
A rendezvous with Andy at Castlethorpe is not far off from being equidistant from our respective homes so it was chosen for us to meet for an hour or so. After the recent heatwave earlier in the week with three days of over thirty degrees Celsius today was a lot cooler and very overcast.
88. 5H70-18.08.20 Gen on the internet indicated that there was an interesting ROG move through Roade in association with the return of a Class 442 from Wolverton to Eastleigh. It was a smashing morning after a recent run of poor weather so I popped out to see it whilst on my way to the Post Office.
Gen on the internet indicated that there was an interesting ROG move through Roade in association with the return of a Class 442 from Wolverton to Eastleigh. It was a smashing morning after a recent run of poor weather so I popped out to see it whilst on my way to the Post Office.
89. A brief stop at Bescot-19.08.20 A work-related trip to Wolverhampton found me passing Bescot with half an hour to spare so I dived off the M6 to see what was about. The short answer was very little and, in common with my other visits to this once mighty powerhouse of the railways, it was dull and raining!
A work-related trip to Wolverhampton found me passing Bescot with half an hour to spare so I dived off the M6 to see what was about. The short answer was very little and, in common with my other visits to this once mighty powerhouse of the railways, it was dull and raining!
90. Trip to Wakefield-27.08.20 A work trip from Wellingborough to Wakefield in order to collect a car for a customer. A bit of a jolly really for the boss and I having a very wet drive back down the M1 in a very ordinary Peugeot 308. However, the main significance was that it marked my first trip on a train since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic with my last journey being way back on 22.02.20!

A work trip from Wellingborough to Wakefield in order to collect a car for a customer. A bit of a jolly really for the boss and I having a very wet drive back down the M1 in a very ordinary Peugeot 308. However, the main significance was that it marked my first trip on a train since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic with my last journey being way back on 22.02.20!
91. An interesting walk around Roade-05.09.20 My daily constitutional coincided with the passage of a number of interesting workings all within an hour of each other!
My daily constitutional coincided with the passage of a number of interesting workings all within an hour of each other!
92. 5Q60 & 0Z46-06.09.20 Yet another Ilford to Northampton drag of a former Greater Anglia Class 360 unit. The locomotives were also scheduled to return light engine to north London after dropping off the unit at the Kingsheath depot.
Yet another Ilford to Northampton drag of a former Greater Anglia Class 360 unit. The locomotives were also scheduled to return light engine to north London after dropping off the unit at the Kingsheath depot.
93. A Lincolnshire & Rutland ramble-17.09.20 A trip out with Andy on a superb September day in his Nissan Serena (for the first time)! We headed out to the ECML at Tallington and then back along the Midland route via Stamford, Oakham and Melton Mowbray. Of course, Andy and I were appropriately masked up and kept our distance as much as possible!
A trip out with Andy on a superb September day in his Nissan Serena (for the first time)! We headed out to the ECML at Tallington and then back along the Midland route via Stamford, Oakham and Melton Mowbray. Of course, Andy and I were appropriately masked up and kept our distance as much as possible!
94. A Sunday afternoon walk-20.09.20 Yet another glorious September day found me out for a lovely afternoon walk around the village that happened to coincide with two freights and another GA Class 360 dragging move. Unfortunately, I missed an infrastructure train by a few minutes as it gained a lot of time without me spotting it!
Yet another glorious September day found me out for a lovely afternoon walk around the village that happened to coincide with two freights and another GA Class 360 dragging move. Unfortunately, I missed an infrastructure train by a few minutes as it gained a lot of time without me spotting it!
95. Trip to Nottingham-25.09.20 A trip with Andy to Nottingham in order to collect his wife's new car. Travelling by train remains a very different experience to what it always has been in the past with CrossCountry not even allowing us to sit next to each other as they do not permit customers sitting in the aisle seats of their services. We also took a short trip on one of NET's excellent trams and had a stop at Toton on the return drive taking in the full vista of the yard from the famous bank!
A trip with Andy to Nottingham in order to collect his wife's new car. Travelling by train remains a very different experience to what it always has been in the past with CrossCountry not even allowing us to sit next to each other as they do not permit customers sitting in the aisle seats of their services. We also took a short trip on one of NET's excellent trams and had a stop at Toton on the return drive taking in the full vista of the yard from the famous bank!
96. The Cumbrian Coast Express-26.09.20 A very bright but cold September morning got me out to see the passing of 'The Cumbrian Coast Express' hauled by an old friend 86259. Due to the impact of COVID-19 there has been a dearth of railtours passing on the WCML near to my home so this made a change.
A very bright but cold September morning got me out to see the passing of 'The Cumbrian Coast Express' hauled by an old friend 86259. Due to the impact of COVID-19 there has been a dearth of railtours passing on the WCML near to my home so this made a change.
97. A busy Sunday afternoon around Roade-27.09.20 With a visitor arriving at home and trains to see I had to plan my walk with precision. Unfortunately, the railway let me down with some late running so I had to return home only to pop out again but on my bike this time so I was back home in record time. Everybody was happy!
With a visitor arriving at home and trains to see I had to plan my walk with precision. Unfortunately, the railway let me down with some late running so I had to return home only to pop out again but on my bike this time so I was back home in record time. Everybody was happy!
98. 5Z46-28.09.20 As I am self-employed there are occasions when the passing of a particular train trumps my need to earn a crust! It does not happen very often but I will pop out of work to see a particular working. On this day, the empty coaching stock from a four-day private charter was returning from Euston to Crewe. Along with a number of other enthusiasts (appropriately socially distanced naturally!), I decided to see it at Northampton's Wilson's Crossing to the north of the town.
As I am self-employed there are occasions when the passing of a particular train trumps my need to earn a crust! It does not happen very often but I will pop out of work to see a particular working. On this day, the empty coaching stock from a four-day private charter was returning from Euston to Crewe. Along with a number of other enthusiasts (appropriately socially distanced naturally!), I decided to see it at Northampton's Wilson's Crossing to the north of the town.
99. Around Roade with Andy-08.10.20 Andy popped over for a few hours on the first day that it had not rained for many in a row - or so it seemed! We took a walk around the village and managed a total of seven freights in an hour and a half!
Andy popped over for a few hours on the first day that it had not rained for many in a row - or so it seemed! We took a walk around the village and managed a total of seven freights in an hour and a half!
100. The Cumbrian Mountain Express-10.10.20 A significant milestone in my railway interests! This is my hundredth trip out since the beginning of the year. That is the most, by far, that I have ever achieved and it's only the second week of October. However, further analysis reveals that despite being out more times than any other year, the actual total of photographs is considerably down. This is the 'COVID effect' meaning that I have been out on more days, particularly during the lockdown taking my daily permitted exercise and combining it with the passage of a particular train. However, with no big trips away, for example, Andy and I had to abandon our annual summer trip (along with most others) and then there has been no trips with lots of photographs taken in exotic locations! This morning I nipped out before my wife and I left for a few days away in Norfolk. Our first trip away since we went to Poland in March to record the passage of 'The Cumbrian Mountain Express' and some other interesting workings.

A significant milestone in my railway interests! This is my hundredth trip out since the beginning of the year. That is the most, by far, that I have ever achieved and it's only the second week of October. However, further analysis reveals that despite being out more times than any other year, the actual total of photographs is considerably down. This is the 'COVID effect' meaning that I have been out on more days, particularly during the lockdown taking my daily permitted exercise and combining it with the passage of a particular train. However, with no big trips away, for example, Andy and I had to abandon our annual summer trip (along with most others) and then there has been no trips with lots of photographs taken in exotic locations! This morning I nipped out before my wife and I left for a few days away in Norfolk. Our first trip away since we went to Poland in March to record the passage of 'The Cumbrian Mountain Express' and some other interesting workings.
101. Holiday in Norfolk-10-16.10.20 A few days away in Norfolk staying at Kelling Heath with my wife. After the sordid six months or so that we have all endured an actual trip away from home was a much-needed tonic. Yes, the weather was not great, yes social distancing rules and regulations were a continuing pain and, yes the North Norfolk Railway was only operating a very limited service but none of this really mattered in the big picture of things! The change of scenery and some quality time with her ladyship was fantastic!
A few days away in Norfolk staying at Kelling Heath with my wife. After the sordid six months or so that we have all endured an actual trip away from home was a much-needed tonic. Yes, the weather was not great, yes social distancing rules and regulations were a continuing pain and, yes the North Norfolk Railway was only operating a very limited service but none of this really mattered in the big picture of things! The change of scenery and some quality time with her ladyship was fantastic!
102. A flat & a squirt-17.10.20 I had been monitoring the progress of a Tyseley to Ilford unit move and popped out from home when it reached Northampton. Assuming that it was a West Midlands Railway going to Essex for attention to its wheelsets I was not wrong! I could hear it coming before it came into view with a very severe flat banging along the up slow line. I continued my walk reaching Victoria bridge to coincide with the passage of a railhead treatment train. Unfortunately, the water jets were not in operation on this section of its convoluted journey around the Midlands.
I had been monitoring the progress of a Tyseley to Ilford unit move and popped out from home when it reached Northampton. Assuming that it was a West Midlands Railway going to Essex for attention to its wheelsets I was not wrong! I could hear it coming before it came into view with a very severe flat banging along the up slow line. I continued my walk reaching Victoria bridge to coincide with the passage of a railhead treatment train. Unfortunately, the water jets were not in operation on this section of its convoluted journey around the Midlands.
103. Sunday infrastructure train-25.10.20 Unfortunately, I missed one infrastructure train only spotting it as I was eating my Sunday morning breakfast but I did get out to capture the second one on this particular day.
Unfortunately, I missed one infrastructure train only spotting it as I was eating my Sunday morning breakfast but I did get out to capture the second one on this particular day.
104. Saturday afternoon mainline diversions-31.10.20 Halloween did not go favourably for the WCML around Northampton! According to the National rail site (and others) there was an incident on the Weedon loop meaning that it was closed and all trains going via Northampton. Looking at RTT it appeared that the problem was in the area of Kilsby tunnel and that a Class 390 was trapped in the middle of it. The chaos that ensued around Northampton between Hanslope and Hilmortin Junctions was dramatic! I dread to think what the minutes late total was but most trains arrived at their destinations way over thirty minutes adrift with some many more.
Halloween did not go favourably for the WCML around Northampton! According to the National rail site (and others) there was an incident on the Weedon loop meaning that it was closed and all trains going via Northampton. Looking at RTT it appeared that the problem was in the area of Kilsby tunnel and that a Class 390 was trapped in the middle of it. The chaos that ensued around Northampton between Hanslope and Hilmortin Junctions was dramatic! I dread to think what the minutes late total was but most trains arrived at their destinations way over thirty minutes adrift with some many more.
105. HST test run on the WCML-02.11.20 In an effort to get out before 'Lockdown II' Andy and I took a drive a short distance down the WCML just north of Rugby. There were rumours of a LSL HST test run - could it be the recently released Pullman set? After a run of wet days at least the sun was out even if the wind was still keen blowing the leaves about!
In an effort to get out before 'Lockdown II' Andy and I took a drive a short distance down the WCML just north of Rugby. There were rumours of a LSL HST test run - could it be the recently released Pullman set? After a run of wet days at least the sun was out even if the wind was still keen blowing the leaves about!
106. 0V??-08.11.20 A quick nip out from home to capture a light engine move that I rightly assumed would be a Class 37 on the down fast as a possession was in place on the slow lines. The weather was dreadfully dull so I only bothered to take two photographs.
A quick nip out from home to capture a light engine move that I rightly assumed would be a Class 37 on the down fast as a possession was in place on the slow lines. The weather was dreadfully dull so I only bothered to take two photographs.
107. A VERY wet walk-14.11.20 Despite it being an utterly miserably wet November day I was determined to take my 'Lockdown II' walk. So donning my wellies and GORE-TEX® jacket I set off across the fields from home. It just so happened that my walk coincided with the passage of a Northern unit that, unusually, had started out from Heaton (Newcastle) heading for attention at Wolverton Works. I actually got a photograph of that in the dry but then the heavens opened and I took one more very poor image if only to show what a hardened railway photographer I am!
Despite it being an utterly miserably wet November day I was determined to take my 'Lockdown II' walk. So donning my wellies and GORE-TEX® jacket I set off across the fields from home. It just so happened that my walk coincided with the passage of a Northern unit that, unusually, had started out from Heaton (Newcastle) heading for attention at Wolverton Works. I actually got a photograph of that in the dry but then the heavens opened and I took one more very poor image if only to show what a hardened railway photographer I am!
108. Engineering possession at Roade-15.11.20 Following an engineering possession on the fast lines near Blisworth that involved track replacement, two trains were seen stationary on the morning's OpenTrainTimes live feed. They were both shown as being very close to my home in Roade so, as I had to nip out, I stopped off to see where they were. I managed to photograph both of them and then after my chores, I saw them returning to their respective depots later in the day.
Following an engineering possession on the fast lines near Blisworth that involved track replacement, two trains were seen stationary on the morning's OpenTrainTimes live feed. They were both shown as being very close to my home in Roade so, as I had to nip out, I stopped off to see where they were. I managed to photograph both of them and then after my chores, I saw them returning to their respective depots later in the day.
109. A crisp winter's day walk-26.11.20 A stunning and crisp early winter's day got me out for my daily walk with my camera over my shoulder. I managed six freights in about two hours and an unusual working heading for Wolverton Works but, by this stage, the light had really begun to fail very badly!
A stunning and crisp early winter's day got me out for my daily walk with my camera over my shoulder. I managed six freights in about two hours and an unusual working heading for Wolverton Works but, by this stage, the light had really begun to fail very badly!
110. A foggy load of freight-06.12.20 An extremely cold and foggy December day found me out for my walk suitably attired. My walk coincided with some interesting workings on the southern end of the WCML near to home. Unfortunately, I missed a third infrastructure working as it ran insanely early!
An extremely cold and foggy December day found me out for my walk suitably attired. My walk coincided with some interesting workings on the southern end of the WCML near to home. Unfortunately, I missed a third infrastructure working as it ran insanely early!
111. Andy's birthday-10.12.20 Another poor day for weather but it was good to get out and meet Andy, suitably distanced of course, at Victoria bridge to wish him a happy birthday! We were not out very long but did get a little freight action. Prior to meeting Andy, I nipped out to do a little shopping to coincide with the passage of a freight and an unusual Caledonian Sleeper ECS working.
Another poor day for weather but it was good to get out and meet Andy, suitably distanced of course, at Victoria bridge to wish him a happy birthday! We were not out very long but did get a little freight action. Prior to meeting Andy, I nipped out to do a little shopping to coincide with the passage of a freight and an unusual Caledonian Sleeper ECS working.
112. Injection walk - no, not that one!-19.12.20 I took my usual jaunt through the village ending up at the village hall in order to receive my flu vaccine injection. Unfortunately, my appointment was a little late in the afternoon so the light was pretty dire deep in the nearby cutting.
I took my usual jaunt through the village ending up at the village hall in order to receive my flu vaccine injection. Unfortunately, my appointment was a little late in the afternoon so the light was pretty dire deep in the nearby cutting.
113. Wellingborough in torrential rain-23.12.20 After visiting Mike to wish him a merry Christmas I was determined to visit Wellingborough station as I was halfway there and had not been for some months. The weather was foul with subsequent flooding affecting the area but the transformation of the MML station was all but complete. For many years the MML and stations like Wellingborough and Kettering were regarded as somewhat as railway backwaters. However, the route has been quadrupled again making it the longest section of continuous four line track in the country from St. Pancras all the way to Kettering North Junction. The fourth platform at Wellingborough has been reinstated and is now open and the lines are energised but are not enjoying electric services yet as staff training is being undertaken. Unfortunately, the historic Midland Railway glazed canopies on platform one have yet to be reinstalled.
After visiting Mike to wish him a merry Christmas I was determined to visit Wellingborough station as I was halfway there and had not been for some months. The weather was foul with subsequent flooding affecting the area but the transformation of the MML station was all but complete. For many years the MML and stations like Wellingborough and Kettering were regarded as somewhat as railway backwaters. However, the route has been quadrupled again making it the longest section of continuous four line track in the country from St. Pancras all the way to Kettering North Junction. The fourth platform at Wellingborough has been reinstated and is now open and the lines are energised but are not enjoying electric services yet as staff training is being undertaken. Unfortunately, the historic Midland Railway glazed canopies on platform one have yet to be reinstalled.
114. A New Year's Eve walk-31.12.20 Well that's it then - 2020 is over so goodbye and thanks for nothing! Who would have thought that this time last year that twelve months later the world would be so different? I went on my traditional end of year walk and took a few photographs despite the misty and bitterly cold weather.

Well that's it then - 2020 is over so goodbye and thanks for nothing! Who would have thought that this time last year that twelve months later the world would be so different? I went on my traditional end of year walk and took a few photographs despite the misty and bitterly cold weather.
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