Shakespeare Express 2017

Hello all,

I cant see a thread for the forthcoming season of the Shakespeare Express. Just wondering if anyone knows what is the booked traction for the season - as I'm looking at having a trip towards the South West for Western region traction and hope to ride behind 5043 Earl of Mount Edgcumbe.

Obviously, if others want to continue this with other news on the forthcoming season, feel free to continue discussion.

 

Would be nice to see the panniers on the Shakespeare Express

 

Think the return via Dorridge is timed for 60MPH running, Putting aside water and double crewing considerations.

 

It is usually the Hall for most of the trips, and only 1 or 2 hauled by the Earl. Ben might post on here when it will be the Earl, but it might only be a week or 2 before. If you are flexible on dates wait until nearer the time, and pay on the day for trains B and C.

 

Who knows, maybe Clun Castle might even get a run out...

 

The current 2017 leaflet for The Shakespeare Express shows 5043 on the front cover, and the blurb inside has a comment that says "our steam locomotive might well reach our maximum permitted speed of 75mph'. Although it is usually 4965 that hauls the Shakespeares, the combination of both the front cover photo and the 75mph reference would be very odd if 5043 was only doing the occasional run or two.

 

Certainly won't be this year, as Tyseley only has 1 of the 2 resident Pannier tanks there this summer......

 

Where will the other be then?

 

The red ones on a summer holiday to the seaside......

 

We have not finalised the loco roster for the 8 Shakespeare's as yet.

It is safe to say there will be a Castle on the last one (3rd September)

 

Any idea which engine is on this for July 23rd?

 

Or this weeks! Tickets received yesterday. Looking forward to travelling with VT on Sunday - the itinerary and journey length is perfect for the whole family.

 

5043 being prepped at Tyseley today

 

5043 running with the usual load 8. Seems to be a lot of stop starting on train A.

 

It's a new path about 30 mins earlier than the previous Train A, perhaps trial and error finding out where you catch traffic while it's new ?.

 

Looking good approaching Lapworth with the first return train today.

https://www.flickr.com/photos/31339850@N06/35920464306/in/pool-3342851@N25/

graham

 

Approaching Shrewley having joined the mainline at Hatton North with the second return train.

 

Enjoyed the trip today, Edgcumbe looked immaculate as always...

Beware when using the multi storey car park at Snow Hill, normal charges apply every day including Sunday!