Tornado to haul certain timetabled trains on S&C: Feb 14-16

Anyway 30-35 mins layover time at Skipton does not give much time for messing about there given the number of other trains to be dealt with and the layout. My guess is it will be top and tail, a bit like those York NRM to Shildon trips a few years ago. Skipton to Appleby is 56 miles so 90 mins running time is more or less a 40 mph schedule.

 

Possibly because IIRC the S&C comes under Network Rail York Division and since the WCRC / Phil Vorster spat relation have been at least cordial but not effusive. Having just been working on some S&C history I have noted that WCRC used to run some Hellifield - Carlisle workings and plans to operate from Hellifield were influenced by planning problems using the land to the west of Hellifield station where rolling stock is currently stored. The thoughts re Hellifield - Carlisle steam operations may have been under consideration but I think politics and personalities have intervened over time.

 

The first version of the Dalesman about 10 years ago started with steam from Hellifield IIRC. Seem to recall 30777 getting a few outings?
There is a lot to commend Hellifield and it is a pity if politics/personality have impeded further developments. The building and stored rolling stock do nothing to enhance the ambience unfortunately. A spot of regeneration would do wonders.
The old CME 80s style model of loco changes there to/from Carnforth could still work?

 

Northern Rail seems to have had a good working relationship with Statesman Rail in terms of promoted connections to the Fellsman. Perhaps this may be a developing relationship with the new owners of Statesman too?

 

I am told it will be six coaches plus support

 

My gut feeling is that this might be a bit cosy. With no need to book in advance, who knows how many will turn up.

 

Many years ago ... can't remember when, exactly ... some S&C services were operated with classic diesels for the benefit of modern traction enthusiasts. I seem to remember that they attracted worthwhile extra patronage, but I don't think they were repeated.

 

No more cosy than some of the four coach trains on the 2014 Neustadt Plandampf. Group tickets working out at around £10 for a day's unlimited travel behind steam did nothing to quell demand.
The scrum to get on board was great fun.

 

Also a Class 4 2-6-4T ran crew training runs, open to the public, from Carlisle over the northern end of the S&C several years ago.

 

80080 did some driver training turns over a few days in February 1993, all stations Carlisle to Kirkby Stephen and return. I think it was 4 coaches and carried passengers for (I think) a fare of £10.

 

Well, Northern Rail need to bear in mind the needs of their ordinary, non-enthusiast passengers, often with luggage or small children.

 

Have you seen how wedged some of the S&C dmus get at times? Scant regard for people with luggage or small children on those so why single out 60163's trains?

 

Unfortunately the number of those has not been great whilst the trains have been terminating at Armathwaite. The children would probably love the steam locomotive.

 

I remember it well! Half our party bailed out from the less 'cosy' special to do a later trip and then couldn't get on it as it was already full to bursting! Those of us who didn't enjoyed a cracking run behind a Class 41 and a longer time in the museum at Heilbronn!

I also remember the scheduled S&C services piloted by 'interesting' diesels - 9 coach sets and well filled!

Steven

 

November 1989 involving 56104, 56030, 56099, 20061 and 20093, the choppers train was wedged with over 1000 passengers on board!

 

Agreed, just because Northern regularly run with nowhere near enough stock doesn't mean this has to follow suit, should be 10+.

 

Wrong!
All S & C services are class 158's.. Usually two coaches, one is rostered for four coaches.
Also a class 153 is attached to some services.
More info on Tornado trips due to be forthcoming on Tuesday.

 

I think it was a question...not a statement of fact.

 

not sure it will be a huge financial success if normal fares apply... Four parties involved? - loco, stock, operator, and promoter?