B1 (6)1306 Mayflower

Was 61306 or a diesel hauling involved in a SPAD incident then? Not heard about that.

 

They also do freight.

 

Steam hauled ?

 

Sorry, I forgot to clarify that I was referring to operation of steam traction.

With regards to the SPAD referred to, I'm presuming it's the one at Trent Valley Junction on 26th April involving a Riviera Trains class 47 on hire to DCR.

 

No worries. They have a license but don't think they have done many steam moves.

 

Rail Accident Investigation: 120426_Stafford_SPAD

 

Re: B1 (6)1306

It is still a bit surprising that She hasn't hit the mainline yet. Only a couple of Steam Gala Appearances.

 

Depends how much money you have and how much you love your engine.
if you can afford it, and want to drive it on the mainline yourself... Why not.
it may not be just about making a wedge.
its not as if this engine was worked hard when it wasn't on the mainline, it definitely falls into the "French poodle" category when it comes to being groomed.

 

I expect the Railway Inspectorate will have a lot to say about that idea unless the training and assessment proces is rigorously carried out and recorded.

 

The owner has been a mainline driver for many years, so I cannot see what the problem is.

 

Apologies. I wasn't aware of that, although being a main line driver and having steam experience aren't the same thing and I'm sure that being an owner and driver must bring the potential for conflict.

 

I'm sure one Mr Riley is passed as a driver for WCRC now.

 

Maybe so, but all drivers have to sign a route card, don't they?

 

Why do you think that?

 

Because the decisions taken can affect the self and that immediately gives a biased opinion.

 

But on the other hand you also have a driver with the most intimate possible knowledge of the loco, and therefore the possibility of it being driven 'optimally' for want of a better word (and not wishing to denigrate the skill of the other steam crew who are not owners but are equally, or more, experienced at their trade!)

Stu

 

To suggest that a fully qualified driver would make a poor decision just because he owns the loco is a tad out of order IMHO.

 

And you're entitled to that.

 

Post removed for now following reports from other members. Mod team are discussing.

Richard