Saphos Trains 2018

The approved Saphos Trains programme of 12 charters for 2018 to be operated by the new Locomotive Services (TOC) Ltd is now showing at http://www.uksteam.info

 

Including a TBEL .....?

 

Looking at it, their version seem to be weekends where there is not a TBEL planned, I assume that this is just filling a gap in the season?

Surprising for a company/group that is very good at keeping its websites updated this information and booking capacity is not available to date although possibly a splash launch after new year?

 

Another question (which I suspect you won't be able to answer) any ideas why they have felt the need to set up yet another company when they already have the Statesman company and brand within the group.

 

Seems that way, slightly more adventurous than the initial TOC plans announced using routes to/from Crewe though.
I notice there is a venture into the Lancashire heartland too. Hope to see 34046 back up here, that would be some sight and sound over Copy Pit.

 

It will be most interesting to see how these tours sell,particularly in view of a recent announcement from PMR Railtours that they are not operating any further tours and that 46233 will be based almost entirely in the South in future as "there is no money in the North".

 

Quite a lot more info on Saphos here http://www.railwayherald.co.uk/uknews/saphos-trains-programme-announced-with-low-fares

Bookings open on Friday apparently.

 

As has been mentioned elsewhere, RTC seems to have contracted almost exclusively with Carnforh based loco owners for its northern jobs. Hence no work for 46233 equals no money. It will be interesting to see what loads are put behind the 5Xs in the fells and Wilpshire.

 

Where have PMR announced that? http://www.prclt.co.uk/pmr-tours.html says "there will not be any tours in 2017 by PMR Tours" but "We are confident that PMR Tours will be running tours in 2018".

 

I read it recently. I think it was in this months Heritage Railway. The same statement included the mention of 6233 being based almost entirely in the south of England.

From the RTC web site, I can see there is one CME from Crewe with 6233 down to do it.

 

The CMEs listed on UK Steam so far all seem to have 45690 or 99 against them as I could see. If I remember correctly it has been said that RTC arranges hire directly with owners then informs the TOC which then undertakes all the necessary admin etc functions. Perhaps 6233 is not within budget hire cost wise?
Presumably the TOC then informs RTC what load will be permissible for the chosen motive power and seats offered accordingly?

 

21st July:
http://www.railwaytouring.net/uk-day-trips/the-cumbrian-mountain-express-2

it's the only one I can see starting from Crewe. All the other CME's start from London, which are listed for a 5X.

 

Not a bad set of itineraries to start off with. That particular Copy Pit itinerary is something I've been thinking about since the curve opened.

Seeing that Standard Class is probably on offer, when the lineside gossip suggested only First Class and above, then it's all looking rather positive. Now to speculate which of the three available locomotives will do Copy Pit!

 

Statesman trains are being operated by West Coast Railway Co, Saphos Trains by Locomotive Services (TOC)

 

I hope they've completed the generator, otherwise they'll need an oil can to power their mk2 set.

 

£45 for standard class?! Discounted prices in all classes throughout 2018 is making me think it’s perhaps time to try out Premier Dining

They’re going to be a popular touring company...