2020 Cumbrian Mountain Expresses

As Liam mentioned up-thread, I've definitely suffered Main line steam withdrawal symptoms and Fred, yes I was being very impatient!

Again as always; thank you everyone for your contributions in what were not exactly ideal conditions - those of us who remained at home really do appreciate all the efforts that everyone puts in and are highly grateful for those posting the fruits of their labors.

Here's to plenty more mainline steam in 2020 (and better conditions!).

 

All in a days work Liam especially up North

 

The excitement builds!

 

Aye it might be grim up north but we northerners are a tough breed; glad you enjoyed the result.

 

Since the heart op I have to wear the long sleeved version - doctor's orders and faithfully ensured by the better half

 

35018 seen at Jack Green crossing, near Nappa Langcliffe Barrow Mill and Eden Valley Goods Loop.

 

Its a hobby not a job.

 

Tell PSOV that lol

 

End of the day today 35018 did the job even if the weather wasn’t right, dark light conditions, drizzle on the lens etc . Credit to all involved.

 

35018 passing Ramsgreave & Wilpshire about 15 minutes down...


Later running through Long Preston station...


Cheers,

 

Yes they do it professionally,I meant the likes of you and me

 

You're a pro in my eyes Henry

 

And youre a good judge of character Ian

 

I'm not sure about that!

 

You need to visit Specsavers!

 

Having travelled on this specifically for the novelty of a Merchant Navy out of Victoria, I've been looking up what other workings by Bulleid Pacifics have gone through Manchester. Thanks to Six Bells Junction, UK Mainline Steam and the Locomotive Performance websites for the records.

I can find records of two previous trips. On 20th November 1966 BR(S) 35026R worked a tour Manchester Piccadilly - Cornbrook Junction - Cheadle Heath - Hazel Grove - Disley - Chinley - Millhouses - Sheffield Midland - Rotherham - Mexborough - Doncaster - Selby - York, returning York - Normanton - Hudersfield - Manchester Victoria. 21st June 1980 BR(S) 35028R worked "The Clan Line Farewell", Edge Hill-Manchester Victoria-Chester-Hereford, being banked by a BR Class 25 up Miles Platting and photos showing it climbing out of Teviot Vale tunnel at George St Junction, Stockport (the now closed line under the WCML). Light Pacific wise, BR(S) 34027R worked through Manchester on its way from Crewe to York on 9th July 2000 as part of the Harry Potter book promotion (private train). I can find no times (and therefore route) for this. Prior to this it worked Dalesman circulars Manchester Victoria - Bolton - Blackburn - Hellifield - Carnforth - Eccles - Manchester Victoria on 11th June and 9th July 1999. BR(S) 34067 passed through Manchester Victoria on 29th December 2003 working an engine and coach move from Old Oak Common to Bury and must have worked other similar moves for trains in the North West, but does not appear to have worked any passenger trains through Manchester.

Can anyone add to the above please?

 

34046 went both ways through Victoria on 14/09/19 on Saphos' York trip.

 

35026 did another tour into Man Vic on 25/6/66 where it came off in favour of 45581. Source-- Six Bells Jn. so that one was 'into' but not 'out of'.

 

Two from me on a miserable day, dull, wet and cold - the only salvation was a steam hauled train! Brownhills Bank, Blackburn and Long Preston, with steam misbehaving as usual!