Clan Line 2022

That would appear to be the case. I'm guessing they wanted to do a chiltern hills circuit, given that Hinskey sidings is almost Oxford.

 

There must be a reason for running to Olympia and reversing there instead of going straight to Clapham Junction, but it is certainly very odd. Any theories?

 

I wonder what the screens will show at Victoria as the destination. Back in 2013 for the trip to the Bluebell they showed East Grinstead Sidings!
Maybe Hinksey Sidings?

 

I would guess six.

 

I don't think the Kent route was a trial - it is the established permanent route now (sadly for us in the Surrey hills).

 

Are we certain the steam is on at Victoria or does it attach at Kensington?

 

The LE move from Southall goes to the Lane before the stock move into Victoria, and there's no sign of a move to Kensington for an engine to join. It's being steam hauled into Victoria.

 

That in itself is quite an interesting variation. Can't think why the KO reversal is in there unless simply to lengthen the trip.

 

More likely Diesel to Hinksey and steam back

 

Yes and that's a pretty smart reversal (in three minutes) at Foxhall Jct. - obviously do-able but more time is often allowed even when both locos are crewed.

 

BBC South tonight reported a local NR strike centred on Didcot signalling centre tomorrow, with a "reduced" service operating. Anyone know if this might impact on tomorrow's Pullman?

 

Could it be the case that Tangmere, presumably, is bringing its POB and running around at Stewarts lane is not possible or convenient so its easier to turn the whole train at Kenny O?

 

Hard to know but the theory is that there will fewer trains running overall and therefore more paths available. On that basis, delays should be less likely, with 'Tangmere' more likely to have a clear run than if a full service was operating. I don't know if the schedule was put together with knowledge of the strike impacts or not, but I imagine the latter is more likely. I'm assuming the Didcot Signalling Centre is being operated by managers, hence the reduced traffic hours and a thinner service.

 

Seems strange though to cancel regular service trains but run a charter, which itself was only sent there at short notice.

 

Is that not what my post said?

 

Possibly but looking again I’m sure Big Al is correct.

 

It looks as if 34067 will not be on the VSOE today as 5Z81 Southall to Stewarts Lane is cancelled!

 

Indeed - looks like yet another diesel outing.

 

It seemed fine at Rugby on Thursday evening on its way to Southall,but is it likely to be a loco defect ?