The Central Wales Explorer 12th May 2012

Anyone else on this ?

I am joining at Slough 6.02 am departure according to Uk Steam info and 23.18 return.

Paul

 

Yes, I and two friends joining at Bristol P'way. Haven't had tickets yet so don't know which seats.

John

 

I have not received my ticket yet.

Paul

 

According to UKsteam times it's not picking up @ Bristol Parkway where I'm booked to get on as well. only to set down on the return

 

Service train at 7:11 according to RTC website

 

My tickets arrived this morning. As we are staying in Cardiff, the morning departure from Newport is no great hardship, although there will be lie-ins that day!

 

The Black 5s are scheduled to pass Tornado hauling a Shrewsbury to London railtour just to the north of Dorrington at approx 18:00. <BJ>

 

I'm on the Tornado tour so I'll look out for them. I was hoping to see them at Shrewsbury but Tornado leaves before they arrive.

 

2 off black fives spotted in Barry Railway Centre, coaled up and shuffling about around 16.15pm. So, for those looking forward to the trip tomorrow, your steeds are in steam.

 

Anyone know if pay on the train is an option tomorrow from Paddington. Other half is going out so might drag myself along as I haven't traveled this route. And a 5am alarm call will get me to Paddington in time.

 

The answer was yes, asked Les when I dragged myself to Paddington. Sat in buffet having left on time.

 

Right time at Twyford with loads of locals out to see Tornado in perfect sunshine. No diesel on the back! Yippppeeeeeeee!

 

By the time Tornado reached Twyford, Central Wales Ex was in Cardiff !! Wrong thread methinks !!

 

Left Pantyffynon 15 min early

 

Oooooops!

 

Sugerloaf 27mph into the tunnel, and 30mph over the summit

 

Unsurprising really Paul the gradient eases at the tunnel mouth ftom 1 in 60 to 1 in 70.

Would love to see 48151 tackle the Sugar Loaf solo, frankly this line is made for 8F's pity 48773 is unlikely to be seen on the main line.

Cheers Dave

 

The pair near Shrewsbury:


45407 The Lancashire Fusilier & 44871 by Teenage Steam Photography, on Flickr

Thanks,
Lewis

 

Arrived back into Paddington bang on advertised time a mear 18 hours 12mins after setting off. Excellent trip though.

 

An excellent trip through out. Highlights - climb up to Sugar loaf tunnel, and Craven Arms to Church Stretton. Standard class at the front of the train.
Thanks to RTC, West Coast and the support crews.