Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/ 187 rows en-gb 60 Leighton Buzzard Narrow Gauge Railway. 90th Anniversary of the construction of the line in 1919. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1778436.html A morning visit to the LBNGR as they celebrate the 90th Anniversary of the line. Sunday 8 November 2009: A morning visit to the LBNGR as they celebrate the 90th Anniversary of the line.

8.11.09 Recreation of the first train- shown in sepia to get the 1919 effect. 8.11.09 'Doll' with the sand trucks. Converted to sepia for the 1919 effect. 8.11.09 Three engines power the first train of the day out of Pages Park station. The lead engine is a petrol-driven exWD engine built by Motor Rail of Bedford in 1929, similar to the first engines used in 1919. 8.11.09 The train is dressed in bunting, as was the first train 90 years ago. 8.11.09 'Doll' proudly bears its headboard. It is the same age as this railway, being built by Andrew Barclay, Kilmarnock, in 1919. 8.11.09 'Doll' moves forward for some shunting duties. 8.11.09 'Doll' moves a 3 wagon sand train, a diesel and 2 coal wagons up to the head shunt. 8.11.09 'Doll' busy in the yard. 8.11.09 'Doll'positions the sand wagons. 8.11.09 'Doll' in the yard. 8.11.09 Diesel 'Beaudesert' moves the partly built no.9 over to the sand wagons. 8.11.09 No.9 poses with the sand wagons. A scene from 1919. No.9 is a lookalike of the first steam engines to operate here. Not sure if it will remain a static exhibit, or will be completed as a working engine. 8.11.09 Partly-restored O and K 0-6-0T is moved around the shed. 8.11.09 The O&K 0-6-0T under restoraton. In brown livery. is it Elf? 8.11.09 'Doll' and no.9 in the yard. 8.11.09 The Baldwin 4-6-0T no.778 is drawn out of the shed. Not in steam. 8.11.09 With the petrol-driven engine left at Stonehenge Works, the 2 remaining engines come in from the countryside to the outskirts of Leighton Buzzard. 8.11.09 The train about to cross the 'Apennine Way' near the Clay Pipe pub. 8.11.09 Much horn blowing as the train crosses the road. 8.11.09 Stonehenge Works. The LBNGR website describes this excavator as a 10RB face shovel. 8.11.09 Stonehenge Works. The face shovel gives a demonstration. 8.11.09 Stonehenge Works. Wagons arrive for the next load of sand. 8.11.09 Stonehenge Works station, general view. 8.11.09 'Doll' on an undulating stretch of line in the countryside. 8.11.09 'Doll' approaches a road crossing near the top end of the line. 8.11.09 'Doll' nears Stonehenge works.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Sun Nov 8 2009 A quick visit to the GCR for 45231 and others. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1778037.html Sunny weather prompted a quick visit to the GCR as it is some time since I clocked a Black 5. Unfortunately 45231 faces north and the sun shone from a cloudless sky in the morning making a reasonable 'image capture' of the engine most difficult. 63601 on the other train and 78019 on Dalex runs and carriage shunting. Quorn occupied by thousands of excited Brownies. Saturday 7 November 2009: Sunny weather prompted a quick visit to the GCR as it is some time since I clocked a Black 5. Unfortunately 45231 faces north and the sun shone from a cloudless sky in the morning making a reasonable 'image capture' of the engine most difficult. 63601 on the other train and 78019 on Dalex runs and carriage shunting. Quorn occupied by thousands of excited Brownies.

7.11.09 78019 in the bright sunshine. 7.11.09 45231 departs with a train load of Brownies for Quorn and Leicester. 7.11.09 63601 with the 11.30 am out of Loughborough 7.11.09 63601 makes a fine start with the 10.00hrs departure. 7.11.09 63601 out of Loughborough. A portrait shot is best to get all the smoke, I just have an aversion to portraits. 7.11.09 Two of R.A Riddles finest. Standard 2 and Standard 7 on shed. 7.11.09 70013 has just been moved out of the shed. 7.11.09 Quick snap of 45305 where work continues apace. 7.11.09 The N2 is shunted into the shed area 7.11.09 78019 passes the old goods shed at Loughborough. 7.11.09 78019 carriage shunting. The former Irish Rlys heating van in operation on the RKB stock. 7.11.09 78019 scuttles past Woodthrop on a Dalex run. 7.11.09 63601 rolls down to Loughborough. 7.11.09 63601 by Quorn Lodge. 7.11.09 About noon GMT and the sun shines directly down the track. 45231 at Woodthrop. 7.11.09 45231 at Woodthrop.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Sat Nov 7 2009 A couple of hours at Didcot to see 35028 'Clan Line' on the VSOE Oxford excursion plus some shots in the station and the Railway Centre. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1773862.html A visit between 11.00hrs and 13.00hrs to see 'Clan Line', plus a short visit to the Railway Centre, which was very quiet. Wednesday 28 October 2009: A visit between 11.00hrs and 13.00hrs to see 'Clan Line', plus a short visit to the Railway Centre, which was very quiet.

28.10.09 66125 westbound. 28.10.09 43197 westbound. 28.10.09 165102 leaves for Oxford. 28.10.09 165102 past the power station. 28.10.09 66173 through the station. 28.10.09 35028 'Clan Line' starts off steadily after a brief halt in the station. 28.10.09 35028 out of Didcot. 28.10.09 35028 moves off to Foxhall Junction. 28.10.09 Shed scene. 28.10.09 The ROD 2-6-0 on shed. 28.10.09 1338 on the branch line train today. 28.10.09 1338 arrives at Didcot Halt. 28.10.09 0-6-0PT no.3650 comes off the main line stock for a top-up with water. 28.10.09 3822 and Bonnie Prince Charlie. 28.10.09 3650 joins the other two engines outside the shed. 28.10.09 66173 moves off its train. 28.10.09 166213 arrives from Oxford. 28.10.09 35028 28.10.09 67008 on the rear of the VSOE train. It will head the train down to Oxford, from Foxhall Jct.. 28.10.09 3822. 28.10.09 5051 in the Railway Centre shed. 28.10.09 3822 stands in the sun outside the shed.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Wed Oct 28 2009 East Coast Main Line Excursions. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1769158.html 17.10.09. 6233 'Duchess of Sutherland' at Westwood, Peterborough and Offord Darcy with the 'London Explorer', and the Electric Traction pair 86702 'Cassiopeia' and 86701 'Orion' at Offord Darcy with a GBRf staff charter train. Saturday 17 October 2009: 17.10.09. 6233 'Duchess of Sutherland' at Westwood, Peterborough and Offord Darcy with the 'London Explorer', and the Electric Traction pair 86702 'Cassiopeia' and 86701 'Orion' at Offord Darcy with a GBRf staff charter train.

17.10.09 6233 'Duchess of Sutherland' roars through Westwood, Peterborough about 30 mins late with the 'London Explorer'. 17.10.09 The same train at 10.44hrs, now dead on time after a short water stop, at Offord Darcy. 17.10.09 I arrived at this crossing a minute before the train. very lucky to get this. 17.10.09 6233 at speed and a superb sight at Offord. 17.10.09 3 minutes later, and another fine sight, 86702 'Cassiopeia' heads a GBRf staff charter train for Kings Cross.... (Thanks Peter for info) 17.10.09..... bringing up the rear is 86701 'Orion'.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Sat Oct 17 2009 Nene Valley Railway Gala. 'A celebration of the end of an era, the end of steam and the birth of diesel traction' - NVR's words, http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1766472.html Nene Valley Railway Gala. 'A celebration of the end of an era, the end of steam and the birth of diesel traction' - NVR's words, Saturday 10 October 2009: Nene Valley Railway Gala. 'A celebration of the end of an era, the end of steam and the birth of diesel traction' - NVR's words,

10.10.09 44422. Can't photo it by the LNW box because the brakevan is in the way. For background information on this engine google '44422' there is an excellent website there. 10.10.09 73050 and 44422 make a fine departure from Wansford, but too much steam for a decent photo. 10.10.09 The TPO in Wansford station. 10.10.09 Hudswell Clark 0-6-0T no.1800, once of British Sugar Corporation, Peterborough. This is the only event of the year when it appears without a face. 10.10.09 73050 at the start of the day. 10.10.09 73050 and 44422 with the Shark NE brakevan, waiting for the stock to arrive from Peterborough. 10.10.09 73050 catches a few rays on a lovely sunny morning. 10.10.09 The Shark brakevan. Ideal for brakevan rides. 10.10.09 D5185 returns from Peterborough. 10.10.09 73050 bustles past the site of the old LNWR Castor station. 10.10.09 Now running late, the LMS 4F no.44422 runs past Castor crossing with the freight stock. 10.10.09 Hudswell Clark no.1800 detaches from the freight and runs into the loop. 10.10.09 The LMS 4F no.44422 moves forward towards Yarwell station, to allow no.1800 take up position at the other end. 10.10.09 Hudswell Clark no.1800 now at the head of the freight for the return journey to Wansford. 10.10.09 The freight was scheduled to wait 20 minutes here, but as it was running late, the crews moved off straightaway. 10.10.09 44422 in the autumn colours at Yarwell. Lovely spot here on a sunny day- nobody about. 10.10.09 meanwhile, back in Wansford diesels come and go. 10.10.09 This shot not often available because of stock parked on the nearside or down line. 10.10.09 44422 waits in the shed road for the next freight trip. Visitors on Wansford station had no chance to see it 10.10.09 The next train sets off for Yarwell, topped and tailed by diesels. 10.10.09 The visitor from the GCR on the rear of the train, passing under the A1 road bridge. 10.10.09 The train heads towards the tunnel past the green dmu just visible on the right. 10.10.09 By the LNWR signalbox. 10.10.09 The TPO arrives from Peterborough. 10.10.09 Afternoon, and the sun has moved around a bit, and illuminates 44422 emerging with the freight. 10.10.09 44422 heads for Yarwell station, on another run. 10.10.09 Yarwell station. The GCR diesel now at the head of the train in readiness for the return to Wansford sidings. 10.10.09 The freight sits here for 20 minutes before returning. A lady out for a walk with two small children is pleased to see the train 10.10.09 44422 at Yarwell. 10.10.09 The engine stands by the fine replica LNWR station building at Yarwell. 10.10.09 Freight train at Yarwell. A rare sight. 10.10.09 No plans to use the turntable today. 10.10.09 The 4F has developed a brake problem through no fault of its own. However, a chance to see the former SDJR stablemates together. 10.10.09 The decision is made to remove the 4F from the train and call up the thunderbird. A hard thing for steam enthusiasts to take, but at least the 4F is spared the ignominy of returning from Peterborough as had been planned, behind a diesel. 10.10.09 73050 pulls the 4F away from the stock. 10.10.09 The diesel moves in to collect the train. 10.10.09 By Wansford LNWR signalbox. 10.10.09 44422 is pushed towards the shed.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Sat Oct 10 2009 Great Central Railway- Steam Railway Gala. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1766235.html 9.10.09 Friday. - 4 1/2 hours at the GCR between 09.00am and 1.30 pm in overcast conditions. 92203, 42085, and 90733 in action. 11.10.09 Sunday. - Full gala programme, after an overcast start a lovely sunny afternoon. 6 hour visit this time. Trains each way every 20 minutes. Top event. Thanks GCR. 92203, 70013, 42085, 78019, 48305, 63601, and 90733. Sunday 11 October 2009: 9.10.09 Friday. - 4 1/2 hours at the GCR between 09.00am and 1.30 pm in overcast conditions. 92203, 42085, and 90733 in action. 11.10.09 Sunday. - Full gala programme, after an overcast start a lovely sunny afternoon. 6 hour visit this time. Trains each way every 20 minutes. Top event. Thanks GCR. 92203, 70013, 42085, 78019, 48305, 63601, and 90733.

9.10.09 92203 on the 10.00hrs departure. Platform 1. 9.10.09 92203 10.00hrs out of Loughborough. 9.10.09 42085 at Woodthorpe. 9.10.09 90733 with the 11.30hrs out of Loughborough. 9.10.09 11.53hrs. 42085 out of Quorn for Loughborough. 11.10.09 09.33hrs Called at Woodthorpe on the way into Loughborough to get an angle on the double-header. 42085 and 78019. 11.10.09 10.39hrs. 63601 departs with the windcutters. 11.10.09 12.03hrs. 70013 accelerates through Charnwood. 11.10.09 14.52hrs.Rothley.48305. Autumn leaf before a train. 9.10.09 Early morning on shed. 9.10.09 Early morning on shed. Hand-held at about 1/15sec so shaky. 9.10.09 Early morning on shed. 9.10.09 Silent this weekend. 9.10.09 42085 passes rapidly through the station. 9.10.09 42085 on the 10.45hrs departure. 9.10.09 12.25hrs. 92203 out of Quorn. 9.10.09 92203 out of Quorn. 9.10.09 90733 at Quorn. (Taken by my wife). 9.10.09 On display in Quorn yard. 9.10.09 On display in Quorn yard. 9.10.09 13.13hrs 42085 past Rabbit Bridge. 9.10.09 92203 at Quorn 12.22hrs (Wifely fot). 11.10.09 09.43hrs. Paused at Beeches Road Bridge because it was all action and did not get away for 20 minutes. 70013 and 90733. 11.10.09 09.44hrs 70013 with the 'Steam railway' headboard. 11.10.09 09.48hrs. 90733 sets off with the freight. 11.10.09 09.54hrs. 92203 appears. 11.10.09 10.07hrs. 70013 with the first TPO run of the day. 11.10.09 10.11hrs 92203 brings the stock from the siding. 11.10.09 10.32hrs.63601 ready to go with the windcutters. 11.10.09 10.36hrs. 8F no.48305 returns to Loughborough with the mixed freight. 11.10.09 10.45hrs. 42085 reverses back to the station. 11.10.09 10.57hrs. 42085 takes the mixed freight away. 11.10.09 11.28hrs. 78019 with the local train at Woodthorpe. 11.10.09 11.46hrs. 90733 is a fine sight with the windcutters as it hurries past Woodthorpe. 11.10.09 11.46hrs. Art stuff- best left to artists perhaps. 11.10.09 12.02hrs. A mischievous lad of today, or a feral yob of tomorrow?? he was putting pebbles the size of large potatoes on the rail. I have sent this and other shots to the GCR. Maybe they could give linesiders a hotline to phone if such behaviour is seen. 11.10.09 12.14hrs. 63601 again, busy with a mixed freight. 11.10.09 12.21hrs Another shot of 42085. Well it is going soon and I like it. 11.10.09 12.23hrs. 42085 reverses to the station. 11.10.09 12.28hrs.Stanier 8F 48305 arrives at Loughborough on a passenger service. 11.10.09 12.31hrs. 9F no.92203 reverses stock into platform 2. 11.10.09 12.35hrs. 92203 in platform 2. Whilst I stood here a passenger came off the platform, crossed the lines and took a photo next to me. I told him as politely as I could that he should not be there. 'Thank you very much' he replied,'I am just taking a photograph'. He went and his mate then pulled the same trick. What can you do without being violent. I reported it to the station master who was busy on a crowded platform. Maybe the GCR should put a barrier at the platform end, and linesiders should use platform 1 or the other end of the station. This engine was not waiting for departure time with the train, it was already uncoupled and ready to move forward. 11.10.09 12.52hrs. Following on from the last photo, here is 92203 departing from platform 1. 11.10.09 12.52hrs. 92203 out of Loughborough. 11.10.09 12.57hrs. 78019 scurries out of the station. 11.10.09 13.05hrs. 42085 departs with the local train. 11.10.09 13.05hrs. Yet another shot of 42085. 11.10.09 13.45hrs. Moved to Rothley, but being rather footsore, could not face more linesiding. Packed away the powerful hi-viz and sat with the common people at the top of the cutting. Great place to sit in the sunsine. relax, and watch the trains go by. The steepness of the bank means no-one will step into your shot,although better earlier because of the sun. The times by each photo show how busy this gala was. 78019 11.10.09 13.53hrs. Rothley.92203 11.10.09 13.59hrs. Rothley.48305.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Sun Oct 11 2009 Nene Valley Railway. Visit of the LMS 4F. Loaded Test Run for 4F no.44422 on 7.10.09, and operating the timetabled services. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1765472.html 7.10.2009. The visiting LMS 4F no.44422 had a loaded test run today after its repairs at Crewe, in readiness for the NVR's End of Steam Event. 18.10.2009. 44422 in action operating the green timetable. It seemed to be running very well in the autumn sunshine. 24 and 25 Oct 09. 44422 in action again. 27 Oct 09. 44422 around Wansford station. Sunday 18 October 2009: 7.10.2009. The visiting LMS 4F no.44422 had a loaded test run today after its repairs at Crewe, in readiness for the NVR's End of Steam Event. 18.10.2009. 44422 in action operating the green timetable. It seemed to be running very well in the autumn sunshine. 24 and 25 Oct 09. 44422 in action again. 27 Oct 09. 44422 around Wansford station.

18.10.09 About to open up after crossing Lynch bridge. See caption on next photo. 25.10.09 At Yacht Club Crossing. 7.10.09 44422 moves off the shed. 7.10.09 44422 at the water tank. 7.10.09 44422 at the water tank. 7.10.09 44422 under the A1 bridge. 7.10.09 44422 sets off from Wansford. 7.10.09 44422 across the Nene. 7.10.09 44422 returns about 1 hour later. Seems to sound fine. 7.10.09 44422 rolls across the River Nene. 7.10.09 A second run included a visit to Yarwell through the tunnel. Paul Roe at the regulator. 7.10.09 Running round at Yarwell. Smoke still pours from the tunnel, which has no ventilation but a high roof. 7.10.09 44422 returning from Peterborough NV, here at the Midland signal box, Orton Mere. 7.10.09 44422 passing the Midland signalbox, Orton Mere. 7.10.09 LMS 4Fs were common on this line in BR days. 44422 at the site of the old Castor station. 7.10.09 44422 in the autumn colours at Castor. 18.10.09 44422 after bridge 63. If you go to the NVR website, click on 'nvr history' then 'british railways' there is a photo of a 4F the other side of the bridge on an engineers train in the 1950s. 18.10.09 44422 between Castor and Splash Dyke. 18.10.09 Arriving at Wansford. 18.10.09 44422 coasts past the TPO signal at Sutton Cross with an afternoon service. 24.10.09 Approaching bridge 63 after a rainy squall. 25.10.09 Waiting by the LNWR signalbox for Thomas to bring the stock in from Yarwell. 25.10.09 Crossing bridge 63. 25.10.09 Past bridge 63. 25.10.09 Accelerating away from the speed limit at Lynch bridge. 25.10.09 At Yacht Club Crossing. 27.10.09 Wansford shed. 73050 and 44422. 27.10.09 Wansford shed. 73050 and 44422. 27.10.09 44422 passes Thomas and the LNWR signalbox into the station. 27.10.09 44422 enters Wansford station. 29.10.09 Between Sutton Cross and Wansford. 29.10.09 44422 departing Wansford. 29.10.09 44422 departing Wansford.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Sun Oct 18 2009 Nene Valley Railway. Photos for the period Oct-Dec. 2009 http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1764494.html A collection for NVR photos taken in the last quarter of this year. 5.10.2009 IT'S HERE. A sight for sore eyes as the Midland 4F 44422 finally arrives from Crewe. As the NVR's only steam visitor for over a year it is so welcome after all this Thomas and diesel stuff. Also, some shots of the diesels in the yard after the 4-day dieselfest last weekend, and D9009 on driver experience runs which have proved very popular. 6.10.2009 More shots from Wansford yard. Smoke from 44422 and even more smoke from 50008. Monday 5 October 2009: A collection for NVR photos taken in the last quarter of this year. 5.10.2009 IT'S HERE. A sight for sore eyes as the Midland 4F 44422 finally arrives from Crewe. As the NVR's only steam visitor for over a year it is so welcome after all this Thomas and diesel stuff. Also, some shots of the diesels in the yard after the 4-day dieselfest last weekend, and D9009 on driver experience runs which have proved very popular. 6.10.2009 More shots from Wansford yard. Smoke from 44422 and even more smoke from 50008.

5.10.09 44422 on Wansford shed. Not the greatest photo but it is the NVR's first and only steam visitor this year. 5.10.09 D9009 is shortly to leave the NVR and today is being used for driver experience turns,which have proved popular, 5.10.09 D5185 (or 25085). This visitor from the GCR is staying over for next week's event. 5.10.09 Wansford shed in the afternoon after the diesel gala. 5.10.09 Wansford shed after the diesel gala. 5.10.09 Wansford shed after the diesel gala. 5.10.09 Wansford shed after the diesel gala. 5.10.09 D9009 ready for the next driver experience turn. 5.10.09 44422 is a fitting visitor to this former LNWR/LMS line, but needs some work doing yet before it is ready for action. 5.10.09 D9009 departing on driver experience. 5.10.09 D9009 returning safely to Wansford. 6.10.09 50008 bursts into life. 6.10.09 Work continues on the 4F. 6.10.09 50008 is started up with dramatic effect. 6.10.09 General view of Wansford yard. 6.10.09 Closer view of 50008 which I understand may leave the railway this Friday. 4.11.09 The recently refurbished Mark 1 TSO M4686 in Wansford yard. 4.11.09 Recently refurbished SNCB carriage no.23009, which was formerly a rather dingy green. It looks splendid in the sun and matches the other Belgian carriages now.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Mon Oct 5 2009 North Norfolk Railway. Mixed Traction Gala. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1764327.html The NNR ran a mixed traction gala with 50 train movements a day, but how many people knew about it ?? - the carriages were almost empty, just a handful of people on the stations, and despite the great sunny morning (with a thin north wind) hardly any fotters. 3 steam engines, two diesels, a railcar, and a dmu-- 3440, 69621, 65462, D31 207, D24081, railbus E79960, and dmu 101681. Full marks for putting on the all-action show, and for the punctuality, none for pre-event publicity. Sunday 4 October 2009: The NNR ran a mixed traction gala with 50 train movements a day, but how many people knew about it ?? - the carriages were almost empty, just a handful of people on the stations, and despite the great sunny morning (with a thin north wind) hardly any fotters. 3 steam engines, two diesels, a railcar, and a dmu-- 3440, 69621, 65462, D31 207, D24081, railbus E79960, and dmu 101681. Full marks for putting on the all-action show, and for the punctuality, none for pre-event publicity.

4.10.09 12.32pm 3440 'City of Truro' turns its back on the North Sea as it climbs up to Weybourne. 4.10.09 12.52hrs Weybourne. 24081 arrives from Holt. Few passengers about. 4.10.09 13.18hrs Weybourne. The carriages on this line seem to have all been repainted recently and look very smart. I think they get an extra coat of paint on the seaward side. 69621 heads this train. 65462 is attached to the rear as it had failed at Sheringham. 4.10.09 13.20hrs Weybourne. With 69621 having departed, 65462 reverses out of the station to the yard. 4.10.09 13.21hrs 65462 makes its way to the yard. 4.10.09 14.12hrs Kelling Heath.24081 rounds the curve om the way to Holt. 4.10.09 10.24am Weybourne.Diesel railbus E79950. 4.10.09 10.26am Weybourne.3440 'City of Truro' being prepared for its first run at 12.15pm and the railbus. 4.10.09 10.31am Weybourne.31207 arrives from Sheringham. 4.10.09 10.35am Weybourne.65462 arrives from Holt. 4.10.09 11.05am Bridge 303. N7 no.69621 bustles up to Weybourne. 4.10.09 11.06am 69621 passes the windmill. Not much evidence of passengers in the train. 4.10.09 11.14am 31207 and 24081 out of Weybourne. 4.10.09 11.14am 31207 and 24081 at the windmill. 4.10.09 11.25am Bridge 303. 3440 'City of Truro' runs down to Sheringham. 4.10.09 11.39am Bridge 303. 65462 on its way to Weybourne. 4.10.09 11.39am I have not noticed this distant signal working before today. 4.10.09 11.47am The railbus rattles down to Sheringham. 4.10.09 12.00noon 24081 and 31207 climb up to Weybourne. 4.10.09 12.12pm 69621 out of Weybourne for Sheringham. 4.10.09 12.39pm Weybourne yard. Walking back to the station I caught the diesel shunter 12131 moving the out-of-commission 90775 around the yard. 4.10.09 13.17hrs Weybourne yard.90775 looking sad. 4.10.09 13.25hrs 65462 in the yard. 4.10.09 14.32hrs Kelling Heath Halt. One of the smallest trains in Britain arrives at one of the smallest stations. 4.10.09 14.58hrs The railbus returns from Holt. 4.10.09 14.59hrs Weybourne. E79950 runs into the station past the waiting 3440. The horns on this vehicle emit a very loud parp. Surprised it does not stop the railbus in its tracks. 4.10.09 15.02hrs Weybourne.Everything still runs to time as 3440 'City of Truro' starts out of the station. 4.10.09 15.02hrs Weybourne. 3440 out of Weybourne. 4.10.09 15.03hrs Weybourne.3440 regains the single track up to Holt. 4.10.09 16.09hrs A freight train was scheduled to pass here at about 15.45hrs but did not show. 3440 on the following train. 4.10.09 16.10hrs Bridge 303. 3440. Last shot of the day. Whilst waiting here 2 fire engines roared past to a huge fire on Kelling Heath. The dry conditions, and a thin north wind ideal for fires.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Sun Oct 4 2009 West Somerset Railway. 'GWR 175' The Prelude... http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1764247.html A visit on Thursday afternoon, Friday, and Saturday morning to the WSR. Sunshine, punctuality, full timetable, crowds, everything for a great gala. Sat in the garden at SR station as Nunney Castle stormed through non-stop. Its copper chimney gleamed in the sunlight, the sound of the exhaust blast echoed back off the hillside and the ground trembled. It brought a sudden lump to the throat and a tear to the eye. Memory for a lifetime. Thanks WSR. Saturday 3 October 2009: A visit on Thursday afternoon, Friday, and Saturday morning to the WSR. Sunshine, punctuality, full timetable, crowds, everything for a great gala. Sat in the garden at SR station as Nunney Castle stormed through non-stop. Its copper chimney gleamed in the sunlight, the sound of the exhaust blast echoed back off the hillside and the ground trembled. It brought a sudden lump to the throat and a tear to the eye. Memory for a lifetime. Thanks WSR.

2.10.09 Friday. Less sunshine this a.m. as 7802 'Bradley Manor' departs MD with the 8.30am goods. 2.10.09 Friday. 7802 passing Alcombe Common with the goods. 2.10.09 Friday. Had to wait nearly an hour after the previous shot for this, and nearly gave up because of poor light. Seconds after this train passed the sun burst out fully. 6024 at Kentsford Farm. 3.10.09 Saturday. The same train at WT. 7802 and 5029 at 11.36hrs. 1.10.09 Thursday. Arrived at WN to find 6024 waiting in the station. 1.10.09 Thursday. 4953 'Pitchford Hall' arrives from BL into WN. Not the greatest photos but after 5 hours in the car the excitement was too much. 1.10.09 Thursday. The King blasts steam up at the sun, so a quick snap in the shadow. 1.10.09 Thursday. Kentsford Farm crossing. 6695 heads out of WT to WD in glorious sunshine. 1.10.09 Thursday. An hour later 5542 passes with the goods train. This only ran on Thursday and Friday before the full gala passenger services of the weekend. 1.10.09 Thursday.Peckett 0-4-0ST no.1788 'Kilmersdon' stands at WD station sidings. 1.10.09 Thursday. 4953 'Pitchford Hall' arrives at WD with the 14.34hrs service for BL. 1.10.09 Thursday. 'Kilmersdon' shunts in WD siding. 1.10.09 Thursday. GWR 28xx class no.3850 passes Alcombe Common on its way out of mD at 15.00hrs. 1.10.09 Thursday. 6695 on MD turntable. The gala programme used the letters 'C' and 'T' by the engine number to indicate which was the engine would face on departure. A great idea, which was adhered to with only one exception. 1.10.09 Thursday. 5029 'Nunney Castle' is turned at MD, having arrived tender-first. 1.10.09 Thursday. 6024 'King Edward I' departs from Dunster at 16.28hrs. The vegetation here is just a shade too high for comfort. 1.10.09 Thursday. 5101 class no.4160 in MD yard. b/w to hide the nasty blue amusement arcade in the background. 1.10.09 Thursday. Evening. Small prairie no.5542 is tended in MD yard. 1.10.09 Thursday. 0-6-2T no.6695 departs MD at 16.55hrs for DR and BL. 1.10.09 Thursday. 7802 'Bradley Manor' arrives at Alcombe common. Perfect for sunlight but the drivers shut off here for the automatic barrier at MD road crossing. 1.10.09 Thursday. 7802 is turned at MD. 1.10.09 Thursday. 6024 'King Edward I' cools down after its day's work at MD. 1.10.09 Thursday. Evening at MD. 5553 and 5029 in the yard. 2.10.09 Friday. 7802 catches a few rays at Alcombe common. 2.10.09 Friday. The 2-8-0T no.5224 over the road crossing at MD. 2.10.09 Friday. Morning at MD. 5029 being prepared. 4160 is ready to go. 2.10.09 Friday. 5224 at the head of the 9.15am departure from MD. This black beast was the only non-green engine around. 2.10.09 Friday. Morning at MD. 6024 is warming up, but no scheduled action until 13.15hrs.. 2.10.09 Friday. 5029 at MD. 2.10.09 Friday. 4160 rounds the curve out of WT for DD and WN. 2.10.09 Friday. 5524 climbs away for WN with the 11,00am service to MD. 2.10.09 Friday. Somewhere near Bicknoller. 7802 with the 11.25am service out of BL. 2.10.09 Friday. 7802 near Bicknoller. 2.10.09 Friday. 4953 'Pitchford Hall' about to depart SR with the 13.19hrs service for CH and BL. 2.10.09 Friday. 4953 departs SR at 13.19hrs. 2.10.09 Friday. 28xx class 2-8-0 no.3850 climbs out of WN towards DD. 14.02hrs 2.10.09 Friday. 3850 near DD. 2.10.09 Friday. 5542 between WT and DD 14.50hrs. 2.10.09 Friday. 5029 rounds the curves at WT 15.00hrs. As I watched the exhaust as it passed the holiday settlement it blew a smoke ring which lasted for several seconds before the wind took it. 2.10.09 Friday. 6695 at Kentsford Farm crossing at about 15.30hrs. 2.10.09 Friday. 5224 near Kentsford Farm. The driver gave an extra blast on the whistle but the cows have seen it all before. I was hoping for a small stampede despite the presence of a bull. 2.10.09 Friday. 5224 at Kentsford Farm on the way to WD. 2.10.09 Friday. The King at Kentsford Farm. 3.10.09 Saturday. Early morning at MD. The King moves up to the stock of the 09.05am departure. It is scheduled to bring in an excursion from NF at 12.05hrs 3.10.09 Saturday. 6024 arrives at Blue Anchor. (as seen from my hotel room in MD). 3.10.09 Saturday. The WSR from North Hill MD, in the morning. 3.10.09 Saturday. Well done lads. 3.10.09 Saturday. 7802 backs through MD yard to collect 5029 for the double-header at 11.00am. 3.10.09 Saturday. 7802 and 5029 at MD. 3.10.09 Saturday. 7802 and 5029 in readiness as the incoming stock approaches MD. Timekeeping was excellent throughout my time here.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Sat Oct 3 2009 Nene Valley Railway. Visiting diesels start to arrive for the NVR diesel gala. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1761698.html 29.9.09 56311 brings 45133 and 31108 to Wansford for the forthcoming NVR diesel gala. 30.9.09 60163 passes E+C on the main line, and 31190 visits the NVR to collect 56311. Tuesday 29 September 2009: 29.9.09 56311 brings 45133 and 31108 to Wansford for the forthcoming NVR diesel gala. 30.9.09 60163 passes E+C on the main line, and 31190 visits the NVR to collect 56311.

29.9.09 56311 at the head of the train. 29.9.09 56311 at Marholm with 45133 and 31108 in tow. 29.9.09 Southbound HST, 43277 leading, passes the 3 diesels at Marholm. 29.9.09 56311 sets off for Peterborough Fletton Junction with 45133 and 31108. 29.9.09 56311 arrives with the 2 diesels at Orton Mere. 29.9.09 56311, 45133, and 31108 at Wansford. 29.9.09 45133 and 31108 at Wansford. 30.9.09 Morning scene at Wansford. 31271, Barabel, a class 14, 37518 and 50008, and D9009. 30.9.09 60163 passes Marholm on its way to York. 30.9.09 31190 arrives at Orton Mere to collect 56311 from Wansford. 30.9.09 31190 and 56311 in Wansford station. 30.9.09 31190 and 56311 cross the River Nene. 30.9.09 31271 and D9009 on Wansford shed. 30.9.09 31108,45133, and 50008 at the side of the shed. 30.9.09 Barabel in the station.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Tue Sep 29 2009 25.9.09 half-an-hour at Ely Station, and 26.9.09 60163 'Tornado' passing Tallington. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1760032.html Drove through Ely on Friday 25.9.09 and spent from 2.00pm to 2.30pm on the station fotting whatever passed by. Saturday 26.9.09. 60163 at Tallington on the KX-York Cathedrals Express. Saturday 26 September 2009: Drove through Ely on Friday 25.9.09 and spent from 2.00pm to 2.30pm on the station fotting whatever passed by. Saturday 26.9.09. 60163 at Tallington on the KX-York Cathedrals Express.

25.9.09 Ely. 66730 eastbound. 25.9.09 Ely. 158799 has just terminated with a service from Norwich. 25.9.09 Ely. 158799 sets off for Norwich. 25.9.09 Ely. Cross-Country service 170637 Stanstead- Birmingham New St. arrives. 25.9.09 Ely. 170637 departs for Birmingham. 25.9.09 Ely. National Express East Anglia 170272 arrives with a service for Norwich. 25.9.09 Ely. 170272 passes 365511 in Ely station. 25.9.09 Ely. 365511 sets off for Cambridge and London. 25.9.09 Ely. 170272 departs for Norwich. 25.9.09 Ely. 170206 arrives with a service for Colchester. 25.9.09 Ely. 170206 departs for Colchester. 26.9.09 60163 decelerates at Tallington to cross to the down slow. 26.9.09 Tallington. 10.36 am Northbound. 158777. Feeler shot. Overcast conditions. 26.9.09 Tallington 11.02am 60163 approaches Tallington crossing on the down fast. 26.9.09 60163 on Tallington road crossing.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Sat Sep 26 2009 60163 'Tornado' at Offord Darcy, and Deltic D9009 on the NVR 19.9.09 - and 31271 on the NVR 20.9.09 http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1757015.html 19.9.09. 60163 at Offord Darcy on the Steam Dreams KX-York Cathedrals Express excursion, and Deltic D9009 on duty all day on the NVR as 73050 had failed with a leaking tube. 20.9.09 NVR. 31271 on duty all day after the failure of 73050. Saturday 19 September 2009: 19.9.09. 60163 at Offord Darcy on the Steam Dreams KX-York Cathedrals Express excursion, and Deltic D9009 on duty all day on the NVR as 73050 had failed with a leaking tube. 20.9.09 NVR. 31271 on duty all day after the failure of 73050.

20.9.09 31271 on bridge 56. 16.9.09 Wednesday. 73050 returns to Wansford with the first train of the day in rather poor light. The rake includes a TPO bag tender. Alert people will notice a little digital jiggery-pokery. 19.9.09 Waiting for Tornado- Northbound 180113 at Offord Cluny. 19.9.09 Waiting for Tornado- Unidentified class 180 southbound. 19.9.09 NVR. D9009 'Alycidon' at Longueville Junction with a service from Peterborough NV. 19.9.09 'Tornado' appears on time past Offord Darcy Church. 19.9.09 60163 approaches Offord Cluny. 19.9.09 60163 'Tornado' at Offord Cluny. 19.9.09 D9009 emerges from Wansford tunnel at 15.05hrs with a service to Yarwell. 19.9.09 Gimmicky conversion of previous shot. 19.9.09 D9009 approaches Yarwell. 19.9.09 D9009 at Ferry Meadows with the 15.36hrs service for Peterborough NV. It carries the Deltic Preservation Society headboard. 19.9.09 D9009 arrives at Ferry Meadows with the return service to Wansford. It worked all the trains today as 73050 had failed with a leaking tube. 20.9.09 31271 near Castor with a Wansford-bound train. 20.9.09 31271 near Castor crossing. 20.9.09 31271 heads towards Ferry Meadows with a Peterborough NV service. 20.9.09 Class 31s featured on this line after the demise of steam. Here 31271 crosses the R.Nene into Wansford. 20.9.09 31271 on bridge 56. 20.9.09 31271 emerges from Wansford tunnel and runs into Yarwell station. 20.9.09 31271 at Castor crossing with a Peterborough service. 20.9.09 Newly-restored 0-6-0DE diesel shunter 'Stanton no.50' on the turntable at Wansford. Yorkshire Engine Co. works no.2670 built 1958. 20.9.09 31271 nears Castor with an afternoon service to Wansford. 20.9.09 Class 31s operated services to Northampton in the final years of the BR line. 20.9.09 31271 at Castor crossing.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Sat Sep 19 2009 Swanage Railway. Grand Steam Gala. Friday 11.9.09 http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1754600.html 5 hours spent in the sunshine at the Swanage Railway Grand Steam Gala on the first day, Friday. Engines in operation S&DJR no.88, BB no.34070 'Manston', WC no.34028 'Eddystone', M7 no.53, Standard 4MTs nos. 80078 and 80104, GWR 5600 class no. 6695. Very busy timetable with various engines on the shuttles Norden-Harmans Cross in between services to Swanage. Unfortunately I missed the freight which ran between Swanage and Harmans Cross, probably worked by no.53. Well done to all involved for the hard work and timekeeping. Friday 11 September 2009: 5 hours spent in the sunshine at the Swanage Railway Grand Steam Gala on the first day, Friday. Engines in operation S&DJR no.88, BB no.34070 'Manston', WC no.34028 'Eddystone', M7 no.53, Standard 4MTs nos. 80078 and 80104, GWR 5600 class no. 6695. Very busy timetable with various engines on the shuttles Norden-Harmans Cross in between services to Swanage. Unfortunately I missed the freight which ran between Swanage and Harmans Cross, probably worked by no.53. Well done to all involved for the hard work and timekeeping.

11.9.09 S&DJR no.88 with the 14.30hrs train out of Norden. 11.9.09 6695 approaches Corfe on a shuttle service. 11.9.09 80104 on the shuttle out of Corfe. 11.9.09 34028 on bridge 16. 11.9.09 34070 'Manston' rolls into Corfe Castle past the signalbox under construction. 11.9.09 The Drummond M7 0-4-4T no.53 at Norden, 11.9.09 Visiting from the WSR, S&DJR no.88 arrives at Norden with the11.10am service from Swanage. 11.9.09 M7 no.53 at Swanage station. Seething masses of people prevented further photos here. 11.9.09 WC 4-6-2 'Eddystone' no.34028 ready to depart with the 12.30pm service for Norden. 11.9.09 A hurried shot from the train of BB no.34070 'Manston' on Swanage shed. 11.9.09 BR 4MT no.80104 departs Harmans Cross with a train for Swanage. 11.9.09. I believe this is the first visit of an S & D 7F to Dorset since the S & D closed. No.88 at Harmans Cross. 11.9.09 The sunny south. SDJR no.88 approaches Harmans Cross with the shuttle. 11.9.09 S&DJR no.88 at Harmans Cross. 11.9.09 No.88 at Harmans Cross. The stock of the shuttle was a 2 car dmu. The shuttles were all topped and tailed and ran every 40 minutes or so. 11.9.09 Another shot of no.88 at Harmans Cross. 11.9.09 BB 4-6-2 no.34070 'Manston' approaches Harmans Cross from Swanage. 11.9.09 34070 runs into Harmans Cross station. 11.9.09 Same as previous in b/w. 11.9.09 34070 at Harmans Cross. 11.9.09 GWR 5600 class no.6695 nears Harmans Cross with a service for Swanage at 13.22hrs. 11.9.09 S&DJR no.88 returns to Harmans Cross on the shuttle service. 11.9.09 WC 4-6-2 no.34028 'Eddystone' rolls round the curve into Corfe Castle station. 11.9.09 80078 heads the shuttle to Norden out of Corfe Castle station. 11.9.09 No.88 at Corfe on the shuttle. 11.9.09 No.88 brings up the rear of the shuttle out of Corfe. 11.9.09 34070 'Manston' crosses bridge no.16. 11.9.09 BR 4MT no.80104 with the 14.10hrs service out of Corfe for Norden. 11.9.09 No.88 crosses bridge 16 on its way to Corfe. 11.9.09 34070 and 80104 on the shuttle out of Norden 14.50hrs. 11.9.09 34070 about to cross bridge 16. 11.9.09 34070 and 80104 on bridge 16. 11.9.09 GWR no.6695 crosses bridge 16 on its way to Norden. 11.9.09 BR 4MT no 80078 departing Norden 15.10hrs 11.9.09 80078 out of Norden. 11.9.09 34070 on another shuttle service out of Norden.. 11.9.09 6695 on bridge 16 11.9.09 34028 'Eddystone' accelerates out of Corfe. 11.9.09 34070 waits at Corfe as 80104 arrives from Harmans Cross. 11.9.09 80104 at Corfe Castle. 11.9.09 The GWR brasswork gleams as 6695 departs Corfe for Norden. 11.9.09 6695 out of Corfe. 11.9.09 Corfe Castle in the afternoon sunshine. 11.9.09 6695 arrives at Corfe. 11.9.09 6695 at Corfe. 11.9.09 34028 'Eddystone' runs around at Norden.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Fri Sep 11 2009 North Norfolk Railway- Steam Gala http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1751598.html A visit to the NNR for the last day of the Steam Gala. Poor light to start with but the sun appeared in the afternoon. A very busy event and timekeeping held up well. Congratulations to all for the non-stop action. GWR 2-6-2T no.5521 had failed and was replaced by Sulzer type 2 diesel no.24081. Hunslet saddle tank 'Ring Haw' no. 1982, GNR 0-6-2T no.1744, GWR 4-4-0 no.3440 and 0-6-2T no.6619, LNER 0-6-0 no.65462 and 0-6-2T no. 69621 all in action. A mild disappointment was that the N2 only ran with the quad-arts as part of a double-header with 65462 leading, and once alone bunker-first on this day. Sunday 6 September 2009: A visit to the NNR for the last day of the Steam Gala. Poor light to start with but the sun appeared in the afternoon. A very busy event and timekeeping held up well. Congratulations to all for the non-stop action. GWR 2-6-2T no.5521 had failed and was replaced by Sulzer type 2 diesel no.24081. Hunslet saddle tank 'Ring Haw' no. 1982, GNR 0-6-2T no.1744, GWR 4-4-0 no.3440 and 0-6-2T no.6619, LNER 0-6-0 no.65462 and 0-6-2T no. 69621 all in action. A mild disappointment was that the N2 only ran with the quad-arts as part of a double-header with 65462 leading, and once alone bunker-first on this day.

6.9.09 My first sight of the N2 in steam. Impressive too. 6.9.09 1744 arrives at Weybourne. 6.9.09 N2 no 1744 passing Sheringham Golf Course. 6.9.09 3440 at Sheringham West box. 6.9.09 3440 and 6619 depart Sheringham as the token is collected. 6.9.09 65462 and 1744 depart Weybourne in gloomy conditions. 6.9.09 65462 and 1744 head for Sheringham. 6.9.09 Hunslet saddle tank no.1982 'Ring Haw' bustles into Weybourne with a local service. 6.9.09 The class 24 no.24081 departs Weybourne with the freight train. 6.9.09 1744 switches to the other track on the approach to Weybourne.... 6.9.09 6619 departs Weybourne. 6.9.09 65462 arrives with the quad-arts from Sheringham. 6.9.09 3440 'City of Truro' arrives at Weybourne from Holt. 6.9.09 Deputising for the failed 5521, Sulzer type 2 diesel 24081 rumbles into Weybourne with the freight train. 6.9.09 No.1982 'Ring Haw' runs around at Weybourne. It was working a Holt-Weybourne-Holt service. 6.9.09 No.1982 'Ring Haw' arrives at Weybourne. 6.9.09 The diesel 24081 returns with the freight. 6.9.09 ....meanwhile on the 'wrong' side, 6619 waits with a service for Sheringham. 6.9.09 1744 and 65462 on the quad-arts at Weybourne. 6.9.09 65462 on the quad-arts. 6.9.09 6619 bustles into Weybourne with a service for Holt. 6.9.09 1744 and 65462 move out of Weybourne. 6.9.09 65462 arrives at Weybourne. Photo taken by my wife. 6.9.09 3440 'City of Truro' passing Weybourne with an express service. 6.9.09 The mighty diesel 24081 rumbles into Weybourne with a passenger service. 6.9.09 65462 and 1744 double-head the quad-arts out of Weybourne. 6.9.09 65462 and 1744 out of Weybourne. 6.9.09 65462 and 1744 out of Weybourne. 6.9.09 The only chance today to photograph 1744 on the quad-arts. 6.9.09 1744 out of Weybourne 6.9.09 65462 and 1744 tackle the 1 in 80 up to Kelling Heath. 6.9.09 1744 returns from Holt with the quad-arts. Here rounding the curve at the top of Kelling Heath. 6.9.09 The class 24 diesel 24081 rumbles round the bend near the top of Kelling Heath. 6.9.09 N7 no.69621 approaches Kelling Heath Halt on its way down to Weybourne. 6.9.09 69621 at Kelling Heath Halt. Must be one of the smallest stations in UK. 6.9.09 6619 blasts its way out of Weybourne past Kelling Heath. 6.9.09 3440 'City of Truro' approaching bridge 303. 6.9.09 3440 at bridge 303. 6.9.09 65462 runs down to Sheringham with a passenger service. 6.9.09 69621 and the quad-arts near bridge 303 6.9.09 69621 at bridge 303. 6.9.09 3440 'City of Truro' and 1982 'Ring Haw' at Sheringham station. 6.9.09 Another bunker-first shot of 1744 near Sheringham. 6.9.09 No.1982 'Ring Haw' departs Sheringham with the freight train. 6.9.09 6619 at Sheringham West box. 6.9.09 3440 and 6619 out of Sheringham. 6.9.09 6619 out of Sheringham. 6.9.09 Last shot of the day, 1744 waits at Sheringham for more rolling stock to arrive.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Sun Sep 6 2009 Bodmin and Wenford Steam Gala- Friday morning. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1750582.html Returning from Bude to Oundle I called in at Bodmin for the first 2 hours of the Friday Steam Gala. Up to noon and no doubt for longer, this is a very difficult place for photography as the sun shines straight into the terminus, which all engines face too, so shadows are a challenge. Bunker-first shots are the only ones lit by the sun. Need to spend a day around here to do the line justice, but faced with a minimum 6 hour drive I did not have time. Engines in steam- 5552, 5619, 6435, and 30587. The two Port of Par 0-4-0STs 'Alfred' and 'Judy' were on display. Friday 4 September 2009: Returning from Bude to Oundle I called in at Bodmin for the first 2 hours of the Friday Steam Gala. Up to noon and no doubt for longer, this is a very difficult place for photography as the sun shines straight into the terminus, which all engines face too, so shadows are a challenge. Bunker-first shots are the only ones lit by the sun. Need to spend a day around here to do the line justice, but faced with a minimum 6 hour drive I did not have time. Engines in steam- 5552, 5619, 6435, and 30587. The two Port of Par 0-4-0STs 'Alfred' and 'Judy' were on display.

4.9.09 5600 class no.5619 and 4500 class no.5552 wait by Bodmin shed. 4.9.09 6400 class no.6435 at Bodmin. 4.9.09 SR Beattie well tank 30587 arrives with a train from Bodmin Parkway. 4.9.09 30587 arrives at Bodmin General, in full sunshine. 4.9.09 6435 shunts its carriage. 4.9.09 6435 carries shedplate 83E St.Blazey (Bodmin). 4.9.09 6435 sets off for Boscarne Junction. 4.9.09 From Boscarne up to Bodmin there are steep gradients of up to 1 in 38 and the engine can be heard working very hard before it comes into sight. 4.9.09 6435 rounds the curve at the top of the climb into Bodmin General. 4.9.09 6435 at Bodmin. 4.9.09 30587 and 6519 in Bodmin General station. 4.9.09 A traction engine being prepared in support of the Steam Gala. 4.9.09 30587 at the water column. 4.9.09 6435 at the water column. 4.9.09 30587 and 6435 in Bodmin yard. 4.9.09 5619 and 5552 at Bodmin. 5619 carries shedplate 85B Gloucester, 4.9.09 6435 waits with a carriage which will be added to the next train. 4.9.09 Port of Par 0-4-0ST 'Judy'. Built 1937, withdrawn 1969. Profile matched the clay wagons. 4.9.09 5619 waits at Bodmin as the inevitable rain starts to fall. 4.9.09 5619 seen through the window of the signal box in what is now a downpour. 4.9.09 6435 seen from the signalbox in the rain. 4.9.09 Port of Par 0-4-0ST 'Alfred'. Built 1954 as copy of 'Judy', withdrawn 1977. Both dock shunters built by Bagnalls. 4.9.09 6435 leaves for Boscarne Jct.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Fri Sep 4 2009 Launceston Steam Railway. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1750537.html A passing visit on 28th August 09 on the way to the annual Bude Jazz Festival. 'Covertcoat' working the trains, and the Darjeeling engine no.19 on shed. A return visit on 2 Sept 09 to see the Darjeeling engine no.19 in steam together with 'Lilian'. 'Velinheli' on shed. Friday 28 August 2009: A passing visit on 28th August 09 on the way to the annual Bude Jazz Festival. 'Covertcoat' working the trains, and the Darjeeling engine no.19 on shed. A return visit on 2 Sept 09 to see the Darjeeling engine no.19 in steam together with 'Lilian'. 'Velinheli' on shed.

28.8.09 0-4-0ST 'Covertcoat' ready for its next duty at Launceston station. Built 1898, it is a Quarry Hunslet originally numbered 679. Worked in Dinorwic quarries until 1959. At Launceston since 1984. 28.8.09 The pleasant platform at Launceston. The carriages are all replicas of old tram cars. 28.8.09 'Covertcoat' moves in to collect its train. 28.8.09 Former Darjeeling Himalaya Railways no.19 on shed at Launceston. 28.8.09 DHR no.19 in the rain at Launceston. 28.8.09 0-4-0ST quarry Hunslet 'Lilian' still festooned with garlands from the Darjeeling event, rests in Launceston shed. 28.8.09 'Covertcoat' appears with a train from New Mills. 28.8.09 'Covertcoat' into Launceston. 28.8.09 'Covertcoat' is named after the Grand National winner of 1913. 28.8.09 'Covertcoat' moves off the stock in a cloud of smoke. 28.8.09 'Covertcoat' about to run round. 28.8.09 In the workshop/museum another 0-4-0ST quarry Hunslet 'Dorothea' being restored. Buiklt 1901 it worked at Dorothea Slate Quarry until 1941. 1.9.09 Tuesday morning, the sun shines (for now) and DHR no.19 simmers at the water column. 1.9.09 'Lilian' is the other engine on duty today- just hope the heavy showers keep away. 1.9.09 DHR no.19 comes to the boil in the siding. 1.9.09 'Lilian' runs around at New Mills. 1.9.09 'Lilian' at New Mills. 1.9.09 Lucky people on the footplate, but they are going to restrict photography. 1.9.09 The driver (and owner) stokes up the fire before departure from New Mills. 1.9.09 'Lilian' departs New Mills. 1.9.09 en route to Launceston. Pressure Gauge reads 112 lbs 1.9.09 About to pass under the aqueduct. 1.9.09 Arrival at Launceston. 1.9.09 Change of crew at Launceston. 1.9.09 'Lilian' and DHR no.19 1.9.09 No.19 is prepared for the next duty. 1.9.09 'Lilian' simmers quietly at Launceston. 1.9.09 'Lilian'. Built by Hunslet, Leeds in 1887 originally as no.317. Former Penrhyn quarry engine. At Launceston since 1983. 1.9.09 Three works plates on DHR no.19. 1.9.09 Indian plates on no.19. 1.9.09 All the engines on this line work tender first up the gradient to New Mills. 1.9.09 No.19 runs around at New Mills. 1.9.09 No.19 is owned by Adrian Shooter, MD of Chiltern Railways, and usually runs on his private line. 1.9.09 Passing under the aqueduct. Note the headlamp on the tender which would have been essential on the Darjeeling Railway. 1.9.09 Passing under the road bridge on the outskirts of Launceston. 1.9.09 'Velinheli' undergoing maintenance in its own shed. 1.9.09 'Lilian' makes an impressive start out of Launceston. Difficult spot for photographs. 1.9.09 No.19 waits at Launceston for its next duty. 1.9.09 No.19 and 'Lilian' at Launceston.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Fri Aug 28 2009 Mid-Norfolk Railway with visitor 9466, and 70013 'Oliver Cromwell' passing Wymondham en route to Norwich. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1744654.html GWR 0-6-0PT no.9466 is making its summer visit to the Mid-Norfolk Railway, and 70013 'Oliver Cromwell' passed Wymondham with a London-Norwich excursion. Sunday 23 August 2009: GWR 0-6-0PT no.9466 is making its summer visit to the Mid-Norfolk Railway, and 70013 'Oliver Cromwell' passed Wymondham with a London-Norwich excursion.

23.8.09 GWR Pannier tank 9466 is ready to go at the head of the 10.15am departure from Dereham. 23.8.09 9466 basks in the sun at Dereham. 23.8.09 9466. Dereham. 23.8.09 9466 passing Crownthorpe on its way to Wymondham Abbey station. 23.8.09 9466 at Crownthorpe. 23.8.09 Having run around, 9466 brings the stock into Wymondham Abbey station. 23.8.09 Wymondham Abbey station. Behind me is the clear-running Tiffey stream, and a minute up the hill is the magnificent Abbey. Unspoilt English landscape at its best. 23.8.09 9466 departs Wymondham Abbey for Dereham.. 23.8.09 What are these shots doing on a railway site? Well a visit should be part of a railway trip here. 23.8.09 The ruined tower at the eastern end. The abbey was of such size that this tower was originally in the middle of the abbey church. 23.8.09 The massive main tower. Building started in 1170..... 23.8.09 ....but in 1538 the abbey caught the attention of Henry VIII. 23.8.09 The original abbey reached my camera position with further buildings and cloisters all around. All this just a couple of minute's walk from the station. 23.8.09 The old station building at Wymondham on the Norwich line is both a restaurant and a small railway museum. This is the secondary dining room, the other one has first-class railway seats arranged in fours, but was packed with Sunday lunchers. 23.8.09 Railway signs in the entrance hall. 23.8.09 Railwayana all around in the dining room. Excellent steak and ale pie on offer at £6.95. Prompt and friendly service. Recommended. 23.8.09 More signs in the entrance hall. 23.8.09 Wymondham station on the big railway, looking towards Norwich. 23.8.09 Wymondham station. View east towards Norwich. 23.8.09 Unit 170270 on a fast service to Norwich. The link to the MNR is on the right. 23.8.09 There is a small museum in the grounds by the station house. It was pleasant waiting on the bridge, in glorious Norfolk sunshine, talking railways to those around, when this happened..... 23.8.09 70013 'Oliver Cromwell' accelerates past Wymondham box. 23.8.09 Oliver Cromwell toots, they are all happy down there. 23.8.09 Oliver Cromwell at the junction. 23.8.09 ...turn the photo to filtered b/w to make the hi-viz less obvious- not possible to crop as I lose the signal and the end of the train. 23.8.09..Digitally remove the hi-viz. Time consuming but satisfying. All's well that ends well. 23.8.09 Dereham. Class 56 no 56040 'Oystermouth' is about to tow D5557 and 73210 out of the station.. 23.8.09 .... which it does with dramatic effect 23.8.09 Dereham.9466 moves up to the water column. 23.8.09 9466 at the water column. 23.8.09 Yes, there's one here too. This guy was either short-sighted or was hoping for a free shower. Never mind the dozen snappers waiting to get a shot. It is a hot day. 23.8.09 9466 runs around at Dereham. 23.8.09 9466 ready for the 15.20hrs last train of the day out of Dereham.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Sun Aug 23 2009 1- Mixed Traction morning at the Great Central Railway, and 2- Mixed Traction afternoon at the Nene Valley Railway http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1744239.html 1- Morning spent at the GCR. Fairburn 42085, Stanier 48305, dmu, and class 25 D5185 in action, plus Leicester canopy. 2- Afternoon brief visit to the Nene Valley Railway with 73050 and D9009 in action. Two railways for the price of none- only on this site! Saturday 22 August 2009: 1- Morning spent at the GCR. Fairburn 42085, Stanier 48305, dmu, and class 25 D5185 in action, plus Leicester canopy. 2- Afternoon brief visit to the Nene Valley Railway with 73050 and D9009 in action. Two railways for the price of none- only on this site!

22.8.09 73050 arrives at Ferry Meadows with a service for Wansford. 22.8.09 73050 at Ferry Meadows. 22.8.09 48305 being prepared on shed for the 11.15am service. 22.8.09 42085 waits here for the dmu to depart at 9.45am 22.8.09 With a relaxed attitude to time, the dmu moves forward in its customary clag to take up position at the platform. 22.8.09 10.15am. The dmu has arrived at Leicester North but stops shy of the new canopy. Hope the built-in security camera deters/catches the several vandals who live hereabouts. 22.8.09 With a 3 minute turn-around time one has to go and do with alacrity to get the photos. 22.8.09 The dmu is ready to depart at just after 10.15am. 22.8.09 Last view of the fine canopy from the rear of the dmu. 22.8.09 Where no photographer can tread, the dmu crosses Swithland viaduct. 22.8.09 The smut-free dmu has its advantages, apart from offering a good view of the line. Here the Fairburn tank 42085 rushes towards the camera with the 10.15am out of Loughborough. 22.8.09 Stanier 8F, Stanier saloon. With the Fairburn also in action a nice LMS feel about the place today. All toots and no squeals from the whistles. 22.8.09 Fairburn 4MT 2-6-4T bustles into Quorn with a service from Leicester N. 22.8.09 Stanier 8F 2-8-0 arrives at Quorn with a service from Loughborough, which includes the 'new' inspection saloon. 22.8.09 The small tender is apparent as 48305 departs Quorn. 22.8.09 42085 scurries towards Quorn on a DALEX run. 22.8.09 An occluded sky was needed for this shot, which is why the clouds parted to allow the sun to shine with due diligence straight at the camera. Around noontime the sun is directly up and down the line. 22.8.09 48305 about to depart Quorn. B/w to try and defeat the glare from the sun... 22.8.09 ...which has gone in again as the class 25 D5185 arrives at Quorn with the 12.23pm service. 22.8.09 I moved to this position to catch the sun on the face of the reversing Fairburn, but the sunshine moved to beyond the bridge. 22.8.09 A brief toot and 42085 reverses away towards Loughborough on the returning DALEX. 22.8.09 The class 25 D5185 in Quorn station. 22.8.09 Mid-afternoon at the Nene Valley Railway as Deltic D9009 'Alycidon' arrives with a service from Peterborough NV. 22.8.09 D9009 rumbles across the River Nene into Wansford station. 22.8.09 D9009 comes off the stock at Wansford. 22.8.09 73050 reverses into the station for the next service. 22.8.09 73050 and D9009 in Wansford station. 22.8.09 73050 sets off for Yarwell. 22.8.09 73050 out of Wansford.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Sat Aug 22 2009 A brief visit to Didcot Railway Centre. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1743609.html A few snaps at Didcot Rly Centre on a brief visit, whilst in the Oxford area. 60163 'Tornado' was unfortunately not on display as it was undergoing minor maintenance inside the shed. Friday 21 August 2009: A few snaps at Didcot Rly Centre on a brief visit, whilst in the Oxford area. 60163 'Tornado' was unfortunately not on display as it was undergoing minor maintenance inside the shed.

20.8.09 Didcot Railway Centre. 60163 was on shed undergoing maintenance and impossible to photograph. Here it stands next to 0-4-0ST 1340 built 1897, 100 years between the engines. 20.8.09 Didcot Railway Centre. 5322 outside the shed receiving a wash and brush-up. Everything else was under cover in the shed. 20.8.09 Didcot Railway Centre.An attempt to get a shot of Tornado. Nice though, to stand alongside this great engine. 20.8.09 Didcot Railway Centre. 60163 is here until early September. I did not want to see it on the demonstration line but had hoped it would be on display outside. 20.8.09 Didcot Railway Centre. GWR diesel railcar no.22. 20.8.09 Didcot Railway Centre. GWR diesel railcar no.22 20.8.09 Didcot Railway Centre. A fine collection of street and railway furniture from the past at Didcot Halt. 20.8.09 Didcot Railway Centre. A view of the Halt. 20.8.09 Didcot Railway Centre. 3650, 5322, and 60163 were the only engines visible from the coaling ramp. 20.8.09 Didcot Parkway. Frustrated by lack of photo opportunity at the Railway Centre I took a few shots of modern stuff on the way out. 66013 and 66090 on standby at Parkway station. 20.8.09 Didcot Parkway. Signalling failures meant that 43022 and 43188 stood side by side for some time. 20.8.09 Didcot Parkway. 165117 arrives on a local service. 20.8.09 Didcot Parkway. The rear power cars of the delayed trains, 43188 and 43155. 20.8.09 Didcot Parkway. Thomas, in the form of 66104, plays with some naughty trucks. Ooooh 20.8.09 Didcot Parkway. General view of Didcot Parkway from the footbridge at the western end of the station. Unidentified 222 middle left surges away towards Oxford, the delayed43188/43155 in the centre at platform 3 and a new arrival westbound at platform 1. When the Govt. brings electricity to Brunel's line this view will be a mass of overhead wires. 20.8.09 Didcot Parkway. Another westbound HST departs as the delayed 43188/43155 still stands at platform 3. The bridge is a good vantage point, but vibrates a lot when overweight passengers waddle across. 20.8.09 Didcot Parkway. View westwards with the massive power station dominating the scene.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Fri Aug 21 2009 Tramway Village, Crich. 1940's Weekend. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1738153.html A second visit this year to Crich for the 1940's weekend. Tram photos on this gallery- Military Cavalcade stuff and the Woodland Walk scenery on my non-rail gallery. Glorious sunny day packed with a variety of entertainment in perfect surroundings. Trams in operation- LT 1622, Leeds 399, Blackpool 40, Glasgow 22, Johannesburg 60, Glasgow 812, Berlin 3006, Liverpool 869. Saturday 8 August 2009: A second visit this year to Crich for the 1940's weekend. Tram photos on this gallery- Military Cavalcade stuff and the Woodland Walk scenery on my non-rail gallery. Glorious sunny day packed with a variety of entertainment in perfect surroundings. Trams in operation- LT 1622, Leeds 399, Blackpool 40, Glasgow 22, Johannesburg 60, Glasgow 812, Berlin 3006, Liverpool 869.

8.8.09 Blackpool Corp. no.40 at Victoria Park. 8.8.09 Leeds 399 departs as Liverpool 869 arrives at Wakebridge. 8.8.09 Johannesburg 60 at Wakebridge. Built in Preston 1905. 8.8.09 Johannesburg no.60 at Wakebridge. 8.8.09 Johannesburg no.60 departs Wakebridge as Blackpool Corp. no.40 arrives. 8.8.09 Blackpool no.40. Wakebridge. 8.8.09 Blackpool no.40 Wakebridge. 8.8.09 London Passenger Transport Board no.1622 at Wakebridge. It dates from the 1930's. 8.8.09 LTPB no.1622 waits at Wakebridge for Blackpoolno.40 to clear the single line section. 8.8.09 LTPB no.1622 and Leeds no.399 at Wakebridge. 8.8.09 Leeds no.399 at Wakebridge. Built at Kirkstall 1925. 8.8.09 Leeds 399 heads off into the wooded section. 8.8.09 Blackpool no.40 at Wakebridge. The Glory Mine headstock is seen in the background. 8.8.09 Blackpool no.40 waits as Glasgow Corp. no 22 arrives at Wakebridge. This tram operated from 1922 to 1960. 8.8.09 View of no.40 from the rear cab of no.22. Wakebridge. 8.8.09 Sign on the upper deck in no.22. 8.8.09 WWII scene outside the Red Lion. 8.8.09 1940's scene outside the Red Lion. 8.8.09 Glasgow no.22 passes 1940's vehicles at the Red Lion. 8.8.09 Sheffield no.74 in the tramshed. The lower deck survived as a garden shed for many years. 8.8.09 'Trams by Night' dispaly in the tramsheds. 8.8.09 General Scene, exhibition hall. 8.8.09 Derby no.1 from 1903 in the exhibition hall. 8.8.09 Hill of Howth, Dublin, tram in the exhibition hall. The only Irish tram at Crich. 8.8.09 Brill snowsweeper from the USA. 8.8.09 Johannesburg no.60 near Bowes-Lyon bridge. 8.8.09 Glasgow no.22 at Bowes-Lyon bridge. 8.8.09 Leeds 399 passing Bowes-Lyon bridge. 8.8.09 Johannesburg no.60 about to pass under Bowes-Lyon bridge. 8.8.09 Blackpool no.40 on its way down to the town end. 8.8.09 Glasgow Corp no.812 has just emerged from the depot and is about to cross in front of LTPB no.1622. 8.8.09 LTPB no.1622 heads for the town end of the line. 8.8.09 Blackpool no.40 heads towards the country end. 8.8.09 1940's scene outside the Red Lion. 8.8.09 Leeds 399, Johannesburg 60, and Berlin 3006 wait to enter the town end terminus. 8.8.09 More from the 1940's outside the Red Lion. 8.8.09 Street scene and Leeds 60. 8.8.09 Finely restored lower deck ceiling of Blackpool 40. 8.8.09 LTPB no.1622 at Wakebridge. 8.8.09 LTPB no.1622 passes Glasgow no.22 at Wakebridge. 8.8.09 Glasgow no.22 at Victoria Park. 8.8.09 LTPB no.1622 moves up Tramway Street towards Bowes-Lyon bridge. 8.8.09 Berlin no.3006 near the tram depot. 8.8.09 Berlin 3006 enters the depot, its work done for the day. 8.8.09 Berlin 3006 back on shed. 8.8.09 Leeds 399 ready for duty tomorrow. 8.8.09 Bi-lingual signs in English and Afrikaans on Johannesburg 60. Not all the signs have been restored. 8.8.09 As the day draws to a close Johannesburg 60 waits for customers. 8.8.09 Scene in the tramshed. LCC no.106 of 1903. 8.8.09 General scene in the exhibition hall.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Sat Aug 8 2009 North Norfolk Railway. A visit to see the two GWR tank engines brought in for the summer season. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1732957.html NNR's red timetable operated by small prairie 5521 and 0-6-2T no.6619. Diesel 24081 was also in action for the last 2 trains of the day. Complete change from the normal motive power, and very refreshing to see. Tuesday 28 July 2009: NNR's red timetable operated by small prairie 5521 and 0-6-2T no.6619. Diesel 24081 was also in action for the last 2 trains of the day. Complete change from the normal motive power, and very refreshing to see.

28.7.09 6619 passes the Sheringham cremmo. 28.7.09 9.21am Small Prairie no.5521 comes to the boil in Weybourne yard. 28.7.09 9.22am 34081 '92 Squadron' awaits overhaul at Weybourne. Rumours about Jeremy Hosking circulate. 28.7.09 9.23am The visitor from the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway no.24081 sits in Weybourne yard. It is scheduled to work the last 2 trains of the day. 28.7.09 9.23am 5521, fresh from its exploits in Poland, starts to move. 28.7.09 9.25am Diesel shunter no.12131 is revealed behind the prairie. 28.7.09 9.27am A quick top-up with coal. 28.7.09 9.34am 5521 in Weybourne station, about to run down to Sheringham. 28.7.09 9.57am 0-6-2T no.6619 rounds the curve towards Weybourne with the first train of the day. 28.7.09 10.02am 6619 pounds out of Weybourne for Holt. 28.7.09 10.02am 6619 out of Weybourne. 28.7.09 10.36am 5521 passes Sheringham Golf course. 28.7.09 11.26am 6619 approaches bridge 303. Earlier the fire brigade had attended a small lineside fire here, which with a steady offshore breeze could have spread to the fields of barley all around. Later, the combine harvester was operating here. 28.7.09 11.26am 6619 at bridge 303. 28.7.09 11.36am 5521 returns to Sheringham over bridge 303. 28.7.09 12.36pm 6619 at Sheringham. 28.7.09 12.43pm 6619 with the 12.45pm departure st Sheringham. 28.7.09 12.48pm 6619 out of Sheringham. 28.7.09 12.48pm 6619 out of Sheringham. 28.7.09 12.57pm The other station at Sheringham. The Bittern Line's spartan platform and terminus. 28.7.09 12.57pm Looking from the buffer stops across to the NNR's Sheringham station. This is the area which will be re-connected this coming winter. I expect a few people will turn up to witness the first transit by 'Oliver Cromwell' next year. 28.7.09 13.51hrs 5521 makes a difficult start out of Weybourne for Holt. 28.7.09 13.51hrs 5521 gets a grip on its train. 28.7.09 13.51hrs the 1 in 80 climb up Kelling Heath bank. 28.7.09 14.11hrs View from Kelling Heath Halt. Backed by the North Sea, Weybourne church is on the left, the village shelters behind the hill, and Weybourne windmill is on the right. The mill was built in 1729, and ceased milling in the 1930s. So says the notice on the platform. 28.7.09 14.22hrs 5521 descends Kelling Heath bank. 28.7.09 14.22hrs 5521 on Kelling Heath bank. 28.7.09 15h26 5521 arrives in Holt station. Signalling developments here are now complete, allowing intensive working at Gala times. 28.7.09 14.34hrs 6619 pounds up towards Holt. 28.7.09 15h38 5521 runs around at Holt. 28.7.09 Holt. 15.45hrs This brightly painted 'Galloper' plays chirpy music, and is great entertainment for small children. In fact it gives them...... 28.7.09 ....... one helluva ride! Maybe. 28.7.09 15.47hrs Holt. On my previous visits to Holt the weather has been wet and gloomy. Today the sun shone, the Galloper dazzled in the bright light, and this newly restored Colman's Mustard van provides a colourful end to the day's efforts. The Esso tanker also looks good so it seems the NNR is building up a very colourful vintage freight stock, Colmans being very big in nearby Norwich.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Tue Jul 28 2009 Great Central Railway- Mail by Rail Gala. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1731545.html A morning spent at this busy event before the weather deteriorated after lunch. Big attraction was the Fairburn 2-6-4T no.42085 ably supported by 48305, 78019, 30777, D123, D5401 and D 5185. Because of very indifferent light a lot of these shots better in black and white. Sunday 26 July 2009: A morning spent at this busy event before the weather deteriorated after lunch. Big attraction was the Fairburn 2-6-4T no.42085 ably supported by 48305, 78019, 30777, D123, D5401 and D 5185. Because of very indifferent light a lot of these shots better in black and white.

26.7.09 Loughborough. The station pilot 0-6-0 diesel shunter D4067 stands with D5185 and D5409 in platform 2. 26.7.09 Early morning shed scene 2. 26.7.09 Non-participating diesels. 26.7.09 D5185 and D5401 head up the 9.15am departure. 26.7.09 The two class 2s rumble out of Loughborough with the 9.15am service. 26.7.09 78019 and 48305 on a coupled light-engime movement. 48305 is to collect the windcutters from Quorn sidings. 26.7.09 78019 and 48305 depart for Quorn. 26.7.09 First sight of this fine locomotive other than in the shed. 26.7.09 42085 reverses back to the station. 26.7.09 42085 with the 10.00am departure for Leicester North. 26.7.09 48305 brings the windcutters in from Quorn. 26.7.09 48305 with the mineral train. 26.7.09 After some delay D123 sets off with the TPO train. 26.7.09 30777 Sir Lamiel heads out of Loughborough with the 10.45am departure. 26.7.09 42085 returns to Loughborough with a service from Leicester North. 26.7.09 42085 pauses for refreshments. 26.7.09 42085 made an impressive run with the mail drop train. 26.7.09 42085 roars past Quorn with the TPO train. 26.7.09 78019 departs Quorn past the 1930s wooden-bodied Gresley mail coaches. 26.7.09 A very hurried shot of the Peak D123 on the mineral train at Quorn. 26.7.09 30777 approaches Quorn with the 13.00hrs service out of Loughborough. 26.7.09 With steam to spare 30777 slows for Quorn station. 26.7.09 42085 passes Quorn with the mineral wagons. By now rain threatened, and as the light was already indifferent I called it a day. 26.7.09 Early morning shed scene 1 26.7.09 A second LMS inspection saloon has appeared on the railway. 26.7.09 The dmu on the shuttle to Quorn just prior to the TPO run. 26.7.09 D5491 and D5185 arrive with a train from Leicester North. 26.7.09 The dmu returns from Quorn. 26.7.09 30777 accelerates away from Loughborough. I had the impression the engine is being driven quite gently, as the usual vigourous bark of its exhaust was somewhat muted. 26.7.09 D5185 and D5491 emerge from Loughborough station. 26.7.09 TPO stock in platform 2.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Sun Jul 26 2009 A day of excursions on the ECML. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1731160.html Electric-hauled and steam-hauled trains and other services on the ECML. Flamboyant Charters 87002 southbound, UK Railtours 92017, and Transport Trust 60019 'Bittern' northbound at Sandy in the morning, and 60019 southbound at Offord Cluny in the evening. Super sunny conditions. Saturday 25 July 2009: Electric-hauled and steam-hauled trains and other services on the ECML. Flamboyant Charters 87002 southbound, UK Railtours 92017, and Transport Trust 60019 'Bittern' northbound at Sandy in the morning, and 60019 southbound at Offord Cluny in the evening. Super sunny conditions.

25.7.09 7.54am 87002 southbound at Sandy. Flamboyant Charters Doncaster-Brighton trip. 25.7.09 8.25am. Northbound Grand Central at Sandy. 43067. 25.7.09 9.07am Northbpound 365 local KX-Peterborough, at Sandy. 365510 at rear. 25.7.09 9.11am.92017 passing Sandy. UK Railtours 'Bridlington Seaside Special' electric-hauled KX-York. 25.7.09 9.11am. Northbound 92017 passing Sandy. UK Railtours. 25.7.0. 9.33am.Northbound KX-Peterbrough 317341 at Sandy. Refurbished now, I used to commute on these in their original form. Designed for maximum discomfort. 25.7.09 9.50am Southbound 43238 in new livery. 25.7.09 9.50am 43319 at rear of southbound HST. 25.7.09 9.58am. 43277 southbound. 25.7.09 10.12am. Northbound Hull Trains 180113. Sandy. 25.7.09 10.12am. Northbound class 180 at Sandy. 25.7.09 10.16 am. Southbound Peterborough-KX approaching Sandy. 365510. 25.7.09 10.21am 60019 'Bittern' with the extra water tender on the down slow north of Sandy. 25.7.09 10.21am. 60019 on the down slow, Sandy. headboard 'The Brighton Belle'. 25.7.09 10.21am. 60019 at Sandy. 25.7.09 10.21am View of the second tender. 25.7.09 19.01hrs. At Offord Cluny.365522 southbound local for KX. 25.7.09 19.11hrs. Offord Cluny, Northbound 43302. 25.7.09 19.20hrs. Offord Cluny. 60019 'Bittern' on the up slow. 25.7.09 19.20hrs. 60019 at Offord Cluny. 25.7.09 19.20hrs. 60019 at Offord Cluny. 25.7.09 19.20hrs. Lovely evening sunshine at Offord Cluny as 60019 passes rather sedately on the up slow. 25.7.09 19.20hrs. 60019 at Offord Cluny. 25.7.09 Garish mixture of stock on this train.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Sat Jul 25 2009 Wicksteed Park, Kettering. Annual Steam Event in the Park. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1724863.html The 2ft gauge railway held its annual steam event over this weekend. Visitors from the Leighton Buzzard Narrow Gauge Railway were VBT 'Chaloner' and 0-4-0ST 'Peter Pan'. Another VBT- replica 'Paddy' from Daventry also starred. Sunday 12 July 2009: The 2ft gauge railway held its annual steam event over this weekend. Visitors from the Leighton Buzzard Narrow Gauge Railway were VBT 'Chaloner' and 0-4-0ST 'Peter Pan'. Another VBT- replica 'Paddy' from Daventry also starred.

12.7.09 Visitors from LBNGR- Diesel shunter 'Creepy' and VBT 'Chaloner'. 'Creepy' was not in action. So named because it was designed to move at very slow speeds being a shunter for ammunition trains. 12.7.09 Unfortunately 'Chaloner' failed the previous day. As it is near the end of its boiler certificate this could be the last sight of it for some time. 12.7.09 VBT 'Paddy' takes on water between duties. 12.7.09 0-4-0ST 'Peter Pan', also from the LBNGR, arrives back at the station after a trip around the park. 12.7.09 'Peter Pan' at the station. Once crowds built up trains ran every 15 minutes. 12.7.09 One of the steam-powered launches on view. It had been tried on the lake, but that is clogged badly with weed making regular operation impossible. Some thing to sort out for next year?? 12.7.09 Close-up of the engine. 12.7.09 'Paddy' ready to reverse into the station for the next train. 12.7.09 'Paddy' reverses to the station yard. 12.7.09 'Peter Pan' sets off on its next trip round the picturesque park. 12.7.09 'Paddy' and 'Peter Pan' seen from across the lake. 12.7.09 The weed-clogged lake is very apparent here. 12.7.09 'Paddy' leads 'Peter Pan' across the weir. 12.7.09 Across the weir. 12.7.09 Another view across the lake. The sun does its bit at last. 12.7.09 Rounding the sharp curve at the lake's end. 12.7.09 'Paddy' is opened up as the curve is rounded. 12.7.09 The engines may be small but the enjoyment of steam is no less. 12.7.09 'Paddy' and 'Peter Pan' on the last stretch of line. 12.7.09 Climbing to the station. 12.7.09 Climbing to the station. 12.7.09 Three steam launches on display. The NVR has ideas for something similar when there is a mooring at Yarwell. 12.7.09 'Chaloner' and 'King Arthur'. 'King Arthur' is a steam outline 0-6-0 Baguley diesel- why photograph it? I used to come here on Sunday School outings in the late 1940's and a few trips behind 'King Arthur' was the highlight of the day. Today it is not powerful enough for the present rolling stock, and spends its retirement on light shunting duties. 12.7.09 'Paddy' gets another top-up of water. 12.7.09 'Pater Pan' goes it alone on this trip. 12.7.09 Steam Transport Group, Daventry, Atkinson Gardner 240 lorry alongside 'Paddy'. The name 'Borderer' is also on the grille of the lorry.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Sun Jul 12 2009 Nene Valley Railway. Photos taken during July, August, and September 2009. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1724512.html A collection for photos of the NVR during July, August, and September 2009. 11.7.09 Deltic D9009 'Alycidon' in action during the Vintage weekend. 18.7.09 Mixed Traction Day with 73050 and Class 40 D306 'Atlantic Conveyor' in action at Wansford. 4.8.09 73050 at Ferry Meadows. 9.8.09 73050 near Castor. 26.8.09 73050 at bridge 56, Wansford. 20.9.09 Stanton no.50 at Wansford. 23.9.09 Shed scenes at Wansford. 27.9.09 Railway defended by German troops at the 1940's event Saturday 11 July 2009: A collection for photos of the NVR during July, August, and September 2009. 11.7.09 Deltic D9009 'Alycidon' in action during the Vintage weekend. 18.7.09 Mixed Traction Day with 73050 and Class 40 D306 'Atlantic Conveyor' in action at Wansford. 4.8.09 73050 at Ferry Meadows. 9.8.09 73050 near Castor. 26.8.09 73050 at bridge 56, Wansford. 20.9.09 Stanton no.50 at Wansford. 23.9.09 Shed scenes at Wansford. 27.9.09 Railway defended by German troops at the 1940's event

11.7.09 Stoneblower machine in Wansford sidings. 11.7.09 Network Rail Stoneblower machine at Wansford. It is here for a few weeks for the mutual benefit of Network Rail trainees and the NVR track. 11.7.09 D9009 departs with the 12.00 service for Peterborough NV on a dull afternoon. 11.7.09 D9009 'Alycidon'. The clag outdoes steam. 11.7.09 D9009 'Alycidon' heads away to Peterborough NV. with the DSB stock. 14.7.09 Network Rail Stoneblower machine being used for training purposes at Wansford. 18.7.09 D306 departs Wansford for Yarwell with the first train of the day. 18.7.09 D306 departs Wansford for Peterborough NV. D306 is making a rare appearance in the sunshine. 18.7.09 73050 in Wansford station preparing to take over the next service. 18.7.09 73050 reverses over the River Nene. 18.7.09 73050 across the R.Nene. 18.7.09 73050 moves forward to the signalbox. 18.7.09 D306 returns from Peterborough with the Mark 1 stock. 18.7.09 D306 about to cross the River Nene. 18.7.09 D306 about to pass the waiting 73050. 18.7.09 73050 moves forward to Wansford station. 18.7.09 73050 moves forward across the River Nene. 4.8.09 73050 arrives at Ferry Meadows with the 11.41am service to Wansford. 9.8.09 73050 between Ferry Meadows and Castor, on a hot sunny day during the Ferry Meadows Festival. 26.8.09 Standard 5 4-6-0 no.73050 crosses bridge no.56 at Wansford with a service from Peterborough NV. 20.9.09 0-6-0DE 'Stanton 50' newly-restored in Wansford yard. 23.9.09 Shed scene at wansford. 37518, 50008 and D9009. Shed scene at Wansford. 37518, 50008, D9009 and 73050 under test after repairs. 27.9.09 The German defenders hear of the airborne assault and take up defensive positions. 27.9.09 First contact is made with the enemy. 27.9.09 A fierce exchange of fire. 27.9.09 The invaders launch an assault. 27.9.09 Much smoke and explosion. 27.9.09 The Germans take advantage of the smoke screen and launch a flanking movement. 27.9.09 The ever-present Thomas spoils the effect of this shot as the defenders advance. 27.9.09 The assault is beaten back. 27.9.09 The defenders gain the upper hand. 27.9.09 Some German casualties. 27.9.09 Outside the station Germans are everywhere and seem to be in control of the 137 service to Streatham Hill. 27.9.09 Victorious German troops.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Sat Jul 11 2009 70013 'Oliver Cromwell' on 'The Yorkshireman' at Lidlington and near Wing Tunnel. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1724262.html Recording the passage of 70013 over the Bletchley-Bedford line was a must for me as I grew up hereabouts. The forecast of 'cloud' should have been 'very low cloud and misty drizzle'. As I drove to Lidlington the Airship hangers at Cardington were barely visible in the mist. Saturday 11 July 2009: Recording the passage of 70013 over the Bletchley-Bedford line was a must for me as I grew up hereabouts. The forecast of 'cloud' should have been 'very low cloud and misty drizzle'. As I drove to Lidlington the Airship hangers at Cardington were barely visible in the mist.

11.7.09 06h57 150124 descends the bank into Lidlington with a Bedford service. 11.7.09 07h06 About 10 mins early 70013 'Oliver Cromwell' rounds the curve towards Lidlington. 11.7.09 07h06 70013 near Lidlington. 11.7.09 07h06 70013 near Lidlington in the drizzle. 11.7.09 07h06 70013 at Lidlington. 11.7.09 06h52 153364 departs Lidlington station for Bletchley. 11.7.09 07h06 70013 approaching Lidlington station. This and the next portrait photo taken by my daughter. 11.7.09 07h06 70013 at Lidlington station. 11.7.09 09h19 Still in good time 70013 hammers up the gradient towards Wing tunnel. 11.7.09 09h19 70013 approaching Wing tunnel. 11.7.09 09h19 70013 near Wing tunnel. 11.7.09 19h41, and about 10 minutes down. Clearly making up lost time 70013 roars round the curve towards Glaston tunnel with the return trip from York. No time to get the tunnel entrance shot here. Light conditions were not too good in this shady place.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Sat Jul 11 2009 North Norfolk Railway. Quad-Arts Week. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1723657.html 9.7.09 NNR's red timetable this week. 69621 and 65462 in action, plus the diesel railbus E79960. 21.6.09 Also 2 photos of 'Ring Haw' taken whilst passing through Sheringham on a non-railway visit. Thursday 9 July 2009: 9.7.09 NNR's red timetable this week. 69621 and 65462 in action, plus the diesel railbus E79960. 21.6.09 Also 2 photos of 'Ring Haw' taken whilst passing through Sheringham on a non-railway visit.

21.6.09 Passing through Sheringham stopped to catch 'Ring Haw' 0-6-0ST on the first train of the day. It may have been the longest day of the year but the sun did not shine. 21.6.09 'Ring Haw' departs Sheringham. Originally from the Nassington Quarries just beyond the western end of the NVR, its sister engine 'Jacks Green' is a static exhibit at Wansford. The names come from small copses in the Nassington area. 9.7.09 J15 no.65462 near Weybourne. 9.7.09 65462 near the outer home signal at Weybourne. 9.7.09 65462 moves forward into Weybourne. 9.7.09 69621 is now facing Sheringham after its trip to the Mid-Norfolk line. Here leaving Weybourne for Sheringham. 9.7.09 69621 out of Weybourne. 9.7.09 N7/4 69621 out of Weybourne. 9.7.09 N7 0-6-2T no.69621 arrives at Weybourne with the first tarin of the day. 9.7.09 The destination board on the carriage shows 'Letchworth'. 9.7.09 69621 waits for the right away at Weybourne. The first train of the day usually calls at this platform when there is a 2 train service. 9.7.09 69621 departs Weybourne on the 1 in 80 of Kelling bank. 9.7.09 65462 passing Deadmans bridge on its way to Sheringham. 9.7.09 65462 opens up in Deadman's cutting to charge up the incline to Weybourne. 9.7.09 65462 in Deadman's cutting. 9.7.09 69621 on bridge 303. 9.7.09 69621 approaching Deadman's cutting. 9.7.09 The 4-wheel diesel railbus E79960 is scheduled to run the last 2 services of the day. Here on Weybourne shed. 9.7.09 65462 about to depart Sheringham. 9.7.09 65462 departing Sheringham as the signalman hands over the token. 9.7.09 Interior of the non-operative museum signal box Sheringham East. I think it used to control the road crossing soon to be re-joined to the national network. 9.7.09 69621 arrives at Sheringham with the quad-arts. 9.7.09 69621 into Sheringham. 9.7.09 69621 into Sheringham. 9.7.09 69621 stands in Sheringham station as heavy rain clouds gather over the Holt end of the line. 9.7.09 69621 departs Holt past the new signal installations. 9.7.09 69621 out of Holt in the tail end of a heavy downpour. 9.7.09 Quad-Arts in the rain. One day the sun will shine when I have a camera at Holt. 9.7.09 Final view of the quad-arts, star of the show today.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Thu Jul 9 2009 Great Central Railway. 4-BIG Weekend. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1721788.html A short visit to the GCR to see the 4-BIG set no.7059, and the N2, which unfortunately was not in steam. 78019 and 48305 on the trains with the 4-BIG propelled by 33116. I think the diesel in action was D 5401. Sunday 5 July 2009: A short visit to the GCR to see the 4-BIG set no.7059, and the N2, which unfortunately was not in steam. 78019 and 48305 on the trains with the 4-BIG propelled by 33116. I think the diesel in action was D 5401.

5.7.09 Disappointed to find the tender-first 8F no.48305 on the next train into Quorn. 5.7.09 The dmu leaves Quorn for Loughborough. 5.7.09 All action as the 4-BIG 7059 arrives at Quorn passing the dmu. A cloud passed by the sun just as I pressed the tit, so this is unexpectedly backlit. 5.7.09 As one goes another arrives. 5.7.09 33116 at the rear (north) end of the 4-BIG. 5.7.09 In the sidings at Quorn. Built 2008 presumably to carry awkward loads within gauge. Buffers only at one end so presumably part of a rake. See photo of the wagons at Loughborough. 5.7.09 The usual dmu first train of the day arrives at Quorn. 5.7.09 With a small grunt from the exhaust the dmu departs Quorn for Rothley. It does not usually belch fumes until it passes the signalbox. 5.7.09 33116 takes the 4-BIG back to Loughborough, 5.7.09 Today the diesels produce more clag than the steam power. 5.7.09 8F no.48305 departs Quorn with steam to spare. 5.7.09 The busy 4-BIG returns through Quorn station. 5.7.09 7059 about to depart Quorn for Rothley. This was the first run after the official launch ceremony at Loughborough. SR codes are a mystery to me so I had to google to find that BIG means Buffet Brighton stock.4 car.Outer suburban. 5.7.09 33116 at the rear of the 4-BIG, 5.7.09 8F 48305 on a DALEX run at Quorn. 5.7.09 48305 on a DALEX run at Quorn. 5.7.09 Interior of one of the 4-BIG carriages. Others are upholstered in blue. 5.7.09 The 4-BIG in platform 1 Loughborough.. 5.7.09 In the siding at Loughborough. Network Rail's tilting wagons, designed to carry points. 5.7.09 The 4-BIG on another run passes rolling stock from the big 4. 5.7.09 The 4-BIG storms out of Loughborough- Well you have make it sound exciting. 5.7.09 78019 runs around at Loughborough- not a hint of smoke. 5.7.09 My first view of the N2. It will visit the North Norfolk Rly and be matched with the teak quad-arts at their Autumn Steam Gala. 5.7.09 GCR and GNR. 5.7.09 48305 on another DALEX run. 5.7.09 78019 on the 1.15pm dining train. 5.7.09 48305 leaves on another DALEX, and I leave to see the tennis final.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Sun Jul 5 2009 60019 'Bittern' a.m. and p.m. at Sandy, and NVR Rail Mail event with 73050 and D 9009 'Alycidon'. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1721363.html 60019 northbound at Sandy, the NVR Rail Mail event with D9009 on the postal rake, apparently for the first time in 38 years, and 60019 returning near Sandy in the evening. Saturday 4 July 2009: 60019 northbound at Sandy, the NVR Rail Mail event with D9009 on the postal rake, apparently for the first time in 38 years, and 60019 returning near Sandy in the evening.

4.7.09 8h19. 60019 'Bittern' passes Sandy on time as it heads north to Doncaster and York. Glorious morning sunshine, but too warm already for exhaust effects. 4.7.09 8h19. 60019 heads north past Sandy Industrial Estate. 4.7.09 Nene Valley Railway Rail Mail event. D 9009 prepares for its first duty on the TPO stock. 4.7.09 D9009 backs towards the station. 4.7.09 10h18. D9009 into Wansford past the LNWR box. 4.7.09 73050 collects the Mark 1 stock and moves towards Wansford station. 4.7.09 10h44. D9009 roars out to Orton Mere with the TPO train. Apparently 38 years since a Deltic hauled such stock. 4.7.09 D9009 rolls non-stop through Wansford on its run from Orton Mere to Yarwell, passing both the TPO exchange apparatus points en route. 4.7.09 D9009 heads to Yarwell. 4.7.09 31190 (D5613) and 56114 on Wansford shed. Hanson Traction renovation work. 4.7.09 73050 emerges from the 600 yard Wansford tunnel on an afternoon train to Yarwell. 4.7.09 14h51. 73050 runs around at Yarwell. 4.7.09 D9009 and the TPO arrive at Yarwell. 4.7.09 15h12. D9009 and the TPO near the Yarwell exchange apparatus. 4.7.09 D9009 'Alycidon' reverses to make a series of mail bag exchange runs past Yarwell apparatus. 4.7.09 D9009 about to make a TPO run. 4.7.09 D9009 belches impressively as it commences its TPO run. 4.7.09 D9009 on a TPO run. 4.7.09 D9009 seen from over Wansford tunnel. The TPO apparatus is on the left past the brick hut- Hallett's Halt. 4.7.09 19h47. Southbound 365 no.365511 approaches Sandy. 4.7.09 19h52. On a sunny summer's evening 60019 rolls its train easily and on time towards Sandy. It is about to pass over to the slow line. 4.7.09 19h52. Shortly after the passage of 60019 this northbound container train arrived. 66078.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Sat Jul 4 2009 Keighley and Worth Valley Railway. Summer Steam Gala 26-28 June 09. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1718600.html A first visit to this wonderful railway, it certainly will not be my last- (and my first venture into Yorkshire since I was served a hot pork pie at the Kirklees Light Railway at 1.17pm on 20th May 2006. As a hard southener I eat pork pies cold, chips without gravy, and will venture on to any moor without a hat). The KWVR packs everything into its 5 mile length, and the shuttle to Settle was worth every penny. Thanks to everyone involved. Home fleet- 85, 967, 1704, 41241, 47279, 80002, 90733. Visitors- 5690, 63601, and diesel 37516. Sunday 28 June 2009: A first visit to this wonderful railway, it certainly will not be my last- (and my first venture into Yorkshire since I was served a hot pork pie at the Kirklees Light Railway at 1.17pm on 20th May 2006. As a hard southener I eat pork pies cold, chips without gravy, and will venture on to any moor without a hat). The KWVR packs everything into its 5 mile length, and the shuttle to Settle was worth every penny. Thanks to everyone involved. Home fleet- 85, 967, 1704, 41241, 47279, 80002, 90733. Visitors- 5690, 63601, and diesel 37516.

26.6.09 11h55 WD 2-8-0 no.90733 makes a fine start out of Keighley. 26.6.09 11h55 90733 out of Keighley. 26.6.09 11h55 90733 out of Keighley. 26.6.09 11h59 No.1704 'Nunlow' shunts the vintage shuttle stock. 26.6.09 12h00 1704 with the shuttle to Ingrow West. 26.6.09 12h06 LMS Jinty 47279 on shunting duty. 26.6.09 12h07 Comparison of 1704 and 47279. 26.6.09 12h18 A familiar face from the GCR, 63601 rolls down to Keighley station, with 0-6-2T no.85. 26.6.09 12h23 0-6-0T 'Nunlow' departs Keighley in what was the last of the sunshine for some time. 26.6.09 14h45 Haworth station. 26.6.09 14h51 L and Y class 25 no 957 and 0-6-2T no.85 approach Haworth. 26.6.09 14h53 The mixed vintage stock in Haworth station. GNR 6-wheeler next to a Southern coach. 26.6.09 Vintage bus outside Haworth station. I know nothing of buses but a visit to the Aire Valley Transport Group website reveals that this is an AEC Regent III/Park Royal HLW159 built 1947 for London Transport. Sold on to Bradford it worked between 1958 to 1968 before going into preservation. Seen here in Bradford City Transport colours, no.410. Narrow destination layout and roof box for number. Seating capacity 56- 30 upper, 26 lower. Have a look at the AVTG website gallery for photos of the interior and other details. So now I know. 26.6.09 15h04 Ivatt 2-6-2T no.41241. For 7 years in the early 1950's one of this type propelled me to school. My first sight of one since then. Great moment. 26.6.09 15h04 41241 outside Haworth shed. 26.6.09 15h18 ex -Taff Vale 0-6-2T no.85 arrives at Haworth. 26.6.09 15h21 Built 1899. No.85 departs Haworth. 26.6.09 16h28 Soon to fail with superheater element problems O4 no.63601 rolls into Oakworth. 26.6.09 16h36 47270 and 90733 arrive at Oakworth. 26.6.09 16h38 47279 and 90733 make a steady start out of Oakworth, in the early evening gloom. 26.6.09 19h10 I was fascinated by this view of Haworth shed. Just like it used to be. 26.6.09 19h10 One of my favourites L and Y class 25 no.957 (BR no.52044). 26.6.09 19h11 The O4 is about to be failed. 26.6.09 19h15 41241 with plenty of steam but no duty until tomorrow. 26.6.09 19h54 Because of poor light I gave up on the arrival of Leander and moved away, so the engine promptly appeared. These 3 shots of it turned out better than hoped for. 26.6.09 19h54 5690 and support coach arrive at Haworth. 26.6.09 19h56 5690 Haworth. About to go on shed for the night. 27.6.09 07h45 Early morning on Haworth shed. Leander had already gone down to Keighley for the shuttles. 27.6.09 08h02 Not the best place to snap the engineers train and 80002, which sounded in fine form. 27.6.09 08h02 80002 powers through Haworth with the engineer's train. 27.6.09 08h09 Early morning, Haworth. 27.6.09 08h11 90733 and 63601. Plenty of smoke out of the O4 but it had already been failed. 27.6.09 08h12 85 and 957, Haworth shed. 27.6.09 08h12 85 and 47279, Haworth shed. 27.6.09 08h14 957 reverses to the coaling point. 27.6.09 08h14 957 gets a top-up of coal. 27.6.09 08h20 Cab shot of 957. 27.6.09 08h20 957. Built 1887, so a sepia shot to match. 27.6.09 08h22 As a 1950s spotter in the south-east, never got to see these. One of my favourites in its original livery. 27.6.09 10h12 957 and 85 approach Haworth. 27.6.09 10h12 957, with 85 behind, at Haworth. 27.6.09 10h19 Oxenhope, and the old gentleman's saloon. Reflections spoil the shot, but the person seen through the rear window travels up from Hampshire as part of the restoration team and spent much time telling me of the vehicle history. Thanks. 27.6.09 10h24 Oxenhope. 85 and 957 run around. Time to board the train and catch the shuttle from Keighley to Settle Junction behind Leander. 27.6.09 11h22 Keighley. 957 and 85. 27.6.09 11h24 90733 Keighley. 27.6.09 11h25 Keighley general view. 27.6.09 11h30 90733 makes a steady start out of Keighley, now for the trip to Settle... 27.6.09 11h35 37615 brings the first shuttle back to Keighley. 27.6.09 11h46 A hurried shot in the crowd, trying to avoid all the arms and elbows. No avoiding the hi-viz merchants opposite. Videomen, they think they own long stretches of track, and should know better. 27.6.09 11h46 Another go at the shot but steam drifted up this time.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Sun Jun 28 2009 Nene Valley Railway. Deltic 9009 'Alycidon' arrives for the summer season from Barrow Hill. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1716560.html Deltic 9009 was towed today 23.6.09 from Barrow Hill by 66722 'Sir Edward Watkin' to the Nene Valley Railway for the summer season. The engine will stay until just after the NVR Diesel Gala 4/5 October 09. 24.6.09 For a few weeks at this time of year the evening sun sets north of the NVR. A small collection of photos after the day's work in Wansford yard. Tuesday 23 June 2009: Deltic 9009 was towed today 23.6.09 from Barrow Hill by 66722 'Sir Edward Watkin' to the Nene Valley Railway for the summer season. The engine will stay until just after the NVR Diesel Gala 4/5 October 09. 24.6.09 For a few weeks at this time of year the evening sun sets north of the NVR. A small collection of photos after the day's work in Wansford yard.

23.6.09 15h24 66722 tows Deltic 9009 Marholm. 23.6.09 14h41 66724 'Drax Power Station' southbound Marholm. 23.6.09 14h47 66724 Marholm 23.6.09 16h00 66722 and 9009 'Alycidon' arrive on NVR metals at Orton Mere. 23.6.09 16h01 66722 and 9009 head for Wansford. 23.6.09 15h10 Grand Central southound Marholm. 43068 23.6.09 15h11 170521 southbound Marholm 23.6.09 16h18 Deltic 9009 'Alycidon' crosses a busy River Nene. 23.6.09 16h20 66722 and 9009 pause by Wansford box. 23.6.09 16h21 9009 'Alycidon' crosses into Wansford station. 23.6.09 16h26 9009 'Alycidon' is parked in the siding. 23.6.09 16h39 66722 returns to the big railway. 24.6.09 Deltic no.9009 'Alycidon' in Wansford yard. 24.6.09 A variety of diesels here. 2 x 31,a 37, a 50, a 55, a 47, and diesel shunter 'Barabel'. 24.6.09 Hudswell Clark 0-6-0T no.1800, formerly from British Sugar Corp., Peterborough, has recently been overhauled. More commonly known as no.1 'Thomas' it is ready for the Thomas birthday party this coming weekend. May the kids enjoy it. 24.6.09 Standard class 5MT 73050 cools down in the yard after its day's work. 24.6.09 Another glimpse of 9009 'Alycidon' in the yard. 24.6.09 The front view of the old station building, Wansford. Architect J.Livock. The NVR hopes to acquire this for a heritage centre, much needed here.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Tue Jun 23 2009 FirstGBRf/Nene Valley Railway Help for Heroes Event. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1714698.html 19.6.09 Arrival on the NVR of 66723 'Chinook' and 73207 plus 325Postal 325002 for the event. 20.6.09 Photos from the morning of 66723 and 73207 in action, plus the Spitfire and Hurricane over Oundle carnival. Friday 19 June 2009: 19.6.09 Arrival on the NVR of 66723 'Chinook' and 73207 plus 325Postal 325002 for the event. 20.6.09 Photos from the morning of 66723 and 73207 in action, plus the Spitfire and Hurricane over Oundle carnival.

20.6.09 The Postal325 unit no.325002 at Orton Mere 20.6.09 73207 departs Orton Mere for Peterborough NV. 20.6.09 66723 at the rear. Longueville Junction. 20.6.09 The Postal325 and 66723 at Orton Mere. 20.6.09 66723 departs Orton Mere. 20.6.09 66723 Orton Mere. 20.6.09 73207 at the rear. 20.6.09 66723 in Wansford station. 20.6.09 66723 in Wansford station. 20.6.09 The faceless and chimneyless Thomas in Wansford yard. 19.6.09 19h59 66723 leads 73207 and postal325 from Longueville Jct. into Orton Mere. 19.6.09 Sentinel DL83 scuttles across the bridge at Wansford. 19.6.09 20h29 66723, 73207 and postal325 arrive at Wansford. 19.6.09 20h29. 66723, 73207. The sun was low down on the northern side, but there is no angle there except for the field across the river. 19.6.09 Postal325 no.325002 in Wansford station. 19.6.09 66723 and 73207, with 73050 on the shed. 19.6.09 66723 moves through the yard to platform 5. 19.6.09 73207 and the postal unit. 19.6.09 20h44 73050 catches the last few rays of the setting sun. 19.6.09 20h47. 66723 in platform 5 Wansford. 19.6.09 20h47. 20.6.09 15h01 The Spitfire and Hurricane from the BBMF flew over Orton Mere but these not very good shots were taken as the fighters made passes over the Oundle carnival. 20.6.09 15h01 At Oundle carnival. Their arrival coincided with a heavy raincloud. 20.6.09 15h01 At Oundle carnival. I do not have the equipment for this type of photography. 20.6.09 15h02 At Oundle carnival. 20.6.09 15h02 At Oundle carnival. The Lancaster was expected as well but did not show, so the action was faster than anticipated.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Fri Jun 19 2009 Rushden Historical Transport Society. 50th Anniversary of withdrawal of passenger services on the Rushden-Higham Ferrers Branch 13.6.1959 http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1711671.html On 13.6.1959 passenger services were withdrawn on the Rushden-Higham Ferrers Branch, although the line lasted as freight only for about another 10 years. The Society is to be congratulated on running an inaugural passenger train over a short stretch of track exactly 50 years to the day after passenger services ended. Class 31 no.31206 and Andrew Barclay 0-4-0ST 'Edmundsons' did the honours. Saturday 13 June 2009: On 13.6.1959 passenger services were withdrawn on the Rushden-Higham Ferrers Branch, although the line lasted as freight only for about another 10 years. The Society is to be congratulated on running an inaugural passenger train over a short stretch of track exactly 50 years to the day after passenger services ended. Class 31 no.31206 and Andrew Barclay 0-4-0ST 'Edmundsons' did the honours.

13.6.09 This history of the line has been updated and reprinted. 13.6.09 Class 31 no.31206 returns to Rushden station with the very first train, carrying the Mayor of Rushden and other local worthies. 13.6.09 The former Midland railway station at Rushden, HQ of the Society, and a museum. 13.6.09 Another view of Rushden station with Barclay 0-4-0 diesel shunter no.363 and Royal Mail tenders. 13.6.09 Andrew Barclay 0-4-0ST 'Edmundsons' with a demonstration freight. Built 1949. 15A Wellingborough shedplate. 13.6.09 'Edmundsons' and 31206 at Rushden. 13.6.09 The Barclay 0-4-0 diesel shunter no.363 and TPO stock. 13.6.09 31206 and 'Edmundsons'. 13.6.09 Health and Safety all round as 31206 draws into the platform. 13.6.09 31206 stands in Rushden station. 13.6.09 31206 awaits its next trip. 13.6.09 Rooms in the station building are packed with railwayana of local interest. 13.6.09 The booking office. 13.6.09 Old road signs from the 1950s. 13.6.09 A fine collection of advertisements in the station entrance. 13.6.09 More advertisements in the station entrance. I particularly remember 'Palethorpes Sausages' from the 1950s which were advertised all over the LMS and no doubt elsewhere. 13.6.09 More railwayana including 84007 smokebox plate. This 2-6-2T worked the last passenger service. 13.6.09 'Edmundsons'. 13.6.09 'Edmundsons' bursts into life. 13.6.09 31206 on the shuttle. 13.6.09 31206 on the shuttle. 13.6.09 The frontage of the Midland station, Rushden. 13.6.09 Locally restored 1937 Gresley LNER buffet car serves as a tea room.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Sat Jun 13 2009 Nord De Glehn 4-6-0. Further photos of the journey in France to Longueville. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1710995.html M.Bernard Neveux of Ajecta has kindly forwarded photos of the Nord and its journey in France 14-18 May to Longueville, where it will be restored for main line running in France. Thursday 11 June 2009: M.Bernard Neveux of Ajecta has kindly forwarded photos of the Nord and its journey in France 14-18 May to Longueville, where it will be restored for main line running in France.

090518 Arrival t the depot, Longueville 14h09. 090513 The Nord on Andrew Goodman's transporter on Cherbourg quay. 21h40. 090513 The Nord being moved to the French transporter at Cherbourg.23h20. 090514 0h34 The Nord being transferred at Cherbourg. 090515 The Nord in the streets of Rouen. 19h49 090518 The Nord arrives at Longueville. 13h33. 090518 14h22 Problem for the transporter on the curve and incline at Longueville depot. 090518 16h29 The yellow Renault gives assistance. 090518 16h46 Into the depot at last. 090518 The Nord runs on to French rails after 38 years in UK. 090518. 19h31 On French rails. 090518 19h40 The new owners pose proudly with their locomotive.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Thu Jun 11 2009 60007 at Banbury, and a visit to Didcot Railway Centre- all in heavy rain. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1708776.html An exploratory trip to Banbury combined with a visit to Didcot Railway Centre which the weather did its best to frustrate. A first visit to Didcot in the preservation era- I went in the 1950s with a Kodak Brownie and 'bashed' the shed so pleasant memories here despite the rain. A grainy set of shots but an enjoyable day out. 3650, 3738, and 5322 in steam. Saturday 6 June 2009: An exploratory trip to Banbury combined with a visit to Didcot Railway Centre which the weather did its best to frustrate. A first visit to Didcot in the preservation era- I went in the 1950s with a Kodak Brownie and 'bashed' the shed so pleasant memories here despite the rain. A grainy set of shots but an enjoyable day out. 3650, 3738, and 5322 in steam.

6.6.09 28xx class no. 3822 in the pouring rain. 6.6.09 60007 'Sir Nigel Gresley' is coaled by Banbury station in the driving rain. 6.6.09 A northbound cross-country service arrives at Banbury, platform 2. 6.6.09 Class 47 arrives on time with the excursion from London. I was caught out of position but had no inclination to venture into the rain for this. 6.6.09 Drove out to Claydon with the hope of finding the foot crossing. Northbound Chiltern service. 6.6.09 The farmer had planted wheat over the footpath so I had to settle for a distance shot. 6.6.09 A glimpse of 60007 crossing the road bridge. The offending wheat was nearly waist high and soaking wet. The rain continued to drive across the countryside. 6.6.09 0-6-0ST no.1363, 0-4-0ST no.1338, and 2-8-0 no.3822 at the side of Didcot shed. 6.6.09 4300 class no.5322 getting up steam in the shed. Not scheduled to run today, it nevertheless engaged in shunting duties for most of the afternoon. 6.6.09 Wantage Tramway 0-4-0WT dating from 1857 in the shed. 6.6.09 5900 'Hinderton Hall' in the shed. 6.6.09 B/w shot of Castle Class no 5051 'Earl Bathurst' in recollection of 1950s Kodak days. 6.6.09 5151 'Earl Bathurst' in the driving rain. 6.6.09 Industrial 0-4-0ST built 1949. 6.6.09 0-6-2T no.6697 outside the shed. GWR 5700 class. 6.6.09 Duty engine on the 'main line' shuttle no.3650 at the water column. 6.6.09 0-6-0PT no.3650 about to come off shed for shuttle duties. 6.6.09 6998 'Burton Agnes Hall'. 6.6.09 GWR 4800 class no. 4866 0-4-2T. 6.6.09 0-4-0ST no.1338 ex Cardiff Railway built 1898. 6.6.09 Boiler of King Edward II (I think). 6.6.09 Frames, motion, and cab of the blue King, no 6023 'King Edward II'. 6.6.09 2-6-0 no.5322 emerges from the shed for shunting duties. 6.6.09 5322 slips on the greasy rails. 6.6.09 5322 moves slowly through the shed. 6.6.09 5322 about to collect dead locomotives for storing in the shed. 6.6.09 5998 and 4144 being shunted back into the shed by the diesel shunter. 6.6.09 Diesel shunter no 604 shoves dead locos into the shed. 6.6.09 2-6-0 no.5322 built 1917. 6.6.09 5322 on shunting duty. 6.6.09 5322 moves through the shed. 6.6.09 Scene outside the shed. Power station chimney removed. 6.6.09 Collection of GWR and private owner wagons by the coaling plant. 6.6.09 5322 continues shunting. 6.6.09 0-6-0PT no.3650 on the 'main line' carrying D-Day 65th anniversary board. 6.6.09 3650 arrives at main line platform. 6.6.09 Burlescombe transfer shed with the 2-2-2 broad gauge 'Firefly'. 6.6.09 Broad Gauge 2-2-2 'Firefly'. 6.6.09 Broad gauge 2-2-2 'Firefly'. 6.6.09 Transfer shed interior. 6.6.09 0-6-0PT no.3738 with the branch line shuttle. 6.6.09 Controls of the auto-coach. 6.6.09 Auto-coach interior. Roomy, comfortable. 6.6.09 The auto train about to depart from Didcot Halt. 6.6.09 3738 departing Didcot Halt. 6.6.09 3738 leaves Didcot Halt on another shuttle service. 6.6.09 Avonside 0-4-0ST no.1340 'Trojan'. 6.6.09 3650 reverses from the coaling stage. 6.6.09 5101 class no 4144 together with 5998, 4866 and the industrial saddletank stowed in the shed. 6.6.09 5322 has just shunted 5051 into the shed for the night.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Sat Jun 6 2009 Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway- Cotswold Festival of Steam. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1703478.html A visit to the GWR for the last day of the Cotswold Festival of Steam. 92203, 3440, 5526, 5619, 7903 and 5972 seen in action. Generally sunny day but a steady breeze and fast- moving clouds added an element of chance to the photography. Tuesday 26 May 2009: A visit to the GWR for the last day of the Cotswold Festival of Steam. 92203, 3440, 5526, 5619, 7903 and 5972 seen in action. Generally sunny day but a steady breeze and fast- moving clouds added an element of chance to the photography.

26.5.09 5526 with auto coach no.178 at Toddington. It ran a frequent return service to Winchcombe throughout the day. 26.5.09 Interior of the auto coach. 26.5.09 92203 at Winchcombe 26.5.09 92203 shunts the ballast train at Winchcombe. 26.5.09 My first view of Olton Hall, visiting for this gala. I know nothing of this Potter stuff, and GWR engines should be green or black. 26.5.09 5972 Olton Hall taking on water at Winchcombe 26.5.09 Between trains this low-flying Herc passed nearby. 26.5.09 5526 and auto-train approach Winchcombe. 26.5.09 Auto train. Winchcombe. 26.5.09 92203 departs Winchcombe with the ballast train for Toddington. 26.5.09 5526 and auto train at Winchcombe. 26.5.09 36440 'City of Truro' drifts out of Greet tunnel towards Winchcombe. 26.5.09 5972 'Olton Hall' heads to Cheltenham. 26.5.09 5972 on its way out of Winchcombe. 26.5.09 5972 approaches Greet tunnel. 26.5.09 5526 and auto-train arrive at Winchcombe. 26.5.09 0-6-2T no.5619 arrives at Winchcombe with the ballast train. 26.5.09 5619 at Winchcombe. 26.5.09 5619 with the freight, and 5526 with the auto-train at Winchcombe. 26.5.09 3440 at Toddington. 26.5.09 The rescued Turkish 8F 2-8-0 being restored at Toddington. It is hoped to run it at next year's event. 26.5.09 5619 with the much-travelled ballast at chicken curve. 26.5.09 5619 at chicken curve. 26.5.09 The auto train accelerates up the incline at chicken curve. 26.5.09 Auto train at chicken curve. 26.5.09 3440 rolls down the incline to Winchcombe. 26.5.09 5972 'Olton Hall' at chicken curve. 26.5.09 7903 'Foremark Hall' rolls the freight down the incline towards Winchcombe. 26.5.09 5619 with an afternoon service from Toddington. 26.5.09 5619 descends towards Winchcombe. 26.5.09 92203 at chicken curve with an afternoon service for Toddington. 26.5.09 92203 at the top of the incline. 26.5.09 The auto-train yet again near Winchcombe. 26.5.09 5526 and the auto train near Winchcombe.. 26.5.09 7903 climbs out of Winchcombe with the ballast train. 26.5.09 7903 climbs away from Winchcombe with the ballast train. 26.5.09 7903. Final shot of the afternoon.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Tue May 26 2009 National Tramway Museum, Crich. 50th anniversary weekend,. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1703088.html After a morning at the nearby Peak Rail I spent the afternoon at the Tramway Museum, Crich, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary since inception. Thanks to the tram crews who gave informative talks during stops at passing points. Monday 25 May 2009: After a morning at the nearby Peak Rail I spent the afternoon at the Tramway Museum, Crich, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary since inception. Thanks to the tram crews who gave informative talks during stops at passing points.

25.5.09 Chesterfield no.7 at Red Lion. 25.5.09 Chesterfield no.7 25.5.09 Chesterfield no.7 and Southampton no.45 25.5.09 Paisley no.68 at Country Terminus. 25.5.09 Blackpool toastrack no.166 at Wake Bridge. 25.5.09 Southampton no.45 and Chesterfield no.7 25.5.09 Oporto no.273. Such trams can still be seen in Porto, and at their tram museum. 25.5.09 Oporto no.273 at the country end. Glory Mine. 25.5.09 Blackpool no.166 and Chesterfield no.7. 25.5.09 Side railings being adjusted on no.166. 25.5.09 Nottinghamshire Fire Service, Retford appliance. 25.5.09 Oporto no.273. 25.5.09 VR letterbox. 25.5.09 Blackpool no.166 25.5.09 Southampton no.45 dating from 1903. 25.5.09 Paisley no.68 dating from 1919. 25.5.09 Berlin no.3006 (1969). Metropolitan Electric Tramways no.331 (1930). 25.5.09 Glasgow no.812 (1900). 25.5.09 Trams by night display. Interior of Glasgow no.1115. 25.5.0 Blackpool no.166 at Bowes-Lyon bridge. 25.5.09 Paisley no.68 (1919). Victoria Park. 25.5.09 Blackpool no.166 (1927). Coloured lights on in the gloomy evening light. 25.5.09 Blackpool no.166. Victoria Park. 25.5.09 Chesterfield no.7 (1904). 25.5.09 Dundee no.21 (1894) Amusing notice for top deck passengers. 25.5.09 Sheffield single decker. 25.5.09 Sheffield no 510 and Leeds no.345. 25.5.09 Chesterfield no.8 of 1899. 25.5.09 Interior benches. 25.5.09 Trams by night display. Glsagow no 1115 (1929). 25.5.09 'The Budgie' - Falcon removed from the Brush works at Loughborough ( which made trams). 25.5.09 Portuguese mule-hauled tram from Oporto. 25.5.09 Prague no.180 (1908) 25.5.09 London County Council no.106. (1903).

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Mon May 25 2009 Peak Rail and the launch of the LMS maroon 8F no.8624. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1703086.html First ever visit to Peak Rail in Derbyshire to see 8F no.8624 in LMS maroon. First weekend of steaming. WD 0-6-0ST no.150 also in action on freight trains. Spent the morning only here, then moved on to the Tramway Museum, Crich for the afternoon. Monday 25 May 2009: First ever visit to Peak Rail in Derbyshire to see 8F no.8624 in LMS maroon. First weekend of steaming. WD 0-6-0ST no.150 also in action on freight trains. Spent the morning only here, then moved on to the Tramway Museum, Crich for the afternoon.

25.5.09 The maroon 8F no.8624 moves into Darley Dale station on its way to Rowsley South to collect the stock for the first train of the day. 25.5.09 8624 moves through Darley Dale station. 25.5.09 If the coal bunker backplate and the water equipment had been painted black a la Royal Scot it would not have seemed quite so red. Still, it looks great and hopefully will be cornerstone for development of this line. 25.5.09 8624 runs around at Matlock Riverside. 25.5.09 The maroon 8F no.8624 moves into Darley Dale station past a group of early morning admirers. 25.5.09 Part of the museum display in the Darley Dale station building. 25.5.09 Part of the museum display at Darley Dale station. 25.5.09 8624 near Darley Dale on its way from Matlock Riverside. 25.5.09 B/W shot for those who do not like the maroon 8F. 25.5.09 View towards Darley Dale as WD150 leaves for Matlock Riverside. 25.5.09 J94 0-6-0ST no.68012 waits its turn for restoration in Darley Dale yard. Class 44 D8 'Penyghent' built 1959 is alongside. 25.5.09 WD 150 'Royal Pioneer' waits at Darley Dale with the demonstration train. 25.5.09 WD 150 and 8624 about to pass at Darley Dale station. 25.5.09 WD 150 'Royal Pioneer' gets the road at Darley Dale. Built by Robert Stephenson and Hawthorne 1944. 25.5.09 The token is collected on departure from Darley Dale.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Mon May 25 2009 Cathedrals Express. 60163 northbound at Sandy, 60007 southbound at Essendine. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1701847.html 23.5.09 60163 northbound at Sandy. 23.5.09 60007 southbound at Essendine 50 years after its 112mph run down Stoke bank- a post-war steam speed record. Saturday 23 May 2009: 23.5.09 60163 northbound at Sandy. 23.5.09 60007 southbound at Essendine 50 years after its 112mph run down Stoke bank- a post-war steam speed record.

23.5.09 9.20am 60163 on the down slow at Sandy facing a signal check ahead. 'The Cathedrals Express' KX-York. 23.5.09 9.20am 60163 heads north at Sandy. 23.5.09 19.05hrs 60007 approaches Essendine some 40 mph slower than it did 50 years ago today. 23.5.09 19.05hrs 60007 at Essendine. 'The Golden Jubilee' York-KX. 50 years since its 112 mph post-war speed record.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Sat May 23 2009 Leighton Buzzard Narrow Gauge Railway- WWI weekend. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1701758.html An all-too-brief visit on the morning of 23.5.09 to the LBNGR for their WWI weekend 'Narrow Gauge At War'. 3 engines in steam, on a freight train and a double-headed passenger train. The main running days will be Sunday and Monday. Very enjoyable though short visit. A unique gathering of World War I locomotives from USA, France, Germany and others. Saturday 23 May 2009: An all-too-brief visit on the morning of 23.5.09 to the LBNGR for their WWI weekend 'Narrow Gauge At War'. 3 engines in steam, on a freight train and a double-headed passenger train. The main running days will be Sunday and Monday. Very enjoyable though short visit. A unique gathering of World War I locomotives from USA, France, Germany and others.

23.5.09 10.15am Another view of 'P.C.Allen', built 1912 by Orenstein and Koppel, Berlin. Served in Spain until 1963. 23.5.09 10.25am Visiting from the N.Gloucestershire Narrow Gauge Rly, Toddington, No.1091 built by Henschel 1919. Locos of this type used by the Germans in WWI. 23.5.09 10.25am The baby on the line. Built 1999 for use as shunter and standby engine for the LBNGR. Dorman 112hp diesel engine. 23.5.09 10.30am Beaudesert and no.1091 on shed. 23.5.09 10.31am 0-8-0T no.1091 moves off to collect the freight wagons. 23.5.09 10.35am No.1091 with the hopper wagons. 23.5.09 10.42am Headed by 0-6-0T no.5 the 10.40am service powers out of Pages Park station. 23.5.09 10.42am No.5 and P.C.Allen head the 10.40 service out of Pages Park station. 23.5.09 10.57am Shunting movement with the freight train, the wagons are topped and tailed with these small diesel engines. 23.5.09 10.58am 1091 backs into Pages Park station. 23.5.09 11.23am German Brigadelok type no.1091 backs into Pages Park station. 23.5.09 11.19am The 4-6-0T Baldwin no.778 is drawn out of the shed. No duties for it today. Just back from the Welsh Highland Line. 23.5.09 11.19am 0-6-0T 'Doll' built 1919 by Andrew Barclay Kilmarnock, outside the shed. Last days of its working life spent at Bilston steelworks. 23.5.09 11.19am The oldest engine on the line, 'Challoner' 0-4-0VBT built 1877 for the North Wales slate quarries. 23.5.09 11.19am The Baldwin 4-6-0T and 'Doll' outside the shed. 23.5.09 11.20am A sepia conversion of no.1091 to recall WWI days. 23.5.09 11.20am No.1091 heads off with the freight for Stonehenge Works. 23.5.09 10.15am Visiting French 0-6-0T No.5 heads the 10.40am service. 0-4-0WT P.C Allen behind. 23.5.09 11.24am The fascinating 0-4-0VBT 'Challoner'. 23.5.09 11.25am Born in Philadelphia 1917. 23.5.09 10.46am The mature trees make Pages Park station a very pleasant place. The loco shed on the right. Greedy developers threatened to destroy this spot at one time. Thank God common sense has prevailed, although there is still a threat of urban development on the rural stretch of the line. 23.5.09 11.48am Steam being raised in 'Doll'. 90 years old in August 2009. 23.5.09 11.53am No.5 and P.C.Allen return to Pages Park from Stonehenge works. 23.5.09 11.53am The Nord-Est no.5 glimpsed between the Baldwin and Doll. 23.5.09 11.56am No.5 and 'P.C Allen' at Pages Park. 23.5.09 11.57am Another sepia conversion to commemorate WWI days. 23.5.09 11.58am Gleaming, powerful, and with a piercing whistle, no.5 from Froissy runs around at Pages Park. 23.5.09 11.59am 'P.C.Allen' runs around at Pages Park. 23.5.09 12.17pm A shot to show the hopper wagons. 23.5.09 12.22pm No.5 and 'P.C.Allen' set off with the 12.20pm service for Stonehenge works, as steam is being raised in 'Doll' on the shed. 23.5.09 12.22pm No.5 and 'P.C.Allen'. 23.5.09 12.22pm No.5 and 'P.C.Allen'. 23.5.09 12.25pm Brigadelok no.1091 glimpsed between the Baldwin and Doll. 23.5.09 12.32pm 0-8-0T no.1091 being watered. According to the tank markings 275 litres in each tank. 23.5.09 12.32pm No.1091 being prepared at Pages Park for the next freight run to Stonehenge Works. Unfortunately I did not have time to visit the other end of the line on this visit. Something to save for next time.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Sat May 23 2009 The Nord 4-6-0 in France. The journey from Cherbourg to Longueville. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1699935.html Some small low res. photos taken from the Ajecta website of the journey of the Nord 4-6-0 (or, as the French say - Le ten-wheeler) from Cherbourg to Longueville. Photos by J.Tasma, T.Wagner and P.Berger. For the full story (en francais) and a video of the arrival by road see www.ajecta.org., also the SNCF Society website. Tuesday 19 May 2009: Some small low res. photos taken from the Ajecta website of the journey of the Nord 4-6-0 (or, as the French say - Le ten-wheeler) from Cherbourg to Longueville. Photos by J.Tasma, T.Wagner and P.Berger. For the full story (en francais) and a video of the arrival by road see www.ajecta.org., also the SNCF Society website.

13 and 14 May 2009. After beaurocratic delay in Poole the engine arrived in the evening of 13th May. Transfer of the Nord at Cherbourg from the English to the French transporter was finally concluded at 2.00am on 14th May 2009. En route between Cherbourg and Valognes. The transporter is preceeded by the yellow van in the distance. French transport regulations are more stringent and the journey took several days. Passing through Rouen. Photo taken from a moving car. Photographer unknown. Passing through Rouen. Photographed from a passing car. 18.5.09 Negotiating overhead power lines near Longueville. 18.5.09 A tight fit at the entrance to Longueville depot. 18.5.09 Reunited with its tender the Nord sits on the turntable at Longueville depot and is about to go under cover for the first time in about 20 years.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Tue May 19 2009 The Coronation. Day 1. 60163 at Tallington. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1698281.html 16.5.09 'The Coronation' Day 1. 60163 'Tornado' northbound at Tallington. 18.5.09 'The Coronation' Day 3. 60163 'Tornado' southbound at Offord Cluny. Saturday 16 May 2009: 16.5.09 'The Coronation' Day 1. 60163 'Tornado' northbound at Tallington. 18.5.09 'The Coronation' Day 3. 60163 'Tornado' southbound at Offord Cluny.

16.5.09 Tallington. 08.37hrs 66533 northbound. 16.5.09 Tallington. 08.51hrs Northbound Grand Central HST. 16.5.09 Tallington. 09.01hrs Northbound 66154. 16.5.09 Tallington. 09.02hrs Southbound NXEC HST. 16.5.09 Tallington. 09.09hrs. 60163 storms round the curve towards Tallington road crossing. 16.5.09 Tallington. 09.10hrs 60163 in full cry and dead on time. 16.5.09 Tallington. 09.10hrs. 60163 at Tallington crossing. 16.5.09 Tallington. 09.10hrs. 60163 heads up Stoke bank. 18.5.09 19.52hrs 60163 appears round the curve at Offord as an Adelante on the up fast can just be seen in the background. 18.5.09 19.52hrs. 60163 at Offord Cluny on the up slow as the Adelante rushes into the picture on the up fast. 18.5.09 19.37hrs Southbound NXEC HST.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Sat May 16 2009 Nene Valley Railway. Arrival of 50008 accompanied by 56311 and 56312 and D9516. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1697577.html 50008 arrived at the NVR today for overhaul by the Hanson people for eventual main line use. It arrived in convoy with 56311, 56312 and D9516. In dieselspeak something about hoovers, grids and teddybears- whatever. Thursday 14 May 2009: 50008 arrived at the NVR today for overhaul by the Hanson people for eventual main line use. It arrived in convoy with 56311, 56312 and D9516. In dieselspeak something about hoovers, grids and teddybears- whatever.

14.5.09 15.44hrs 50008 leads 56311, 56312, and D9516 over the River Nene. 14.5.09 15.44hrs 50008 crosses the R.Nene in poor light. 14.5.09 15.51hrs 50008 enters Wansford yard. 14.5.09 15.52hrs 50008 in Wansford yard. 14.5.09 15.53hrs 31190 and 37518 in Wansford yard. 14.5.09 15.54hrs 50008 moves forward to its resting place- where the Nord used to be. 14.5.09 15.54hrs 50008 at rest. 14.5.09 15.55hrs General view of the yard, 31190 50008 47270 and Sentinel shunter DL83. 14.5.09 15.58hrs 56312 and 56311 ready to depart Wansford back to Washford Heath. 14.5.09 16.11hrs 56312 and 56311 pass Wansford box. 14.5.09 16.11hrs 56312 and 56311- last view.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Thu May 14 2009 Nene Valley Railway. The Nord De Glehn 4-6-0 no.3.628 is repatriated to France. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1696828.html The Nord 4-6-0 no.3.628 or SNCF no.230D116 was today transported to Poole-Cherbourg from the NVR. The locomotive hauled one of the first passenger trains on the NVR on 1.6.1977. Privately owned, it was sold to the Science Museum, but a change of policy meant that it was sold again to a private owner. It has sat in the NVR sidings for many years but has now gone to a good home in France, AJECTA at Longueville where it should be restored for main line running. No mention of its departure on the NVR website, which is rather sad, really. Free running, free steaming, it was much liked by the crews that worked it, and the design, dating from about 1911 greatly interested Sir William Stanier when he was redesigning the Royal Scot class for the LMS. Anyone interested in following the progress of this locomotive should refer to the SNCF Society website. Tuesday 12 May 2009: The Nord 4-6-0 no.3.628 or SNCF no.230D116 was today transported to Poole-Cherbourg from the NVR. The locomotive hauled one of the first passenger trains on the NVR on 1.6.1977. Privately owned, it was sold to the Science Museum, but a change of policy meant that it was sold again to a private owner. It has sat in the NVR sidings for many years but has now gone to a good home in France, AJECTA at Longueville where it should be restored for main line running. No mention of its departure on the NVR website, which is rather sad, really. Free running, free steaming, it was much liked by the crews that worked it, and the design, dating from about 1911 greatly interested Sir William Stanier when he was redesigning the Royal Scot class for the LMS. Anyone interested in following the progress of this locomotive should refer to the SNCF Society website.

12.5.09 From the NVR archive a shot of 3.628 in its glory days at the NVR. 12.5.09 NVR Archives. A fine shot by L.Manns of the Nord on its 75th anniversary. Hopefully it will be seen in similar style on the French main line in a few years time. It will be just over 100 years old then. 14.1.09 The tender was shipped to Longueville, France on 14th January 2009. 12.5.09 The Nord 4-6-0 travels the first few yards of its long journey home to France. M.Bernard Neveux Vice-Director of Ajecta walks anxiously alongside. 12.5.09 The track is laid out to receive the locomotive. Height restrictions at Poole caused a problem. 12.5.09 The Nord is moved slowly to the ramp. 12.5.09 The engine is pushed slowly up the ramp, but.... 12.5.09 The bogie follows the track but the drivers leave the rails. There is a slight curve in the track. Several adjustments fail, so the only thing is to dismantle all and re-position the lowloader. 12.5.09 After over an hour's delay the engine rolls slowly up to its resting place on the transport. 12.5.09 The Nord is winched on to the trailer at last. It was booked on the 23.15 hrs ferry from Poole. I wanted to photograph the transport passing over the level crossing, but having been here for 5 hours I had to leave. 12.5.09 I had to leave at 1 pm, fortunately NVR colleague Murray Brown has kindly supplied these next 3 shots of the Nord's departure from the NVR. 12.5.09 The Nord leaves the NVR. 12.5.09 Final view of the Nord.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Tue May 12 2009 70013 'Oliver Cromwell' on the Midland at Souldrop and Gretton, and a short afternoon visit to the GCR 40th Anniversary Gala. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1695057.html 9.5.09. To catch 70013 on the Midland Main Line was a must, here seen at Souldrop, and Gretton. Afternoon spent at the GCR 40th Anniversary of Closure, with mixed steam and diesels. 10.5.09 70013 at Tallington on the Barrow Hill-Dereham light engine movement. Saturday 9 May 2009: 9.5.09. To catch 70013 on the Midland Main Line was a must, here seen at Souldrop, and Gretton. Afternoon spent at the GCR 40th Anniversary of Closure, with mixed steam and diesels. 10.5.09 70013 at Tallington on the Barrow Hill-Dereham light engine movement.

9.5.09 10.48hrs. Souldrop. 70013 on the 1 in 200 Sharnbrook bank. 9.5.09 14.01hrs. 63601 out of Loughborough. 9.5.09 09.43hrs Souldrop. Northbound meridian. 9.5.09 09.51hrs Souldrop. Northbound meridian. 9.5.09 09.56hrs Souldrop. Southbound meridian.222004 9.5.09 10.34hrs Souldrop. Southbound HST. Spectators are gathering on the footcrossing for the steam event. 9.5.09 10.48hrs Oliver Cromwell appears on time on the (up)down slow. 9.5.09 10.48hrs Souldrop. 70013 'Oliver Cromwell' roars up the 1 in 200 gradient towards the slow line tunnel at Wymington. 9.5.09 12.13hrs Gretton foot crossing. Oliver Cromwell thunders past but little visible exhaust at noon. 9.5.09 13.39hrs at Loughborough GCR. Peak D123 about to reverse to its stock for the 14.15hrs departure. 9.5.09 14.01hrs O4 no.63601 leaves Loughborough with a freight train. 9.5.09 14.10hrs Nice to see 'Sir Lamiel' back in action- here arriving at Loughborough. 9.5.09 14.11hrs The Peak ready to go with the 14.15hrs service. 9.5.09 15.02hrs 30777 nears Rothley with the mineral wagons. 9.5.09 15.02hrs 30777 near Rothley. 9.5.09 15.06hrs 63601 passes Swithland with the return freight working. 9.5.09 15.28hrs D5401 with a local train near Swithland. 9.5.09 15.28hrs 78019 and 48305 pass Swithland with the 15.15hrs service out of Loughborough. 9.5.09 15.37hrs D5401 returns to Loughborough from Rothley. 9.5.09 16.03hrs The dmu passes Rushey Lane. 9.5.09 16.04hrs as the dmu rounds the bend 63601 appears with a mineral train. 9.5.09 16.04hrs 63601 at Rushey Lane with the windcutters. 9.5.09 16.37hrs The sun actually re-appeared as 30777 passes Rushey Lane. 9.5.09 17.02hrs Quorn. D123 on a TPO run. Very lacklustre affair- only doing about 35 mph if that. 9.5.09 17.04hrs 48305 shunts the mineral wagons into the sidings at Quorn. 9.5.09 17.11hrs. Quorn. 48305 sets off for Loughbrough with the brakevan, its work done for the day. For some reason it now carries shedplate 40E Colwick. 10.5.09 19.22hrs. 70013 at Tallington on its Barrow Hill-Dereham movement. 10.5.09 19.22hrs. 70013 at Tallington crossing.

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]]> Sat May 9 2009 May Bank Holiday in Norfolk 2. Mid Norfolk Railway. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1691886.html First ever visit to the MNR. This line normally uses dmus and heritage diesels, but the attraction this weekend was the visit of the appropriate N7 no.69621. The current line is 11 miles long with the real prospect of extension to 17.5 miles soon, and maybe even further. With a main line connection at Wymondham, this is a line with great potential. Operated almost entirely by volunteers it is a friendly place. Until the passing loop at Thuxton is completed the MNR can only run one train at a time for now- or one every 2 hours. The line runs through green Norfolk countryside, where old-fashioned farming methods seem to prevail- the fields have proper hedges, and there are smallholdings with turkeys, geese and steeds. At one place a deer was seen. Sunday 3 May 2009: First ever visit to the MNR. This line normally uses dmus and heritage diesels, but the attraction this weekend was the visit of the appropriate N7 no.69621. The current line is 11 miles long with the real prospect of extension to 17.5 miles soon, and maybe even further. With a main line connection at Wymondham, this is a line with great potential. Operated almost entirely by volunteers it is a friendly place. Until the passing loop at Thuxton is completed the MNR can only run one train at a time for now- or one every 2 hours. The line runs through green Norfolk countryside, where old-fashioned farming methods seem to prevail- the fields have proper hedges, and there are smallholdings with turkeys, geese and steeds. At one place a deer was seen.

3.5.09 69621 at the water column. 3.5.09 69621 being watered at Dereham. 3.5.09 69621 runs around at Dereham. Not a good shot but I wanted to show the ancient wooden buffer stop in the left foreground. 3.5.09 69621 scuttles over the level crossing. 3.5.09 69621 at Crownthorpe. 3.5.09 69621 at Crownthorpe. 3.5.09 69621 departs Dereham. 3.5.09 69621 backs on to the stock of Mark 2 maroon coaches in Dereham station. 3.5.09 The former Great Eastern station building at Dereham, now sympathetically restored to mid 1950's period. The coach in the bay is the newly-arrived Mark 2 prototype 1st Class corridor vehicle. See MNR website for details. 3.5.09 69621 brews up in the station yard. 3.5.09 Nice roomy layout at Dereham station. Modern developments kept at arm's length. This view looking north to the stretch of track being renovated. 3.5.09 Plenty of work here for enthusiastic diesel volunteers. 31530 and 47584. 3.5.09 10 ton crane in Dereham station, named 'Jayne'. Note the maltings building in the background. Several of them sited near the station, giving a nice period feel, and the air of a pleasant country town with good beers. 3.5.09 Class 56 no. 56040 'Oystermouth' in the bay at Dereham. 3.5.09 69621 runs around at Wymonham Abbey station. The run around loop is over the road beyond the platform, and not a good place for photos in the limited space allowed. 3.5.09 Back at Dereham, 69621 about to be topped up with water. 3.5.09 69621 at Crownthorpe. 3.5.09 Having run around, 69621 pulls its train into Wymondham Abbey station. Lovely rural spot here with the abbey nearby. 3.5.09 Big skies and green Norfolk fields at Crownthorpe. 3.5.09 69621 at Crownthorpe. 3.5.09 69621 at Crownthorpe. 3.5.09 69621 at Crownthorpe 3.5.09 69621 at Crownthorpe on its next run. (Taken by my wife). 3.5.09 69621 with the 15.20hrs departure, (and last run of the day) at Dereham. 3.5.09 69621 departs Dereham. 3.5.09 69621 out of Dereham past the diesels. 3.5.09 The pleasant tearoom at Dereham station, in Great Eastern colours. 3.5.09 Some of the MNR's operational diesels in the siding at Dereham. 73210 'Selhurst', 31438, a class 37 no.37003, and class 50 no.50019 'Ramillies'.

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]]> Sun May 3 2009 May Bank Holiday in Norfolk 1. North Norfolk Railway. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1691435.html Red Timetable at the NNR meant 2 steam engines and a diesel providing a 45 minute service. 65462 and 90775 in action with Class 31 no.31 207. Well patronised trains, not many fotters about, in what were good conditions. Saturday 2 May 2009: Red Timetable at the NNR meant 2 steam engines and a diesel providing a 45 minute service. 65462 and 90775 in action with Class 31 no.31 207. Well patronised trains, not many fotters about, in what were good conditions.

2.5.09 J15 0-6-0 no.65462 passes Sheringham Golf Course with the 09.45am service. 2.5.09 65462 at Sheringham Golf Course. 2.5.09 WD 2-10-0 no. 90775 runs down light engine to Sheringham to work the 10.30am train. 2.5.09 90775 near bridge 303 with the 10.30am service out of Sheringham. 2.5.09 90775 on bridge 303. 2.5.09 65462 crosses bridge 303 on the return to Sheringham. 2.5.09 65462 rolls towards Dead Man's cutting. 2.5.09 65462 arrives at Weybourne with the 11.15am out of Sheringham. 2.5.09 65462 at Weybourne. 2.5.09 90775 crosses bridge 303. 2.5.09 Letterbox shot to show the Weybourne windmill with its sails reinstalled, as 90775 passes by. 2.5.09 65462 with Weybourne Mill in the background. 2.5.09 65462 rolls down the bank towards bridge 303. 2.5.09 65462 at bridge 303. 2.5.09 0-6-0ST 'Ring Haw' on shed at Weybourne. This engine came from Nassington Quarries at the western end of today's NVR. 'Ring Haw' is the name of a copse in that area. Its sister engine 'Jacks Green' also named after a Nassington copse, is a static exhibit at Wansford, used for educational purposes. 2.5.09 'Ring Haw' on Weybourne shed. 2.5.09 I positioned myself here to photograph 65462 on its next train, but this class 31 appeared instead. 2.5.09 90775 near Weybourne. 2.5.09 70775 at Weybourne, with the class 31 waiting in the station. 2.5.09 Class 31 no 31 207 departs Weybourne for Holt. 2.5.09 65462 runs into Weybourne from Sheringham, having been withdrawn because of a small defect. 2.5.09 65462 waits to enter the yard as the diesel shunter repositions 'Ring Haw'. I noticed that 'Ring Haw' was rescheduled to work on the Sunday. 2.5.09 90775 rounds the curve at Kelling Heath en route to Holt. 2.5.09 90775 near the top of the incline at Kelling Heath. Had intended to finish off photography at Holt, but with the withdrawal of 65462 decided to call it a day. 2.5.09 65462 at Weybourne, about to reverse to the shed. 2.5.09 31 207 pauses at Kelling Heath Halt, between Holt and Weybourne.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Sat May 2 2009 Steel, Steam, and Stars II. Llangollen Railway/Rheilffordd Llangollen.Thursday 23.4.09 dydd Iau http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1687127.html Thursday 23rd was 4-4-0 day, with 3440, 9017 and 246 on 45 minute interval services. Just time for a short morning session before heading home. Grateful thanks to all at the Llangollen Railway, and everyone else for a superb event, expertly presented. Thursday 23 April 2009: Thursday 23rd was 4-4-0 day, with 3440, 9017 and 246 on 45 minute interval services. Just time for a short morning session before heading home. Grateful thanks to all at the Llangollen Railway, and everyone else for a superb event, expertly presented.

23.4.09 3440 'City of Truro' proceeds west along the Dee valley. 23.4.09 3440 enters the curves. 23.4.09 'Morayshire' on the return working to Llangollen. 23.4.09 D49 4-4-0 4P 'Morayshire' passes along the Dee valley in bright sunshine. 23.4.09 'Morayshire' in the Dee valley. 23.4.09 'Morayshire' enters the curves before Glyndyfrdwy. 23.4.09 Dukedog 9017 heads towards Llangollen. 23.4.09 9017 with the suburban stock. 23.4.09 Last shots before heading home of 3440 'City of Truro'. 23.4.09 3440 on the return working to Llangollen. An idyllic location here. 23.4.09 3440 on the return working to Llangollen.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Thu Apr 23 2009 Steel, Steam and Stars II. Llangollen Railway/Rheilffordd Llangollen. Wednesday 22.4.09. dydd Mercher http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1687123.html Wednesday 22nd was the quietest day. 3440 and 9017 double-headed all day on Ian Allan specials, and 5526 worked the auto train,but was not between the stock. A few shots of Pontycysyllte aqueduct thrown in for variety, before the rail action began. Wednesday 22 April 2009: Wednesday 22nd was the quietest day. 3440 and 9017 double-headed all day on Ian Allan specials, and 5526 worked the auto train,but was not between the stock. A few shots of Pontycysyllte aqueduct thrown in for variety, before the rail action began.

22.4.09 Pontycysyllte aqueduct 22.4.09 Pontycysyllte aqueduct. 22.4.09 Anglo-Wesl boats moored in the basin on the north side. 22.4.09 A barge heads south over the aqueduct. 22.4.09 Northbound barge on the aqueduct. 22.4.09 View of the River Dee below. Looking towards Llangollen, some 4 miles distant. 22.4.09 Paseengers on the barge are faced with a sheer drop on the far side. 22.4.09 3440 and 9017 recreate an Ian Allan special as they storm through Berwyn. 22.4.09 3440 and 9017 storm past Berwyn. 22.4.09 5526 and the auto-train trundle down from Berwyn tunnel towards Berwyn. 22.4.09 5526 is held by signals at Glyndyfrdwy. 22.4.09 5526 moves towards Glyndyfrdwy station. 22.4.09 9017 and 3440 depart Glyndyfrdwy for Llangollen. 22.4.09 3440 and 9017 on the curves out of Glyndyfrdwy. 22.4.09 This time 9017 leads 3440 on the Ian Allan special. 22.4.09 The train was held here for some 20 minutes waiting for 5526 to arrive at Glyndyfrdwy. 22.4.09 5526 scuttles down the valley towards Deeside halt. 22.4.09 3440and 9017 head the 16.50 hrs train out of Llangollen. 22.4.09 3440 and 9017 near the Dee bridge.

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]]> Wed Apr 22 2009 Steel, Steam, and Stars II. Llangollen Railway/Rheilffordd Llangollen. Tuesday 21.4.09 dydd Mawrth http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1687114.html Tuesday 21.4.09 was Scottish Day, with B1 no. 1306, D49 no.246, and resident Black 5 no.44806 renumbered as 44801 doing the business. Berwyn station was renamed 'KILLIN' in white letters on a sky-blue field for the day, and a strange red-headed figure in a large tartan bonnet wandered about there. Travelled up to Carrog in the beavertail, and returned in the non-corridor suburban stock. Tuesday 21 April 2009: Tuesday 21.4.09 was Scottish Day, with B1 no. 1306, D49 no.246, and resident Black 5 no.44806 renumbered as 44801 doing the business. Berwyn station was renamed 'KILLIN' in white letters on a sky-blue field for the day, and a strange red-headed figure in a large tartan bonnet wandered about there. Travelled up to Carrog in the beavertail, and returned in the non-corridor suburban stock.

21.4.09 Early morning in the shed. 21.4.09 Early morning in the shed. 21.4.09 Early morning in the shed. 21.4.09 Early morning in the shed. 21.4.09 Truro is tucked away at the side of the shed- not on duty today. 21.4.09 B1 1306 'Mayflower' at the head of the 11.00hrs departure, now with an RCTS headboard. 21.4.09 Interior of the beavertail. 21.4.09 Carrog. The West Lancs 0-4-0ST Hunslet ran to and fro giving footplate rides on the short demonstration track. 21.4.09 1306 moves into the siding at Carrog. 21.4.09 With 1306 in the siding 44801 did several runs giving people a turn at the regulator for £10 a go. Tempting, but it was well patronised. 21.4.09 B1 and Black 5 at Carrog. This viewpoint makes it look like a model railway. 21.4.09 44801 moves forward on another driver run. 21.4.09 The beavertail in Berwyn tunnel 21.4.09 Finally 44801 sets off down the valley with the 12.22hrs departure. 21.4.09 Dirty windows and a strong sun made photographing awkward.. 21.4.09 This line must be one of the best on which to enjoy the beavertail. 21.4.09 'Morayshire' arrives at Carrog with the suburban train. 21.4.09 Apparently NE apple green is darker than LNER apple green. 21.4.09 246 at Carrog. 21.4.09 246 at Carrog. 21.04.09 D49 no.246 'Morayshire' stands alongside the B1 on the suburban stock. 21.4.09 B1 no 1306 'Mayflower' stands at Berwyn with a suburban train. 21.4.09 B1 1306 departs Berwyn with the 14.30hrs suburban train. 21.4.09 44801 storms out of Llangollen with the 16.50hrs train. 21.4.09 D49 no.246 'Morayshire' at Garthdwr. 21.4.09 'Morayshire' negotiates the curves towards Glyndyfrdwy.

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]]> Tue Apr 21 2009 Steel, Steam, and Stars II, Llangollen Railway/Rheilffordd Llangollen. Monday 20.4.09 dydd Llun. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1687110.html A 3 night stay in Llangollen for the quieter part of SSSII in mid-week away from the madding crowds. Apart from 6100 all the visitors in action during the period. Monday 20th was Cambrian day. 5526, 5199, and 9017 in action. Dur, ager a seren.II Monday 20 April 2009: A 3 night stay in Llangollen for the quieter part of SSSII in mid-week away from the madding crowds. Apart from 6100 all the visitors in action during the period. Monday 20th was Cambrian day. 5526, 5199, and 9017 in action. Dur, ager a seren.II

20.4.09 Small prairie no.5526 visitng from the South Devon Railway, heads the 11.09am train out of Berwyn. I had driven from the Peterborough area and got here with 5 minutes to spare. 20.4.09 Next train up was resident large prairie no.5199 with the 12.19hrs departure from Berwyn. 20.4.09 First view of the black Dukedog in Llangollen station. A vast improvement from the previous rather dingy green. 20.4.09 9017 is fitted with its 'Cambrian Coast Express' headboard, ready for its next duty at Llangollen. 20.4.09 The various parts of the Dukedog are older than the whole, so a sepia shot seemed appropriate as 9017 leaves Llangollen. 20.4.09 9017 out of Llangollen. 20.4.09 5526 runs around at Llangollen. 20.4.09 5526 gets a grip on its train as it leaves Llangollen. 20.4.09 'Doesn't it look great without deflectors' I said the the chap next to me. 'Matter of opinion' was the grumpy reply. Anyway, I like it, and I have no issues with the unauthentic livery either. It is a magnificent sight. Alongside, 'Morayshire' is being cleaned up for the Scottish day. 20.4.09 5643, 6100, and 246 on shed. 20.4.09 More tlc for 'Morayshire'. My first sight of this engine. It was 62712 in BR days. Introduced 1927 with a GCR tender. 20.4.09 B1 'Mayflower' recceives a constant polishing. 20.4.09 5199 departs Llangollen with the 15.40hrs train. 20.4.09 The vertical boiler for the GWR railmotor. In the foreground progress on Betto Grange is well-displayed for all to see. 20.4.09 80072 under renovation. A long way off being ready although early publicity indicated it would run at this gala. 20.4.09 Afternoon trip to the shed. Resident 44806 is renumbered 44801 with blue smokebox number plate ready for Scottish day on Tuesday. Shedplate 63A Perth. 20.4.09 The Dukedog crosses the Dee Bridge on its way into Llangollen,. 20.4.09 7822 'Foxcote Manor', now out of ticket. stands in the shed. 20.4.09 Disappointing shot, as there is no visible exhaust in the warm afternoon 20.4.09 5526 and 9017 reverse the freight train into Llangollen for the evening freight charter. 3 brakevans full of fotters. The light by now was failing fast. Curious to know what sort of photos they got. 20.4.09 The fotters board the brakevans. 20.4.09 9017 leads 5526 out towards Pentrefelin...... 20.4.09... and rounds the curve towards Dee Bridge.

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]]> Mon Apr 20 2009 'Tornado' at Offord Cluny, and NVR mixed traffic weekend. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1684266.html 60163 'Tornado' passing Offord Cluny, and a quick visit to the NVR for the mixed haulage weekend. Saturday 18 April 2009: 60163 'Tornado' passing Offord Cluny, and a quick visit to the NVR for the mixed haulage weekend.

18.4.09 10.16am Waiting for Tornado 1- northbound 365506 for Huntingdon and Peterborough on the down slow. 18.4.09 10.17am Waiting for Tornado 2- Southbound Adelante 50909 on the up fast. 18.4.09 10.23am Disappointing shot. Tornado a few minutes early on the down slow at Offord Cluny. The sun, which smiled on the 365, had gone in. 18.4.09 10.23am 60163 on the 'Yorkshire Pullman' at Offord Cluny. 18.4.09 10.23am 60163 approaches Offord Cluny level crossing. 18.4.09 11.19am At a more sedate pace class 40 no.D306 making a rare appearance outside Wansford shed, arrives at Orton Mere. 18.4.09 11.41am D306 approaches Orton Mere on its return from Peterborough NV. It was sharing duties with 73050. 19.4.09 14.06hrs Class 31 no. 31 271 accelerates away from Orton Mere towards Peterborough NV. 19.4.09 14.29hrs 31271 arrives at Orton Mere on the return journey. 19.4.09 14.30hrs 31271 stands at Orton Mere with the Midland Railway signalbox in the background. 19.4.09 14.30hrs 31271 departs Orton Mere for Ferry Meadows and Wansford. 19.4.09 15.06hrs General view of Wansford yard. Lurking in the shadow is the Nord 4-6-0, which, according to the SNCF Society website, will leave the NVR on 11th May 2009, being carried by Andrew Goodman transport to France, and eventual overhaul for their main line. Also 2 new diesel faces, a class 31 and a class 56. 19.4.09 15.24hrs 73050 sets off from Wansford on a lovely sunny afternoon. 19.4.09 16.19hrs 73050 just past Castor crossing on its last duty of the day. 19.4.09 16.44hrs. Behind 47270 class 37 no 37518 clears its throat. The boiler in the foreground is the spare for the Kriegslok 2-10-0.

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]]> Sat Apr 18 2009 West Somerset Railway Spring Steam Gala.4. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1673705.html Time to head home before the crowds build up, but not before a few shots of S&DJR 2-8-0 no.88 which I found very elusive on my first visit here. Same squally showers which made it a bit of a lottery, but at one point I cursed the heavens and things improved. Saturday 28 March 2009: Time to head home before the crowds build up, but not before a few shots of S&DJR 2-8-0 no.88 which I found very elusive on my first visit here. Same squally showers which made it a bit of a lottery, but at one point I cursed the heavens and things improved.

28.3.09 0710hrs. Early morning at MD. No.88 is beginning to brew up. 28.3.09 0711hrs.34046 and 45231 in MD yard. 3 of the first 4 trains out of here tender-first. 28.3.09 0726hrs. 45231 moves into platform 2 at MD to head the first train at 07.45am. However, another train from BL was signalled straight through so this held for at least 45 mins. 28.3.09 3850 on standby in MD yard. 28.3.09 0923hrs No.88 about ready to go. 28.3.09 0958hrs and No.88 makes a good start with the 9.55am service for BL. As I was leaving this a.m. I decided to follow this train as far as WN. 28.3.09 0958hrs. the going away shot. 28.3.09 An hour later at 10.58am 88 emerges from the cutting between DD and WN. 28.3.09 No.88 heads down to WN. 28.3.09 No.88 coasts down the bank to WN. 28.3.09 11.07hrs. This should have been a double-header with 45231 but as the Black 5 left MD 45 mins late earlier in the day 34028 worked this train alone. 28.3.09 11.07 Lovely shot of the white Ginsters van delivering pies to the hungry- pity about the steam engine on the bridge behind! If I ever eat a Ginsters pasty again I shall remember this. See next photo.. 28.3.09 34028 'Eddystone' between WN and DD. A rescue attempt of the previous shot.

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]]> Sat Mar 28 2009 West Somerset Railway Spring Steam Gala. 3. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1673626.html With a mixture of sun and showers a day to spend lineside and find some of the many locations on this railway for photography. Mainly at the seaside end of the line. Friday 27 March 2009: With a mixture of sun and showers a day to spend lineside and find some of the many locations on this railway for photography. Mainly at the seaside end of the line.

27.3.09 0743hrs The famous nameplate. I last saw this over 50 years ago when 46100 was a dirty Brunswick green. 27.3.09 0744hrs The yard at MD before the day's action. 27.3.09 0745hrs 0-6-2T no.6695 gleams in the early morning sun. 27.3.09 0748hrs 34028 'Eddystone' is prepared for action in MD yard. 27.3.09 0750hrs The morning sun shines on the cab fittings in Kinlet Hall. 27.3.09 0752hrs. Deserted now, MD station awaits the day's visitors. 27.3.09 0805hrs 34028 reverses to MD box to collect the freight. First train out at 8.30am. Bright sun now and good hopes of a well lit departure photo.... 27.3.09 0831hrs Bright sun behind and a dark sky ahead promised a great shot, but the rain got in first and the half-dozen of us at this place got a real soaking on the way back to the station. 27.3.09 0831hrs 34028 heads into the morning sun as the downpour rushes in behind. 27.3.09 1058hrs 6695 hustles its train from DD out of the cutting towards WN. 27.3.09 1058hrs 6695 heads towards WN. 27.3.09 1058hrs The crosswind pushes the exhaust away as 6695 continues to WN. 27.3.09 1111hrs. 60019 'Bittern' powers out of WN towards DD. 27.3.09 1111hrs. 60019 out of WN 27.3.09 1111hrs. 60019 makes light work of the incline out of WN.... 27.3.09 1111hrs.... and crosses the road bridge. 27.3.09 1153hrs 6100 'Royal Scot' passes Kentswood Farm between WD and WT. 27.3.09 1227hrs 45231 'Sherwood Forester' approaches Kentswood Farm crossing away from WT. 27.3.09 1227hrs 45231 at Kentswood Farm. 27.3.09 1227hrs 45231 startles the sheep. Lots of photographic angles around this place. 27.3.09 1250hrs 5553 and 4936 between WD and WT. 5553 was down to work the Norton Fitzwarren shuttles at the weekend. 27.3.09 1250hrs 5553 and 4936 at Kentswood Farm crossing. 27.3.09 1250hrs 5553 and 4936 continue towards WT. Photo taken by my wife. 27.3.09 6695 and 5553 approach Castle Hill near WN, having just crossed the Taunton road.. 27.3.09 1315hrs 34046 'Braunton' makes a fine sight at it accelerates past Castle Hill away from WN towards SR. 27.3.09 1315hrs 34046 about to cross the Taunton road bridge. 27.3.09 1540hrs 7821 'Ditcheat Manor' in WN yard awaiting its turn for overhaul. I presume the black tender in MD yard belongs to it. 'King Edward I' stands silently behind with a crack in the firebox. 27.3.09 1551hrs. 6100 'Royal Scot' coasts down to WN on its way back to MD. 27.3.09 1551hrs. 6100 nears WN. 27.3.09 1605hrs 45231 powers out of WN. 27.3.09 1605hrs 45231 climbs away from WN towards Castle Hill and SR. 27.3.09 1605hrs I was caught out here, expecting 34028 chimney first on its way out of WT towards DD. 27.3.09 1716hrs Back at the Kentswood Farm area 60019 heads a late afternoon train away from WT towards WD. 27.3.09 1716hrs 60019 away from WT. 27.3.09 1727hrs A late burst of afternoon sunshine illuminates 60019 at MD after its last run of the day. 27.3.09 1728hrs 60019 backs away to the yard at MD. 27.3.09 1752hrs. Evening at MD. 2-8-0 no.88 stands ready for tomorrow. 27.3.09 1757hrs 60019 moves up behind 6100 for the night. When was the last time a Scot and a Streak were seen together?

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Fri Mar 27 2009 West Somerset Railway Spring Steam Gala.2. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1673540.html The first day of the 2nd weekend. The weather forecast was rather negative so a day for riding on trains. 'Royal Scot' in action, and all the other visitors including 34028, 60019, 45231 and 4936. Thursday 26 March 2009: The first day of the 2nd weekend. The weather forecast was rather negative so a day for riding on trains. 'Royal Scot' in action, and all the other visitors including 34028, 60019, 45231 and 4936.

26.3.09 0930hrs.With nameplates fitted 6100 has passed the loaded test run of yesterday and will take out the 11.10hrs departure to BL. 26.3.09 0944hrs 34046 Braunton ready to depart MD with the 10.15am train. 26.3.09 1054hrs 34046 negotiates the curves between DD and WN. 26.3.09 1054hrs 34046 descends the bank towards WN. Photo taken from the last coach. 26.3.09 1100hrs 60019 Bittern arrives at WN and passes 6024 King Edward I on static display. 26.3.09 1100hrs 60019 at WN. 26.3.09 1129hrs 34046 stands in CH station waiting for 88 to arrive from BL. 26.3.09 1138hrs S&DJ 2-8-0 no.88 pounds up the incline into CH station 26.3.09 1138hrs 88 about to pass 34046 into CH. 26.3.09 1159hrs. 34028 'Eddystone' runs around at BL. 26.3.09 1159hrs 34028 at BL. 26.3.09 1243hrs Stanier 5MT no.45231 'Sherwood Forester' in BL station with the freight train. 26.3.09 1310hrs 45231 tackles the 1 in 101 out of BL with the freight. 26.3.09 1310hrs 45231 leaving BL. 26.3.09 1340hrs 4936 'Kinlet Hall' arrives at BL. 4936 is one of those shy engines that is either tender-first or buried in a double-header. 26.3.09 1340hrs 4936 rolls into BL. 26.3.09 1547hrs Back at MD 2-8-0 no.88 moves forward to collect its train. 26.3.09 1638hrs 6100 'Royal Scot' accelerates away from DR. It was not turned during the gala and had just one daily afternoon run chimney first. 26.3.09 1638hrs 6100 leaves DR for MD. 26.3.09 1638hrs 6100 on its way to MD. A credit to all who worked so hard to have the engine ready. 26.3.09 1712hrs With the tide now fully in 45231 arrives at BA on a lovely sunny evening. 26.3.09 1712hrs 45231 at BA. 26.3.09 1725hrs 6695 and 4936 depart BA for DR and MD. 26.3.09 1725hrs 6694 and 4936 out of BA. 26.3.09 1759hrs Having been turned, 6695 is positioned at MD Seaward Way road crossing.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Thu Mar 26 2009 West Somerset Railway Spring Steam Gala 1. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1673539.html I arrived at Minehead the day before the second weekend of the Gala, and this coincided with the first loaded test run of 6100 'Royal Scot'. Wednesday 25 March 2009: I arrived at Minehead the day before the second weekend of the Gala, and this coincided with the first loaded test run of 6100 'Royal Scot'.

25.3.09 13.02hrs. Big question of the day- would Royal Scot run at this gala after the low loader fire and work still to be done. A loaded test run had been scheduled for noon, but here the engine looks a long way off steaming. 25.3.09 13.05hrs. 4936 Kinlet Hall has just been positioned in readiness for tomorrow. 25.3.09 14.40hrs. 6100 Royal Scot looks as though it is coming to the boil and hopes rise. Still a lot of work being done under and around the engine. No name plate fixed yet. 25.3.09 15.32hrs. Suddenly it is all go as 6100 backs out of the shed area to collect the stock. 25.3.09 Gimmicky stuff 25.3.09 15.55hrs.The loaded test run begins as 6100 makes a steady start with 7 coaches. 25.3.09 15.55hrs. Looks good, sounds good. 25.3.09 15.55hrs. 6100 moves away from Alcombe Common towards Blue Anchor. 25.3.09 17.10hrs. View all the way to Blue Anchor. What a great line this is. Next question- would Royal Scot pass the loaded test and run tomorrow? 25.3.09 17.10hrs. Not knowing when Royal Scot might return I went to my hotel where the bedroom overlooks the WSR. I was here, Royal Scot was there, so the sun came out.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Wed Mar 25 2009 Great Central Railway- 1960's Experience. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1670438.html Sunshine all day. Pity about the non-appearance of the Fairburn tank, but a steady flow of action with 78019, 63601, 63395, and 48305, plus D5401, D5830, and D1705. Parcels, mixed freight, and mineral trains in between the passenger services. Sunday 22 March 2009: Sunshine all day. Pity about the non-appearance of the Fairburn tank, but a steady flow of action with 78019, 63601, 63395, and 48305, plus D5401, D5830, and D1705. Parcels, mixed freight, and mineral trains in between the passenger services.

21.3.09 09.09hrs The dmu leaves Quorn in the usual cloud of blue smoke. 21.3.09 On display at Quorn 21.3.09 On display at Quorn. 21.3.09 On display at Quorn. 21.3.09 09.46hrs 63601 approaches Quorn. 21.3.09 09.46hrs 63601 near Quorn. 21.3.09 09.56hrs The dmu leaves Quorn on its way back to Loughborough.i 21.3.09 09.59hrs Back from the NVR diesel gala, D5401 with a parcels service near Quorn. 21.3.09 09.59hrs D5401 approaches Quorn. 21.3.09 10.10hrs D5830 arrives at Quorn to collect the mineral wagons. The programme says this engine is in Golden Ochre, to me it's brown. 21.3.09 10.22hrs 78019 leaves Quorn as D5830 waits in the siding with the mineral wagons. 21.3.09 10.31hrs On one of its last appearances the North Eastern Q6 63395 arrives at Quorn with the mixed freight. 21.3.09 11.07hrs 63395 departs Quorn south siding with the mixed freight. 21.3.09 11.32hrs Not to be outdone by steam exhaust Class 47 no.D1705 rumbles out of Quorn for Leicester North. 21.3.09 11.41hrs 63601 passes Quorn with the windcutters. 21.3.09 12.01hrs Back from Norfolk, 78019 makes a vigorous departure from Quorn. 21.3.09 12.15hrs Stanier 8F 48305 waits in the sidings at Quorn with a mixed freight. 21.3.09 12.22hrs D1705 departs Quorn for Loughborough. 21.3.09 12.31hrs 48305 pulls out of Quorn sidings with the mixed freight. 21.3.09 12.31hrs 48305 with the mixed freight leaving Quorn. 21.3.09 Presumably to signify the dilapidated state of the station at closure. A bit of dirt on it would have been more convincing. 21.3.09 12.42hrs D5401 arrives at Quorn with the mineral wagons. 21.3.09 13.11hrs D5830 nears Quorn with the mineral wagons. 21.3.09 13.12hrs Now on passenger duty Q6 no.63395 departs Quorn for Rothley. 21.3.09 13.28hrs 63601 leaves Quorn for Rothley and Leicester North. 21.3.09 13.28hrs 63601 at Quorn. 21.3.09 14.21hrs At a fairly quiet Kinchley Lane D1705 rumbles past towards Rothley. 21.3.09 14.35hrs The Golden Ochre class 31 passes Kinchley Lane with the mixed freight. 21.3.09 14.55hrs 78019 passing Kinchley Lane. 21.3.09 14.56hrs Stanier 8F returns northwards with the mixed freight. 21.3.09 15.07hrs Q6 no.63395 passes Kinchley Lane with a local train. No more steam for another hour so time to go home for the Rugby Internationals, after a very pleasant day. Rather upset though that I only just heard about 46115 on the main line. Went for it on Sunday in the Peterborough area an hour before it was due only to find it ran 70 minutes early.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Sun Mar 22 2009 East Midlands Trains Sunday Diversions. A second visit to Corby, Harringworth, and Wing, on the little-used freight only line, and a 3rd visit on 22nd March. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1667598.html 15th March 09.A second visit to the Harringworth area for the East Midlands Trains Sunday diversions, and a first look at the new Corby station. 22nd March 09. A third visit to Glaston tunnel and Harringworth. Sunday 15 March 2009: 15th March 09.A second visit to the Harringworth area for the East Midlands Trains Sunday diversions, and a first look at the new Corby station. 22nd March 09. A third visit to Glaston tunnel and Harringworth.

15.3.09 9.53am Southbound Meridian. Hurried shot because of simultaneous arrival at the viaduct. 15.3.09 10.35am Northbound HST 43066. Gretton foot crossing. 15.3.09 10.35am Northbound HST 43083 at the rear. Gretton. 15.3.09 10.59am Northbound Meridian. Harringworth. 15.3.09 10.59am Northbound Meridian. Harringworth. 15.3.09 11.12am Southbound HST, Wing Tunnel S. 15.3.09 11.12am Southbound HST Wing. 15.3.09 11.26am Muntjac. 15.3.09 11.26am Muntjac. 15.3.09 11.38am Northbound 222023 climbs up to Wing Tunnel. Jurassic Path foot crossing, Wing. 15.3.09 11.38am 222023 about to enter Wing Tunnel. 15.3.09 11.44am Southbound HST 43047 leads. 15.3.09 12.04pm rear end of northbound HST at Harringworth, approaching the viaduct. 43073. 15.3.09 12.05pm The same train crosses the viaduct. 15.3.09 12.29pm The new station at Corby. No services from here today. The station was locked up. 15.3.09 12.32pm Northbound Meridian passes Corby station. 15.3.09 12.32pm Northbound Meridian passes Corby station. Single line track from Kettering to here. 15.3.09 12.59pm 222018 proceeds northwards as southbound 222022 is held at the end of the double track beyond the bridge. 15.3.09 1.00pm 222022 proceeds southwards towards Corby station. 15.3.09 1.00pm 222022 passes Corby station on the single track stretch to Kettering. The short platform on the right is the only remnant of the old Midland station at Corby. 22.3.09 12.01hrs. Red Kites circle over Glaston Tunnel N. 22.3.09 12.02hrs.Red Kites, Glaston Tunnel. 22.3.09 12.03hrs. Red Kite, Glaston Tunnel. 22.3.09 12.10hrs. Northbound 222013 Glaston Tunnel N. 22.3.09 12.10hrs. Northbound 222015 Glaston. 22.3.09 14.20hrs. Southbound Meridian, Glaston Tunnel N. 22.3.09 14.27hrs. Northbound HST Glaston Tunnel N. 22.3.09 14.48hrs.Southbound HST, Harringworth. 22.3.09 14.48hrs. Southbound HST, Harringworth. 22.3.09 15.02hrs.Northbound Meridian, Harringworth. 22.3.09 15.02hrs.Northbound Meridian, Harringworth.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Sun Mar 15 2009 Diesels Ancient and Modern. Harringworth and the NVR. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1664447.html A couple of hours in the morning at Harringworth to catch a few East Midlands Trains diversions over the viaduct, and a couple of hours in the afternoon to catch the last few trains of the NVR Spring Diesel Gala. Strong winds and sudden squally showers made life difficult. Nothing to inspire in this collection. Sunday 8 March 2009: A couple of hours in the morning at Harringworth to catch a few East Midlands Trains diversions over the viaduct, and a couple of hours in the afternoon to catch the last few trains of the NVR Spring Diesel Gala. Strong winds and sudden squally showers made life difficult. Nothing to inspire in this collection.

8.3.09 9.53am 43066 southbound. Gretton foot crossing. 8.3.09 9.53am Southbound HST Gretton foot crossing. 8.3.09 10.26am Southbound Meridian. Gretton 8.3.09 Northbound Meridian. Gretton 8.3.09 11.00am Northbound Meridian Harringworth viaduct. 8.3.09 11.00am Northbound Meridian, Harringworth viaduct. 8.3.09 Northbound Meridian. Harringworth viaduct. 8.3.09 Northbound Meridian. Harringworth viaduct. 8.3.09 11.20am Southbound Meridian, Harringworth. 8.3.09 11.20am Southbound Meridian, Harringworth. At this time the weather changed suddenly from a cloudless sky to being completely overcast, with a strong wind. 8.3.09 11.33am Northbound HST Harringworth. 8.3.09 11.33am Northbound HST Harringworth. 8.3.09 14.56hrs NVR Diesel Gala 47270 and D5401 Wansford. 8.3.09 15.06hrs 37667 Wansford. I had left home under a sunny blue sky when the weather changed again to squalls. 8.3.09 15.06hrs 37667 Wansford. 8.3.09 15.17hrs D5401 Wansford. Visitor from the GCR 8.3.09 15.17hrs D 5401 Wansford. 8.3.09 15.37hrs 31271 at Castor in the rain .Class 31s were common in BR days on the Northampton trains. (The Norwegian and Belgian stock wasn't). 8.3.09 15.55hrs D5401 Mill Lane, Castor 8.3.09 15.55hrs D5401. Supposed to be a rainbow in the background but is was just disappearing. 8.3.09 16.08hrs 37667 Orton Mere. Collecting single line token. 8.3.09 16.08hrs 37667 Orton Mere 8.3.09 16.51hrs 66732 arrives at Orton Mere with sudden bright sunshine behind it. 8.3.09 16.57hrs 47270 Orton Mere 8.3.09 16.51hrs D5401 and 47270 Orton Mere. 8.3.09 17.01hrs D5401 Orton Mere. There was a rumour it had failed at Peterborough NV, and it was running late here. 8.3.09 17.01hrs D5401 Orton Mere. Later seen in the distance at Mill Lane laying down a smoke screen. 8.3.09 17.30hrs 31271 Mill Lane. Last train of the day in rapidly failing light. 8.3.09 17.30hrs 37518 Mill Lane. Last train of the day.

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]]> Sun Mar 8 2009 North Norfolk Railway 'That's Yer Lot' Gala, marking 50 years since closure of the M & GN System on 28.2.1959. Day 3, Sunday. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1660828.html A return visit on Sunday 1.3.2009 with the intention to cover the Holt-Weybourne section of the line, but the very dismal weather had other ideas, so it was a day to travel on trains, and mix with the seething masses on the stations. A few shots taken in the murk. Sunday 1 March 2009: A return visit on Sunday 1.3.2009 with the intention to cover the Holt-Weybourne section of the line, but the very dismal weather had other ideas, so it was a day to travel on trains, and mix with the seething masses on the stations. A few shots taken in the murk.

That's yer lot. 1.3.09 9.08am Holt is a shady place being surrounded by tall trees. A hand-shaky opener with the camera on slow shutter speed.78019 with the demolition train. 1.3.09 9.10am 76079 moves forward to collect the demolition train. Holt. 1.3.09 9.21am Another snatched shaky shot. 69621 arrives at Holt past the newly operational signal system. 1.3.09 9.25am 76079 leaves Holt with the demolition train. 1.3.09 9.45am For many this engine was the star of the show, spotlessly clean as ever, it looks great with the varnished stock. When the NNR's B12 returns it too will be in apple green. 1.3.09 10.05am Interior of the 4 wheel M&GN carriage no.129. It is a nice touch by the NNR to put nameplates of their staff and volunteers in the quad-arts and this carriage. For anyone who does not know, Ben Boggis is a young man of many highly active parts on this line, fireman, fund raiser, Gala organiser to name a few, plus he is an excellent photographer. Check his own website in the links box. A good moment to say thanks to all who have made this Gala possible. 1.3.09 10.05am People must have travelled light years ago. (Meaning- with little luggage!) 1.3.09 10.09am It's a cop! 90775 arrives at Holt. 1.3.09 10.48am 76079 runs around at Holt. 1.3.09 12.11pm By now the misty rain was in full flow. Eastern and Northern 0-6-0 cousins stand in Weybourne yard. 1.3.09 12.48pm I now include several shots of each of the next few trains as I did not stay long into the afternoon. 1.3.09 12.48pm 'Mayflower' enters Kelling Heath cutting en route to Holt. 1.3.09 12.59pm Shortly afterwards 76069 drifts out of the cutting on its way to Weybourne. 1.3.09 12.59pm 76079 at Kelling Heath. 1.3.09 1.18pm 78019 blasts round the bend on the 1 in 80 up to Kelling Heath. Shakespeare- this is a blasted heath, not a witch in sight. 1.3.09 1.18pm 78019 rounds the curve at Kelling Heath. 1.3.09 1.18pm 78019 Kelling Heath. 1.3.09 1.46pm The timetable featured a number of interesting double-headers. Here is a nice LMS combination leaving Weybourne. LMS nos. 12322 and 4422 in action. 1.3.09 1.46pm 1300 and 44422 get a grip on the wet rails as they leave Weybourne. The 1 in 80 starts here. 1.3.09 1.46pm 1300 and 44422. 1.3.09 1.46pm A steamy departure for 1300. 1.3.09 1.46pm The 2 engines move steadily away on the wet rails. 1.3.09 2.13pm The quad-arts are now completed inside with authentic adverts and notices. 1.3.09 2.50pm I finally caught up with the 3rd vintage bus as we left Holt. A 1954 ex-Eastern Counties Bristol LD5G Lodekka with a 58 seat double-deck bus body by ECW.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Sun Mar 1 2009 70013 'Oliver Cromwell' Cleethorpes to London KX. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1660117.html Shots of 70013 'Oliver Cromwell' on The Great Northern excursion from Cleethorpes, at Essendine and Offord Cluny. Saturday 28 February 2009: Shots of 70013 'Oliver Cromwell' on The Great Northern excursion from Cleethorpes, at Essendine and Offord Cluny.

28.2.09 10.34hrs Northbound Hull Trains service, Essendine. 28.2.09 10.56hrs.Southbound freight Essendine. 66574. 28.2.09 10.58hrs. Southbound HST Essendine. 43314 28.2.09 11.00hrs. Southbound 2 x 66. 66546. 28.2.09 11.12hrs, 70013 'Oliver Cromwell' Essendine. Dead on time. 28.2.09 12.24hrs Offord Cluny. Northbound Hull Trains service. 28.2.09 12.26hrs. 70013 at Offord Cluny road crossing. 28.2.09 12.26hrs. 70013 at Offord Cluny road crossing. Dead on time. 28.2.09 12.26hrs. 70013 at Offord Cluny. The people at the GCR who brought this engine back to life should feel immensely proud of themselves. 28.2.09 12.26hrs. 70013 passes Offord Cluny church. 28.2.09 12.26hrs. 70013 Offord Cluny.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Sat Feb 28 2009 North Norfolk Railway 'That's Yer Lot' Gala, marking 50 years since the closure of the M & GN system on 28.2.1959. Day 1 Friday. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1659983.html A superb gala with 5 appropriate visiting engines, and vintage Eastern Counties buses to mark the rail replacement service. Thank you and congratulations NNR/MGN Society. On Friday the visitors only were in action - B1 no.1306 'Mayflower', L and Y no.1300, Midland 4F no.44422, Standard 4 76079, and Standard 2 78019. A brief encounter with Cliff Jones making his first visit here. The weather was probably the best of the 3 days this weekend. Saturday 28 February 2009: A superb gala with 5 appropriate visiting engines, and vintage Eastern Counties buses to mark the rail replacement service. Thank you and congratulations NNR/MGN Society. On Friday the visitors only were in action - B1 no.1306 'Mayflower', L and Y no.1300, Midland 4F no.44422, Standard 4 76079, and Standard 2 78019. A brief encounter with Cliff Jones making his first visit here. The weather was probably the best of the 3 days this weekend.

27.2.09 08.15hrs Early morning scene at Weybourne shed. 27.2.09 08.14hrs Early morning scenes at Weybourne shed. 27.2.09 08.14hrs Early morning scene at Weybourne shed. 27.2.09 08.15hrs 76079 blows off steam impatiently as it waits for the days action to begin. 27.2.09 08.15hrs 78019 and 44422 wii be in acton later on. Early morning at Weybourne shed. 27.2.09. 09.18hrs B1 no.1306 'Mayflower' about to get the first train of the gala on the move. 27.2.09 09.04hrs ex-Eastern Counties vintage bus on the road out of Sheringham. LL5G Bristol single decker with a 39 seater bus body by ECW. 27.2.09 L and Y A class no.1300 runs down to Sheringham to collect the 9.45am service. 27.2.0909.18hrs In Sheringham station the Town Crier gets the Gala under way watched by the local press. The station shots on this collection were taken by my wife. 27.2.09 09.22hrs B1 no.1306 heads out past the golf course with the first train of the day. 27.2.09 09.22hrs. The second of the vintage buses passes by en route to Sheringham ex-Eastern Counties Bristol MW5G with 43 seat coach body by ECW. So say the programme notes. 27.2.09. In Sheringham station. 27.2.09 No.1300 in Sheringham station. Aspinall design introduced from 1889, built 1896 Horwich, class 3F. In 1959 shedded at 26E Lees (Oldham). 27.2.09 09.40hrs The Midland 4F no.44422 runs down to Sheringham with the demolition train. 27.2.09 09.40hrs 44422 passes the golf course with the demolition train. 27.2.09 09.51hrs A class no.1300 heads out of Sheringham with the 9.45am service, backed by the North Sea. 27.2.09 44422 stands in Sheringham station. 27.2.09 10.11hrs 44422 stands in Sheringham station. A scene from the distant past recreated. 27.2.09 The class 08 diesel shunter with the goods train outside Sheringham station. 27.2.09 10.36hrs Standard 2 no78019 and Standard 4 no.76079 move out to back on to the 10.32am service. 27.2.09 10.36hrs. 78019 and 76079 pause by Sheringham West box. 27.2.09 10.39hrs B1 no.1306 arrives with the M and GN coach no.129 plus the Quad-Arts. It looks superb with the wooden bodied carriages. 27.2.09 10.42hrs The 2 Standards depart with the 10.32am service. 27.2.09 10.42hrs 78019 and 76079 out of Sheringham. 27.2.09 B1 no.1306 pauses by Sheringham West box. About this time I had a brief encounter with Cliff Jones, making his first visit to this line. Check his website via the links to see his view of things. 27.2.09 A class 0-6-0 no 1300 arrives at Sheringham with the service from Holt due at 10.54am. 27.2.09 11.16hrs Midland 4F 0-6-0 no 44422 departs Sheringham with the demolition train. 27.2.09 11.156hrs 44422 out of Sheringham. 27.2.09 11.23hrs A Class 0-6-0 no.1300 at Sheringham. Similar in outline to M & GN engines of that era, it makes a fine sight here. 27.2.09 11.23hrs. B/w conversion to mark past times. 27.2.09 11.23hrs 1300 pauses outside Sheringham station. 27.2.09 11.24hrs. Sepia conversion to mark days of long ago. 27.2.09 11.24hrs. 1300 is ready to depart Sheringham with the 11.19hrs departure. 27.2.09 The M & GN carriage was giving some trouble. A couple of chaps underneath tinker with the centre axle. 27.2.09 12.07hrs. B1 no. 1306 has just crossed bridge 303 on the way back to Sheringham. 27.2.09 12.07hrs. The ex-Eastern Counties Bristol MW5G passes en route to Weybourne. 27.2.09 12.19hrs 76079 emerges from Deadman's cutting. 27.2.09 12.19hrs For me this was the star of the show. The driver opens up and makes light work of the 1 in 80 gradient. 27.2.09 12.19hrs 76079 nears bridge 303. 27.2.09 12.19hrs 76079 at bridge 303. 27.2.09 4F no.44422 at Weybourne with the demolition train. 27.2.09 The quad-arts set is now fully numbered and lettered. 27.2.09 13.10hrs 78019 approaches Weybourne. 27.2.09 13.32hrs Midland 4F departs Weybourne for Sheringham. 27.2.09 Not scheduled to run today N7 no.69621 is on standby duty at Weybourne yard. 27.2.09 No.1306 moves the quad-art stock into Weybourne yard. 27.2.09 69621 gets ready for a little action... 27.2.09 69621 relieves the B1 of the quad-arts. 27.2.09 As 69621 backs the stock to the wairting B1 No. 1300 arrives with another service for Holt. 27.2.09 No.1300 rolls into Weybourne station.

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]]> Sat Feb 28 2009 Marston Vale (or Bedford-Bletchley) Line 2009. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1658013.html a). 11.6.09- A short visit to the Marston Vale line, at Lidlington, Stewartby, and Millbrook. 150124, 153364 on passenger services, 66089 on Bletchley-Peak Forest, and 66728 with barriers 6379 and 6378 on 5Z77 Wembley-Derby. Also, an unusual aircraft in the skies. b).Publicity for the RailFuture leaflet which I have received via the BBRUA about reopening of Oxford-Cambridge. Links to Railfuture and the East-West Rail Consortium are added in the links box. Thursday 11 June 2009: a). 11.6.09- A short visit to the Marston Vale line, at Lidlington, Stewartby, and Millbrook. 150124, 153364 on passenger services, 66089 on Bletchley-Peak Forest, and 66728 with barriers 6379 and 6378 on 5Z77 Wembley-Derby. Also, an unusual aircraft in the skies. b).Publicity for the RailFuture leaflet which I have received via the BBRUA about reopening of Oxford-Cambridge. Links to Railfuture and the East-West Rail Consortium are added in the links box.

In particular see the black paragraph -Barriers to Progress. The D of T 'will not safeguard any of the route'. Unbelievable. Hopefully this hapless government is on its last legs. Railways may not fare any better under the Conservatives as both parties treat Transport as a minor department, but at least they have recently stated that they would declare a moratorium on building on disused trackbeds. Worth remembering, that, when the election comes. The weekly statistics I get for this website show that the black and white collections of this line are consistently viewed in comparatively large numbers. In 1954 when I took the shots it was possible to travel from Lidlington, a small village in the middle of Bedfordshire, to Swindon with one change of train at Oxford, or I could go directly eastwards to Cambridge. To do this journey today by rail it would be necessary to travel to London via Bletchley or Bedford, cross London to Paddington or Liverpool St, and complete the journey from there. It would have been quicker in 1954. Just 10 miles of new track east from Bedford, and upgrading of the rest would restore what once was. 090611 10h22 150124 out of Lidlington at Marston crossing witrh a Bedford service. 090611 11h06 66089 rounds the curve west of Lidlington with the Bletchley-Peak Forest empties. 090611 11h06 66089 at Lidlington. 090611 11h15 150124 departs Lidlington having off-loaded a school party on a geographical map reading exercise. 090611 11h20 153364 approaches Lidlington. 090611 153364 at Lidlington. 090611 12h27 150124 nears Stewartby station with a Bedford service. 090611 150124 at Stewartby. I only visit this line occasionally, and fear that the brickyard will suddenly be demolished. Fears are unfounded, the chimneys are grade 2 listed and up for sale or let- Any offers?? 090611 From Stewartby platform this view is across the old claypits to the Midland main line. A northbound 66, 090611 Northbound 66 on the MML seen from Stewartby (LNWR). 090611 Stewartby. Northbound meridian on the MML. The East-West consortium has recently come up with a surprise and flawed proposal to put a link in this area to the MML and run trains to Cambridge via Luton and Stevenage. This cuts out Bedford completely which is quite astonishing. See Railfuture leaflet shown at the end of this collection. 090611 Stewartby, Southbound meridian om the MML. 090611 Stewartby. Southbound meridian on the MML. 090611 150124 again passing through the closed Stewartby brickyards. 090611 150124 at Stewartby station. 090611 Stewartby. As I was leaving this aircraft appeared causing a hasty stop and photo. It appeared from the SE (presumably from Shuttleworth) and headed away to Cranfield Aerodrome. 090611 Stewartby. See previous caption. if anyone knows what this is all about please let me know. 090611 Millbrook. 153364 departs for Bedford. 090611 Millbrook. 153364 Bedford-bound. 090611 Millbrook. 153364 rounds the curve towards Stewartby, 090611 Millbrook. 153364 towards Stewartby. 090611 Millbrook. 153364 towards Stewartby. 090611 Millbrook. 66728 on 5Z77 Wembley-Derby. 090611 Millbrook. 66728 with barriers 6378/9. 11.7.09 06h57 150124 near Lidlington. 11.7.09 07h06 70013 with 'The Yorkshireman' near Lidlington. 11.7.09 07h06 70013 Oliver Cromwell near Lidlington. 11.7.09 07h06 70013 Oliver Cromwell at Lidlington.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Thu Jun 11 2009 'The Talisman' 60163 Tornado on first main line run to Kings Cross. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1650233.html Beautiful sunny morning as 60163 'Tornado' heads for Kings Cross. A few shots at Offord Cluny. Saturday 7 February 2009: Beautiful sunny morning as 60163 'Tornado' heads for Kings Cross. A few shots at Offord Cluny.

7.2.09 Waiting for 'Tornado' Part of the large crowd assembling at Offord Cluny. 7.2.09 Waiting for 'Tornado'. A feeler shot into the sun as 365503 heads northwards for Huntingdon. 7.2.09 Another feeler shot as a Hull Trains service speeds south at Offord Cluny. 7.2.09 Here it comes. 7.2.09 Tornado passing Offord Cluny and church. 7.2.09 Some computer jiggery-pokery to produce a 1960s shot- but the engine number gives it away. 7.2.09 Tornado at Giggs Crossing, Offord Cluny. 7.2.09 After a 2 hour wait it's all over in about 10 seconds. Well worth the wait, even with another 20 minutes to escape the traffic gridlock afterwards.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Sat Feb 7 2009 Great Central Railway- Winter Steam Gala. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1645717.html 1. Frustrating Friday. 30777 Sir Lamiel was declared a late failure. 48773 facing north substituted, and the sun failed to break through the thin cloud cover. 2. Sunny Saturday. 30777 back in action together with 70013, 63395, 63601, 4141, 78019, and the Stanier 8F carrying number 48773 for the weekend. 4 great hours spent along the line. Thanks GCR once again. Friday 30 January 2009: 1. Frustrating Friday. 30777 Sir Lamiel was declared a late failure. 48773 facing north substituted, and the sun failed to break through the thin cloud cover. 2. Sunny Saturday. 30777 back in action together with 70013, 63395, 63601, 4141, 78019, and the Stanier 8F carrying number 48773 for the weekend. 4 great hours spent along the line. Thanks GCR once again.

30.1.09 9.46am Final preparation as 70013 gets ready for the 10.00am departure. 30.1.09 9.47am 70013 emerges from a cloud of steam as it moves off shed. 30.1.09 With much ado 70013 moves forward for the reversal on to its stock. 30.1.09 10.05am The drain cocks close as 70013 shoots the bridge with the 10.00am departure. 30.1.09 10.05am 70013 heads for Leicester. 30.1.09 10.13am The Robinson O4 moves to the water column for a top-up. 30.1.09 10.14am 63601 at the water column. It is scheduled for the 10.45am departure. 30.1.09 10.18am Quick visit to the shed area to see the Q6 63395, the like of which I had never seen before, but it was inaccesible to photograph at this time. The Stanier 8F carries the number 48773 for this weekend. It was brewing up although not scheduled to work today. 30.1.09 10.20am Sir Lamiel smokes quietly in the shed with a 'not to be moved' sign, which was to become very significant later on. 30.1.09 10.49am 63601 at Woodthorpe. Dull and disappointing light conditions. 30.1.09 12.19pm An hour and a half since my previous photo. The 11.30am departure ran 25 mins late headed by the Stanier 8F tender first. News filtered down the line that Sir Lamiel had failed. Here 70013 near to Quorn with the next service. 30.1.09 12.48pm The north-facing 48773 punches the air as it leaves Quorn for Loughborough. Lovely sharp sound to the exhaust as the crew endeavour to make up some time. 30.1.09 12.48pm 48773 out of Quorn. 30.1.09 1.18pm A move to Kinchley Lane for the Robinson O4 63601. The east wind was picking up and the sun failed to make a break-through, so I called it a day, as the next 2 trains were not due for an hour and both would be tender-first. 31.1.09 9.22am Stark contrast to Friday. Bright sunshine and crisp temperatures although there is a troublesome east wind running. 70013 with the 9.15am departure. 31.1.09 9.33am Hot on the heels of 70013 no.78019 heads out of Loughborough with a freight. Plenty of mixed freight, minerals, TPO and parcel trains were scheduled to run between passenger services, giving some action every 20 minutes or so. 31.1.09 9.33am 78019 on the 9.30am freight. 31.1.09 9.38am The north-facing 48773 returns to Loughborough with a mixed freight. 31.1.09 9.38am 48773 on the mixed freight. 31.1.09 9.39am 48773 is briefly checked at the signals. 31.1.09 10.03am Great to see Sir Lamiel appear with the 10.00am train after yesterday's hiccup. 31.1.09 10.11am 63601 brings a freight into Loughborough. 31.1.09 10.13am 63601 moves off as the Q6 no.63395 appears round the bend with the minerals wagons. 31.1.09 10.14am Freight trains passing. Only seen on the GCR. 31.1.09 10.14am My first sight of this fine engine as it pounds steadily up the line. 31.1.09 10.14am These engines only operated in the North-East during my trainspotting years, so I never got to see one in the 1950s.. 31.1.09 10.31am Next up is 63601 on a mixed freight. 31.1.09 10.31am 63601 on the mixed freight. 31.1.09 10.55am 78019 between Quorn and Loughborough 31.1.09 11.23am 70013 'Oliver Cromwell' on the first TPO run of the day. It did not open up until it was almost at Quorn, then it sounded very dramatic. 31.1.09 11.37am The busy 78019 with the 11.30am train from Loughborough 31.1.09 11.37am 78019 heads towards Quorn. 31.1.09 11.55am No choice but to photograph the 8F into the sun. Here 48773 recreates the LCGB 'Farewell to Steam' excursion of 4.8.1968. 31.1.09 11.58am The splendid Q6 63395 with the windcutters just after Woodthorpe Bridge. 31.1.09 11.58am 63395 heads towards Quorn. 31.1.09 12.19pm 30777 storms out of Loughborough with the 12.15pm service for Leicester N. 31.1.09 12.19pm 30777 out of Loughborough. 31.1.09 12.31pm 48773 on a freight out of Quorn. B/w to dampen those red flats. 31.1.09 12.31pm 48773 out of Loughborough. 31.1.09 12.43pm 63601 reverses to collect the parcels train. 31.1.09 12.44pm 63601 on a quiet departure from Loughborough. The east wind swirled the smoke around. 31.1.09 12.48pm Large Prairie no.4141 emerges from the yard to collect stock for its only trip of the day, a 3 coach local departing at 1.35pm. 31.1.09 12.49pm 70013 about to reverse onto its next train at Loughborough. The engine carries painted nameplates, as it did in the last days of 1968. 31.1.09 12.54pm 70013 pauses before reversing to the stock. 4 enjoyable hours lineside in the cold wind and over 17 hours without food or drink, apart from a minimal early breakfast meant that I was about done in. After lunch a haze covered the sun.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Fri Jan 30 2009 Nene Valley Railway Jan-Mar 2009. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1640230.html A collection for NVR photos during the first quarter of 2009. 1. 14.1.09. The tender of the Nord 4-6-0 leaves for France. 2. 18.1.09. 73050 on a chilly but sunny afternoon. 3. 18.2.09. Half Term with 56311 and 'Thomas' in action over a flooding River Nene . 4. 3.3.09 10 photos of the class 117 dmu leaving for the Gwili Railway as the class 107 arrives in replacement from the Embsay and Bolton Abbey Railway. 5. NVR HEAVY OVERHAUL WORKSHOP. 2 photos. 6. Pre Diesel Gala photos. D5401 arrived from GCR. Sunday 18 January 2009: A collection for NVR photos during the first quarter of 2009. 1. 14.1.09. The tender of the Nord 4-6-0 leaves for France. 2. 18.1.09. 73050 on a chilly but sunny afternoon. 3. 18.2.09. Half Term with 56311 and 'Thomas' in action over a flooding River Nene . 4. 3.3.09 10 photos of the class 117 dmu leaving for the Gwili Railway as the class 107 arrives in replacement from the Embsay and Bolton Abbey Railway. 5. NVR HEAVY OVERHAUL WORKSHOP. 2 photos. 6. Pre Diesel Gala photos. D5401 arrived from GCR.

14.1.09 The tender of the Nord 4-6-0 about to return to France. The engine will follow in a few weeks time. 18.1.09 On a cold but sunny afternoon 73050 returns to Wansford with the second train of the day. 18.1.09 2.35pm 73050 arrives quietly at Yarwell with the last service of the day. 18.1.09 73050 stands at Yarwell. 18.1.09 73050 moves forward to run around its train. 18.1.09 73050 at Yarwell. 18.1.09 73050 catches the late afternoon sun just past Lynch bridge on its way back to Wansford with the final service of the day. 18.2.09 Half-term trains with 'Thomas' on the Yarwell shuttles and 56311 on the Peterborough NV services. Here 56311 pauses by the signalbox surrounded by the flooding River Nene. 18.2.09 With the last of the snow melting in the milder weather the River Nene is now flooding quite extensively. 56311 waits to collect its train. 18.2.09 56311 arrives at Ferry Meadows with the return service to Wansford. 18.2.09 'Thomas' comes off the shuttle, passing 56311 on bridge no.56. 18.2.09 56311 crosses the flooding River Nene. 18.2.09 56311 moves forward to collect the 12.30pm service stock. 18.2.09 56311 approaches Wansford station across bridge no.56.. 18.2.09 Hudswell Clark 0-6-0T no.1800 aka no.1 'Thomas' moves forward to the signalbox. 18.2.09 56311 departs with the 12.30pm service for Peterborough NV as 'Thomas' waits by the signalbox. 3.3.09 Class 117 power car loaded ready for departure. 3.3.09 Class 107 power car waits outside Wansford yard. 3.3.09 2 cars of the class 107 in the yard. 3.3.09 The sentinel shunter moves the outgoing class 117 past the incoming class 107. 3.3.09 The centre car of the class 117 shunted on to the low loader. 3.3.09 Class 107 outside Wansford station. 3.3.09 The centre car of the class 117 leaves the NVR. 3.3.09 Power car of the class 107 is moved into Wansford yard, 3.3.09 The newly-arrived class 107 in Wansford station. 3.3.09 The complete class 107 in Wansford station. 4.3.09 Interior of the now functioning heavy overhaul workshop.HERE IS A QUOTE from the latest issue of 'Nene Steam' no.92.- 'This fantastic facility, pride of the railway, is now in use. It is an excellent facility for steam loco overhaul. We currently have a labour shortage - yet- there are loco groups around the country trying to rebuild, with little more than a field and an extension lead, who look to our facilities with pure envy. If such a group were local enough they could bring their engine and use the workshop in return for a contract that would secure the engine for NVR's use. Next time you visit a railway I urge you to speak to the owning groups- our excellent facilities deserve good use by as many as possible. Think of the joint benefits.' Any interest out there?? Contact the NVR, there is a link in the links box. 4.3.09 See the lengthy caption of the previous photo. This is NVR's LMS steam crane under overhaul in the new facility. 6.3.09 Class 27 D5401 has arrived from the GCR. 6.3.09 A yard full of diesels at Wansford. 6.3.09 Class 47 47270, Class 37 37518 and 2 class 14s ready for the weekend Gala. 6.3.09 47270 bursts into life. 10.3.09 Kreigslok 2-10-0 at Wansford.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Sun Jan 18 2009 Railways beyond the NVR-3. GNR Wansford to Stamford East. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1632596.html For the 3rd and final instalment of my Railways beyond the NVR collections I cover the old GNR branch from Wansford to Stamford East. This was opened by the Stamford and Essendine Railway in 1876 and run by and absorbed into the GNR by 1886. Passenger services ceased in 1923 and the line finally closed in 1929, finished off by the General Strike, although it was probably never economical. Once again I am indebted to the NVR Archives for permission to show a few photos, but there are very few around to choose from. Monday 5 January 2009: For the 3rd and final instalment of my Railways beyond the NVR collections I cover the old GNR branch from Wansford to Stamford East. This was opened by the Stamford and Essendine Railway in 1876 and run by and absorbed into the GNR by 1886. Passenger services ceased in 1923 and the line finally closed in 1929, finished off by the General Strike, although it was probably never economical. Once again I am indebted to the NVR Archives for permission to show a few photos, but there are very few around to choose from.

03. Another sign for Stamford (via GNR). NVR Archives. 05. Remains of the bridge today. 06. From the bridge a footpath led to the Stibbington platform. The NVR line signals are just visible, right, and the GNR line branched off just past them and followed the line of the hedge leading out of picture left, towards Sutton and Wansford Road. 01. The GNR signals at Wansford, next to the LNWR box. The GNR had a presence here with the branch to Stamford, and services from Peterborough North to Leicester Belgrave Road years ago. 08. Sutton, just a couple of fields away from Wansford. With no through road the village is a haven of tranquillity, and, although there was never a station here, the railway trackbed is still clearly visible running through the village. 09.Sutton village and the GNR bridge. 10. Another shot of the bridge at Sutton with a well-kept water pump. 11. The railway is visible heading north towards Wansford Road. 12. Sutton village. A VR letterbox in Lovers Lane. 16. From Wansford Road the line continued northward and long stretches of the track line are visible, still with telegraph poles. This view from the road bridge near Southorpe. 17. Ufford Bridge today, looking north to Stamford. A 3 arch bridge the single platform station was a request stop only. 19. Ufford Bridge looking north. The platform on which the ladies stood in the previous photo is still visible in the undergrowth. 22. Uffington, where the GNR line rose on an embankment to cross the Midland line from Peterborough to Syston, seen in the background. 23. Uffington level crossing and old Midland box. The GNR line crossed at an acute angle by the tall trees. 24. A closer view of the old GNR flyover. 25. A westbound unit passes Uffington.... 26. ... and passes the site of the GNR flyover. 20. Barnack and Uffington station house today. The station yard is the inevitable industrial unit and lorry park. 13. The A47 at Wansford Road. Most drivers roar past here oblivious to the old railway trackbed underneath. 15. Wansford Road station house today. A sneaky pic from the driveway, it is still a private house. 28. From the flyover the GNR line ran parallel to the Midland line for 2 miles before veering off to Stamford East. View from the GNR trackbed to the Midland line, just outside Stamford. 29. GNR trackbed outside Stamford, looking towards Uffington,. 02.Wansford station c.1877 showing the signboard for Stamford. NVR Archives. 04. NVR Archives. This old bridge was in the field just north of the NVR line at Wansford. The footpath from it probably lead to the GNR Stibbington platform when the junction with the LNWR was temporarily removed because of a dispute. 07. Wansford station about 1910 with GNR 0-6-2T no.630 with a service for Stamford. NVR Archives. 14. Wansford Road station, the first on the line, converted to a private dwelling 1966. NVR Archives. 18. Ufford Bridge station, looking towards Wansford. NVR Archives. 21. Barnack and Uffington station. NVR Archives. 27. The lightly constructed GNR flyover. NVR Archives. 30. Old postcard c.1906 of Stamford East. Wansford service on the left with a GNR 501 class 0-4-2ST and and Essendine service on the right. NVR Archives. 31. Stamford East interior. Service from Essendine. In 1910 there were 8 trains daily each way to Wansford, by 1922 this had fallen to 4, and passenger services were withdrawn in 1923. NVR Archives. 32. Stamford East just before demolition. Industrial Estate today. NVR Archives. 33. A copy of a copy. Stamford East station building which was the HQ of the Stamford and Essendine Railway, which received much support from the Marquis of Exeter at nearby Burleigh House. Now, if the present Marquis shared his ancestor's enthusiasm for railways......NVR Archives. 07a. From bridge 57 on the LNWR (NVR) line, the GNR trackbed can be seen curving away under the hedge towards Sutton and Wansford Road. I was surprised in doing this exercise to find so much of the old trackbed still visible and unviolated. No Socialist housing estates for unmarried mothers or Tescotowns in these parts!

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Mon Jan 5 2009 Sir Lamiel goes north 19.12.08, and Sir Nigel goes east 20.12.08 http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1626585.html 19.12.08. 30777 'Sir Lamiel' at Tallington 08.51hrs on its way to York. 3 shots. 20.12.08. 60007 'Sir Nigel Gresley' east of Ely with the Cathedrals Express. Friday 19 December 2008: 19.12.08. 30777 'Sir Lamiel' at Tallington 08.51hrs on its way to York. 3 shots. 20.12.08. 60007 'Sir Nigel Gresley' east of Ely with the Cathedrals Express.

19.12.08 08.51hrs Sunshine is always welcome, but it is almost behind the engine here at this time of day. 19.12.08 08.51hrs About 3 minutes early 30777 hustles over the Tallington road crossing. 19.12.08 08.51hrs At Tallington. A young lady in the traffic queue was most impressed and asked all about it. Usually drivers at this busy crossing are grinding their teeth in frustration at the long waits. 20.12.08 12.22hrs. East Midlands class 158 en route to Norwich, in poor light. 20.12.08 12.48hrs 60007 'Sir Nigel Gresley' accelerates away from Ely en route to Norwich. 20.12.08 12.48hrs. A near miss. A westbound unit nearly messes up everything. 20.12.08 12.48hrs 60007 20.12.08 12.48hrs 60007 near the road crossing at Mile End, Prickwillow. 20.12.08 12.48hrs. 60007 on time on its way to Norwich.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Fri Dec 19 2008 NVR Santa Specials, and 56311 and 56312 return for the Christmas Hols. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1625854.html I braved the cars, the mud, and the screaming kids to grab a couple of shots of the Santa Specials with the added bonus of the return to base of 56311/312 Wednesday 17 December 2008: I braved the cars, the mud, and the screaming kids to grab a couple of shots of the Santa Specials with the added bonus of the return to base of 56311/312

17.12.08 D9516 about to leave with the 2.15pm Santa Special. 8 continental carriages packed with festive families. 73050 is on the rear of the train, 17.12.08 Meanwhile at the other end of the line 56312 and 56311 have arrived at Orton Mere via the ECML from Birmingham and await a path to Wansford. 17.12.08 56311 at Orton Mere. 17.12.08 As the Santa Special nears Orton Mere 56311 bursts dramatically into life. 17.12.08 The clag from 56311 blots out the evening sun. 17.12.08 D9516 arrives with the Santa train as 56311 continues to clag. 17.12.08 73050 sitting quietly at the rear of the Santa train is towed through the diesel clag as the afternoon sun catches its face. 17.12.08 The 2 class 56s set off for Wansford. 17.12.08 56312 and 56311 leave Orton Mere. 17.12.08 At Castor Crossing 73050 bustles the Santa Special back to Wansford in the low evening sun. 17.12.08 D9516 at the rear of the Santa train catches the low sunlight at Castor.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Wed Dec 17 2008 Railways beyond the NVR-2. LNWR Peterborough East to Northampton http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1625060.html This line is well-documented in railway literature but I enjoyed researching the Rugby line so this one will be completed over the next few weeks, as weather and time allow. From Peterborough to Thrapston is local for me, beyond to Wellingborough and Northampton will take longer. The journey starts with LNWR features on the preserved Nene Valley Railway, (some of my shots have appeared in earlier collections, but with different captions) and will continue into the country following the old route. Please return from time to time to see additions. I am again indebted to the NVR for use of some archive photos, and I used the LM Region Summer timetable 1962, table 61 for other information. Monday 15 December 2008: This line is well-documented in railway literature but I enjoyed researching the Rugby line so this one will be completed over the next few weeks, as weather and time allow. From Peterborough to Thrapston is local for me, beyond to Wellingborough and Northampton will take longer. The journey starts with LNWR features on the preserved Nene Valley Railway, (some of my shots have appeared in earlier collections, but with different captions) and will continue into the country following the old route. Please return from time to time to see additions. I am again indebted to the NVR for use of some archive photos, and I used the LM Region Summer timetable 1962, table 61 for other information.

The LNWR engine shed at Woodstone Wharf. Railworld and Peterborough NVR station are today situated on this site. NVR Archives. 16.8.06 The eastern end of the NVR. The LNWR lines continued under the ECML bridge, and, joining the Midland line from Leicester, ran into Peterborough East station. The Midland line can just be seen through the railings behind the buffer stop. 25.2.07 Another shot showing the Lynch bridge, with the River Nene at near flooding levels. 16.3.07 Wansford LNWR signalbox interior, as candidates on a driver experience course are given a tour. 4.8.07 The dmu is parked in what is known as the Oundle siding. B1s (dirty black ones) were a common sight on the Northampton line in the latter days of steam. 20.4.07 The Barnwell building contained a station manager's office, ticket office and a large waiting room. Very large for the small country station and village, it accomodated royal visitors to the Duke of Gloucester, who used to live at Barnwell Castle. 26.4.07 Another shot of the Barnwell building, so named because it originally existed at Barnwell station, on the Northampton line. 26.4.07 A view of the LNWR box taken from a brake van during a photo charter run. 28.4.07 The LNWR bridge from the office window. Taken with a pocket camera through a small gap in the window it is a shot which gives me most satisfaction, as the visiting 8F no.48305 from the GCR looks so at home in these surroundings. In its BR life 48305 was shedded at Wellingborough for a time, so could well have travelled this line in BR steam days. 28.4.07 No, it's meant to be a shot showing the LNWR box, the LMS engine, and horses with LMS brasses during a 1960s weekend. 8.6.07 The railway to Northampton followed the River Nene for much of the 43 miles. The Nene is one of the slowest flowing rivers in the country, and meandering to and fro across its shallow valley caused the railway to bridge it or its tributaries about 19 times in the 43 miles. The first crossing is at what is known locally as the Lynch bridge. 31.7.07 The former station house at Oundle seen from across the River Nene. The railway station was situated about 1/2 a mile from the town, separated by the River and water meadows, which meant that buses would always have an advantage, as they passed through the town centre. The house is, I believe, occupied by the Awdry family, who carry on the 'Thomas' business from there. 31.7.07 The view of Oundle which LNWR passengers would have seen as the train crossed the River Nene. In winter these fields are often waterlogged or flooded. St.Peter's Church spire is second only to that of Salisbury Cathedral in height, and dominates the scene for some miles around. 31.7.07 Station Road,Oundle, at the town end. The road continues behind me on a long bridge over the river and water meadow to the station some 1/2 a mile away. In 1962 there were only about 6 trains each way daily, and no Sunday service. Trains covered the 13 1/4 miles from Oundle to the East station in 19 minutes. Today's X4 express bus does the journey to the Queensgate bus station by Peterborough North in 22 minutes, although the terminus is more convenient. 31.7.07 A mile beyond Oundle towards Barnwell the river is crossed again by what is known locally as the Cher Ami bridge. This was widened when the A605 Oundle bypass was built on the trackbed between Oundle and Barnwell, but fortunately the LNWR style blue-grey brick was used and the railway character of the bridge retained. This the the extended side, easier to photograph. Another shot of the Cher Ami bridge. Local pronunciation of the name sounds like 'jeremy'. The Cher Ami bridge showing the original LNWR side. 4.9.07 At Wansford the River Nene is crossed for the second time as the river bends back and forth. 4.9.07 The LNWR bridge and signal box at Wansford, which appear in everyone's photos of the NVR, but who knows when 'Green Arrow' will appear here again? 5.10.07 A shot to show the original LNWR station house, the LNWR Barnwell building, and the LNWR signalbox in the background. The station house does not belong to the railway, but it needs to be as it is deteriorating. A listed building. 5.10.07 The Barnwell building on platform 2. Difficult to photograph, the building faces north and is shaded by the awning. LNWR 0-6-0 arriving at Oundle with a train from Peterborough. Local historian Reg Sutton MBE lent me this which is a b/w transparency of an old postcard. My scanner did not like it much, hence the smaller size. The photo would have been taken from the signal box, which stood by the road crossing. 1970s. Another of Reg Sutton's b/w transparencies. This shows the Barnwell station building being craned off the platform for transport to Wansford NVR. 27.4.08 The western portal of the 616 yard Wansford tunnel. It is more ornate than the eastern portal. The tunnel has a high roof but no ventilation shafts. Opened in 1845. 1960s.BR.Eastern Region class L1 2-6-4T 4MT no.67746 passes the site of the NVR Peterborough station with a breakdown train. NVR Archives. Castor Station in LNWR days, looking west. NVR Archives.. Elton Station in LNWR days, looking west. Elton station was a mile from Elton Village. The platform on which the photographer stood still exists, buried in some fierce undergrowth. Station closed 1953. NVR Archives. Midland railway (LMS) 2P 4-4-0 no.569 leaving Oundle with a service for Peterborough. NVR Archives. 1923. I bought the 2 old photos from a local antique shop years ago. An unidentified Webb 2-4-2T arrives from the Peterborough direction. 1923. A Webb LNWR 0-6-0 arrives at Oundle from the Northampton direction. The wagon turntable in the foreground transferred wagons to the sidings behind the station. The day before the A605 Oundle bypass was opened old Nero here performed his own ceremony on the bridge, or maybe he was just passing comment on the loss of his trackbed walk and all those rabbits.. Barnwell Station with the Barnwell Building, now at Wansford, in its original site.NVR Archives. The Barnwell Building in transit to Wansford, here passing through the narrow streets of Oundle town centre, by the Catholic Church. Early April 1977. NVR Archives. Thorpe Station. NVR Archives. The house is a private residence today, well-protected from the busy A605 by a tall evergreen hedge. Thrapston Bridge Street LNWR Station. No trace of it today. NVR Archives. Thrapston had 2 stations. This is the Midland Station on the Kettering-Cambridge line. NVR Archives. The picture on this dust jacket shows Stanier 2-6-4T no.42541 passing Barnwell with a Saturdays only Yarmouth to Northampton express. The b/w photo by P.H.Wells appears in the book, with several other interesting shots of the area, notably Seaton Junction on the Rugby line. Ian Allan 1978 ISBN 0 7110 0828 0. Two other excellent books are -'Railway Images Around Northamptonshire'- ISBN 0 9518557 1 9 and 'Steaming Into Northamptonshire' ISBN 0 905391 12 8, both by Richard Coleman and Joe Rajczonek.Another book, of the then and now type, is 'The Nene Valley Railway' by Christopher Awdry 2001 ISBN 1 85895 170 4. 17.12.08 Traces of the trackbed at Elton. There is a low LNWR platform near here but it is covered in challenging vegetation and not possible to photograph without some effort. 17.12.08 Past Elton the line passed by the small village of Tansor, under this bridge. 17.12.08 Near Oundle, looking back towards Tansor, crossing gateposts still stand. Formerly known as Elmington crossing with a small crossing keepers house. 17.12.08 Looking back to Tansor the line of the track in the bushes can still be seen. In recent years the track in the foreground has been ploughed over and obliterated. Before this happened several sacks of LNWR ballast found their way on to my garden path. 17.12.08 Looking from Tansor towards Oundle, the line followed the hedge. The station yard has been built on and the last inch of trackbed used by the developers. 17.12.08 At the farther end of the Oundle A605 bypass the road begins to leave the trackbed near Barnwell station. 17.12.08 Traces of the station at Barnwell. 17.12.08 Barnwell. The Old Station House. 17.12.08 Beyond Barnwell the track line can be seen through the evergreens. The B660 crosses the old railway track which passed under this bridge. 17.12.08 The track is clearly seen here proceeding from Barnwell area towards the next station, Thorpe. It would have been a good place to fot steam trains. 17.12.08 Oundle Station house from the approach road, 17.12.08 Past Oundle station the railway crossed the River Nene again. The railway bridge existed just in front of this new road bypass bridge which carries the A605 on the trackbed as far as the next station, Barnwell. The bridge was somewhat similar to the Wansford bridge, so visualise that and you have the picture of what was.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Mon Dec 15 2008 5043 Earl of Mount Edgcumbe visits Melton Mowbray. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1621834.html First visit to the Melton area, and first sight of Earl of Mount Edgcumbe. Sunday 7 December 2008: First visit to the Melton area, and first sight of Earl of Mount Edgcumbe.

7.12.08 13.07hrs 4 shots of 5043. Earl of Mount Edgcumbe storms into sight with the railtour to Melton Mowbray. 7.12.08 13.07hrs 5043 near Frisby on the Wreake. 7.12.08 13.07hrs The run past was spectacular, these shots do not do it justice. 7.12.08 13.07hrs 5043 near Frisby. 7.12.08 13.07hrs 5043 near Frisby. 7.12.08 14.35hrs A small steam fix in Melton Fair. 7.12.08 14.35hrs A small steam fix in Melton Fair. 7.12.08 15.58hrs Having turned via Leicester and Loughborough 5043 reverses into Melton station as the light fades and the frost forms. 7.12.08 15.58hrs A shaky hand held shot of 5043 in Melton station as it pauses briefly before reversing to the stock just visible in the background.

Published in Steam Trains and Travel- Roger Gurney's photographs.

]]> Sun Dec 7 2008 Railways beyond the NVR -1. Market Harborough to Peterborough East, Stamford, and Uppingham. http://rogergurney.fotopic.net/c1619949.html Well-known photographer Cliff Jones recently did a very interesting 'photo-essay' in November 2008 of the old LNWR line from Rugby to Market Harborough.- See link to his site in the links box. As the line continued to Peterborough East, with branches at Seaton Junction to Stamford, and to Uppingham, I have continued the story, as the Nene Valley Rly is a small surviving part of that line. I have used an LMR timetable for 1962, table 63 for some information. There were 8 or 9 trains each way on weekdays, and curiously on Sundays only, a service departing Rugby at 2.56am calling at Market Harborough 3.20am, Seaton 3.48am and arriving at Peterborough East at 4.30am.- the only train on a Sunday with no service the other way. I am indebted to The Nene Valley Rly Archives for permission to show 7 black and white photos of steam trains on this line. Wednesday 3 December 2008: Well-known photographer Cliff Jones recently did a very interesting 'photo-essay' in November 2008 of the old LNWR line from Rugby to Market Harborough.- See link to his site in the links box. As the line continued to Peterborough East, with branches at Seaton Junction to Stamford, and to Uppingham, I have continued the story, as the Nene Valley Rly is a small surviving part of that line. I have used an LMR timetable for 1962, table 63 for some information. There were 8 or 9 trains each way on weekdays, and curiously on Sundays only, a service departing Rugby at 2.56am calling at Market Harborough 3.20am, Seaton 3.48am and arriving at Peterborough East at 4.30am.- the only train on a Sunday with no service the other way. I am indebted to The Nene Valley Rly Archives for permission to show 7 black and white photos of steam trains on this line.

16a. Unidentified Black 5 passing King's Cliffe station with an eastbound train.. 24. Stanier 5MT 4-6-0 no.45038 arrives at Peterborough East station. Maybe this was a summer excursion from the Midlands to Great Yarmouth or elsewhere on the east coast. 25. Journey's end for the LNWR. Peterborough East station. 34a. Westbound Stanier 5MT meets an eastbound dmu at Seaton Junction in the early 1960's. The 1962 timetable shows trains scheduled to cross at 2.39pm and 2.40pm. The dmu destination board however looks as though it might read 'Stamford', but the 1962 timetable shows no through trains for the Stamford branch. Maybe the service was introduced later than 1962 after steam was removed from the Stamford branch. 34b. Ivatt 2MT 2-6-2T no.41271 shedplate 15C Leicester (Midland) in the Stamford bay platform at Seaton Junction. Late 1950/early 1960. In the early 1950s 41271 was in a batch of 4 such engines 41269-41272 of Bedford shed 15D. This engine often propelled the auto-train on which I travelled to school. 37a. Luffenham station. A Leicester-bound Standard 4 4-6-0 no.75043 of 15C Leicester (Midland) arrives. The tall building on the left is the old flour mill which still survives today- see next photo. This station has entirely disappeared and the line is 2 tracks only. 23. The eastern end of the NVR at Peterborough Nene Valley station. Left, out of picture, the Railworld thingy occupies the site of the old LNWR engine shed, at Woodston Wharf by the River Nene. The line continued under the ECML GNR bridge in the background to join and share Peterborough East station with the Midland and Great Eastern lines. 22. A well-known scene, the LNWR signalbox at Wansford has stood in this, its original position, for over 100 years. 21. Nene Valley Railway, Yarwell Junction. The western end where the buffer stop indicates the point where the Market Harborough line came in. The telegraph pole has 2 sets of insulators at different angles, as this is where the Northampton-Peterborough line came in from the left. The LNWR style building has genuine LNWR bricks in its chimney stack, rescued by the CCE of the NVR from a gangers hut on the line. Personally I think this station is misnamed. When there was a junction here there was no station, and now there is a station there is no junction. The station is equidistant from Yarwell and Nassington, which would have been a more appropriate name. 42. The filled-in trackbed at the bay platform at Stamford Town station, terminus for the LNWR services. 11. Seaton Junction yard from the Harringworth road. The yard is used by a salvage company. 2. Rockingham Station is still identifiable as such, with the goods shed, waiting room and station house still standing. The premises is situated on the outskirts of the next village, Caldecott, but in true LNWR style the station was named 'Rockingham'. This is the A6003 to Oakham. 3. A close shot of the wooden LNWR waiting room. I stirred up some very hostile canines here so did not poke around further. The place is well fenced off from prying eyes. 4. View from the level crossing eastwards towards the next station, Seaton Junction. 5. Two shots from the foot of the LNWR embankment as the line neared Seaton. These would be the first views the LNWR passengers would have of the Midland Railway Harringworth viaduct. 6. The viaduct is little used now, being freight only. Its 82 arches span the Welland Valley. 7. Seaton Junction, view eastwards. Privately owned and modernised the LNWR architecture is still apparent. 8. A peep into the station. The owners seem to look after the railway artefacts well. 9. A view over Seaton Junction to the Welland, or Harringworth viaduct. 10. Looking back westwards from Seaton along the trackbed towards Rockingham. 24. Returning to the Seaton area we join the line to Uppingham. Opened in 1894, it closed in 1960. Passing under the Midland line the branch took a 180 degree turn around the hillside, passing under the Midland line again, and proceeded up the valley floor to Uppingham where it terminated. The Peterborough line ran diagonally across this photo, and the bridge parapet marks where the Uppingham line began its 180 deg. turn. 25. The Uppingham line curves round at the bottom of the field, and the branch to Stamford diverges in the thick bushes across the centre. 26. A marked footpath crosses beneath the Uppingham trackbed. 29. An old gradient post on the Uppingham trackbed. One arm states 'level'. 28. The Uppingham trackbed completes its 180 deg curve and passes beneath the Midland line again, heading westwards to Uppingham.