Paignton & Dartmouth rly

Lovely picture Stu, can I just ask in general, it looks like from this picture and others that the window frames are painted chocolate, or another browny colour, definitely not cream - what is the reason for this? I've got nothing personally against it, actually I quite like it, but why? or have I been painting window frames wrong...

 

This is PDSRs own variation, they've done this for a number of years. Not sure why - I would have thought it makes for extra work. Apparently they are starting to repaint stock in the right livery...

 

I wonder if it's to hide dirt more ?, the corners around the windows seem to accumulate it much more than anywhere else, and Cream doesn't exactly hide the fact.

 

In the early 1980's the DVR decided to paint the stock on the now SDR in GWR livery and the stock on the Paignton line was to go into correct BR(WR) chocolate and cream. At the same time a number of "new" Mk 1's were purchased from British Rail and these all had the modified windows with the raised frame rather than flush bodyside. The coach painting was undertaken in the running shed at Paignton by one of the drivers, Stan Turner an ex Eastern Region driver from Hornsey depot. Faced with a lot of extra masking up to create the top chocolate band and associated lining, Stan suggested to the General Manager that it would be easier to pick out the window surrounds in chocolate and that the coaches would look more Pullman in style. This was agreed upon and the livery has been carried ever since, although I believe a rake of 4 Mk 1's are at present being outshopped in the correct livery ready for photo charters with 7827 next year. Another little known fact is that during the mid 1990's one Mk 1 was part painted in maroon to establish a new livery, however only one end on one side was done before the idea was dropped.

 

Very informative post Ganger, thanks. Will be good to see the authentic MK1s next month

 

Been quiet on this thread for a while! Whlist browsing the website I see brake van rides are now available each Friday behind a diesel shunter, could be a long trip behind the 08!

 

http://www.dartmouthrailriver.co.uk...UARDS VAN EXPERIENCE TERMS AND CONDITIONS.pdf

Interesting way of seeing the line! I see they're also doing footplate rides for £59.95.