60163 Tornado MHR

Hi,

Looking on the MHR web site tonight I see that 60163 Tornado will be visiting on 21st/22nd August

http://www.watercressline.co.uk/Events/47

 

Thanks for the heads up. I know where I will be going on the 21st then! A bargin at standard prices too. Might get a chance to sit down on one of the trains this time.

 

Glad to see the A1 back in steam! A tribute to all those who worked tirelessly to get her repaired and back to service!

 

All those people who were paid to do their job?

 

Paid or not, it was a remarkably quick turn around considering the work required and credit where credit is due. Just because someone is paid doesn't mean they don't do an effective and efficient job!

 

There are now three additional running days for anyone wishing to travel behind Tornado 28th - 30th August.

http://www.watercressline.co.uk/News/Latest/View/226

 

Too true. And credit is also due to those who designed her with the foresight to make the cab simple to remove, even with all the not inconsiderable extra electronics, the switch panels for which reside in the cab roof.

 

Great foresight indeed but I expect that all the wiring for the electronics are all on quick split plug and sockets to let the cab be lifted quickly.

 

Errr - yes. That was kind of the point I was making.

 

Ah, two visits may be in order then...................
I guess she will coming down from London during the middle of the night again like last time she visited. Anyone know which day/night she is coming down?

 

Well she's due to work the VSOE on Friday so presumably will come down sometime Friday evening

 

Yes it looks likely that it will be Friday night. A long day for the support crew again as they will keep her in steam for use at the MHR on Saturday.

 

Well things didn't go to plan at the weekend and we didn't make it down to Alresford till late afternoon on Saturday. We caught the last round trip (3.00pm) with 73096 in charge for a great run to Alton and back. She was certainly in fine form on the bank out of Alton in damp conditions. Great driving from the crew, not one slip. My first run behind her since she has returned to traffic and what a cracker it was. I've just got my full hearing back today. Trains were very well filled and lots of the kids were mentioning Tornado.
It was very sad to see the fire damaged shed close up from the passing train. The shunter was parked outside as were the frames for the LSWR dining carriage. I shall be sending a donation later this week.
Having "missed" Tornado earlier we decided to wait around as we heard she would be hauling the Watercress Belle in the evening and saw her pass through Medstead in poor weather shortly after 73096 had gone through with the RAT.

 

We saw Tornado come through Redhill on Friday. Looked very nice, and did the business very efficiently, but didn't make half the noise the Black 5 did the previous week on the Cathedrals Express.

 

This coming bank holiday weekend. 60163 Tornado is now starting at Alresford.

http://www.watercressline.co.uk/Your-Visit/Timetable

 

I understand that, as this train will have the real ale bar car included in it that there are moves afoot to have a small staff of BSW's working on it! I suggest Kent Yeti should make a visit!

 

Oakfield, I suppose that you think that you comment is clever, but no it's just childish....

 

In your opinion.

 

And mine!

 

Having seen your comments elsewhere that would not be unexpected!