Brighton Belle update

It certainly did, seen here approaching Stafford led by 20107.

 

Easily the best shots to date- clear, unambiguous and handsome. It's been like spotting a rare bird tup til now, generally with the unit masked by rolling stock, or concealed behind a clump of buddleia at great distance!

 

Beryl, Doris, Mabel... names from a bygone Era

 

Do we know how close they are to running it under its own power?

 

Well, this is what it has gone to Derby for, so hopefully very, very close indeed!

 

Yes, of course - Litchurch Lane has 3rd rail facilities, doesn't it?

 

That's what threw me - I thought they were using Merseyrail third rail.

Mind you, perhaps sticking a flat panel on the roof and a cheeky pantograph would improve it's usability...

 

Better duck, Mike- there's a couple of collector shoes incoming!

 

That was the plan, but Derby offers an isolated test track that doesn't rely on overnight testing or engineering blocks.

 

Or for even better usability with go-anywhere ease, plus something for everyone, why not shoes off and attach a Black 5 or similar!

 

(Assumes Alistair Sim manner) "Oh dear God!"

 

Ah yes, I remember Gravetye Manor. She was superb in the silent era - the equal of Lilian Gish, some say - but never managed the transition to the talkies and today is largely forgotten ...

Tom

 

It was that Hungarian accent which bedevilled ms. Manor's career, despite Hitchcock's desire to see her alright. It never did come out right, despite what the actress said to the bishop...

 

"Beryl? BERYL!- fetch me a nip o'three star, and look sharp about it!- ay've come over all queer!" "Yes Mrs Baggot!"

 

Has anyone else noticed the steps on the outer motor bogies line up with the brakevan doors? I suspect the original cab doors have been sealed as there there doesn't appear to be any door handles, just a stainless steel grab handle for appearance.
I'm sure the restoration is superb, but there is this nagging thought of a 4CEP(P) is an appropriate classification with all the 1951 and 1957 power equipment.

Cheers, Neil

 

That’s interesting… I wonder if they’re doing the catering? That’ll take it up a notch!

Simon

 

So much for RTT saying cancelled when I looked.

 

Not the first time I've seen that, something similar happened with 70000s return from Carnforth - Crewe on 17th June.

 

Are you not confusing the copper tones with 7818 Granville Manor? Never silent though!

 

Ah well , a claim to fame here, not only did my li'l sis work for her back in the seventies, but I managed a few Xmas/New Year shifts behind her bar.