THE WEST SOMERSET EXPLORER Sat 18 June (t0618b)

Times for this train from Paddington to Minehead and return behind 70013 Oliver Cromwell are now at:
www.uksteam.info/tours/t11/t0618b.htm Tour code is t0618b

 

Unfortunately this train has been given a much slower path on the mainline than is usual between London and Taunton, and this has made it difficult to path on the WSR.

David

 

The "punters" won't hardly have any time to leave the station & have a look around either, especially non enthusiast families. I think this is one thing SD strive for, at least 3 hours at the destination.

Sorry David, our posts crossed each other.

 

Yes, this is another problem with ralitours at present as well as the well documented issues of loco changes, route changes etc.... The layover times seem to get shorter and shorter. I know SD aim for 3 hours but sometimes they don't get it. For the non-enthusiast market I would have thought a decent time at the destination is essential. I only persuade my wife to come on tours if they go somewhere interesting and there is enough time to explore the place. Even as an enthusiast I like a good 3 hours off the train if only to sample the local pubs! However I suppose if decent paths aren't available the alternative is a 6am start and a midnight finish which will scare quite a few passengers off.

I don't have any magical solution to the problem but it's another example of the customer not getting what they are paying for right now. For example the RTC brochure advertises this tour with a 3 hour and 20 minute stay in Minehead. I know timings in the brochures are "approximate" but that is quite a difference!

 

I understand that a 12 coach train is over the maximum limit to pass unaided over the WSR. The plan at
present is to add a class 47 diesel to the consist .....but as we all know, things can change. <BJ>

 

If that's the case couldn't they just use a WSR loco (diesel or steam) to assist on the line?

 

The 47 is from the WSR fleet. Sorry for any confusion. <BJ>

 

Another special train running on the WSR this Saturday will be hauled by 30777 Sir Lamiel. It will carry members of the Royal Marines and their families from
Bishops Lydeard to Minehead for a visit to Butlins. GWR locomotive 7828 was renamed 'Norton Manor, 40 Commando' in honour of the Royal Marines today. <BJ>

 

How long is 30777 Sir Lamiel going to be down at the WSR?

 

Now looks like D7017 but then things can change

Steve

 

70013 reported departing Reading right time at 09:17. Keep going my boy!!

1 in a million chance of a lineside fire. 50/50 chance of flooding. <BJ>

 

OK she's on her way and on time Twyford. Looks magnificent in the sunshine although pretty windy out there. Green engine, 12 crimson coaches, just right. AND to make things better; while waiting, Tornado appeared in other direction + support coach on way to Willesden and her Canterbury run. Two express steam locos in 6 minutes just to the east of Twyford !!!!! Whatever next ?
www.youtube.com/watch?v=sS9flBFhFQs

 

Theale 09:25. Ufton 09:32. <BJ>

 

Stormed through Kintbury on time.

 

Arrived 1 min late at Minehead. Chaos on platform at Minehead!
http://www.wsr.org.uk/webcam3.htm
Steve

 

Will she get away from WSR on time, though? It's a tight turn-around...

 

http://www.wsr.org.uk/webcam3.htm
Keep watching to see if 70013 departs on time.

Thanks to wsr.org.uk <BJ>

 

Going well on the climb to Brewham this morning:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wp-ntCfm2Ck