Watercress Line Diesel Gala: 12th-14th July 2024.

Not sure if there is a problem with the final visitor but the Class 59 has still not departed from Southampton MCT. It was due off there at 19.45.


UPDATE: Now on the move 45 minutes late.
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Just saw it arrive at Alton, around 35 late. 59104.

 

Unfortunately I'm not free this weekend to attend the gala, but I did manage to see the 43s heading towards Alton today. Here are pictures from Tilehurst and Earley, either side of a layover in Reading.

Have a great weekend, anyone who is going!

 

Just a few photos from Ropley today

 

50021 in the sun at Alresford this afternoon.

50021 leaving Alresford by Stephen Morley, on Flickr

 

For those coming tomorrow 1605 ex Alton will be D8188 solo as the 59 is needed back home. Apologies for any inconvenience.

 

The 59 is leaving the Watercress Line at 18.33:
https://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/service/gb-nr:R11075/2024-07-14/detailed

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Seems it might be leaving ahead of time hence the reason to take it off the 1605. It has just appeared in platform 2 at Alton

EDIT: or not, seem to being held until 18:33 anyway. I guess it was just decided after the timetable was released

 

Had a good day today at the Gala. Our first visit to a Diesel Gala for a long time. We were attracted this time by the HST power cars and the two 50's.
There were some problems encountered with the doors not locking on the old Electric unit when 50008 was hauling it. But the timetable didn't drift too much. Good to see the railway very busy as last time we visited a Diesel Gala it was pretty empty. We look forward to seeing what the Watercress Line can book for the next one.
Some low res shots from the day below:












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Some pics of the visiting loco's.

https://www.flickr.com/photos/duty_druid/53855774881/in/dateposted-public/

https://www.flickr.com/photos/duty_druid/53856203345/in/dateposted-public/

https://www.flickr.com/photos/duty_druid/53856203515/in/dateposted-public/

https://www.flickr.com/photos/duty_druid/53855775346/in/dateposted-public/

 

No sign of 50008 + 4TC which was due to head back to Eastleigh today on 5Z50 (https://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/service/gb-nr:F94546/2024-07-15/detailed)

Anyone know if it's still meant to be going back today or if it has been moved to a different date?

EDIT: I have heard it is allegedly being held at the meon loop due to NR paperwork issues.