Atlantic Coast Express: RTC/Clan Line - 2/07/22

Is nine mins at Waterloo P19 morning and evening enough time to detach/attach the diesel and do the tests? Genuine question.

 

Excuse my lack of operating knowledge hence the question: If the air braked train did need assistance, are WCRC able to just get an air braked diesel from any TOC to help them, or does it have to be one of their diesels?

 

On a joined up railway that would be the case I believe. However we know we do not have a joined up railway and many FOC's are short of staff so do not have any spare staff or locos "kicking around on the off chance". Where would the nearest dept be Westbury?
That is of course before any of the specific industry politics.
Just think how unlikely would it be for BA to loan Ryanair an aircraft, even if they were paying.

 

No, there won't.

JS

 

Thanks James, I’ve just heard that plans have been changed and the diesel will be sent to Clapham yard. I assume that movement will now show up on RTT

 

Don't be too quick to believe all you see on RTT. It was always the plan but didn't get uploaded with the other (draft) times.

Anyway, it's kept a few people needlessly frothing for a day or two!

PS For recovery, in the event of a failure, NR will summon the nearest available and suitable loco, regardless of ownership to clear the line.

JS

 

If the confirmation about the lack of diesel has swayed anyone, despite the main RTC site saying 'Fully Booked', the booking page is still showing 2 standard and 1 first class seat available.
I'm hoping this isn't just a glitch, as I booked the 3rd standard ticket that was available!
Will see if I get a ticket or cancellation call tomorrow!

EDIT: Ticket arrived for coach F this morning. :-D

Now I just have to hope that my rather tight connection from Marylebone to Waterloo works out. (If not I can at least jump on a train to Basingstoke which should overtake it enroute).

 

But presumably not to take it out of somewhere not blocking the operation of the rest of the railway James?

 

What we've been waiting and hoping for. <BJ>
Realtime Trains | 0Z82 0806 London Waterloo to Clapham Yard | 02/07/2022

 

All ready to go tomorrow, looking forward to this one

 

I trust that speck of dust on the left buffer will be removed before tomorrow - it's a disgrace!

 

Will the red plates be used tomorrow?be even more authentic if they are

 

Looking forward to it.

 

Aren't we all!!!

 

Afraid not, they are only for special occasions

 

As JS said it's Network Rail who obtain the use of a rescue loco.
NR Route Control will consult with other operators as appropriate. It's not just the loco, a driver with appropriate route knowledge is needed as well.
Please - just don't tempt fate!

Cheers, Neil

 

Far too many years writing contracts where I was always looking to cover the unlikely causes that I am afraid Neil. Or Mr. Negativity as my wife calls it.