RTC Flying Scotsman/Black 5s to Carlisle 23rd January

The only chance would be , if she was down at Southall in-between trips,and for some reason a trip was pulled, meaning she was going to be availible ,and the question was asked, especially if another loco was already making the trip down to Ropley but then the MHR ticket hot line might well go into melt down.

 

I've just seen a posting on another forum from a chap that supposedly works for West Coast Railways. He says that Galatea is going to be out with a Black 5 instead of Scotsman on Saturday. Can Ian Riley or anyone else with accurate information tell us if this is correct or not

 

I've heard the same thing and posted it on the Scotsman thread

 

Wow. A Jub and a Black 5. Going over Aisgill together. Shame I'm not up in that part of the world for Owls as I'd have planned to turn up on the lineside to see that. Or even tried to get ticket on it, although it's hard to see anyone letting go of one now with that combination on the front.

 

Unfortunately it's Northbound over the S&C, so not quite the spectacle if it was heading south over Ais Gill. IIRC the tour is booked to return via Shap.

 

It's off Manchester Victoria at 06.20 so lots of different opportunities before the sun comes round, I would have gone if it was two Black 5s but not interested in red Jubilee. For the same reason I wouldn't have gone for FS either leave that for the run out of Kings Cross when it's in green.

 

In view of the recent news, the book is closed, no moneys refunded, complaints can be addressed to BetKnowwun, c/o third sun lounger along, Madives.

 

I am of same opinion. Locos with number starting with a 6, and 5 digits long should only be seen and heard on routes out of Kings Cross!

 

I presume that is to prevent them showing up locos that traditionally work out of routes emanating from the termini of lesser railways.

 

I refer the honourable gentleman to the Lesser Midland & Scottish Railway for starters.

 

Info received via twitter confirms not running on Saturday

https://twitter.com/TomIngall/status/689415224047185921

P.S not my normal source for railway information, but no reason to doubt it

 

Just had confirmation from RTC that FS will not be available for this Saturday's CME.
Problem down to brake issue identified whilst running on the ELR.
Also mentions not enough time to get the paperwork done in time.
Pity, but it was always a 50/50 chance.
RTC say that the two Riley Black 5s will be hauling the train - which was always plan B.

 

Here is a copy of their letter/email.

RE: The Winter Cumbrian Mountain Express 23rd January 2016


We are writing to you with regards to your booking on our Winter Cumbrian Mountain Express on Saturday 23rd January.


We have been advised this morning that despite reassurances and the supreme effort made by Ian Riley and his team The Flying Scotsman will not be ready to haul our train. This is due to additional work being required on the brakes. This was identified during test runs on the East Lancashire Railway. This has resulted in insufficient time to complete the necessary paperwork required for the engine to return to the main line.


As originally advertised and due to the unavailability of The Flying Scotsman we will now be double headed throughout by two Black 5s 44871 and 45407.


Please accept our apologies for any disappointment the change of locomotive may cause you and be assured that the whole team at The Railway Touring Company share your disappointment.


We hope that despite the change that you have a wonderful journey with us to Carlisle on Saturday and we look forward to welcoming you onboard.


Kind Regards



The Railway Touring Company

 

Direct from Ian:

"
Testing work continues with the braking systems on the locomotive, including 'ironing-out' problems with the Tender braking.

As such, the paperwork will not be in-place for the locomotive to carry out Mainline Testing this week.

Once WE are happy, the testing will be re-scheduled.

It is hoped that 60103 will take the place of 46233 on The Cumbrian Mountain Express railtour of 6th Feb.

This Saturdays Railtour will be hauled by 44871 and 45407.

"

 

Cue complaints from Sutherland fans.

 

Interesting. That means both 60103 & 46100 could make their main line debuts on the same day...