Great Britain XVII - 26/04 to 4/05/25

Tornado leaves Waverley. Only a limited view available from the Mound due to trees and the unavoidable overhead wires.
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If only you had MK1s so the steam could drift in through the open windows and you could hear the steam loco......instead of MK2 coffins where the air conditioning isn't working properly

Suspect the 11 degrees in Wick was appreciated today

 

Phone grab at Tain whilst waiting to shunt over for water. Lovely day chasing so far, with 45407 doing a fair share of the work everywhere we’ve seen it.

 

I have to agree that we have had a memorable GB in spite of all the problems Kelly and her team have faced.
For weeks now I have worried that the drought conditions would result in having no steam at all, but at least we have avoided that. While previous GB’s may have been better I still feel that Kelly performs miracles with the hand she is dealt and the limited resources available and long may she continue.

 

45407 Rogart by Harry Bradley, on Flickr

The sun decided to have a day off today, so much of the trip along the Far North Line was in cloud.

45407 did its fair share of the work today which was pleasing, and even some rain in Inverness tonight!

 

A great day out on immensely rare track, with something for everyone. In my case, there was the matter of completing the lines north of Inverness for steam haulage with the Wick - Georgemas Junction section, as well as wandering around the locality at the longer stops. Indeed, I was pleased to lead the charge into the rather lovely pub at Tain station! For diesel aficionados, there was the rare experience of a Class 47 on passenger duties in the Far North. But what was really special was being able to pass through the stunning scenery. I have loved the bleak wilderness of the Flow Country since the first time I passed through it. This was on the last steam special over the route in 2016, which took us to Thurso. It was therefore rather wonderful to renew the acquaintance. Therefore, thanks to all who made it happen during this unprecedented dry spell.

 

Word on the street is 34067 has failed FTR, and as such the Edinburgh to Newcastle leg will be diesel

 

Is there a reason they couldn't just leave 60163 on the front all the way back to the Toon as if she is doing the leg south from there tomorrow she will need to run to Heaton (I assume) LE anyway?

 

May possibly be to do with support crew/owner rep hours. Otherwise, as you say, a servicing stop then onwards to Newcastle with the train would probably be more suitable than the 4am path from Joppa tomorrow morning.

 

Yes I would think so. That Blackpool trip doesn’t seem to be having much success

 

No longer on website so I assume now cancelled.

 

Yes. See RTC 2025 thread, post #131 this morning.

 

Alongside Tangmere at Joppa

 

Does anyone know the fire risk assessment for tomorrow?

 

Red for the North East/East Coast, Amber for Anglia.