Cathedrals Express to Bath 44871 & 45407 - Dec 2nd

2nd December

Times : -

Outward from West Brompton http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/U63352/2014/12/02/advanced
Return to Victoria http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/U63353/2014/12/02/advanced

 

I'm surprised no-one has commented. The start time is roughly two hours earlier than was advertised, which makes it unviable for some who have booked.

 

Not picking up at East Croydon according to RTT

 

Steam Dreams are advising East Croydon passengers to join at Redhill.

 

I advantage of not departing from a terminus like Victoria is that this one seems to be running with just steam throughout from Southall.

There is an LE path in the evening:
http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/U63351/2014/12/02/advanced
which is presumably the diesel to pick up the ECS at Victoria?

 

Two black hooty things gallumphed through Streatham Common this morning, confusing those waiting for the Epsom Downs service.

 

Reported passing East Croydon 08:26 (8 late).

Is this a diesel free charter day? <BJ>

 

Now nearly 20 late. Do hope all is ok with the Blackies. I suspect part of the lateness at least is due to the late start and such as following a service train out of Guildford.

 

Going fine. Delayed by service trains and water stop at Dorking West took longer than allowance. Pathing stop outside Reading not required so straight in.

 

Many thanks Paul, good to know all is going well on board.

 

Yes load 12.

 

Black 5's looking good in the gloom at Dorking Deepdene

 

Good news. Thanks. <BJ>

 

Passing Betchworth in raw, gloomy drizzle, but with crisp exhaust, having just breasted the summit.

 

Departing Deepdene

 

Ranmore Common this morning. Video to follow tonight.

https://www.flickr.com/photos/alts1985/15744154587/

 

Crowthorne

 

That was a quick trot down the steps at Dorking for an old'un!

 

There's life in the old git yet.

Something to do with regular intake of Youngs Bitter!

Cheers!