Dalesman 2020

I wasn't on the train, I haven't been on any railtours since UoSA's last main line run in February, and I'm not planning any railtours for a fair while, but I add my sorrow for what happened yesterday.

 

Sadly I wasn't aware of what was happening yesterday while I was filming at Aisgill as I thought there was an issue with 46115 until arriving at Garsdale Station, where it became clear there was a medical emergency, there was speculation that a member of the footplate crew was receiving medical assistance but were unaware of the outcome, sadly hearing this morning that the Fireman Mike Middleton had passed on, a day that turned out to be a very very sad day for all concerned.

 

Thoughts with the guys family but also the wider crew firstly for getting her to Garsdale then getting her back to Hellifield then home to Carnforth, must have been incredibly tough for all concerned.

 

Can I respectfully suggest that everyone move away from the keyboard, perhaps to raise a glass to this gentleman.

 

A moving tribute today from the Saphos crew as 70000, with a wreath on the smokebox, passed Garsdale.

Not my video (starting 2 mins in)

 

I'm sure I am not alone in wishing some of the last two pages had been confined to private messages instead of being slashed around this thread.

RIP Fireman Mike Middleton. Deepest sympathy to family, friends and those involved around this awful tragedy.

 

I am sure that we all offer our most sincere condolences to Mike's family, colleagues and friends some of which I'm certain frequent this forum.
In good company he has passed onto the great shed in the sky - may you rest in peace good sir.

 

Well said Sir

 

Ditto, well said Henry

 

Hear hear

 

The Wreath was for Keith Kellet but I’m pretty sure it was for Mike Middleton also especially judging by that whistle at Garsdale

 

I apologise for my earlier post. Deepest sympathy to Michael Middleton and his family. 10 years ago Paul Kane died in similar circumstances and its extremely sad that something similar has happened yesterday.

 

Had it not been for the Coronavirus pandemic I would undoubtedly have been travelling on Tuesday's Dalesman; I am thankful that I wasn't, it is always preferable "not to be there" when tragic events such as this occur.

I offer my condolences to Mike's family and my sympathies to his friends and colleagues at 10A. I must also express my admiration for the professionalism of WCRC in their handling of the evening's events. Finally, the train crew who "got the job done" in the saddest and most difficult of circumstances - there can be no praise high enough, you have my utmost respect.

 

As eloquent and appropriate as ever David. Sentiments we genuinely share.

 

I would add my condolences to Mike Middleton's family and friends and would like to make one further comment. I was out for this train on Tuesday and heard of this tragedy through the normal grapevine but refrained from commenting for one good reason. As has already been said, a lot of WC staff and possibly their families look at NP and the last thing they need to hear is a catalogue of unsubstantiated rumours. It's hard enough informing a family that their loved one isn't coming home, ask any copper it's one of the most hated parts of the job, it should never come from an unofficial source. Heaven forbid that this should happen again but if it does, can I make a plea that we all say nothing and leave all comment until the news is made public by an official source.

 

Agree totally John, and that rumour never accomplished anything!

 

Railways are always
a loyal passionate place
Crewed by those of toil,
friendship and grace
Watched on by others
From both near and far
Whether families or tourists
Or those chasing by car

Footplate crews know the life
That comes with the role
Though made of hard stuff
It cleanses their soul
To drive or fire an engine
though its just a machine
or a true living monument
that’s powered by steam

There’s a bond between those
on the mighty footplate
working the duty
sharing the date
It’s a close-knit community
where much is said with a nod
between those that have skill
and a knowledge that’s broad

On the 18th of August
In the year 2020
A Scot on the Dalesman
with gusto a plenty
Thundering on southwards
it charged past me at Kirkby
onto the long drag
and an appointment with destiny

On board the engine
one man had it planned
shovelling the coal
and it all done by hand
His name was Mike Middleton
Working through strife
Following a passion
Having the time of his life

For now came the climax
to reach the top at Ais Gill
But unknown to Mike
Cruel fate had a bill
The tour was cresting the summit
Though some soon had tears in their eyes
But nothing stopped Mike
For he continued to rise…

Written with thoughts for those on the day, at WCRC and Mike and his family

David F. Newby
aka The Black Hat

 

My pictures from what turned out to be a very sad day. Locations are, Hellifield in the rain, Blea Moor in torrential rain and Waitby on the return. The Blea Moor shot, for what it's worth is probably better in b/w

 

Be careful John I've been accused of "making mischief" for voicing the same sentiments as you!