LE movements, ECS and test runs 2025

45596 move from KWVR to Tyseley

https://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/service/gb-nr:U56843/2025-06-30/detailed

 

5M50 and 5M51 Carnforth - Hellifield and return test run paths activated for today.

 

46115 is what I’m told. Test ahead of its trip to SVR. First outing since Dec 17th 2023.

 

I can't be the only one thinking 'what a waste' am I?

Hope all goes well and look forward to seeing her on the SVR - love this loco.

 

46115 has been greatly missed, it's a damn fine machine.

 

That may be true, but it's not a lot of use to West Coast at the moment, as it can't operate revenue earning trains, until such time as they either CDL fit their MK1 rakes or fit it with air braking equipment to enable it to power the stock that it currently operates. sorry, but that's how I view it.

 

You, me, and a lot of other people i would imagine agree with your comment

 

Maisie came from a rescue centre and had previously been a stray, she was underweight and needed "building up". The staff at the rescue centre gave us a feeding plan now, 5 months later, she has been "built up" a little too much and is starting to look chubby. We have decided to reduce her rations, not by much but hopefully enough to stabilise her weight (and maybe reduce it slightly). A good plan, except Maisie disagrees and pesters for her next meal an hour before it's due, and she is very persistent - tough love is required.

I only found out about SG's run from posts by Rander and 2857Harry - thanks. I obviously hadn't planned an outing but it was an event that couldn't be missed. I ate my lunch, a hot x bun with mature cheddar, gathered up my bits and pieces and set off, leaving Mrs W to deal with Maisie. I headed for Giggleswick to catch SG returning up the bank. I had no idea which way round the loco would be, usually tender first outbound. Similarly I had no idea of the consist but come what may Scots Guardsman is always worth a look.

I left home in weak sunshine but as I headed north the sky became increasingly grey and the clouds gathered on the hills. There was some light drizzle near Long Preston but it had stopped by the time I parked at Giggleswick station. I wandered on to the platform and came across someone who I have met many times over the years, we chatted as I got ready; he had his camera ready, still photography requires far fewer bits and pieces.

Around the time when SG left Hellifield the lightest drizzle began to fall. Within a couple of minutes it grew more persistent, the distant end of the straight became shrouded in mist and murk. There was some white exhaust as SG came trundling up the bank, as she drew nearer the 3 cylinder beat grew, the clack of wheels on rail joints, a whistle for the crossing and 46115 headed through the station and away up the bank. The test train comprised 46115, one coach and a very clean 37706 on the rear. 18C & 2E. This was not SG on full chat but served as a reminder of just what we are missing; I hope that some way can be found to get SG back on mainline duties soon.

When I returned home Maisie was indoors and, although it was only a couple of hours since she had been fed, she was ready for her next meal - still four hours away. Just in case anyone has welfare concerns for Maisie, prior to her "diet", her meals (3 times a day) each consisted of a pouch of wet food and around 15/18 pellets of dry food. The only change is that the dry food has been reduced to 8 pellets - not a huge change, but she thinks so!

 

I am not aware that an appeal for funds for this loco has ever been made to the public, so it is up to the owners to do with as they see fit. Just the same as all those rich types that by classic cars and leave them sitting in a garage. Their money, their choice.

 

It is indeed a shame the situation with Scots Guardsman. Speaking for myself here if I were WCR and didn't wish to air brake the loco I would do everything in my power to get the loco to visit heritage lines, not just so people can enjoy but more so the loco can earn it's keep and bring in some money. Surely there are loads of heritage lines who'd gladly pay to have it at their Gala's. I wonder if they've had any offers to hire it?

 

Well indeed, but doesn't stop it being a waste though!
A neighbour owns a very rare Aston Martin. He at least takes it out a few times a year, otherwise he would never get to hear the utterly gorgeous V12 engine.

 

At the end of the day, West coasts business model, is none of our business, they own it, and will do as they see fit, On the face of it though it don't make sence to not maximise your investment in engines and coaching stock and at least duel brake several more engines to ensure you have sufficient to meet your requirements, but I would think they have their own reasons.

 

46115 and support coach, with a very clean 37 706 on the rear, approaching Long Preston working 5M51, its light test run, returning to Carnforth from Hellifield. The loco is due to spend next weekend at the SVR, substituting for Tornado, which I presume will be working the first Waverley of the summer on Sunday 6th.

https://www.flickr.com/photos/90397953@N02/54617732928/in/photostream/

 

I have reread this anecdote several times and not sure if it is aimed at me or a more general threat / comment? Either way I am not sure I like that it has come from a moderator and feel I need to respond.
Given this is a discussion / opinion forum and the vast majority of us are not in the fortunate position of being able to own a steam locomotive, as enthusiasts it is very difficult not to offer opinion on someone else's property. Carnforth in particular houses a number of locomotives of national importance. I have had some spectacular trips behind 46115 in particular and the fact it has been inactive for 18 months, despite a valid boiler ticket, is very disappointing as an enthusiast. Is me saying that it's a shame going to make any difference? No. Does Mr Smith give a damn? No - he has proudly made a career out of that!
But I am not sure expressing disappointment that a particular locomotive is not working is grounds for censorship, but hey ho.

 

46115 is the third Carnforth loco the SVR have hired, I think they have also visited other lines in the past and their diesels are regular visitors to galas. Probably a case of just asking, but I don't ever remember a loco visiting a line without a mainline connection.
Most of the steam fleet is also visiting Derby for the Great Gathering.

 

Martin. You are a stuck record.

 

Diesel-hauled presumably as there is this LE move from TYS to KWVR:
https://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/service/gb-nr:91860/2025-06-30/detailed

 

Does anyone have any information regarding 45596 Bahamas nove from Keighley to Tyseley.
Move activated on RTT but no sign of activity at Keighley . Looking at Keighley KWVR camera loco and support are in view near the turntable but no sign of life. No wisps of steam, smoke or any personnel
Now over an hour since it's planned departure time.