Vintage Trains 2022

Short answer yes, been covered here or elsewhere in the past, I assume its modern gubbins in a traditional case.

I cannot comment on spec, but isn't the ECML OHLE notorious for being extremely flimsy, done on the cheap and being extremely susceptible to damage, which I assume would explain in part the more robust approach on the GWR main line.

 

The GWML overheads don't tend to fall down if a sparrow farts in the general direction of the wires, unlike the cheapo ECML ones.

 

I heard they were only given the money for as far as Newcastle, so extended the spacings so they could get to Edinburgh.

 

Cheap they may have been but the GWML system, although practical, looks terrible. Others may disagree. [BJ]

 

Thanks. That was the plan. They’re part of the ECML scene so may as well try and use them to advantage.

 

Arguably the GWML ones are over-engineered. And that project ran out of money.

 

Yes - horribly over-engineered. Compare with the HS1 system, used at 186mph, which is elegant and slim, and seemingly perfectly adequate for the purpose.

 

Evening.

Sorry if this has been mentioned, but I can see there are times in RTT for the Polar Express to Dorridge tomorrow and Saturday, although there is nothing advertised. Does anybody know if there is a press launch/charity trips/testing planned, and if so whether these, if they run, will be steam hauled (towards Bham).

Google hasn't helped.

Thanks in advance.

 

Not the best as caught by surprise, so couldn't make it to my usual spot. I may get a bit sick of it over the next 4 weekends!

 

In past years, 5043 must have used up all the sun on its Christmas trips to York. 7029 once again heads north at Willington on a damp and foggy morning with Vintage trains Christmas White Rose.

 

Conditions were no better further north, but the autumn colours still looked nice approaching Milford Junction.



https://richardstevens.smugmug.com/

 

A bit further down the road at Burton Salmon.

"Clun Castle", 29/11/22.

 

Here's my footage of yesterday's Polar Express runs featuring Clun Castle. I filmed the first three runs at Solihull and Widney Manor Stations. I hope you enjoy the video.

 

A bit of early sun as 7029 passes the site of Southam Road & Harbury station on its way to Bath and Bristol.

https://www.flickr.com/photos/25640353@N05/52546972713/in/dateposted-friend/

 

Clun was going very well in some crisp winter conditions this morning, though it didn't start well as she was assisted up the gradient through Harbury. Thankfully she was working harder just up line at Bishops Itchington and the 47 had eased off. Just north of Didcot at Culham the Castle was in top form and sounding heavenly. We will see what return brings.