2011 Year Review

What a year! This was my first complete year since getting back into the hobby. I managed to travel 31479 miles. I have managed to slowly knock classes (locos, DMUs and EMUs) for sight and a few for haulage. I have done many things I didn't think I would get to do but things fell into place that gave me the opportunity.

Throughout the year I have done many different Ranger and Rover tickets (not in this order).

• Devon Ranger (many of!)
• Wessex Day Ranger
• West Midland Ranger (a few)
• East Midland Ranger 
• Southern Daysave
• Anglia Dayplus
• Derbyshire Wayfarer
• Freedom of South West (quite a few)
• Freedom of North West
• Central Scotland Rover

I have also been on 3 complete (well more or less) rail tours. 

• The Heart of Wales Explorer - 66 haulage
• The Curnow Irruptor - Two 37s and 66 haulage
• The Ousing Dove - Two 37s, two 66s and a 60 for haulage.

I have also been on both sleeper services that run in the country.

I think the biggest highlight of the year was probably my Central Scotland which ended with my return home via London on the Caledonian Sleeper from Inverness. One of the things I was hoping and knew I would get one of them was spotting and getting some haulage from the Scottish 67s. It is worth remembering down in the South West we were spoilt in 2010 with 67 haulage to Paignton and Taunton from Cardiff. I managed to knock off a big chunk of the 67s during that period. As with all things it gets harder as time goes on but I have been able to keep my momentum up with them. Before my trip to Scotland I had seen two of the five 67s before. On the first night in Scotland I saw two more, one on the Fort William leg and one on the Inverness leg. I got the Fort William loco, 67009 from Dalmuir to Edinburgh. The next day I spotted the final of the five and caught a train it was hauling on the fife circle. This was extremely lucky as any loco could have worked that diagram (indeed a dud was working the diagram that followed!). So I had now seen all the awkward ones. It got better though as the train from Inverness when i went home was another for haulage. So only 67011 and 67030 to go for that. Strangely i didn't even see them around when I was up there but I had seen them before.

The second thing that has helped is Chiltern Railways using loco hauled trains. They are using the old Wrexham and Shropshire stock and locos and all can be caught within a West Midland Ranger. I have managed to get 4 of the locos. Only 67010 is left and that is broken (due back soon apparently). 

Of the entire class I need 9 more for haulage. Two of these will be assigned to the new WAG contract which will replace the 57s currently used. Realistically I can get 3 more easily (well I know where they could be!). 5 if you include the 67011 and 67030 in Scotland (but thats a long way to go if they are not running!). The other 4 can be anywhere!!! 

It's also worth pointing out that I only need one more FGW HST power car for haulage after a productive Devon Ranger a few weeks ago. 

I'm looking forward to next year. I am not going to set a target because I never know what will happen but I will see how it goes. To even achieve this years target I would need to get 2600 a month and that is some going. I am more frequently going out to get units and locos in the book as I gradually scratch off track so mileage opportunity is less frequent. 

I will start the year running though as I hopefully have a trip to London planned in the first week. And a Freedom of the North East in February. 

29th December Mince Pie Special - Dartmoor Railway

Well I thought my train spotting/travelling was finished for 2011 but I managed to bag a winning loco and another 20 miles in!

A day off and my wife wanted to go to Exeter. I managed to convince her that whilst she was shopping I would pop over to Okehampton and take a trip behind 47701. There are rumours the owners want to move it away so this was good.

Due to high winds during the night and a fallen tree the driver was late so the first train to Meldon Quarry didn't run. Instead the timetable started from Okehampton and went to Bow. This was fine. I did the trip to Bow and back. Another 20 odd miles and a winner in the book.

12th December - West Midland Day Ranger

Well an unexpected day off work led me to an unexpected West Midland Day Ranger. This really will be the last thing before Christmas (probably the new year)!

I arrived at Droitwich Spa for the 0900 start time of a day ranger and the was planning to catch the 0901 to New Street. This was not required so waited for the next train which was going to Dorridge. This was also not required but I needed to get going. So I went as far a Kidderminster and caught the train after. This was starting here so wasn't too long a wait. In fact it was a double 172 set both of which were needed.

I got off at Snow Hill and saw a delayed 168 to London Marylebone waiting which was required so jumped on that to Moor Street. From here a I was going to see if the the loco hauled London train was 67013 and get that in if it was. I had time to kill so a quick ride to Snow Hill and back gave me two more winning 172s. Once back at Moor Street the 67 was in and waiting. My luck was in as it was 67013. Of the old Wrexham liveried 67s only 67010 is now required for sight and haulage but it's at Crewe with engine vibrations. In fact its been there a while but is due back apparently!

I left the 67 at Solihull. I could have gone to Leamington on it but I wanted to get on as many trains as possible today. A dud 168 back to Moor Street and then a winning 172 to Smethwick Galton Bridge. Then it was off to Wolverhampton on a winning Arriva Trains Wales 158. All was going well so far. The next 2 and half hours wasn't so productive. I decided I would head to Rugeley Trent Valley to scratch that bit of track off. My initial train was a winner. I got this to Cannock where I had lunch in Wetherspoons. Then it was a dud to Rugeley, a dud to Stafford and then a dud back to Wolverhampton.

Things did get back on track though. 390031 was waiting at Wolverhampton and was required for sight. It wasn't in service though. I caught a train to Sandwell and Dudley on a winning 170 before another winner in the form of 390009 to New Street. Two more winners followed with a return to Aston. Then another to University.

A dud back to New Street before another 3 winners doing New Street - International, International - Coventry and Coventry - International. I saw an opportunity to scratch off Coventry - Nuneaton so headed back there on a dud Virgin Voyager. Good news was the winning 153 to Nuneaton.

Was now time to head back to Droitwich. A dud XC 170 to new street that for some reason got later and later as i got nearer New Street meant I missed my train to Droitwich.

Had to wait over an hour now so I quickly headed to Sandwell and Dudley and back. A winner out and back took me to 20 winners for the day. Not bad. My final train back to Droitwich was a dud 170.

Another good day. And on top of all the winners for haulage I managed to nearly complete the 172s for sight. Only 172222 to go and apparently that hasn't been delivered yet as its awaiting parts!

8th December - Devon Day Ranger

The main objective today was purely a meet up with Peter. It had been a while so a pub lunch and a hope our last few trains we need would turn up.

I left Plymouth at 0925 and then headed to Dawlish to catch the Cardiff - Paignton service. I knew it was diagrammed for a 158 (but that doesn't mean it is) and luckily it was. I was then hoping it would be one of the two newly formed 3 car ones! And it was! Well it was a winner for renumber because technically I have been on it before.

I bailed at Torre and caught the HST to Exeter. Peter got on at Newton. Neither of us were hungry so we did another trip to Newton. The plan was to head back to Exeter for the RHTT. Problem was the down was now running late and we thought we'd miss the up. When we arrived at Newton the up wasn't in. It came in just as our train stopped. I saw the power car on the front, 43131! I needed it! So we made the train and then saw the RHTT at Exeter.

After lunch a nostalgic bash up the hill to Central filled some time in before we headed to Totnes. A return to Newton before heading back to Totnes. Unbelievably the HST to Totnes was lead by 43164. Another winner!!! There was time for a bash back to Newton Abbot before returning to Plymouth.

What a great day! Only one FGW power car left to get haulage behind!!!

5th December - Timber Train Photography

A day off work and the gen that the rumoured new Timber Train would be starting meant an opportunity to get a photo of it. I decided that I would try and get a photo of it at Dawlish and Teigngrace so driving was the best option.

Another spot of gen was the Network Rail test train coming down. The obly poblem was the time it was due. I had to meet my wife from work and then head to Dawlish so I went to Marsh Mills before to see if the 37s came through. They didn't but a photo of a Voyager in the winter sun was taken.

It was then off to meet my wife and up to Dawlish. We were only at Dawlish for 15 minutes but I managed to get a photo of an HST, 150, 158 and the 66s on the RHTT whilst waiting for the Colas liveried 66. When it did come the sun came out just at the right time! Bonus!

It was then off to Teigngrace for a photo there.

All in all a good day. A winning 66 and 37 (I saw the network rail test train at Laira on the way home) and some great photos.

25th November - A Morning in London

It's a late update but here's what happened the day after my Anglia Plus. I left my sister's just before 7. She was off to work and apparently Earlsfield becomes a nightmare just after 7 as rush hour ramps up.

I had already planned one of my aims for the morning, to try and get some of the Chiltern 172s in the book. A winning 455 unit took me to Clapham Junction. From here I noticed a winning 378 unit waiting to leave so I crammed myself on it and bailed at West Brompton. From here I could head back to Clapham. Another winner! I hadn't expected a winning Southern unit from Milton Keynes., another 378 was what I was expecting!

By now I decided to head to Marylebone for the 172s that hopefully were working the diagrams reported. I got there with about half an hour to kill so headed to the Wetherspoons at Baker street. For some reason it wasnt open to until 0900 which was no good as my train leaves at that time. Back to the station and I killed time there. A photo of 67013 (I even looked at its next working as it is required for haulage but it was off to the depot until lunch time) and several Chiltern units were taken in the sunshine. At 0855 my train rolled in and it was 172104! Excellent! I headed to South Ruislip on this. As I passed Wembley I saw Chiltern liveried DVT 82302 which had been eluding me for the last year and half. I also saw 172101!

From South Ruislip I caught a Central line train to West Ruislip. From here my second 172 diagram should stop (and Wembley). It did and it meant I had seen all the Chiltern 172s and ridden three. One to go and then just the London Midland ones left!

Upon my return to Marylebone I made my way to Liverpool Street. I decided to try and get a few more 379 units in. I did a couple of bashes from Liverpool Street to Tottenham Hale return and managed to pick up another six new ones. Gradually ticking them off.

Time for a bit of new track and head back to Paddington via St Pancras (I wanted to see the giant Lego Christmas tree!). So I headed to Moorgate and then up to Finsbury Park. As I was waiting I took the opportunity to photograph passing trains. The sun was in a horrible place (an haven't uploaded those ones) but I finally saw my final 91 for sight!!! I got a better photo when I got to Kings Cross. Taken me a while but now I have it. Over at St Pancras I saw a couple of new Eurostars (and the tree) and then headed back to Paddington. A good morning and pity I couldn't stay longer (but needed to get home then head to Bournemouth to see Shed Seven who were awesome!). This I think will be my last major outing for the year. It took me to 31000 miles exactly with only a meet up with Peter left.

24th November - East Anglia Plus

Well the start of the day hasn't been good. I was booked for the 0553 off Plymouth to London. But there was no train at Plymouth when I arrived. There was however another HST on platform 7 which as far as I know isn't normally there. We were waiting for stock from Laira so I don't know if the train on 7 was originally ours but developed a fault on the way and they put it out of the way! Either way the train arrived and we left Plymouth at 0616, 23 late! I wondered how late we'd arrive at Paddington but it would mean I'd wait till off peak kicked in on tube before heading to Liverpool Street. Glad I booked a later train to Ipswich, that's for sure!

We arrived 40 late. Good job I did book the 1100 and not the 1000! Once I arrived at Liverpool Street I had 40 mins till my train. No chance of a quick out and return on the Stanstead expresses. So a cup of tea in the Wetherspoons for free was had. How? I went to pay by card and the machine wasn't working. So they let me have it on the house!

90012 was my traction to Ipswich. First winner of the day. The leading DVT was also a winner. At Ipswich I took photos of what was in the yard. Was a lot busier than the last time I was here but only one loco was required but one is better than none!

The main plan for today was route scratching. So I caught a winning 170 to Cambridge. As I passed Stowmarket there were several DRS locos stabled. Two 57s and three 37s. None were required. I'd have to check my records but I'm sure that 57003 and 57004 (the ones i saw) are the most spotted of DRS 57s for me! I didn't have time at Cambridge for lunch anywhere but from Upper Crusts (but I do like their baguettes). I waited for a train to Norwich. I looked to see if the XC 170 to Birmingham was required (I could bail at Ely) but it wasn't so I caught the NXEA 170 to Norwich.

When I arrived at Norwich things weren't looking good for winners! Everything in the station was dud from the NXEA 90 to the East Midlands 158. Luckily they weren't any train I planned to catch. My train to Lowestoft wasn't in. When it rolled in it was a winning 156! I also saw 150280 (on hire from Arriva Trains Wales) roll in a I was leaving.

Onwards to Lowestoft. By now it was nearly pitch black. I arrived just after 1630 and waited for a train back to Ipswich. It was cold and luckily the train arrived fairly quickly. It wasn't due to leave until 1708 but it was warm! The Lowestoft - Ipswich line is painfully slow and I'm glad I've got that out of the way! All that is left for me to scratch off on an Anglia Plus ranger now is the Felixstowe branch and the line between Ely and Kennet. I'm pleased with that.

Once I was back at Ipswich it was a short wait for the 1909 back to London. It ended up being 90012 doing the honours, the same as earlier in the day!

When I arrived at London I took a longer route to my sisters! I went Liverpool Street - Tottenham Hale - Vauxhall - Earlsfield. This meant I could get some 379s part of the way home!

A good day in all. Lots of new route and a fair bit of new traction.

13th November - A few hours in Cardiff

Yes it's a Sunday but I already knew I'd have a day to do something and planned a few hours in Cardiff before meeting my wife at Exeter after her flight from Glasgow for her Grandad's 80th.

I was off of Plymouth on the 0925 and due to diversions went to Newport. This saved me time as a few minutes later a connection to Cardiff was made on a doubled up XC 170 unit. They were both winning so I jumped in the front one and knew I could get the other on the return. It was a good job I did it in that order as the return only had one unit serviceable which was the required one!!!

A couple of dud trips took me back to Cardiff and then Newport before my final XC 170 for sight rolled in on another doubled up train. This was good because most of the XC 170s I need now are the two car ones. So like before I got into the front unit in case the rear is out of action (should I require it) on the return!

The rear unit wasn't required and I headed back to Newport on a Pacer that was heading to Cheltenham Spa. Don't think I have ridden a Pacer between Cardiff and Newport before! There was not a lot else I could do from now on. My train back home was off Newport at 1503. The last thing I wanted to do was be late to meet My wife!!

Yes it was a short time but I got three winning 170s in, and the more difficult two carriage ones at that! Normally i only see three carriage ones in Cardiff! And all XC ones completed for sight. Finally the ride on Pacer on the mainline really wasn't that bad!

10th November - Thames Day Ranger

Been a while since I had done my one and only Thames Day Ranger. So I decided to do another and get the Marlow branch scratched off.

I left Plymouth on the 0748 train to Reading. For some reason we were held at Castle Cary for 8 minutes which led to the train getting later and later. I arrived at Reading with 1 minute spare for a connection to Maidenhead, which I missed. Not critical as i was able to catch another train and still make connection to Marlow.

I found the correct platform and got on the train. However it went nowhere and we got moved to another train due to a fault. Now I was going to miss my connection to Marlow by 3 minutes. However my luck was in. They held the train at Maidenhead.

So I headed off to Marlow to scratch off that bit of track. By the time I returned to Maidenhead (all on schedule) I was getting hungry. Curry for lunch in Wetherspoons was just the ticket. A quick walk to "The Bear" for lunch and then "The Greyhound" for another pint before 1332 to Paddington. Now the hunt for my last 3 FGW HST power cars was on.

I looked round at Paddington to see if any of my required power cars were present. There wasn't much in at this time an waited to see what would arrive. To kill time I saw a required Turbo so caught that to Ealing Broadway. My return to Paddington was also a winning Turbo. Another look round gave nothing of any reward. So it was onto a Bedwyn service a it was a winner. First stop Reading. At reading I got on the next train back to Paddington. It was an hst that stopped at Slough. Having seen a Turbo leave Reading a few minutes earlier that was required I noticed that I would overtake it and could catch it from Slough. I did this and noticed a winning power car! It was heading the wrong way and a quick look at its next couple of diagrams meant this one would have to wait another day!

Back at Paddington again there were no power cars. So I hopped onto a Heathrow Connect to Ealing Broadway and then another turbo to Maidenhead. It was then an HST to reading before another back to Paddington.

It was now getting on with time. So started making my way back to Reading. I bailed at Maidenhead to see if the train behind was a winner. It was and I then bailed at Twyford. The train behind was a dud but one heading east was good. So back to Maidenhead and one last chance for another winner back to Reading. It was!

At Reading I waited for my train home. A reasonably good day. No power cars but 13 winning units and a bit of new track. Guess I can't complain too much, I did get a winning power car on Monday!

7th November - Cardiff and Newport

Today I went to Cardiff to try and knock off a few of the ATW units that I require for haulage. Any FGW HST power cars required would be a bonus.

So I left Plymouth on the 0925 to Aberdeen. My usual move would then be be to change at Bristol Parkway for the HST to Cardiff. However due to a signalling fault in the Swindon area the Cardiff train was running 35 late. I decided to get something to eat now rather than at Cardiff. So I actually left the platforms and went to Uppercrust. The barriers at Parkway didn't like my ticket (or many other people's for that matter so there was a queue!) which is no doubt frustrating for many people.

Anyway my train finally arrived and off I went to Cardiff. On the way I saw a winning GBRF 66 at Alexander Dock Junction and a 'Super 60'! If these are super remains to be seen as they seem just as unreliable as normal 60s. Anyway it was 60007 and required for sight but as per usual with 60s no photo opportunity. Last time I was here was in July. I headed straight to the Valley lines platforms and waited. I saw units that were required but going the wrong way. I wanted to go to Queen Street and back. So I worked out when their return was. I then saw a winning 158 heading to Cheltenham Spa. So I headed off to Platform 1 to get it. I caught this to Newport and saw a required 175 waiting to leave for Cardiff. This was going well. Back at Cardiff I saw another 175 that was required took me back to Newport.

A dud 175 back to Cardiff. I then saw a FGW HST power car on the rear of a Paddington bound train that was required. I checked it's moves for the day and discovered it was heading to Taunton on its next move. I looked at where I could meet it and it'll be move to Swindon when the time was right.

In the meantime I saw a winning XC 170. So I caught this to Newport with a dud return. During all this I missed the units that would be returning through Cardiff on the valley lines. This wasn't so bad because I felt its easier to get them than units that normally cover a greater area of working. I waited on the Valley Line platforms in hope of a required unit to Queen Street but nothing was happening. During my wait another required 170 rolled in. So this was the start of my return home. I caught 170398 to Newport and then an HST to Swindon. From here should be my winning Power car to Bristol. I didn't want to go to Taunton as it was a stopper after Bristol through Weston. It was 43041 and at Bristol it was a Voyager home. A lot later than planned but worth it for the power car. Only 3 FGW ones left for haulage.

A good day. 5 new units for haulage and a power car.

27th October - West Midland Day Ranger

I wanted to do another West Midland Day Ranger before the year was out and today was the day I decided I would go out. With the stupidly expensive XC train tickets to the area out of the question I decided I would drive to Droitwich Spa and catch my train from there. I was 45 mins late arriving to Droitwich due to an accident on the M5 which was a little frustrating but could do nothing about it.

My first train of the day was an experience on the new London Midland Class 172s. Plenty of leg room and as would be expected at the moment, nice and clean. I decided my first part of the day would be spent ridding as many of these new 172s as possible. But after a while I realised that there were still quite a few Class 150s kicking about. I did see however 150001 was running and this was required so I worked out where I could meet it from and bag a double bonus (153334 was on the back). I went from Solihull to Moor Street on 150001 and Moor Street to Smethwick Galton Bridge on 153334. It was then on down to New Street.

I checked on the Virgin Super Voyager that was almost ready to head to Edinburgh. It was required so jumped on to Wolverhampton. It was then back to New Street on a Pendolino before a Desiro to International. Heading to back to New Street I wondered around until I found a winning train that was due to leave. A London Midland 170 was had to University and the one back was also a winner. Another Super Voyager and Desiro back from Wolverhmapton was caught until I headed back (by foot) to Moor Street. It was off behind the 67 to Leamington Spa. It wasn't a winning 67 but still worth it. At Leamington I decided to get something to eat. A quick walk (in the rain!) to the nearest Wetherspoons and I had my dinner there. Whilst i was in Leamington I decided to head to the 2nd Wetherspoons and tick that one off.

It was now back to the station and to start heading to Droitwich. This was not straightforward. For some reason there was a lot of delays and cancellations. I gradually made my way west and then south to Droitwich. The only consolation for my late arrival into Droitwich was a bagged a few more winning units.

A good day but the weather was awful. It was not good for photos and because I did not want to get wetter than I was I didn't get many (3 in fact!) that I was happy to put up! Next time, hopefully it will be drier!

Just over 200 miles travelled and 18 winning trains ridden on.

20th September 2011 - Another Trip to the Capitol

So off I went with a Super Off Peak return with my Network Rail Card to London. I know i don't get much time there but I can get plenty of winning trains in those 5 odd hours there.

I pretty much stayed between London Waterloo - Clapham and Richmond. I deviated slightly with a Southern service to Wembley Central to see what was there however. This was worth it as I saw a new DBS Class 66. Slowly knocking them off. At Clapham I also managed to spot two new Class 73s working a Network Rail Test train. No photos as I was on a train and the same with the spotting of 97301 at Clapham.

During the course of my time there I managed to bag 16 winning trains for haualge. And I'm getting close to ridding all the 450/5s and I am 2/3rds of the way through the 458s. I also completed for sight the Class 458s with my final one sitting in the siddings at Clapham Junction.

Another 500+ miles also completed so my yearly total now stands at 28430.

15th Ocotober - The Ousing Dove Railtour

The final railtour of the year that I would be able to do was The Ousing Dove. Starting and finishing at Bristol Temple Meads required two nights in Bristol. My wife travelled with me and we headed up on the FGW London Paddington via Bristol Temple Meads on Friday night.

An early start with the train leaving at 0545 from Bristol. From the start things weren't as they should have been. As we got to the station there was the sight of two DRS 37s running round the ECS. It should have been 66 haulage from Bristol to Crewe! We were soon informed that Pathfinder didn't know what the traction was going to be. All they knew was the 37s would be taken off at Crewe. They had been told a 60 would be added there but that was not definite! The traction from Birmingham New Street to Bristol (much later in the day) was also rumoured to be two Class 67s.

We headed to Crewe via Birmingham New Street and the freight only line avoiding Wolverhampton between Portabello and Bushbury Junctions. As we passed Bescot there were several 66s stabled, two of which were very much required. Upon arrival at Crewe a Class 66 was attached. So that was our traction for the bulk of the day. We headed east via Stoke on Trent towards Derby. We didn't go through Derby as we used the avoider to go towards Nottingham. Again we didn't go through Nottingham as we diverted North at Lenton South and North Junctions. We continued North over Doncaster on the freight only line towards Goole. A Class 60 was attached to the back shortly before we arrived at Goole. Whilst this was happening a winning FL Class 66 passed us. For those who wanted a short break could be had at Goole but for anyone else the train would continue towards Hull but not quite reaching it. It curved back round to Goole using freight only links.

Picking up at Goole we headed west towards Monk Bretton through Knottingly. Just off the mainline another winning Class 66 was spotted. At Monk Bretton we went up to the Network Rail limits. This line was possibly the most overgrown line I had ever been on. Consistant battling with the lineside vegetation up the final mile or so of the branch. It was then time for the 60 to do some work, my first haulage behind the class. It took us 12 miles north to Wrenthorpe Sidings where it would detach. The 66 would then take us south.

We went via Rotheram Central and then freight only line pass Tinsley. It was then Sheffield, Derby and Birmingham. At Sheffield I saw my final Class 222 for sight. At Birmingham the Class 66 was taken off and another put in its place. Another winner!

We arrived into Bristol 27 minutes early. The next day we headed home on a Voyager from Bristol. I was so tired I don't remember the journey as I slept!!

I enjoyed the Saturday. A lot of freight route covered and 5 winning locomotives for haualge. A total of 570 miles for the rail tour and 825 miles travelled over the weekend. Year to date 27914.

13th October - Devon Day Ranger and loco spotting

For the first time since June I was meeting Peter for a pub lunch and then to photograph several planned loco hauled trains in the area. Along with this there was always the hope that four of my required (for haulage) HST power cars and the newly transferred 150/1s were out!

First up was FGW 57604. Due to run light engined to Plymouth for driver training this was first spotted at Exeter Depot. Next up was the RHTT consisting of 66199 and 66006 heading to St Blazey. Then it was down to Plymouth to photograph 57604 there. It left Exeter early and we were planning to be ahead of it. For some reason it was held at Totnes so we did get ahead. A few photos at Plymouth before heading back to Exeter for the Exeter - Cardiff Tidal scrap train.

No winning trains for sight or haulage but some good photos. A reasonable 218 miles travelled and a good laugh with Peter.

6th October 2011 - Trip to London

Well it had been a month since I had been anywhere (although to be honest didn't feel like it) so I decided I would take a trip to London. It wasn't going to be a very long trip because I didn't want to spend too much getting there and back. So the longer off peak route was taken using my Network Railcard.

This would allow me to have just under 6 hours in London. Still plenty to see and get in that time so still worth it in my opinion. My plan was to stay in and around the Clapham area but concentrating on the Hounslow/Reading side of the station. This should see me getting more 450/5s, 480s and 378s. The plan was going quite well and soon knocked off planty of new 450/5 and 480 units. I finally a required 378 at Clapham so jumped on that and headed towards Kensington Olympia. But I changed my mind and headed to Gospel Oak. I took a risk to try and get my last 172 on the GOBLIN. It eventually paid off and 172005 was finally caught. Whilst waiting for this unit I managed to grab another five 378s.

It was then back to Waterloo for the train home. I managed 18 winners for the day. It could have been more but i spent time getting to and from Gospel Oak (not forgetting waiting to see if 172005 was running) and travelled 511 miles for the day.

At least next time I do this I don't have to head to North London and can stay in the Clapham area!

7th September - Heading home

Shortly before our arrival to London we had our wake up call with complimentry tea. From here I was off to have a look round before my lunch time train back to Plymouth. I was tired but needed to make the most of it. I thought I would head to the GOBLIN line to try and nab my final LO 172. Again it wasn't working. So off to Barking for some breakfast in the Wetherspoons by the station. By now I was so tired I didn't really know what I wanted to do. I still had 3 and half  hours. So a strange route to Paddington was taken. Barking - West Ham - Stratford - Liverpool Street - Paddington. I then thought I would bash units from here because at least i was at the correct terminus. I saw a few Turbos that I didn't need but in the end got on one so i could pass Acton. I was hoping the return would produce a winner but it didn't. Ah well. 

I found my train back to Plymouth and got on. Again not a winner (those last four are proving hard to see let alone ride!). 

But what a fantastic few days away. It felt like a long time since I was in East Anglia. But new route everywhere. I had travelled both the east coast and west coast mainlines and lots of winning units and locos for sight and haualge. 

Up next? A cheeky trip to London for a few hours and then The Ousing Dove railtour. After my solid start to the year it's been nearly a month since I have been on a train again now! Yearly total of miles stands at 26,359.

September 6th - Day 3 of Central Scotland Rover

I went to The Standing Order for breakfast before my final day in Scotland. The plan for today was to get as many units and East Coast power cars in as possible before I needed to start my jounrey back South.

I had already worked out all the East Coast HST diagrams so I knew where I needed to be (Either Waverley or Haymarket). Inbetween these trains I got as many units in as possible. I also headed up to New Craighall to complete that tiny branch of track.

My journey South was to start in Inverness. An advance purchase ticket from Stirling (rover would get me there) meant I headed to Inverness for a very reasonable £9. Why Inverness? Meant I could get the sleeper for the full journey from North to South. Not that I knew this when i booked it but the 67s appear to stay on the same diagram all week and I already knew that 67004 had been working the Inverness portion.

The trip to Inverness was very enjoyable. Stunning scenery through the Cairngorms National Park. If this was what I saw I can't wait until the day I do the Highland line through the Highlands. Upon my arrival into Inverness I saw what i needed. 67004 waiting to take the sleeper to Edinburgh. Brilliant. Another new 67 for haulage. I had an hour to grab dinner, so off I went to the Wetherspoons.

This was to be my second Sleeper experience in an actual berth (I had done the Night Riveria earlier in the year in a berth). I got a bargain berth which was good. It was dark when we left but I had a couple of drinks in the dinning carriage before going to bed early. I only woke a couple of times but it was good enough for me to track the route we took south.

A great day!

September 5th - Day 2 of Central Scotland Rover

For my second day I had plans to go on the two remaining lines between Edinburgh and Glasgow, go on a new Class 380 and complete the Fife Circle. I was unable to use the rover ticket until 0900 so I headed to The Playfair for a Scottish Breakfast.

My train to Glasgow Central wasn't until 0950 so I did a couple of trips between Waverley and Haymarket. It was a winning Class 156 to Glasgow Central. Upon my arrival I had a wonder round spotting what was there. I then went and got on a Class 380 which would take me to Ayr. I like them. I have always liked the Desiro family of trains so i guess it wasn't a surprise. My plan then deviated. From Ayr I caught a train to Kilmarnock and then from here back to Glasgow Central. I then had time to try and get a few more 380s in. So a couple of trips out and back towards Cardonald and Paisley Gilmore grabbed me another four 380s.

It was soon time to head back to Edinburgh to get  the loco hauled Fife Circle train. This time the final link between Glasgow and Edinburgh via Carstairs. Another 380 for this service.

So upon arrival at Edinburgh I waited for the loco hauled service to Fife. The good thing was there was now two again due to stock shortages. The bad thing was only one went the whole way round the circle. I had got some gen about the locos on the two trains. One of them was a dud and the other was a winner. The only problem was I didn't know the order they would arrive. Unfortuanately the dud was the first and would be the one to complete the whole circle. I got on and got a seat (this train was rammed!). I knew the service behind me was the other loco hauled one and decided to change trains at Dunfermline Town. I could only get this train to Cardenden but at least it was a winning 67007. I then had to wait a little while for the unit behind to complete the circle. Pity I couldn't get a 67 for the Forth Bridge (WOW what a bridge!) both ways but once was good and at least i got another winner.

Once back in Edinburgh I headed back to Glasgow (via Falkirk high). From here I got all confused and missed the train I had planned to get because I wasn't paying attention! I was planning to head to Anniesland but went to the lower platforms without thinking and this was wrong. I should have stayed upstairs and got on another train! Ah well! Half an hour wait for the next one so I grabbed a Burger King.

The weather (after being nice all day) took a turn for the worse again (does it always rain late in the evening in Glasgow?). I bashed units on the Glasgow suburban lines again until the time came for the Fort William sleeper portion came into Dalmuir. I had no idea if the locos change around and it was the last train to Edinburgh anyway so I maximised my ticket. As it turned out it was 67009 again. So not new but another 53 miles behind a 67.

Weekday sleepers run later than Sunday so it was another late finish to another successful day. Lots of new route and another 67 scratched off. One day left in Scotland but I was getting tired!

September 4th - Day 1 of Central Scotland Rover

I was up for the first train to leave Kings Cross for Edinburgh. Being a Sunday it wasn't as early as I had hoped but it was very cheap. I left London on time at 0855 behind a winning 91. This was to be my first experience of the entire East Coast route. At was all new for me beyond Doncaster and it certainly is scenic after Newcastle. Due to some engineering works outside of York we were delayed by about 20 minutes for the entire journey. Once I arrived at Edinburgh the confusion started.

I had never been to the station before and with all the refurbishment works going on it was confusing at first. Anyway I found a train heading to Glasgow and got on that. I didn't go to Glasgow as I wanted to drop my bag off at the hotel (couldn't do that until 1400). I got off at Haymarket and then went back to Edinburgh. I did this a couple of times before dropping my bag off.

After that I decided that today would be to get in some route. Again all route in Scotland (apart from Mallaig to Fort William, but my ticket wouldn't go that far!) was new for me. I went to Glasgow via Falkirk High. Passing Eastfield reminded me of when i was younger and my dad took me there to look round. No units then but plenty of Class 26s. How it has changed (wouldn't even be allowed to look round now!). I then returned to Edinburgh via Aldgate covering the recently opened connection between Bathgate and Aldgate. It was then back to Glasgow for some dinner and a few drinks.

I had dinner in the Camperdown Place which is just outside Glasgow Queen Street station. Due to the close proximety of other Wetherspoon pubs I went for a drink in another three (The Crystal Palace, The Sir John Moore & The Society Room). After this I looked at going on a bit of the suburban Glasgow network. I went as far west as Helensborough Central before heading back towards Dalmuir. It was from here I would be meeting what I would hope to be one of the biggest winners of the 3 day rover.

So the last train of the day was the London Euston bound sleeper from Fort William which calls at Edinburgh (to be joined to other portions) It arrived in the pouring rain (it had been dry until about an hour before) and was indeed a big winner. Only 67s with cast iron brakes can operate to Fort William and in rolled 67009. New for haulage obviously but also sight (only 011 I have seen before).

The Fort William portion is the first to arrive into Edinburgh on a Sunday night. I learnt from a member of Network Rails station staff the ETA of the other portions and decided to stay half an hour to see all the portions turn up and be coupled to the 90 due to take the train to London. This 90 was also a big winner. my penultimate 90 for sight. Pity my final one is rotting in Crewe with little chance to see it.

The next bit of the sleeper to arrive was the Aberdeen portion. This was bought in by Royal skip 67006. Not required for anything but photos were taken. The final part from Inverness was a winner for sight. 67004. I was happy. So headed back to the hotel. Plenty of new units today and some more loco haulage winners. A good but tiring day but this was nothing yet.

September 3rd - Start of my trip to Scotland

So for my two weeks holiday of the Summer I was able to spend a few days in Scotland to do my first Central Scotland Rover. The cheapest way to get there was to go up to London and then up to Edinburgh on the East Coast Mainline. Good for two reasons new route (North of Doncaster on the East Coast) and it was cheaper. My plan was to go to London, stay at my sisters and then head to Scotland on the earliest possible train the next day. Again to maximise my time (and as it turned out the cheapest ticket) I headed to London on the first train on the Saturday. Originally I was going to spend the day in London but I realised I could head out to East Anglia and go to Great Yarmouth behind a Class 47 dragging a Class 90 so advance tickets were purchased to get to Ipswich where an Anglia Day Pass would kick in.

So the day arrived and I headed to the Capital. After I arrived in London I headed to my sisters to drop my stuff off. I then headed to Liverpool Street and caught my train to Ipswich. The whole trip from beyond Romford was new track. At Ipswich I changed trains and headed to Stowmarket. A return to Ipswich and a 45 minute gap until the relevent train to Great Yarmouth via Norwich (from where it would be dragged). During this 45 minutes I visited the 3 Wetherspoons. This was tough going as it was extremely hot and a gentle jog was required to get back to the station in time.

I made it and headed to Norwich. Upon arriving I got off the train as there was a wait while DRS owned 47818 was moved into position. There were several other DRS locos in the yard at the station too (three 47s and a 37). The drag took place via Accle. I got some great pictures in Great Yarmouth helped greatly by the weather. My return to Norwich via Reedham was on a 156. From here I headed to Sheringham for more new route.

I returned to Norwich for some dinner and a few drinks (three of the Wetherspoons visited) before my train back to London. I then headed back to my sisters.

A great day and was fantastic to get Class 47 haulage on the national network for the first time in well over 15 years. I got a lot of new route and plenty of new winners for sight in Anglia (as well as winners for haulage).

Blog Catchup!

I've done it again! I haven't updated my Blog for so long that i completely broke my last record!

Anyway here is a run down of what i did between the last day i wrote about on my last FOSW and my trip to Scotland.

• 14th July FOSW Day 3 - Headed to Cardiff for the day. Bought a Valley Line Rover and headed to Ebbw Vale and Measteeg to complete those routes.
• 15th July FOSW Day 4 - Headed to Cardiff via Swindon. I met friends on the train here as it was a Stag weekend in Cardiff
• 17th July Cardiff - Carmarthen + FOSW Day 5. After the Stag Weekend I got an off Peak ticket to Carmarthen. Visited the Wetherspoons at Carmarthen and then headed back to Newport via Swansea and stopping at Llaneli, Swansea and Neath.
• 18th July FOSW Day 6 and West Midlands Day Ranger - I headed to Hereford on advance purchase ticket for Breakfast before heading East to Birmingham. Bashed 150 units and grabbed a new 67 on the Chilterns.
• 5th August - Plymouth - Penzance Return. Due to problems with FGW Class 57s a Virgin Trains hire in 57309 was on duty. This was required so a return to Penzance was made. 
• 14th August - Visited the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway. Due to my wife requiring the car for the week and her holiday (I coulnd't get the time off work) I headed back to Plymouth on the train via London. 
• 16th August - I headed back to Derby on the train (again via London due to cost) and get an East Midland Day Ranger. Grabbed new route in Nottingham area and grabbed a fair few new East Midland power cars. 
• 18th August - Back to Plymouth. This time on a Voyager from Manchester (Was cheaper to go to Manchester and South than direct from Deby!) Spent a few hours in Manchester on a GMPTE ticket. New route to the airport, Rochdale and plenty of winning units (including my first Clas 180!)

That is what I have done between my last post and my trip to Scotland! 

10th July 2011 - FOSW Day 2

Yes it was a Sunday and is a tricky day to go out on but I have a ticket and my wife was away on a hen do. So it was HST power car hunting via Westbury to Chippenham. First train of the day was a winning FGW power car so it was worth it whatever happened for the rest of the day. On the way I saw 153399 heading to Penzance. I needed this unit and I was unsure how much longer it would be in it's temporary formation. I looked at what it should be doing for the rest of the day and worked out i needed to be at Newton Abbot by 1630. I called at Trowbridge so that I could visit both Wetherspoons before heading to Chippenham for lunch at the Wetherspoons there. It was then on the Chippenham - Newton Abbot fast HST via Bristol Temple Meads. I went first class because the train was rammed and decided to pay the £10 upgrade!

As I neared Newton Abbot i saw some gen that said 153399 was low on fuel and got swapped at Plymouth. So I stayed on the train to Plymouth. Upon arriving at Plymouth i saw 153399 in the bay platform for the Gunnislake branch. It obviously had enough fuel to go there and back so i jumped on it. 28 miles in 2 hours but at least i have this rare unit (that's both rare units this year, the other being 221144!).

Yes it was a Sunday but it was a good one!

4th July 2011 - FOSW Day 1

With an up and coming Stag weekend in Cardiff and days off work it was a sensible option to get another FOSW. My first day was on the Monday (not normally a day off work but my rota had changed this week). I headed to Cardiff for the ever decreasing list of units in the area to catch and hopefully get some luck with FGW power cars. There was a lot less travelling involved than usual as I waited for things that i needed. I managed to grab three new units and one power car. I also spotted 50044 passing light engine through Newport. The photo wasn't great and as luck would have it I passed it on the way to Cardiff so got a better photo there.

1st - 3rd July 2011 - Weekend to London

For the weekend me and my wife went to London. We went to several museums, walked along the Thames and saw friends. The only train related things were the getting from A to B! The only winners were therefore a few units used to get to my sisters house in Earlsfield and centre of London.

25th June - Mazey Day Spitfire Tours

Today saw three tours head to Penzance. Two from Spitfire and one from Pathfinder. I had to work so the best i got was to see the two Spitfire tours pass Plymouth. The weather was not great but saw and photographed the two tours. One winning 20 for sight too.

24th June - Bodmin Wenford Mixed Traction Weekend, Friday

My day off work got moved to Friday which was handy to attend the Bodmin and Wenford Railway Diesel day as part of their mixed traction weekend.

31110, 47306 and 50042 were out hauling trains. Haualge was had behind all three and i have finally got the branch to Boscarne Junction. So this means I only have the short Plym Valley Railway line to travel on and the Helston Railway.

My trip back to Plymouth produced a winning HST power car too so that was a good end to the day.

Blog Catch Up!

I have not been very good at keeping the blog up to date over the last few weeks! This will be a quick run down of what I have done recently.


Last Day of the FOSW 7th June
For this day I headed to Cardiff and then bought a Valley Lines Rover. I explored some more of the lines I have yet to go on. This took me to Merthyr Tydfil via the City Line, up to Aberdare, down to Barry Island and then accross to Bridgend. I visited the Wetherspoons at the same time. I got a couple of winning units during this too.

Heading to Derby via London 10th June
I was due to visit Central Rivers for a PLEG charter on the 11th June and I had the 10th off work. I decided I would get to Derby (where I was staying with the in laws) via London as it is cheaper than going via XC and more comfortable! I took this opportunity to spend the day in London. I went up on the Night Riveria. I had a berth which was much better than sitting in the seat.

In London I headed to the GOBLIN line to try and complete my Class 172/0s for sight and haulage/ I managed the sight but my final one wasn't out for haulage. I then headed over to Liverpool Street to get more Class 379s in before heading to Waterloo to bash untis there. I saw my final Class 450 for sight.

Then I headed towards Croydon via the Tram from Beckenham Junction. A few trips were then had between Croydon and Victoria and London Bridge. My train to Derby was at 2012 which was completely new route for me upto Leicester.

A good day and I managed 49 winning trains during the course of the day for haulage.

Derbyshire Wayfarer and PLEG Charter 11th June
Before the PLEG Charter at Central Rivers Depot I headed to Sheffield and bashed a few trains between Sheffield and Chesterfield. The biggest win being my final XC Voyager to complete the Class 220 for haulage. The day got even better than i ever expected however.

The PLEG Charter was a tour of the Central Rivers depot on 221144 (disbanded Super Voyager leaving to driving cars) behind 57308 and 08943. The 08 was a winner the 57 wasn't. Now before 221144 was disbanded i never got it for haulage but for the tour they ran it through the depot under its on power (has a compressor installed inside the vestibule area to allow slow speed movement of the unit!). This was mega as this is obviously a rare unit and now i have a chance to get haulage on every Super Voyager. Cab ride was also acheived.

Also present at the depot was my final Super Voyager for sight, 221102. Excellent Day and over £3k raised for charity.

Devon Day Ranger 16th June
Back to the old Devon Ranger and all I needed in the area now is 8 FGW Power Cars. So this was what  I was after. No luck and I didn't even see any of the ones i need for haulage.

So that is my caught up. I have so far travelled 19,012 miles this year which I am very pleased with.

2nd June 2011 - FOSW Day 6

Strange day! I decided it would be a trip to Portsmouth and go for winning 3rd rail units. I got there and after about an hour there was a problem. A bridge strike somewhere towards Havant caused most Southern trains being cancelled as they could not get through. Delays were everywhere so i headed back to Southampton via Eastleigh.

If I'm totally honest i was not with it today. I was tired and decided to call it a day quite early. I left Southampton just after 1500 and was home by 1900. I got six winners which was better than nothing but i was not with it!

30th May 2011 - FOSW Day 5

For the bank holiday Monday the original plan was to head to Taunton to catch the Pathfinders Steam Tour due for Portsmouth as far as Bristol. This didn't happen due to Brittania failing over the weekend. So Peter and myself headed to Cardiff. A few trips in between Newport and Cardiff were had but we ended up going to Cheltenham as there was a double 170 (both required that meant changing for the second unit as Newport). It was then we thought Cheltenham and we would go and get the Wetherspoons there (two for me one for Peter).

Peter headed home after this. I went back to South Wales via Gloucester and Chepstow for the Wetherspoons there. It was then home for me too.

Four winning trains and 5 new Wetherspoons visited.

29th May 2011 - FOSW Day 4

This wasn't going to be a long day. I had the FOSW so I had days to use up. I decided today would be the day I would get my final bit of passenger track in on a FOSW (unless I saw required traction). This was basically the Severn Beach Branch from Clifton to Severn Beach (I'd done a bit of it already!). I had lunch in Swindon for another Spoons and then did the branch before heading home. No winning power cars of any sign of my final 220 but new route scratched off. 

28th May 2011 - The Curnow Interrupter

Today would see me go on my second complete tour (well most of it!). Starting at Tamebridge Parkway the tour would head through Devon and into Cornwall. We joined at Birmingham New Street at 0600 as we couldn't get to Tamebridge Parkway in time. The tour was £79.50 from all pick up points and this is why tried to join it as far North as possible. 

The main haulage traction was a pair of DRS Class 37s. Doing this honours was 37087 and 37194 both winners for haulage. 37087 with a split headcodes box was at the front. For the reversals a DBS 66 was on the back. This was to be added during the tour but operational issues meant it was attached from start to finish. 66135 was winner for both sight and haulage for me but I was a minority! 

So we set off South bang on time. Pick up points at Barnt Green, Cheltenham Spa, Bristol Parkway, Bristol Temple Meads, Taunton and Exeter were all made on time. There was a break for pathing at Newton Abbot and Plymouth so photos were taken. 

From Plumouth it was non stop through to Goonbarrow for the route into the China Clay siddings. The climb through Luxulyan Valley bought the best out of the 37s so far. The 66 took us out and back to St Blazey. We went through St Blazey and under the mainline into Par harbour.  We went beyond the Network Rail limit which is apparently the furthest any tour has gone before. 

The 37s then pulled us back out the short distance back past St Blazey Depot. The 66 then took us to Lostwithial. From here the 37s took us down the Fowey branch. 

Another reversal saw the 66 take us back up through Cornwall and onto the Friary Sidings past Laira. So that the 37s now did most of the work we got back onto the mainline via the Devon Speedway which goes through Laira. 

The next challenge for the 37s was Hemerdon. A line speed of 60mph at the top is normally no problem for HSTs and Voyagers. The 37s were going 50mph at the bottom. When we hit the top we were going 20mph with the speed hovering just above most of the way through the climb. The sound was fantastic! The 66 was dead jn tow too! I'm more than certain that the Lickey would have been the same but we wouldn't know as we had to get off at Bristol for our train home. 

Anyway, the last two bits of new track would come in the form of Alphington Road (last bit of action for the 66 as it reversed us into the siding) and being routed through Exeter Riverside. 

Throughout the whole tour timings were pretty much bang on. In fact for a lot of timing points we were early. We arrived into Bristol parkway in plenty of time for the trip home. Long day but very much worth it. 

May 27th - FOSW Day 3 + West Midland Day Ranger

As already mentioned I was doing a tour on the 28th May of Cornish Freight branches with Peter and it was decided that we would start it at Birmingham. This meant a night stay so we got a West Midlands Day Ranger. I headed out on 0925 off of Plymouth and Peter joined on the way. He had a rough plan of what we were going to do. First part was to complete the Redditch branch. A 30 minute gap here was planned to get in the two Wetherspoons. It was then back to New Street and then off to find the hotel. Bags offloaded we headed to Moor Street. 

From here we got some loco hauled action to Warwick Parkway behind 67015, a winner for sight and haulage. It also still had Wrexham and Shropshire branding. On this new route for both of us we passed Tysley. From here were saw two of the new Class 172 units for London Midland.  

A couple of fill in moves eventually saw us at Leamington Spa. The second loco hauled move of the day back to Moor Street gave us 67012. Again a winner for haulage but not for sight. This loco had been debranded. 

It was then over to New Street and a couple of moves to get us the Pretendolino from Coventry. Doing the honours this week 90048. A winner for both myself and Peter. Also the only member of the class which I have been in the cab (many years ago!).

We did this to Wolverhampton. On our way over I saw my final 323s for sight. 201 was in the depot whilst 243 was at Wolverhampton. 

We had dinner in the Wetherspoons and then had no concrete plan. We headed back to Moor Street. We didn't get that far as we decided we would have a look at the metro trams. We completed a small bit of the route and rode on all the ones that were working. 

It was then back to the hotel for early start in the morning. A very good day. 3 winning loco hauled trains (and plenty of units), new route and completion of another class for sight (three in less than a week)!

26th May 2011 - FOSW Day 2 - Southampton to Stourbridge!

Today would see the start of a marathon 5 days of travel. My first day was very indecisive. I had been leaning towards heading north towards Worcester and then getting an additional ticket to take me to Stourbridge. I had the gen that my final PPM was out. But the gen was several days old and whilst the same unit tends to work the branch all week it's never guaranteed.

The day started with a £3 ticket to Exeter. The rover becomes valid here to Salisbury. It's the long way round to Stourbridge but meant I would get there quicker, rather than waiting until 0925 off Plymouth.  

At Salsbury I was still undecided. Do I head to Pompey and get units or head north which was a risk. At Salsbury I saw my final SWT 158. So my decision was made. I went to Southampton and bagged the 158 a couple of moves later. 

Part of me still wanted the 139. So I looked and a move was still on! I needed to be off Southampton at 1310. So a few fill in moves until then were done. 

And off I went to Stourbridge! At Bristol was the bonus sighting of A4 Pacific 'Bittern' disguised as 4492!! No time for a good photo though! Pity. 

All was fine until shortly before Cheltenham. Trespassing on the line held us up for 20 mins. My connecting train was ahead of us (i was to overtake it whilst it was at Gloucester) and I didn't know if it was also held up. I got to Cheltenham and to my relief it had been. When that rolled in I was delighted to see my final FGW 153 for haulage! 

Now onwards to Worcester! The train I was going to catch from Foregate Street was gone so I bailed at Shrub Hill and caught one from there! Same price and also meant I got to Stourbridge Junction at planned time. So all was good. All I needed to do now was wait a few minutes! 

I could see it long before the number but once I could see it the audacious move from Southampton to Stourbridge was worth it! It was duly caught down the branch and dinner was had at one of the Wetherspoons whilst a swift drink in the other. Then back home! This wasn't straight forward. A line side fire between Tiverton and Exeter meant no trains passed. The train I was on from Cheltenham got cancelled at Bristol and I had to get on the one I front which had been delayed by over an hour. This took me as far as Taunton. We were almost put onto road transport and the announcement came that the line had reopened but I needed to move to the front part if the train as the rear was being taken off. Then it was straight back to Plymouth. Bit late but at least no buses!!!

Today had seen me do Plymouth - Exeter - Eastleigh - Bournemouth - Southampton - Bristol - Worcester - Stourbridge Town - Plymouth! I think this is the single largest area I have covered in a single day before but it was worth it! 

Tomorrow I am back in the West Midlands as I stay over for a rail tour next day to Devon and Cornwall freight branches. 

25th May - FOSW Day 1 - Trip to Bath Spa

Today was the first day of my next FOSW. Nothing more planned other than a day trip to Bath with my wife. Whilst I had flexibility she only had advance tickets so it was fixed trains only. There were no winners as we took the Plymouth - Westbury - Bath Spa route and back. I saw one new 66 at Westbury.

24th May 2011 - Ride Cornwall

Today would see a trip to Perranporth, Truro and Bodmin. To do this a Ride Cornwall ticket was purchased. The ticket allowed us to travel anywhere in Cornwall on either bus or train.

We started from Plymouth on the bonus of two London Midland 153s to Truro. These two units are on hire from London Midland for the summer.  

From Truro we headed to Perranporth. A walk over the sand dunes and lunch in The Green Parrot before we headed back to Truro. We spent about 2 hours here before making our way to Bodmin. It was here we visited the final Wetherspoons in Cornwall (until Camborne opens). 

It was now the times of buses and trains didn't fit! So to save waiting at Bodmin parkway we headed to St Austell and caught our train back to Plymouth from there. The added bonus was it was the LM 153s again!

Good day trip out and the weather was great! Winners in red.


153333 2C43 (0921) PLY - TRU
43027 1A94 (1641) TRU - BOD
221124 1V58 (1936) BOD - SAU
153325 2P95 (2012) SAU - PLY


132 miles travelled.

22nd May 2011 - London Trip Day 2

About 6 hours were available in London before our train home to Plymouth. We headed to Victoria for breakfast before heading to Kings Cross in the hope for those final few Hst power cars and final 91! No luck and we headed to Tottenham Hale. We were hoping to get a ride on the new Class 379s on the Stanstead Express services to London Liverpool Street. No luck! A 317 into Liverpool Street. A return journey provided a 379. Very nice trains and obviously very clean at the moment. A return to Liverpool Street provided another set of duff 317s. It was soon time to head back to Paddington however and we decided we would head there via Tottenham Hale - Kings Cross - Paddington. So as soon as we got back to liverpool street it was back onto the next Stanstead Express. Another set of 317s! Ah well! At least we got two of them! 

Our train back to Plymouth got held up outside the Thatcham area by an overhanging tree. Held us up for about 25 minutes whilst the driver removed the offending branch but a good weekend was had. We crossed paths with the Northern Belle just outside Taunton and four 66s stabled at Fairwater provided me with a new one for sight. Moves made below with the winners in red.


5732 2J09 (0727) WAT - CLJ
377436 2C05 (0741) CLJ - VIC
14043 (UG) Victoria - Euston
11006 (UG) Kings Cross - Tottenham Hale
317710 1B35 (1038) TOM - LST
379018 + 379015 1B54 (1128) LST - TOM
317708 1 B45 (1146) TOM - LST
317891 1B60 (1210) LST - TOM 
14070 (UG) Tottenham Hale - Kings Cross
5721 (UG) Kings Cross - Paddington
43071 1C85 (1357) PAD - PLY


Totalled mileage 272.

21st May 2011 - London Trip Day 1

Today I went to London with my wife and parents. I  was taking my Dad to trainspot (he has been off the scene for 15 odd years and lots has changes as I found out upon my return last year) whilst the girls went off on their own. 

An early 0540 train off Plymouth ensured we were in London by 0921. On the way we spotted a winning 60096 and my final 166 for sight. 

In London our first calling point was King's Cross. We got everything here before heading out to New Barnet and back. Whilst at New Barnet I got some photos of trains passing at speed and was quite pleased with them. Back at King's Cross I spotted a required 43 for sight so I am now down to 3. 

We then headed over to St Pancras. From here to did a couple of trips to Stratford International and back. Two winning for sight and all winning for haulage. It was nearing lunchtime so off to Romford for lunch in the Wetherspoons. A quick drink in the 2nd one next-door before heading to Waterloo to unload at the Travelodge. 

After this we headed to Wembley from Waterloo via Richmond and Willesden Junction. Wembley was disappointing as there was one 57 there and the number was hidden by wagons. There was apparently two 67s there (one I needed but we couldn't see them) we also missed a convoy of 10 class 66s leaving earlier! 

So off to Euston from Harrow and Wealdstone. And a bonus when we arrived. Castle class steam engine steaming nicely ready to take The Great Western Midlander tour from Euston - Tysley. On the rear was Class 47 47773. Also whilst here my penultimate Pendolino (new non commissioned sets excluded). It was then back to Waterloo and the hotel to get ready to head to my sisters. The final two train journeys of the day were the Waterloo to Earlsfield return. 

A good day with literally eveythin new for my dad and plenty of new bits for me. Winners in red.


43127 1A75 (0540) PLY - PAD
3356 (UG) Paddington - Baker Street
5527 (UG) Baker Street - Kings Cross
313044 2V16 (1011) KGX - NBA
313039 2Y26 (1047) NBA - KGX 
395022 1F26 (1128) STP - SFA
395013 1J27 (1145) SFA - STP
395019 1F28 (1155) STP - SFA 
321446 2K42 (1220) SRA - RMF
360105 2W91 (1328) RMF - LST
6734 (UG) Liverpool Street - Embankment
53552 (UG) Embankment - Waterloo
5849 2O41 (1503) WAT - RMD
378215 2N84 (1541) RMD - WIJ (HL)
378226 2O68 (1611) WIJ (LL) - HRW
350236 2T38 (1754) HRW - EUS
51552 (UG) Euston - Waterloo
5722 2K55 (1857) WAT - EAD
5912 2M74 (2301) EAD - WAT


Total of 335 miles travelled.

20th May 2011 - 'Northern Belle' VSOE

The VSOE 'Northern Belle' had come down during the day and I had the gen that one of the 67s (67002) hauling it was required for sight. So after work it was off to Truro (it's destination) for a photo. However after my train left St Austell I got news the locos had left Truro and were heading to St Blazey! Not good. Had I known minutes earlier I would have bailed at St Austell! 

They passed me in a blur on a curve (curving the wrong way), so even though I was checking out the drop down window no chance of a photo. 67019 I clearly saw as it was leading but 67002 on the rear was gone!

So at Truro I saw the coaches but was unable to get a decent photo. Now my parents were en route to my house in Plymouth. My dad was going to be popping by Truro to see what I had come down for. As it wasn't there I let him know where they had gone. Instead of returning on the train I was picked up and we went via St Blazey to Plymouth. Again, no chance of a photo (bring back the old days of being able to look around!) but I could see 67002 on the fueling point. So I saw what I needed so not a total loss! 



43182 1C86 (1841) PLY - TRU


53 miles travelled.

17th May 2011 - Devon Day Ranger with a trip to Tiverton

Well my final Devon Ranger for the month would take me to Tiverton (the town not just Parkway) to see the Tivvy Bumper and to finish off the remaining Wetherspoons in Devon, I needed to visit. The trip to the Tiverton (used cheap advance ticket as ranger wouldn't be valid for another hour and half) would be with Peter so we could both see GWR 0-4-2T 1400 Class at the museum. A quick cup of tea at the Wetherspoons before it opened ensured that one has been done.

Once completed we headed back to the station. Peter left the train at Exeter and I continued in my hunt for my last Voyager and HST power cars for haulage. A few trips up and down the sea wall and no winners I decided for a bit of variety. I knew no winners would be produced but I headed to Crediton to visit the last Wetherspoon in Devon i needed.

It was then back to Exeter for a couple more trips before catching the Tavistock Tanks train. Being hauled by 66111 with the Highland stag (seems to be following me around since i saw it in Carlisle earlier in the year!). Then back home.

No winners but 304 miles taking my yearly total so far to 13,676.

43037 1A77 (0748) PLY - TVP
220009 1V47 (1214) TVP - NTA
43378 1S51 (1303) NTA - EXD
43024 1C79 (1333) EXD - NTA
43301 1S55 (1403) NTA - EXD
142030 2B78 (1427) EXD - CDI
142068 2F39 (1537) CDI - EXD
143621 2P93 (1608) EXD - NTA
43175 1A91 (1640) NTA - EXD
220023 1E67 (1723) EXD - TVP
220003 1V59 (1758) TVP - EXD
43189 1C87 (1821) EXD - PLY

I have to admit I am glad I won't be doing a Devon Ranger for a few weeks!

12th May 2011 - Devon Day Ranger

Another Deveon Day Ranger! I was meeting Peter for this so sanity would be maintained! I started before the Devon Day Ranger was valid with an advance. I'm glad I did this as I got a winner out of it. I was waiting for the Devon Express and a Super Voyager heading to Paignton came in that was my last XC one for haulage. I decided to wait until its return (incase the Devon Express was a winner). I then got a message from Peter saying he would meet me at Totnes (he didn't realise I was already out). I let him know what I was doing and we did our usual moves to get the up Devon Express and it meant I got my winning Super Voyager. After that a series of moves for get HST power cars was made. It wasn't a good day for Peter (he only needs 9 power cars), but shortly after he left to get home an HST power car we both needed rolled into Exeter. A ride behind was made to Newton Abbot before I headed back towards Exmouth. There was one 153 on one of the the diagrams (hoping it was the one i needed!). I met this at Digby and it was not a winner. During this I saw an unusual train consisting of 153369 and half of 150221 pass Newton Abbot. I then saw it at Exeter Depot with its numbers being covered. Upon my return from Digby it had a new number, 153399. Some photos of this were taken (luckily before it went out of view). Apparently the other half caught fire and they made a two car unit back up with some modifictions to the 153. Numbering it as a 153 means it wouldn't be diagrammed for a service beyond Portsmouth where a 153 isn't cleared.

A good day. Winners in red.

43175 1A77 (0748) PLY - EXD
43128 1C73 (0932) EXD - TQY
221131 1M41 (1012) TQY - DWL
158956 2C67 (1050) DWL - TRR
43134 1A82 (1116) TRR - NTA
43158 1C76 (1143) NTA - TOT
220032 1M49 (1215) TOT - NTA
43189 1C77 (1230) NTA - PLY
43384 1S55 (1323) PLY - NTA
220013 1M93 (1418) NTA - DWL
43127 1A87 (1446) DWL - EXD
43024 1C84 (1518) EXD - NTA
43366 1E63 (1603) NTA - EXD
43070 1C85 (1621) EXD - NTA 
143603 2F47 (1713) NTA - DIG
153380 2T26 (1812) DIG - EXD
221130 1V60 (1848) EXD - PLY

348 miles travelled. Year so far 13371.

4th May 2011 - Thames Day Ranger

I was very indecisive about what to do today. I knew that Peter wasn't out so doing a Devon Day ranger wasn't very appealing, as there is a limit to the slow Devon banks after a while. The weather didn't look that great and the last two Devon trips have produced no winning trains for haulage. My first option was a cheeky trip to London via Salisbury (using network rail card) and then I remembered I wanted to look at a Thames Branches Day Ranger. Admittedly I would get to Reading (where it was valid from) well into the day but I thought I'd would give it a go anyway! A reasonable £40 for all relevant tickets for what would be a full day out! 

I headed off of Plymouth on 0925 1S39 XC service to Aberdeen. I changed at Exeter St David's for the SWT service to London Waterloo and changed at Basingstoke for Reading! 

From Reading I caught the next HST to London Paddington. From here I set off to do the branches in order towards Reading. First off was Greenford. Yes this is within the zones of a London Travelcard, but it would be very low on the agenda if I had one of them. I made my way there via FGW and Heathrow Connect services. I then headed back to Ealing Broadway to make my way to Windsor and Eton. Again a combination of FGW and heathrow connect services got me there. I had half an hour here until I had trains to connect me to Henley-on-Thames (I skipped Marlow until next time). So off to the two Wetherspoons (The King and Castle & The Windlesora) for 2 quick pints!!! It was then off to Henley-on-Thames. I planned 30 odd minutes here which would allow me to connect to all trains back to Plymouth. In those 30 minutes a visit to the Whetherspoons (The Catherine Wheel) was achieved. It was here I had a message informing Peter had uploaded new photos. I knew he'd been away in Brighton and London but my question of whether he was doing a Thames Ranger was never answered. The photos did answer it! A quick flick to my messages said he'd been to the same 3 Whetherspoons I had just done! I knew he'd been to 3 but didn't take in which ones! Lol! So we had practically done the same thing! I know he went off to do a lot more (with what i assume was his head start to the day as I have yet to see his blog) based on his pictures. 

Anyway I have strayed! I headed back to Twyford and it went a bit wrong. I got off and train was coming in. I couldn't see any displays saying where anything was going so I asked a member of staff. She told me it was going to Reading. Good! Until it went back up the branch!!! This meant I would miss the last train. The only way home now was FGW via Taunton. My ticket wasnt valid but a quick phone call meant it was. Well done FGW!

I ended up home earlier as well, well by 13 minutes! Winners in red.

220026 (0925) 1S39 PLY - EXD
159016 (1026) 1L40 EXD - BSK
165123 (1307) 2J34 BSK - RDG
43002 (1332) 1L54 RDG - PAD
165137 (1427) 2N44 PAD - EAL
360202 (1441) 2T48 EAL - WEA
166215 (1457) 2G38 WEA - GFD
166215 (1516) 2G39 GFD - EAL
165104 (1535) 2N48 EAL - STL
360204 (1549) 2T52 STL - HAY
166205 (1602) 2R49 HAY - SLO
165126 (1621) 2W65 SLO - WNC
165126 (1710) 2S70 WNC - SLO
165133 (1718) 2R53 SLO - BNM
165221 (1725) 2R53 BNM - TAP
166217 (1736) 2R54TAP - MAI
166216 (1747) 1H48 MAI - HOT
165122 (1846) 2H51 HOT - TWY
166218 (1858) 1H52 TWY - HOT
165135 (1916) 2H53 HOT - TWY
165116 (1937) 2R69 TWY - RDG
43094 (2012)  1C96 RDG - PLY


A total of 484 miles travelled. A good day if a little rushed!

2nd May 2011 - Off the mark for May!

Today saw me head to Falmouth with my wife for the day and a quick visit to my parents in Perranwell. As expected, nothing new was ridden.

150243 (0920) 2T08 PLY - TRU
150121 (1050) 2F74 TRU - FMT
150121 (1523) 2T82 FMT - PRW
153382 (1920) 2P89 PRW - TRU
150243 (1955) 2P95 TRU - PLY

A total of 130 miles to kick start May off!

29th April 2011 - Devon Day Ranger

Well for the Royal Wedding Bank Holiday I got another Devon Ranger. I was out early as there were no restrictions but it was a fruitless day. My last 9 FGW HST power cars, last 153, last 220 and last 221 were nowhere to be seen. Well I tell a lie! One of the required power cars was on the back of a train, much like one was on Tuesday. In fact today saw me behind two trains I caught on Tuesday, one of them on the same service!

221139 1S98 (0520) PLY - TOT
43163 1A75 (0557) TOT - NTA
43161 1A09 (0617) NTA - TVP
220023 1C11 (0720) TVP - PLY
43015 1A78 (0853) PLY - NTA
43154 1C73 (0955) NTA - TQY
221127 1M41 (1012) TQY - TVP
43088 1C76 (1104) TVP - TOT
43170 1A83 (1227) TOT - NTA
220020 1M49 (1228) NTA - EXD 24 late
142029 2F29 (1318) EXD - EXC
142009 2T19 (1350) EXC - EXD
43130 1C81 (1408) EXD - PLY 13 late

345 miles travelled which meant i ended April on 1433 miles (a bit better than i had expected at one point!). Bring on May which should be a lot better with trips to London, the West Midlands and another tour planned.

26th April 2011 - Devon Day Ranger

Well April has and will be a slow month! With the exception of my London daytrip all I have done was a trip to Newton Abbot and one Devon Day Ranger, mainly due to Easter and work comitments. Before today I hadn't even done 1000 miles!

Today would be nothing more than another Devon Day Ranger. I left Plymouth on the usual 0925 and met Peter at Newton Abbot. The day proceeded with nothing of note. All trains were dud. I saw 43018 on the back of a train which i needed but it wasn't due to return back to the Westcountry until after 2230.

The day wasn't a complete waste though. We did see 66177 on the Exeter Scrap Train (which was new for me not sure about Peter!).

220029 1S39 (0925) PLY - NTA
221122 1M41 (1023) NTA - DWL
150233 2C67 (1050) DWL - TRR
43149 1A82 (1116) TRR - NTA
43024 1C76 (1143) NTA - TOT
220022 1M49 (1215) TOT - NTA
43170 1A83 (1240) NTA - EXD
142063 2F29 (1318) EXD - EXC
142063 2B78 (1417) EXC - EXD
43378 1S55 (1425) EXD - TVP
43130 1C84 (1501) TVP - TOT
43071 1A91 (1627) TOT - EXD
43143 1C86 (1735) EXD - PLY

Total miles travelled was 240.