The Royal Duchy 2016

I only remember 6233 coming down to do Bristol-Plymouth twice before. It's hard to believe we did the first one with Past Time on 27th October 2001, almost 15 years ago! The load was 10, a preservation first. I believe the load was also 10 on 8th October 2003 with PMR. Only Tornado has been allowed 10 since. Load 9 should be a doddle on Sunday. Hope some timers are on and will share their timings and speeds on here. Should threaten the Dainton and Hemerdon records.

 

I've noticed that with the Duchess over the last few years, as it's been a while since I've seen it put in a strong run, even it's runs up Shap have been average at best considering what it's capable of. I'm sure on Sunday she'll have to be worked hard, otherwise you won't reach the top of the Banks. I Agree with Ralph, that no record attempts will be made.

 

A shot of the Duchess on the 27th October 2001 trip, just as a reminder.

https://www.flickr.com/photos/25640353@N05/17331817282/in/album-72157646384498126/

 

I suspect the diesel will give it a big shove though. Pity really.

 

It remains to be seen whether a DL will be needed. I suspect it depends on the turning arrangements. If 46233 can turn at St Blazey, or if the train only goes as far as Plymouth, then there's no need. If they have to turn at Plymouth, but still go all the way to Par, then there will be one on the back, and therefore it will have to at least move itself on Rattery, Dainton and Hemerdon. Even so, I suspect it will still be a fine day out for the passengers and make a fine sight for the on-lookers.

 

What colour is 46233.

 

Is the St Blazey Turntable a GWR 65ft type ?, the Duchess fits the Tyseley table of same length, albeit with a bit of overhang.

 

Unlikely as 46233 is out of gauge for the B&H route via Newbury AIUI

 

I think you will find that 6233 is otherwise engaged next Saturday anyway.

 

Can't take 10 on the RD 'cause it wont fit into the Branch Goods at Par.

 

Diesel ?

 

Full details of 46233's visit to the west country are now available at www.uksteam.info. It will stable at the WSR and work the Royal Duchy from Taunton.

David

 

Do we know how long she's staying down south? Is there a possibility she'll do the 28th as well as that might be too early for Cromwell?

 

On UK steam it says Tangmere will pull it back!

 

That'll be a nice surprise for the visitors at the WSR Steam Rally.

The WSR railway line between Bishops Lydeard and Norton Fitzwarren will be busy on Saturday. The shuttles will be running to the Steam Rally and the Duchess will be arriving with the ECS for the Royal Duchy. <BJ>

 

She's listed as hauling the CathEx to Kingswear from Taunton on 3/9, on the SD website.

 

I think you and I know that is a minor error. David has probably copied and pasted the basic format from another source. <BJ>

 

It will be arriving with its support coach not the ECS for the Royal Duchy which starts from Bristol Temple Meads and is diesel hauled to Taunton.