Winter CME's, February 2012.

I just looked at UK Steam. Maybe that shall be reflected in the next update.

It has.

 

I wonder if this is an indication for what the power shall be on all 4 of these trips. We all know which of the 2 handles Shap better outbound. One can hope. I hope I'm not the only one hoping.

I wonder if the performance of the 5's also had an influence on the change in direction.

 

Blimey - for a bloke living in Texas you must rack up some air miles

 

I do with my computer. ha ha

 

It may be to do with engineering works on the mainline. new track has been dropped between Hest Bank and Carnforth. Work was carried out around Hest Bank two weeks ago and they normally close the mainline around Lunchtime on saturday untill Sunday.

 

Checking the forecast Saturday 4th Feb I see its now showing a clear and sunny for Saturday. Do we think we could get perfect conditions for a Saturday in a row, I hope so as my Coach J tickets arrived this morning.

 

Yeah it is only 3 days till 5305 pulls out of the station!

 

Has 5305 moved to Carnforth from York yet? Wasn't sure which day it was.

 

I hope they do it tomorrow. Do most of the crews rest a day before going out on their designated train. Most of the time that is.

 

Just spoken to N.D. on his return to the UK.
Next 4 CME's are full (just the odd seat or two left) Repeat of post in fully booked!
There was NEVER NEVER any intention to have a diesel Carlisle - Shap - Carnforth.
The starting time from Euston was planned to be 07.10(ish). 07.09 has been achieved. WCRC / RTC / NR all work very hard. "Perhaps" some staff (esp NR) resent the implied slurs that sometimes appear doubting their ability/motivation/effort. Nigel never planned a diesel "on the back" of the CMEs + always hoped to achieve a post 07.00 time from Euston.

Weekend engineering often brings difficulties-some unforseeable-needing late changes.
I hope posters who sometimes criticise will be full of praise for these final timings....!!!!

Now to hope for good weather+excellent loco performance

 

Who couldn't agree with that!
loco performance that is.

 

I'd been sent times for Friday, 11:16 off York, 14:28 - 15:28 at Hellifield, 15:35 Settle Jnc and 16:25 at Carnforth. They were sent at the start of the week so it may be different... Simon

 

Just the thought that this February series of trips are starting this weekend, I'm having trouble holding back my enthusiasm. Is anybody too excited as well!?

 

Anyone know about the motive power from Euston,please?Booked 86259 still at Washwood Heath and 86101 not requested?

 

86259 booked to be dragged down to Williesden tomorrow by 47727 and 47749.