Cumbrian Mountain Express 14th August 2010

Appleby water stop was taken but it was a pretty quick one. We left Carlisle ahead of the service train which should have been in front of us. It seems that it set off down the platform then stopped and returned with a problem. We were then sent off. The message went down the train that Appleby would be just a splash and departure would be a soon as possible as the service was now running behind. So we left Appleby 12 minutes early and with one passenger standing on the Carlisle platform as we pulled out..
The run to Ais Gill was noisy and brisk but two new slacks, one just before the summit precluded and chance of records. Held at Whalley for some reason then arrived at Blackburn for water only to be held again waiting for late running Blackpool service. More brisk running back to Manchester and a very noisy climb of Miles Platting, together with a shortened water stop at Denton was followed by more very spirited running back to Crewe but we still ended up about 15 down. Nevertheless a very enjoyable with 6201 performing very well. The crew should be well pleased with themselves.

 

Oh dear Steve, I hope I did not spoil your shot at 7.10, I just happened to be towards the rear of the first coach taking a breather from my duties.

 

Being steward on the two standard class coaches at the back on the way out does have it's perks on the way back, and anyway it was the staff coach.
I was actually surprised that there were unoccupied vestibule windows at the back of the first passenger coach and no one recording either, The climb from Kirkby Stephen was very noisy as was the one up Miles Platting, but no one on board with a video camera.

 

I am doing both the Flyer on the 27th and the CME on the 28th, then an extra :sleep: on Sunday. Not sure about the loco yet but I'm sure the Duchess will be out on one of them, will probably know nearer the time.

 

Yes it was confirmed to me yesterday, 6201 on the Flyer and 6233 on the CME.