Atlantic Coast Express - 20/05/23

Timings now on RTT: https://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/se...0/0000-2359?stp=WVS&show=all&order=wtt&toc=WR

 

The set of timings that please me the most:

0Z20 07:35 London Waterloo to Acton Lane
Realtime Trains | 0Z20 0735 London Waterloo to Acton Lane Reception Sdgs | 20/05/2023

 

I booked thinking it would be a repeat of last year's A C.E and was concerned when I found out Clan Line was not available but with Bahamas and no diesel all is well ! Although a long day for Bahamas its proved itself to be reliable (as well an almost 90 year machine can be!)looking forward to my first 2023 mainline trip

 

I imagine a Jubilee on 10 in fine weather should be a fairly straightforward job.

 

Could that have been planned for when the train was to be hauled by Clan Line? I hope not but it just crossed my mind. hope I will see it tomorrow without the diesel

 

Did the original advertising state explicity that the train would be steam-only? I didn't see it so I don't know what was said then.

 

Should be a lovely day out in fine weather but, as you say, no fire risk to cause concern. Last year by this time the drought was months old, having started in late January (not that anyone noticed in winter).

 

The south west has had heavy showers today and May rainfall has been average after very wet March and April. But a drought order still applies. Hopefully NR will see no need for a DL

 

Next Saturday Bahamas is going to Plymouth so I guess if no diesel and no problems tomorrow then maybe another diesel free day next Saturday (presumably with less than 10 on of course!)

 

To the best of my knowledge, RTC have never stated in their publicity that any of their trains would or would not be steam only. The one time (a few years ago) I phoned them and asked them, I was given incorrect info! As @Big Al has already posted, why on earth can't what is planned be put in the public domain (obviously with an appropriate proviso that things could be subject to change on the day). It seems a very small thing, and would bring in some extra bookings from people like me, and we're often told that the "last coach" can make the difference to a tours profitability (or not). So how about it RTC?

 

I can confirm Sherborne had heavy rain and thunderstorms today for about 3/4 hour but is dry now with no rain in propect over night

 

0Z20 still in platform after train departed

 

0Z20 returning light to Acton. <BJ>

Realtime Trains | 0Z20 0735 London Waterloo to Acton Lane Reception Sdgs | 20/05/2023

 

45596 going well through Wimbledon this morning, load 10 unassisted with Pete Roberts on the regulator