Saphos-Pennine Moors Christmas Explorer 7/12/19

Just got ticket for this - some changes from as advertised. Runs outward via Blackburn (water stop), Copy Pit, Rochdale, Man Vic and back to Crewe. Much later start from Crewe 11.45 (10.00) and later return 17.05 (16.00).

 

Not my favourite way up Copy Pit and no Miles Platting. Worse, despite booking in May, it looks like they've put us in a coffin, not the Mk1 FO we requested.

 

After the S Yorkshireman ran from Man Vic and on to Summit, I hoped that this might run the same way. But looking on the bright side you will be able to eat your lunch in the loop at Blackburn - what a treat!

 

Odds are we won't bother David. We hate those Mk2 AirCons with the hissing doors.

 

Agreed Graham they are annoying and I think that we all prefer Mk1s but still much better than staying at home and watching Cash in the Attic or suchlike. You’ll also miss out on a ride through Church & OSWALDTWISTLE - my boyhood home.

 

Coach D has become a Dining Coach on the train. If that's a portent for the future then that's us done with Saphos. Big sports fan me David so spending Saturdays at home when there's rugby union on BT Sport is no problem. Also get to drink the beers I like!!

 

Sounds like you’re sorted.

 

Times for this now up......

https://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/U52511/2019-12-07/detailed

https://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/U52512/2019-12-07/detailed

 

Any confirmation on motive power as yet, or have I missed it somewhere, can't find it on the Saphos site?

 

Well, 46100 came back to Crewe this morning so....maybe?

 

Not seen a thread for this so apologies if it’s already been posted. Saphos website has it going a different way to the actual times on RTT. Presumably it’s 70000 Britannia doing the honours.
https://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/U52511/2019-12-07/detailed


https://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/U52512/2019-12-07/detailed

 

That's exactly what happened last year, where a wet and dismal Burnley was the destination. Disappointing as we missed the advertised climb out of Victoria, but the day was nonetheless memorable as the first Saphos trip without a tailgunner.

 

Must admit last year I did enjoy filming the tour even in the wet but like you say better without the rear gunner .

 

Yes Steve you are the Marti Pellow of Nat Pres

 

Need a new brolly mind . Maybe Santa will be calling.

 

He won’t get it down the chimney up . . .

 

Haven’t got a chimney

 

That makes you a fireless loco . . . (or just loco, like me).

 

Both probably

 

This is ours!