17th December - Track Scratching

So the plan today is to complete the passenger lines in the north east of England. Well except for a tiny curve that as far as I can work out only Grand Central trains use regularly. I had a free return ticket from East Coast which i used to Darlington and then bought a Tyne and Tees day ranger.

So I left my sisters at 0500. I needed to be on the 0524 from Tooting Broadway to get to King's Cross in time for my 0615 departure. I made it in 15 so that was fine. No problems getting to Kings Cross. I grabbed a cup of tea from Upper Crust (had cereal at my sisters but no drink as I didn't want to be up any earlier than I had to be!).

We left London on time but it was a dud Sir Bobby Robson (91109). It was pitch black until I got to Doncaster but luckily the only loco I could get the number of at Peterborough was a required 66732! Thanks flood light! I saw the outline to plenty of other locos but not a chance. Doncaster was also hard enough. I managed to spot about 3 of about 10 locos. Two were Colas 66s which is annoying because they could have been ones I needed! Also saw a 60 but was just too dark!

Nothing else eventful and we arrived into Darlington on time. I had plenty of time till my planned train. So I got my ranger and looked to see what else I could do. Nothing but head towards Middlesbrough earlier and change en route to get my planned train behind. The second winner of the day (northern line stock was first!) was a 142. I got off at Thornaby. I didn't have to wait long as a late running train (which we beat at a junction) turned up minutes later and it was another required 142 (also for sight!) so took that to Middlesbrough. I now had a fair bit of time till the train to Whitby.
There were no other moves on so I looked to see if a spoons was achievable. It looked it so I went for it via the ticket office as my ticket holder had seen better days and there was no queue. Result! New design TPE holder! I had done the nearest Wetherspoons on my last visit here and as it turned out the next one is about 5 minutes walk. So another cask marque pub done and spoons in the book!

It was now time for the 1038 to Whitby! This is a long journey (time wise) but I was looking forward to it as I had heard good things. I was expecting a 142 but in rolled a dud 156! Ah well! It is new route! I wasn't disappointed. A lovely line and one day I'll bring the missus on it. And do the NYMR at the same time.

I had about 35 minutes in Whitby. Handily The Station Inn just outside was cask marqued. Really top cosy pub! And one of the best pints of Doom Bar I have ever had! I then popped into Co-op for some lunch. It was then back onto the train and to Middlesbrough. Now for Bishop Aukland. The train went straight through from Middlesbrough and was a winning 142. We passed Shildon and the NRM. I need to get to this at some point. I could see loads though the windows but not enough! The only thing I spotted was the 08 outside which was required.

There was no plan now! I was going to head to Darlington and see what was around but then I remembered the curve only Grand Central use. Were there any trains I could make? As it turns out there was a northbound service that was running about 45 minutes late. I worked out I could meet it at Eaglescliffe and get the curve in!

I got there and waited. I had just under half an hour (and it was freezing!). Eventually I could hear the hst coming. Result! I have only had one of the gc power cars so there was a good chance of a winner! Sure enough it was! 43484!

All going well! I would make it to Sunderland in time for the 1730 to Newcastle and have an hour and half before my train back to London. Then it went wrong!

We came to a stop outside of Hartlepool. Well quite a way but it was the nearest station. We had hit a horse. After 30 mins and the driver had checked the train for damage we set off again! We arrived into Sunderland and chaos unfolded! The train should have already left to go south. People were being told not to board! It waited for ages and after about 20 minutes people got on and it left at 1811. I was still waiting for the 1730 to Newcastle. The PIS were saying due at 1750 which was quite clearly a lie as it was 1815! With no sign of it and the need to be at Newcastle by 1900 I had to catch the metro! Now I have no objection (first metro in the book!) but I'm not entirely sure my ticket was valid! I was told it was by a northern employee but he didn't seem to look at it properly!

So I got to Newcastle Central just before 1900! Luckily there were no barriers working and I ran for my train! An east coast hst rolled in! Dud but it maybe be my saviour! As it stands with me writing this there is OHLE problems at Hitchin! Electric trains can't get through and I seriously hope we can without much delay! I'm booked on the sleeper off of Paddington at 2345 and need to make it!

I'll update this when I know more!

Update! So we arrived into Doncaster a few minutes late and once we stopped it was announced that the train would be terminating! We all had to catch the 2139 to Kings Cross. An hour! It got later and later and didn't arrive till 2214 in the end. Now we wouldn't get to London until 0015 so I'd missed my train home. I was effectively back in London 2 hours late. I'd given myself a comfortable hour and half to Paddington. Now I don't know what's gonna happen.

The only positive was this. Plenty if freight passed through Doncaster so the hour and half wait wasn't totally dull! A couple of 37s rolled in too. And I saw my final 144.

But what will happen next? Who knows!

Another update! So we arrived at Biggleswade at about 2350. After a wait of about 15 minutes we slowly moved off. We then came to a halt a short way (0.72 miles according to my phone) out and after another wait we reversed back into the station having changed lines! We finally got going again southbound at 0022!

Final Update! We finally arrived into Kings Cross about 0130. I made sure I  was off the train quickly and near the front of the queue to what was happening. In the end they gave me a taxi to Plymouth!!!!! There was also another passenger heading to Plymouth too which was bizarre. The cost on the meter when we finally arrived at my house was £895!!!! Surely East Coast won't be paying that much?

16th December - First Class to London

What would probably be my last trip of the year started on 16th December from Plymouth. I headed to London on the first train of the day. I got a good ticket price in first class. The little extra it cost me I was sure I would get back with the complimentary tea and biscuits!

The trip would hopefully see me have bit of a London Underground bash on Sunday afternoon and on Monday, courtesy of a free return to Darlington, a chance to complete some required route to Whitby and Bishops Aukland.

I arrived into Paddington on time and it was straight to the ticket office. I needed to renew my Network Rail card. With that done I headed to the Bakerloo line. I headed south and changed at every station. Once at the end I headed to Stockwell on the Northern line. From here I headed to Brixton on the Victoria line. I then headed North and stopped at every stop to Walthamstow Central. I had now completed the entire Victoria line. I had a quick pint at The Goose outside the station before heading back on the first Victoria train I travelled on today to Finsbury Park. I then caught a winning 313 to Kings Cross.

Here I picked up my tickets for tomorrow. One less thing to have to worry about. I then headed North on the northern line to Edgware. I hadn't realised the time so it was straight back and onto Tooting Broadway and onto my sisters.

I didn't have much time but in the 6 hours or so I had I caught 54 winning underground units and 1 heavy rail unit. Not bad going. I'm more than half way the through the Victoria Line stock too.

Bring on tomorrow.

8th December - Trip to Dorchester

Nothing particularly special. Me and my wife headed to Dorchester to meet up with a friend. We missed our connection at Castle Cary though as we left Plymouth late and with all the temporary speed restrictions at various points along the sea wall, Cowley bridge and near Taunton (due to flooding) we never had a chance. An hour wait at Castle Cary then! At least the sun was shining and I managed a couple of good photos of trains approaching the station.

The trip back was also delayed for the same reasons!

18th November 2012 - Steam Rail Motor

Today was the day I would finally get to go in the fully restored GWR Steam Rail Motor 93. I should have made the trip two weeks before but it was cancelled as the WCRC locomotive that was to be used to haul it from the Bodmin and Wenford Railway to Liskeard failed. In many ways the cancellation was good because today the weather was fantastic! Clear blue skies with the cold crisp wintery morning feeling.

I was booked onto the first run of the day, which was 0830 off of Liskeard. I arrived with plenty of time to spare (45 minutes) but even that made me one of the last people to get there!!! I managed to see it move off the yard and into the station. What a sight! The restoration is fantastic!

At 0830 on the dot we started our descent into the valley. We headed right I into Coombe Junction Halt for water. For the duration of the journey nobody was allowed off the train, not even at Looe. Part of the stipulations Network Rail laid down for its mainline certification.

The trip down the branch was made all the better thanks to the weather. It was stunning. It had been a few years since I last went on the branch. The return journey obviously involved the climb into Liskeard. I expected this to be a challenge but we climbed it with ease.

After the journey had finished I decided to drive to Terras Crossing and get photos of it. I was very pleased I did this as I got some really good photos.

Overall a great, if expensive day (£30 with fees etc) It was also my last outing on a train for November (only other trip was when I went on my great escape!). My trips have definitely dried up. December isn't going to be much better. I have a little trip to Dorchester planned with my wife and then I'm off to Darlington courtesy of a return trip free with East Coast.

9th October to 1st November 2012 - Catch up

I've slipped again! Not updated for a while but I have been busy. I really need to start updating on the move via the app for my phone. Anyway here's a brief catch up of all that has happened.

9th October - West Midland Day Ranger
I had an unexpected change of day off and my wife also happened to be heading to Swindon for work. I decided I would (with a combination of tickets) head to Birmingham and do a West Midland Day Ranger. I would travel with my wife as far as Bristol. The route I took was via Worcester (so much cheaper, but does take longer). Luckily the first LM train I caught from Worcester was a winning 170. I took this to New Street. Once at New street I took a look around and spotted a winning XC 170 so jumped on this to Tamworth. I then headed south to Nuneaton on a winning 350. Next train due was an XC back to New Street. I couldn't believe it! Another winner! After arriving back at New Street on my penultimate XC 170 I jumped on a winning LM 170 to Wolverhampton (all 170s today!!!). I then did a return trip back to New Street on a winning 221 and then 390. It was then another winning 170 to Telford Central. The day was going well! I had a drink in the Wetherspoons at Telford before a dud (was bound to happen!) pair of 158s to Wolverhampton. I then spotted a winning 323 to Sandwell & Dudley. Then a dud 170 to New Street. Once at New Street I spotted a winning Pendo so took it to Birmingham International. It was now time to head home. A winning 350 to new street before a dud 170 took me towards Worcester. I bailed at Droitwich and waited to see what was on the train behind. A winner! 170511 took me to Worcester where the long trip home started. There was a slim hope my final FGW 150 might be on but unlikely. And it wasn't! A good day nevertheless. Plenty of winners and miles under my belt!

12th October - A very lucky break!
A very lucky break indeed! I saw some gen that 150202 was heading west and would be returning on a service that I would have been able to make if I parked at Saltash (needed to drive straight to work) and caught a train to Par. So off I went and waited for the train to take me. I was waiting at Saltash and then felt stupid! I thought to my self that I needed 150102 not 202! I was cursing myself as I had come all this way for nothing! Aaaaarrghhhhhh! I was heading back to the car when I saw the train I was due to catch to Par come round the corner. I couldn't believe my eyes! 150102!!!!! My final FGW 150! I pegged it back to the platform and got on. The rest of the trip went as expected. Sure enough 150202 took me back to Saltash. So I have finally cleared (barring any unusual workings) everything FGW run in the South West. In fact all I now need is Thames units and the recently transfered (back to) 180s.

19th October - London Daytrip
After arriving on the usual 0553 from Plymouth I headed to Richmond via the District line. Whilst here I looked for my final 458s. I spotted one but on my attempt to meet its return from Waterloo it never came. Obviously went ECS to depot. Great! So after wasting a bit of time I headed on to Victoria on a winning 377. I then saw the VSOE leaving before heading to Bromley South for lunch on a pair of 375s (one a winner). I had lunch and then caught a dud 319 north towards Kentish Town. Once within the Thameslink tunnels I bus stopped it to St Pancras and back to London Bridge bagging 9 winning units along the way (including 3 for sight). I then headed to East Croydon on a winning 171. Time for a change. I did the Croydon Tram to Elmers End. I then caught a train to Hayes to complete the branch. I returned and headed to London Bridge and attempted to bag winning SE trains. I didn't realise that half the trains don't stop at London Bridge off of Waterloo East. So I got bored quite quickly and only got 9 winners before heading back to Croydon on a winning 442. It was then back to Victoria where I decided for my last hour or so would stay on the underground. I headed east on the Circle/District line and changed at almost every station to pick the units running. All Distrct line trains were winners as I have been on very few of them. At Aldgate I headed westwards to head back to Paddington. It was a very productive last hour and I need to do more of it as I have a lot of tube stock left to get. Need to concentrate on C Stock however as this is on borrowed time with the new S Stock now starting to be tested on the Circle and Hammersmith lines.

1st November - The Great Escape
With half term upon us London Midland were doing there great escape ticket once more. I bagged one for my day off and headed to London on earliest train. The ticket was valid from 0930 and a bargain at £9.90 with railcard! I headed north to Watford and changed. I was going to head to St Alburns but the time to wait was quite big so caught the next train to Milton Keynes. I spent an hour here and visited all four of the Wetherspoons. It was then time to head to Bletchley. And then onto the Marston Vale line for new track. 150107 was doing the honours for the trip to Bedford. Once here I went to both Wetherspoons and had lunch in one of them. It was then back to the West Coast Mainline. Time to see if I could get any winning 350s. I got two to Rugby (changed at Northampton). I realised time had gone quite quick and headed back south. I also realised I wouldn't be able to make the St Alburns line! Damn! Need to do that another day now (although of all the LM network that is the easiest bit to do from London). No more winning trains back either. Hmmmm. I bus stopped back to Paddington and picked up a few winning tube units. In hindsight a good day. New track and 3 winning 350s (I'm at that stage where its starting to get more difficult). I also travelled over 600 miles. For the next Great Escape I only need the St Alburns branch and then it really is 350 hunting. Watford - Northampton (Milton Keynes is inbetween) is the key. Any further North and time is wasted.

And that is it! All up to date. I should have ridden the GWR Steam Railmotor last Sunday but was cancelled. Hopefully I'll get it in two weeks time on the 18th November.

4th October 2012 - Severn Valley Railway Diesel Gala

I was very pleased to see that the Severn Valley Railway were holding a Diesel Gala and it would start on a Thursday, my day off! I'd seen this several weeks before hand and suggested this to Peter and he was able to get the day off too.

It was an early start as I left Plymouth at 0430 to pick Peter up from Newton Abbot at 0500. It was cold too! We had plenty of time as the first train wasn't until 0925 off Kidderminster but we didn't want to take any chances and miss the first train.

We made it in plenty of time so we headed into town and got breakfast from Wetherspoons, The Penny Black.

Neither of us had done the line before so the plan I'd made would enable us to get the whole line and all but one loco on the gala. That one loco was D821 but we had fortunately both had haulage off of it before at the West Somerset Railway (in 2010 if I remember correctly).

So the first train was D8059 which we took all the way to Bridgnorth. I was recently here (but only had a wonder round) so took Peter down to where D1013 was hiding and we photted all that was here on the depot. We then returned behind D1062 (also had before at the WSR!). Was supposed to be behind this to Bewdley where the rest of the day would see us catching a mixture of shuttles and full services to get haulage off every thing! It became apparent very soon that things were wrong! We were held for ages whilst waiting for an up train to Bridgnorth. It was running 20 late and wasn't 33108 like it should have been! Great! Plan foiled already! 33108 wouldn't start apparently (flat battery). So we stayed on the train to Kidderminster. The plan was now out the window because nothing was running on time and they had changed locos round from running what was planned. Coupled to that was the fact 50026 was missing (not a problem for me as I had it at Swanage earlier in the year but Peter needed it!) and the 31. It did appear that 37906 was running though instead. It was now a matter of trying to get what we needed when we could. We did try to establish what was where and try and tie it to the plan as the 08s needed to be done whatever!

After arriving at Kiddy we then caught D8188 back to Bewdley. Then it was the shuttle back with 37906 leading. We then worked out we needed to be at Bewdley to meet 50031 so it was off behind D8059 once more. 50031 duly turned up and back to Kiddy! They then attached 50135 to 031 and it was a double header to Bewdley.

Now time for some 1st Gen DMU action! Back at Kiddy we met Dave who had arrived for the 08s (well 08;72 in particular!). A short while later 56311 turned up with 50026 and 31601 from the mainline. So the 50 and 31 would be here for tomorrow then!!!!

After a long wait we finally saw the 08s heading into the station. Once the stock arrived they backed onto it and we were soon off.

At Bewdley I was going to catch 33108 back to Kiddy. Then the DMU back to Bewdley for the 45 on the last train to Kiddy. But it was all a bit tight and didn't want to risk missing the connections for two reasons. The 45 would be my first haulage from a Peak and secondly the car was at Kiddy and I didn't fancy being stuck at Bewdley! Peter had had 33108 before and was heading into Bewdley to visit some Cask Marque pubs. I noticed that the 33 was to run back to Bewdley and then double head with the 45! I decided to do this as it was less risky and people assured me the 33 would be back so I would still get both!

So into Bewdley I went and visited the pubs with Peter. It was real ale week and couple of halfs would be fine.

Afterwards it was home time. We called into Stourport-on-Severn for dinner at the Spoons before I headed home via Exeter (to drop Dave off) and Newton (for Peter). A great day! The line complete, a load of new locos for haulage and plenty of new spots (well nearly all the steam was new!).

17th to 22nd September - Kent Holiday

Been a while since my last update but I have done quite a bit! More or less after my trip to Leeds my wife and I started our holiday together. It was to be a bit of everything and we were going to be staying in Britain. The bulk of our stay would be in Kent and half the travel would be by train by using a Kent 3 Day Rover. This gave us the flexibility to both drink and gave us discount on places we visited by using 2 for 1 offers.

We set up base in Canterbury and were about 15 minute walk to Canterbury East station. On the first day my wife said I could try and cover as much route as possible (whilst she did her own thing) and the remaining two days would see us go on route that was left and spend more time off the network! Most stops saw us visit Cask Marque pubs (mostly Wetherspoons) as well!

Day 1
The first day saw us head to Faversham for a change of train to Rochester. We had a wonder round here before heading to Gravesend. We had a lunch here before heading back to Strood for a train to Padock Wood on the Medway Valley line. It was at this point my wife did her own thing! I then headed west to Sevenoaks and then onto Swanley. I then doubled back a bit to Otford before the slow trip inland to Ashford. Here I met my wife and we went for some dinner.

After dinner she headed home whilst I headed to Sittingbourne via Swanley. The whole point of the late trip to Sittingbourne and then up to Sheerness on Sea was so I could get both curves to Sheerness completed. Glad its done but it was now 2132 and I was at Gillingham and needed to get home. By the time I returned it was gone 2300 but I had completed a lot of track and grabbed a fair few winners. This was by far going to be my most intense day of the week.

Day 2
We headed to Faversham once again and then headed east to Margate. What a hole! We didn't discover this straight away as we headed round to the Turner Art building (I think thats what it's called!). Not my cup of tea but nevertheless. Afterwards we started to wonder round Margate. We decided very quickly that was not the best idea and headed back to the station. We headed back to Canterbury via West station and spent some more time there (making use of the 2 for 1) at some museums. We then went back to Canterbury West and headed down to Ashford before heading to Folkestone for dinner. It was then onto Dover Priory before heading straight up to Faversham and onto Herne Bay for a visit to the Wetherspoons. After this it was back to Canterbury. Another late day with the same service as yesterday to Canterbury!

Day 3
Today would see us go back to Dover for a visit to the Castle and the War Time Tunnels. Great place. After this I needed a couple of bits of track to do in Kent. This saw me catch the 1532 Dover Priory to Ramsgate via Minster and then return to Dover. This got the rarely used curve in near Minster. My wife had headed to Whitstable whilst I did this so I headed up to meet her. After a visiting 3 pubs here (nice place) we headed back to Canterbury for an early night (back by 2100!).

Thursday!
We had planned a day trip to France and went by Eurotunnel. It was quick and easy. It literally was drive on and off in no time. Spotting the rear locomotive was easy as i drove past it. The front was a little trickier and required an email to Eurotunnel (but the replied promptly with the answers I needed for both the out and return journeys). I managed to spot a fair few Eurotunnel locomotives as we left Folkestone so was pleased. But when we arrived at Coquelles I couldn't believe it! I spotted loads on the depot and then 7 of the 8 stored Class 92 locomotives! Brilliant! Photos were taken from the train. Not great but passible. It was then off the train and on into France (we ended up going to Belgium but that really wasn't far at all). On the way, whilst passing the massive freight yards by the motorway I spotted two Eurocargo 66s. One was an old EWS loco and the other a newer Eurocargo ordered one (with air con unit on top). Luckily the one i could see the number for was the old EWS one!

A great day and a few more Eurotunnel locos spotted on the way home!

Saturday
On our way back home we called into Spa Valley Railway. It was one of their Diesel and Steam timetables. We had 33056 out and 47493 (Steam) back. Great little line two winners for haulage. Also managed to visit the cab of the 33 and had a great chat with the driver.


A nice week away. My wife was good enough to let me complete Kent for all lines (except the HS1 to classic connections). So all I need to do now is get the South Eastern trains themselves and the Suburban London lines they run on. That should be easy enough at Key locations on a London Travelcard. The trip on Eurotunnel was great (and so easy) and the week nicely rounded off on a heritage railway!

12th September 2012 - West Yorkshire Ranger

It was my last day of my short trip. There was no plan today but I basically had until 1715 to do whatever I wanted. I got a WYPTE ticket (one of my favourite PTE tickets) for the bargain price of £6.60 and looked for the first train that was required and valid. This took me to Headingley with a winning 144 and 142. The return also produced a winner in the form of a 150. I didn't have to wait very long before another winner. This time to Burley Park on a 155. The return was a dud 142.

Next up was a winning 333. I needed 5 more after this and decided was now time to make the effort and try and get them all. I took this to Shipley and the next train I saw was another 333 that was required. This was going back to Leeds and one my way in I saw a FL 66 heading East. The bonus was that it was required for sight.

Once back in Leeds I spotted 333005. Another required 333! This was going well. I took this to Menston. Once here I waited for the train heading back to Leeds. Dud! So I waited for the next one which was heading to Bradford. Winner!!!! Couldn't believe my luck! Whilst on this train i saw 333004 heading to Ilkley. Needed that so at least I knew where that was!

So at Shipley I saw a required 322. I caught this to Salitaire and then a dud 333 back to Shipley. I then waited for a little while for 333004 to return and take me to Bradford. One left!

So where was 333013. Now I think earlier that morning i had seen it but wasn't 100% sure. If it was the unit I thought it was it had headed North to Skipton. So I headed to Steeton & Silsden, where the trains would cross. when I got there I hadn't envisaged a not quite so straight forward crossing of the line! The platforms were not opposite! I ran and made it with loads of time! Phew! I waited and hoped! When it came it was indeed 333013! Fantastic! The 333s completed for haulage and with not that much effort.

It was no time for lunch so I headed back to Keighley and popped to the Wetherspoons. It was then back to Leeds. I caught a train from Carlisle so there was hope I'd need them. I didn't. Ah well. As I was arriving into Leeds i checked what the 91 to Kings Cross. 91104 which was required. So off to Wakefield on that before returning on a winning 144.

Once back at Leeds I saw TPE 170301 heading to Huddersfield. This was needed to jumped on it. 170309 was also attached but i got this the other day so not needed. Then the return to Leeds was 170308 which i also had the other day! Before this trip i'd only been on one TPE 170 before! At least now I'd been on four!

And with that it was time to head home. Rather nicely the 91 back south was a winner. I also spotted a winning GBRf 66 at Peterborough. I hopped off at each station to Paddington picking up a few underground winning units and then it was the FGW HST home.

What a great few days away. Plenty of winning units, loads of new route, the 333s completed, finally spotting more than two 507/508s. Next time I can spend time chasing winning trains now I have the route. I travelled 1659 miles over the 3 days.

11th September 2012 - Lancashire Day Ranger

An area where i still had a fair amount of unscratched track was Lancashire. To reach this ranger's area I got a return to Hebden Bridge and caught the 0808 off of Leeds. By the time I reached Hebden Bridge, the Ranger kicked in. A winning 158754 took me to Manchester Victoria. A short trip to Salford Crescent on a winning 142056 followed by a short 1 mile trip back to Salford Central on 156443.

Next was another winning 142 (057) on some new track to Wigan Wallgate. I then met up with 142056 again and headed north to Bolton for another stretch of new track.

Now I needed to head north to Lancaster. Two winners got me there. 185101 to Preston and then 390118 to Lancaster. Now I waited for the one train a day to Heysham Port. It was 142019, required for haulage. It came in where I didn't expect it which meant crossing the footbridge but never mind! I expected it to use either platform 1 or 2! So with the trip to Heysham port and back complete, I headed back south to Preston on a dud pendo. I did mange to spot my final 185 for sight, and with my record of haulage on them was something of a surprise!

Now for more new route. Preston to Ormskirk. It was then more new route on a Merseyrail unit. I've seen only 3 before today and never ridden on one so this was all new! I took this to Moorfields. I then took a short journey to Sandhills. And then from here to Southport. Whilst here I gave myself an hour to get some food and visit the two Wetherspoons.

Back onto the rail network and off the Merseyrail trains, I headed East to Wigan Wallgate. Still new route but on a dud 156. It was then two dud 142s to Kirkby. Then I swapped onto (I had no idea that Ormskirk and Kirkby are one long platform with single tracks meeting with two sets of buffers!) a winning Mersey unit to Moorfields.

It was then the short trip from Moorfields to Liverpool Lime Street. From here a dud 156 took me to Wigan North Western where I waited for a train to Preston. The next train to arrive was a 142 (a winner) but the train after would get me to Preston more comfortably and quicker. I opted for the winner (the pendo might have been dud!). I sill met the same train I was going to catch to Blackburn which was a dud 142 but it was all new route.

The final train and final bit of new route up to Hebden Bridge was on a 158. Again another dud but at least it was direct to Leeds. It was another late finish. I got 14 winning trains over the course of the day and lots more route covered. I also managed to complete the 185s for sight and finally my 507/508s don't look so out of place in my book! I also managed a reasonable 330 odd, slow miles.

9/10th September 2012 - Trip to Leeds and South Pennine Day Ranger

So I finished work at 2000 after a 12 hour duty manger shift and it was the start of two weeks of holiday. My wife didn't have time off until Thursday so I planned a little trip away. Partly decided by the fact I could get London - Leeds Return tickets for free thanks to East Coast rewards, I decided it was a good base to stay at. I've stayed here several times before and is pretty central for quite a lot as you will see. Travelodge booked at £20 a night for two nights and right by the station. Happy with that. My plan would basically give me near on 3 full days in the North.

So I left Plymouth on the Sunday night on the Sleeper at 2320. Again it was only a seat but I can never seem to pick up the bargains. Anyway we travelled to London via Bristol Temple Meads behind 57604 and arrived bang on time at 0505.

My train from Kings Cross to Leeds was at 0705 so there was no massive rush. I had a McDonalds breakfast and then headed to the Circle Line. I was going to take my time getting to Kings Cross. I got off at each stop until I got there. I managed to bag 9 new units doing this and easily swallowed an hour (the gaps between trains was still fairly big).

Once at Kings Cross I went and picked up my tickets. Whilst here I decided to get both my South Pennine and Lancashire Rangers that would be needed. It was soon time for the dud 1D03 hauled by 91107 to Leeds.

It left on time and the only thing of note was a winning 66 at Peterborough. And not a GBRF one! A Freightliner one! As we passed Doncaster I saw a few more DBS ones but all were dud. A cluster of them were not uid and I have a feeling they were the Eurocargo ones heading to Toton. Annoying as I needed them when i found out what they were, but i couldn't guarantee ot was them! As we passed Doncaster Works a Scotrail 320 was sat outside and was also required.

So once at Leeds I set out on my plan of day one. It was basically to complete nearly all the route left to do within the South Pennine area. The first train was to Meadowhall on winning 158861. I had time to kill so I bashed between here and Sheffield until the train I needed towards Manchester left. This picked me up 5 winning trains of a class 142, 150, 170, 185 and 144. I also spotted 70014 passing through Meadowhall. Shame no picture but it caught me by surprise!

Now was nearly time for my next part of the plan which would lead to new track scratching. I spotted 158844 at Sheffield just as I was leaving which was good. 150140 was doing the honours of taking me to Romiley. This would get me the tiny bit between Chinley and Romiley. Then I waited for the next train to Rose Hill Marple to complete that branch. It was a double unit of 150117 (dud) and 142014 (winner). I did these back to Piccadilly. From here I headed back to Romiley via Guide Bridge. 142037 (winner) did the honours. That was that bit of track scratched too and then back to Piccadilly on an old friend! 142001 complete with its Devon sticker still on the front.

The next train was the 1548, 2H76 Manchester Piccadilly to Manchester Piccadilly via Glossop and Hadfield. This would get me all three sides of the triangle in. Quite annoyingly 323236 rolled in to form the service! I've only had three Northern 323s and this one twice now!

With that complete I headed east towards Huddersfield. A dud 185 (I've said it before and I'll say it again, i have a habit of riding the same Desiros over and over. Be it diesel or electric!). Then it was for the final bit of required track in my plan. Huddersfield to Barnsley. Winning 142018 took me there.

I had an hour here to visit both Wetherspoons. I found the first one quite quickly. I had a quick drink. Didn't fancy eating there. Couldn't find the cask marque certificate to scan do that was an email to say I visited! The other Spoons was much nicer and friendlier. I ate here and found the certificate to scan.

Next up was to spin back to Sheffield and then Manchester. 158861 (again!) tool me to Sheffield and then finally a different TPE 170 other than 170305 took me to Piccadilly. I was then going to head to Leeds but the train was cancelled. So I headed back to Sheffield and went that way. It was another dud 185. The train to Leeds was going to be an EMT HST. I'm glad I did this move as leading the train was 43083 and very much required!

A very long and tiring day but a lot of new track now scratched. I haven't worked out the exact mileage yet as I am writing this on the go but I managed well over 760 odd miles in the 24 hour period! Eleven winning trains were also caught whilst track scratching so was pretty pleased with that.

7th September 2012 - West Midlands Day Ranger

For my day off this week I decided a West Midlands Day Ranger was in order. Main aim was to try and find and ride my last 172 for haulage.

An early start meant leaving Plymouth at 0600. My wife came with me so it wasn't too bad. We drove to Droitwich Spa and then headed into Birmingham. She was planning to meet her mum. When we arrived at Kidderminster the day was all of a sudden easy! There it was! 172333 sat waiting for the following service off Kidderminster. I said my goodbyes to my wife and got off. Well that was easy. The 172s done and now I could look for other required trains. I bailed at Smethwick and headed to the low levels. A dud 323 took me to New Street and then I literally wondered from platform to platform until I found a train that was needed. It wasn't too long a wait. 158830 was heading to International so I duly caught it.

I then caught a dud pendo to Coventry before returning to New Street on a required 11 car pendo. Much more frequent now but I need most of them still. 390117 was doing the honours.

Once at new street I headed over I see what super voyager was heading north. It's only the virgin ones I need and it's the easiest way to try and get them. Bombardier liveried 221115! Required. I caught this to Wolverhampton. I decided to head to Crewe. Two reasons. I need the Wetherspoon's and I needed to put my mind at rest that my final 90 for sight at Crewe electric couldn't be seen (or maybe seen!!!!). A winning 350 to Crewe was next!

Since my last visit (ages ago now!) all the 56s have moved! Bonus for me as one was needed and could now be seen!

It was then off to the Wetherspoons. It's a hefty walk from the station. Especially when it's warm and you're tight of time! Anyway I got there ordered a curry and a pint and the wolfed it down! It was then back to the station via Crewe Electric!

As I thought you could see nothing! Only one thing left to do! Go on a train on the line that passes it. it was required route so I stumped up the extra for a day return to Chester.

Before I headed to Chester I spotted three DRS 37s in one of the bay platforms. A quick photo (they left pretty much as I saw them!) and then another winning Super Voyager to Chester so that was good! As we passed Crewe Electric I saw some 90s but none I needed! My final one is deep inside I believe and I'm unlikely to ever see it!

Once at Chester I waited a while for the next train back. I spotted two new emus from the mersey. Not hard as I have seen about two in my lifetime. (Should change next week that!).

So in rolled my ride back to Crewe. A double super voyager. 221101 ( currently in four car formation thanks to a recent fire) and 221104, a winner!

At Crewe where the 37s were was now a different loco. I thought it was a 47 but as I got closer I realised it was a 57. A WCRC one too. I didn't expect to see 57006 nicely painted and running! Only DRS 57s left to see now.

So my train back to Birmingham area was another Super Voyager. And quite unbelievably it was a winner! I now only need 3 more to ride for the lot! I have never had 4 virgin ones that were winners in a row. Not even when I'd been on none! Lol!

I bailed at Wolverhampton. Good job. I saw my final ATW 158 for sight so caught it to Shrewsbury. This got my the curve into Shrewsbury. I'd got the freight curve last time I was here when on a tour to Llandridnod Wells. I'll have to return at some point as the wetherspoons are needed. And the ones on the way at Wellington and Telford.

A double dud 158 combo took me back to Wolves and then a dud 350 back to New Street. Now was time to head to Coventry to pick up the 1K39 Pretendolino. A winning 390 to International and a winning 350 to Coventry followed.

Now at this point I have to admit i hadn't heard much about the 90 of late so I didn't even know if it was running. The next train to come in was a required 350. I decided I'd take that to international and get the 90 if running, from there.

It was running. But not the usual service! I forget what I read the next day but it ran something later and 11 car pendo ran the 1K39. At least it was a winner!

It was then time to meet the missus and head back to Droitwich. My final LM 3 car 170 slowly took us back to a long drive home! A brilliant day! Obviously bagging my final 172 was good but four 221s was a big gain. Next up my 3 day trip up north.

27th August - Plym Valley Railway

Today would see me visit the Plym Valley Railway for the first time. Today the train doing the runs up and down the line to Lee Moor Crossing was 13002. I did one trip but look forward to when the line is fully open. Next time hopefully I'll get the 50 then.

26th August - Daytrip to St Ives

Today would see me head to St Ives with my wife. It was a simple Plymouth to St Erth, St Erth to St Ives and return. The biggest bonus of the day was 150101 doing the honours to St Erth. Only one FGW 150 left to bag now.

24/25th August - Mangapps Farm Gala

Earlier in the week I was invited to go to the Diesel Gala at Mangapps Farm Museum. To get there would be train courtesy of Dave's friends and family ticket to Paddington. It was then a NSE Open return to Southminster. So all in all a cheap day out (£21.80 including the Gala ticket!).

I met Dave and Peter at Plymouth on the Friday night as we were to head to London on the 1A40. This went via Temple Meads but not via Parkway like scheduled. Upon arrival at Paddington we headed to the underground. We took a Circle/Hammersmith train to Kings Cross where we changed for the Victoria line. We hopped from station to station getting as many units as possible until we got to Oxford Circus. We then headed to Liverpool street with two hops on some Central line stock.

It was now time to start heading eastwards. We caught two winning 360s to Stratford. We hopped onto a winning 321 to Romford. From Romford to Harold Wood was a double winning 315. Next to Shenfield on another double 315 (only one a winner). Next up was Billericay on a winning 321. We stopped here for longer as we went to breakfast at Wetherspoons.

After breakfast we did an out and back to Wickford. This bagged one winning 321 but the trains were starting to run a little late. It was back to Wickford and then onto the train for Southminster. We needed Burnham on Crouch for Mangapps Farm but made sense to complete the line whilst we were here. We then headed back to Althorne before returning to Burnham. All these little moves were to kill time and try and bag winning units.

So once we arrived at Mangapps Farm the heavens opened. We were already wet as it had been raining but good job we hadn't been any later because it was literally pouring water! Luckily it cleared and the sun came out. Throughout the day we would catch four winning 03s, one 04 and a 47 which all went up and down the short half mile stretch of track.

Once everything was caught we (well me and Peter as Dave had gone when he got 03197) headed back to London. We changed at Wickford for the train to Stratford and then again to get to Liverpool Street. As we were heading over to Paddington we saw Dave at Farringdon. We got off at Kings Cross and he met us there. It was then onto Paddington and onwards back to Devon.

What a great day! All winning locos at the Gala and plenty of units in between. Total mileage was 610.

23rd August - Devon Day Ranger

The first Devon Day ranger I have done in nearly 6 months. I set out on the 1S39 0925 to Exeter. I then waited to see which 3 car 150 would be thrown out on the 2C67. My luck was in as it was 150927 which was required for renumber.

I took this to Dawlish Warren and then returned to Exeter. I then decided to head to Barnstaple. It's been so long since I have been there I can't actually remember when it was. Upon getting there I headed to the nearest pub on the Tarka line Ale Trail. There are 4 pubs on the trail in Barnstaple and now was the opportunity to go to them.

Once I had done this I realised I had not timed the train right so went to Wetherspoons for another drink. It was then time to head home. At Exeter the connections were all wrong so I headed to Tiverton first before going straight through to Plymouth. I managed a reasonable 235 miles and the winning 150 (even though it was only for renumber) was a bonus.

8/9th August 2012 - Finally 379005!

Another trip to the capital but this time I went with my Dad. The trip started out on the Wednesday night with me heading West to Par. Here I met my Dad and we wondered round to where the 60s stored there could be seen through the bushes. At the time it was rumoured that some of the 60s were due to go back to Toton and put back into service. I needed 039 and my Dad needed 3 of the 5.

After that we headed to the pub. If you've been following my blog you may remember that I have been to Par recently and started going to the pubs there for the Atlantic Line Rail Ale Trail. Well tonight I completed the other 3 (and one was also in the St Austell Rail Ale book for the mainline!).

It was then back to the station for 2254 and off to London behind 57605. I did wonder if Peter would be out tonight for this seeing as though it was his last FGW 57 (he wasn't but has since been on it). We travelled  via Bristol Temple Meads and then Parakway. More miles so this was good.

So after a McDonalds breakfast we headed East to Liverpool Street. All I wanted was 379005. We decided I needed to stay still and hope it was out. So that we did. We parked ourselves at the end of Platform and waited. After an hour 379005 finally turned up! At last! And this time it ran a passenger service (unlike last time) and we got it to Tottenham Hale! The 379s completed for haulage!

Next up, a bit of new route. We headed back to Hackney Downs. It was then a 315 up to Enfield Chase. We then went for a cup of tea as the Moon Under Water as we headed to Gordon Hill. More new route as we headed back to Kings Cross. We bailed at Finsbury Park to get the train to Kings Cross.

Now with the Olympics on there was the intensive Javelin timetable. Time to try and bag some 395s. We managed a fair few but crowd management made it harder than expected. We needed to take long walks to make our way back onto a train. It was hard work but we managed 8 trains. 7 were new for me. A bonus eurostar was spotted and I now also only need two 395s for sight.

Next up was some Southern units. We headed to London Bridge and caught a 171 to East Croydon. A couple of trips to and from Clapham and Victoria bagged some more winning 377s. Then for something a bit different. I haven't got much in the way of South Eastern units so a trip out to Bromley South bagged a couple of 375s. The return did a couple more.

Nearly the end of the day now. We headed out to Euston and did a dud (well for me) to Harrow and Wealdstone. Nothing new for me at Wembley but my Dad did ok. A winning 350 back to Euston and a winning 350 for sight brings me to one required.

It was now over to Paddington. A quick out and back to Ealing Broadway bagged one new 165 for haulage.  Then it was home time.

A great day but very tiring! Not sure I'd recovered from my weekend and seated sleeper doesn't give much sleep! Plenty of winning units and the big one was obviously 379005! The whole trip took me over 690 miles for the day and I am now on 19251 for the year.

3rd - 5th August - Wedding Weekend

We had my cousins wedding to go to over this weekend in Reading. The reception was being held in Bracknell so me and my wife stayed with friends which was good. We headed up on the Friday night with the change at Reading for Bracknell. Nothing new but wasn't unexpected.

With the Olympics in full swing (and how fantastic have they been?) we decided on the Sunday that we would go into London to see some of the Women's Marathon. We also went on the new cable (good views but very fast!). I headed back home on the Sunday night so whilst there was nothing new on the heavy rail there was new stuff on light rail and tube. The two days of rail travel also bought me another 470 odd miles.

18th - 22nd July - Holiday catch up

Bit of a catch up after my holiday from a few weeks ago. I went to Hereford with friends and we had a great time. There were a few times where we caught the train so here's what happened. We went to Birmingham on the 18th July from Hereford. Bargain price of £9.45 each return and with that the 2 for 1 ticket to Cadbury world was used too. The only winner of the day was the return from New Street in the evening on 170632.

A few days later we were in Newport where we were staying for the final night. We headed to Cardiff Bay on the train. It was mostly the usual units operating as I expected, but whilst waiting at Queen Street to go to the Bay a 153 rolled in heading back to Central. A quick check on my phone revealed it was a required unit. Knowing how tricky these units are to pick up I apologised to my friends and said i'd meet them in 10 minutes and caught it to Central. Bonus.

Finally on the Sunday some of us decided to head to Barry Island. We caught the train as it was a lot easier than driving. Not winners today but a few bonus miles.

11th July 2012 - London Daytrip

I've been on holiday so this is quite late in updating! Better late then never! I decided on a day trip to London. I went up on the Sleeper and was in London just after 5 am. And I also realised it was my first mainline 57 haulage for the year! There were a few things I wanted to do today. That included trying to get my last Chilterns 172, two GA 379s and LO 378s. I also wanted to get a couple of new bits of track in (West Ruislip - Paddington and Wandsworth Rd - Kennsington Olympia). 

I started out by heading to Marylebone. Chiltern run three 172s a day (leaving one as a spare). After arriving at Marylebone I spotted 172101 which was the one i needed. Brilliant. Just needed to wait until it was going to leave now. It was blocked in by another train which duly left. I then expected 172101 to form the 0620 off of Marylebone. It didn't and left ECS. Not happy about this! A quick check on Open Train Times showed it was ECS to Gerrards Cross. It would then form the return which I could pick up at South Ruislip. So I follwed on a dud 165 to South Ruislip. To kill some time I caught a central line train to Northolt and back. 172101 soon arrived and my 172s for Chiltern were complete. Only one left for class completion. 

Now it was time to head over to East London and go for the two remaining 379s. Whilst looking for them (005, 010) I caught winning 315s and 317s to kill time to and from Hackney downs or Tottenham Hale. Meant keeping a good eye out for 379s (not always easy) so i knew what was out and where. After an hour and 6 winning units later I finally clapped eyes on 379010! Brilliant. I got this to Tottenham Hale and then headed back to Liverpool Street. Then I spotted 379005! Awesome! Another class knocked on the head! Or maybe not! It's next move was ECS to Ilford! Foiled again! So I am left with one 379 left to get too. 

No point hanging around Liuverpool Street for too long now. I headed back to Marylebone to then make my way to South Ruislip. It was then an underground trip to West Ruislip! I had time to kill so headed eastwards first. Things got a little tight on the trip to South Ruislip as we were held for a minute or so. We pulled in and I could see my train waiting. I made my way over to the Chiltern train as qucik as I could. I could see it had the clear road and I really couldn't afford to miss this! It's a bit of track i needed and although a daily service, it takes a bit of time to get out to and back! I made it with seconds to spare! It was 165001 to Paddington! Route complete and now I headed to the NLL for some 378s.

Before starting anything i headed to Finchly for some Lunch in Wetherspoons. After this it was up to Canonbury (where the NLL and ELL meet) to try and get my last two 378s. I had no joy and after a couple hours I couldn't hack it anymore and moved on. Time for another bit of track scratching. Off to Wandsworth Road. It was soon clear I wouldn't make it. So I headed to Clapham and then made a trip out to East Croydon. Then out to Northwood Junction and then back Victoria via East Croydon. This bagged me a eight new 377s. I then decided to go after my final 450/5s. This meant Clapham to Richmond trains. I still needed some 458s as well. I saw 450565 and 450545 (separate trains but both needed) heading to Waterloo. I worked out where i needed to be for their return. I then managed 8008 from Richmond to Twickenham. Eventually 450565 returned and I caught it to Whitton. Next to wait for was 450545 and I caught this to Feltham. It was now time to head home! Would be tight connection at Paddington! 8026 was a bonus winner to Waterloo. I got to Paddington with about 15 minutes to spare. Don't normally like leaving it that tight in London! 

A good day in the end (bagging the 450/5s softened the blow of the 379 and 378s!) and well over 630 miles travelled with plenty of winners. 

5th July 2012 - Last day of FOSW

It was the last day I could use my ticket but due to a hospital appointment was going to be late out. Eventually I managed to get onto the rail network at about 1400 and from an unlikely place. Ivybridge! Finally got this station in! I caught the 1358 from here to Newton Abbot before jumping onto an hst to Taunton. Another change and onwards to Bristol. I knew I wasn't going to have much time here.

I was going to meet Peter later in Exeter but I was trying to squeeze as many miles as I could out of the last day and maybe, just maybe a winning 150!

Well the good thing was FGW have created a new hybrid set in the form of 150921. Formally 150121 I obviously needed it for renumber. I'm guessing the same will happen to 150127. Anyway I was able to catch a service to Bristol Parkway and catch my train to Exeter from there. And the best bit? 150921 was doing the honours!

It was then Exeter bound on a Voyager with broken aircon! It was boiling! Unbelievably boiling!

At Exeter we met to visit some pubs on the Tarka line leaflet. We did Tje Great Westen and The Jolly Porter in quick succession. It was then back to the line for a photo of 6C39. After that up to the Imperial for a curry and pint (also a scan for the cask marque app). After this there was time for another pub in the leaflet, The Mill on the Exe. Added bonus it was a St. Austell brewery pub so scanned in on their app too.

Now home time. We caught the HST of Exeter St Thomas! It stopped everywhere. It was then the voyager to Plymouth a couple of minutes behind from Newton abbot.

I was going to photograph the 0C38 light engine move but was far too dark once I got back. Never mind. A good day but short day with more than just trains!

30th June/1st July 2012 - Short London Trip

A flying visit to the capitol for a day with my wife. My wife was currently in Derby with her family. I travelled up on Saturday night via Bristol Temple Meads. I used a large proportion of my trip with my FOSW. I caught the 1E75 XC HST to Bristol Parkway. From there it was an FGW HST to Paddington. I then made my way across London to Earlsfield to stay at my sisters.

The Sunday morning allowed me to have a few hours before meeting my wife at St Pancras. A winning 455 took me to Clapham Junction. From here I headed to East Croydon on a winning 377. After this I headed towards London Bridge on a winning Southern 455. Shortly after leaving East Croydon I spotted a required 378 unit. I worked out its return and planned a move to get it. I bailed at Annerley. It was then a short hop to Norwood Junction on a winning 377 before another short hop to Sydenham on a 455. Next should be the 378 and it was. I caught this to Brockley before finally heading to London Bridge.

At London Bridge i jumped onto a 319 to Farringdon. I then headed to Liverpool Street. Now would I get any of my final 379s? No. But my out and and back to Tottenham Hale did divert via Stratford giving me a spot of new track. After that it was time to head to St Pancras to meet my wife.

We decided to go to London Bridge and go to the markets. We got there on two winning 377s. The markets were unfortunately closed to we headed to Canary wharf for lunch. After Lunch we went to the see some Chineese Dragon boats. We caught the DLR to Royal Albert. I noticed the new cable cars were also running in the distance.

After a while watching the boats racing we headed to Stratford to have a look round the Westfield Centre. Then we took a walk around the area to see what we could glimpse of the Olympic Park. It was totally off bounds. We then headed to Central London (on a couple of winning 315s) and looked for a pub. It was soon time to head home. We went via Tower Bridge.

It was a long day but enjoyable. And I got a few new units in for good measure!

28th June - West Midland Daytripper

So for the second Thursday of my FOSW I decided a second extension to the West Midlands would be a good idea. Try and get my final London Midland 172 hopefully and then all that's required is one Chiltern one.

So I left Plymouth on the 0925 train to Aberdeen after buying my Cheltenham – Birmingham return. All was good up until near Gloucester. I'd acquired a laptop from my Dad and having restored it to as new and then removed all slow and infuriating applications from it, the first 2h 30 mins of my journey flew by as I watched Transformers 3!

Then it all went wrong and would set the tone of the day! Shortly after we came to standstill, it was announced that there were problems between Cheltenham and Birmingham. The problems weren't known (but a quick check of my emails revealed flooding in Barnt Green area) and then we were told the service would go to Gloucester and be terminated! Great!

We arrived into Gloucester, got off and then seconds later were told to get back on the train as it would continue after all but at 5mph over the affected area. So on we went and quite quickly until we approached the affected area. We must have spent about 1h 15mins getting through a queue of trains. If I am honest the flooding must have mostly disappeared because it didn't seem to warrant over an hours worth of delays. I finally got into New Street 1h 27 late! Not good. Delays were left right and centre at New Street so I headed to Moor Street!

Not a good move! It was even worse! Flooding at Rowley Regis was causing chaos here. I got the first train (172342) to Snow Hill and decided to go on the tram to Wolverhampton. At Snow Hill there were two trains already in the platforms but these were being taken out of service. Odd how the ones going east were being taken out as there were no probs that way apparently.

On to the tram I spotted a 153/170 combo at Jewellery Quarter. The 170 was 635 and required so I risked it not moving till I got to it. I got on it and we waited about 5 mins before we went on. Took about 30 mins to get to Snow hill as the trains were just queuing up. Once at Snow Hill I returned to the trams. This time I stayed on the tram to Wolverhampton so that line is complete. I saw about six trains queueing to get to Snow Hill before we veered off to Wolverhampton. No sign of the one I needed and this would have to wait another day.

By the time I had got to Wolverhampton it was nearly 4 o'clock and I had only been on two trains since arriving in Birmingham! Luckily the next train I was able to catch was a winner. I caught 350110 to Birmingham New Street. Again this was met with delays getting into the station! Next up was ATW service pulling into the platform next to me. A quick check revealed one half as being very much required. The doors of 158824 was right by me and I got on. I have never seen so many people on a four car 158! It was rammed and was a right effort to get off at Smethwick! I regretted getting on quickly and being in the middle of the carriage in a seat! At Smethwick I noticed that there was no improvement on the Snow Hill Lines and rushed back downstairs to a 350 in the platform. 350244 was a winner, so good. Another short delay into New Street was guaranteed!

It was then a dash over to Platform 3 as I saw an 11 car pendo about to leave. 390131 was new for renumber and was itself then delayed. I could only stand and the train was so hot! Lots of unhappy people!

I got off at International and spotted a winning 350 in the platform heading south. I jumped on 350258 to Coventry. As I was leaving I spotted 390156. Bonus. I was hungry and decided a visit to one of the four Wetherspoons was needed! After a Curry and Guinness it was back to the station. A dud 390050 to Birmingham International was followed by a swift return on 390029. Well I say swift but this then met delays. Tresspass on the line! The swift bit was the fact I didn't wait at International.

It was now time to start heading back to New Street for my train home. I caught the next Pendo (028) to International and then waited for 350262 which I knew was behind me as I saw it at Coventry and was required.

Once at New Street I saw my train was nearly 50 mins late! Marvellous! I saw a move that was to be honest very risky and looking back at it I probably shouldn't have done! Anyway I caught a winning 350235 to Stechford (new station in the book!) and dud 323202 back! I had a four minute window at Stechford but that turned into two when the 350 left New Street late!

I made it back and waited for Voyager home! I'm writing this on the train so goodness only knows when I get back what time it'll be! Very tiring day and dare I say it the most unenjoyable day I've had since I got back into this hobby! Yes I saw two new Pendolinos for renumber and caught 9 winning trains for haulage, but it was really hard work and just about every train was late which made trying to see what moves I was able to make impossible!

23rd June 2012 - Mazey Day

June 23rd and thats means Mazey Day in Penzance. This normally means several rail tours heading West. This year was no exception, although due to rolling stock shortages (!) only two would be running. Pathfinders were running 'The Mazey day Cornishman' and Spitfire ran 'The Kernow Explorer'.

I headed out early as my FOSW was valid. I was to meet Peter later in the morning so planned a mileage move (and with luck winners for 2012) to Taunton and back to Newton Abbot. Both the HST up and voyager down were winners for 2012 and a few more 2012 miles on the clock. 

So I met Peter at Newton Abbot and we headed to Pumpkin for a tea. It was then time for the busy 2P94 to  Plymouth on 150261. Shortly after we hopped onto the HST hauled by 43163 to Par. The original plan was to head back to Bodmin and pick the Spitfire tour from there to Truro. We changed our minds however and took a walk to see what we could see of the 60s now stored at St Blazey. I knew I didn't need them for sight but Peter had a high chance of requiring them all. Disappointingly there were visible just but not photographable. I managed one shot which caught the nose of 60100 and the St Blazey Lizard. 

It wasn't yet 11am but we headed back to the station the Par Inn for a drink. We also got a stamp in the Atlantic Coast Line and The Great Cornish Rail Ale Trail leaflets. 

Back at the station we waited for the Kernow Explorer. It rolled in on time with 37516 and 37676. Both required for haulage. We took this to Truro for £10. It was then an hour wait till the Mazey Day Cornishman arrived with Royal Scots Grey at the Helm. We popped into Truro for another couple of stamps in the leaflets. This time we visited Wig & Pen and William IV for two more stamps in the Cornish leaflet and the Wig & Penn in the Maritime leaflet. 

55022 arrived on time and for the second time just over a week I had Deltic haulage, this time on the mainline. I have now doubled my Deltic mileage to 50 odd miles! Once we got to Penzance we took photos and then headed out along the sea wall to get some photos of the 37s that had already dragged it's coaches to the sidings. 

Next up was time to head to St Ives. New track for Peter. We walked into town and headed to the newly opened Wetherspoons. After a swift drink here there was time for another at The Golden Lion, a pub in the St Ives Bay leaflet. On the way back to the station we saw an other pub that was in the Cornish Rail Ale leaflet. It would have been rude not too! 

It was now time to head home. Well I say home. I was due to meet my wife at Par where we would grab something to eat before we headed to Eden Project to see Tim Minchin. I managed another stamp in the Atlantic Coast Line with a bonus food stamp at the Royal Inn.

It was a good day. I travelled 298 miles and was good to catch up with Peter. It had been a long time. Oh and despite the awful weather that had rolled in, Tim Minchin was excellent at Eden Project!

21st June 2012 - West Midlands Daytripper

A chance to get a FOSW presented itself meaning at £16.75 a day with the 6 days of use I would get minimum making it good value. One day I may get 8!

I decided I would head to Birmingham and got a £22 return from cheltenham. A West Midlands day tripper for £5.80 means for £44.55 I could get from Plymouth to the West Mids and back at what I consider is a reasonable price.

The main aim was to finish the London Midland 172s. I only needed two more. Upon arrival at New Steet I headed to Smethwick Galton Bridge. 323219 did the honours and was a winning start. As pretty much expected a dud 172 rolled in. I took this to Moor Street. It was required for 2012 haulage though.

I didn't have to wait very long for a winning 172! 172222 rolled in next so a short hop to Snow Hill ensured this was bagged. A dud 172 back to Moor Street (felt this was the best place as I was able to bag Chiltern units I need at the same time if they were there) and I went and checked the Chiltern 168 in the bay. A required unit! I took this to Solihull. A dud 168 but good for 2012 took me back to Moor Street.

Double winner next! In rolled 153365 and 170631. I took this to Acocks Green and then swapped to the other set and bailed at Olton. It was then back to Moor Street. A short hop to Snow hill on a 2012 winning 172 and I waited for anything new. Another Chiltern 168. A repeat journey to Solihull and back to Moor Street got this in and another dud 168 (but good for 2012!).

It would seem my last LM 172 was not out! Either that or I missed it. There was only one unit I didn't quite catch the number of during my travels in the last few hours! Next time?

So I headed back to New Street. Wanted to try and get a XC 170 that was required. I found 3 in the platform but two were going nowhere! Luckily they were dud and the last one which was required was about to leave for Leicester! Excellent! 170522 was duly caught to Coleshill. It was running late so I missed my connection back but that turned out to be a stroke of luck! Whilst I was waiting a DB 66 passed through the station and was one of my last required for sight! I also spotted a new shunter on the journey to Coleshill.

Once back at New Steet I saw a required Virgin Super Voyager. I caught this to Wolverhampton. Not sure if the next train is booked as a Voyager but the Wolverhampton - Euston at 1745 was a winning one. Most of these services are Pendolinos. I bailed at Sandwell and Dudley and got the 323 stopper behind it. I knew it was a winner as I saw it at Wolverhampton.

Once I was back at New Street I noticed the next Super Voyager north was another winner! So I headed back to Wolverhampton. From here the Pendo back was a winner. I was about to jump in it and noticed a LM 170 waiting to leave ahead of the pendo. It was a dud but there was a 153 attached! And was needed. Two in one day! Only one LM left for haulage. So I caught this to Sandwell and then the Pendo to New Street.

I was hungry by now and considered heading to a Spoons. I didn't though and went for a bk as I could eat that one a train if needed!

Good move! A required ATW 158 was heading north so i got that to Smethwick. I then got my final winning train of the day back to New Street. It was then a very late running XC to Plymouth. Running late due to tresspass in the Sheffield area I was on it 30 mins before my planned train so was hoping I'd be home earlier! Well I was but not that much! It would seem it paths home were knocked back later and later! Never mind! A productive day even if there is still one LM 172 to get! Next Thursday hopefully if I do the same!

I know I've said it before but next up Mazey Day!

15th June 2012 - West Somerset Railway Mixed Heritage Gala

It's been a couple of years since I last went on the West Somerset Railway, and I was able to go again this year. The draw of Royal Scots Grey (missing at the Swanage gala) the chance to finally get a Hymek in the book, a GBRF 73 and 66 and the first outing of D6575 was good enough for me. Also due to be running was resident D1661, western D1010 and warship D832.

A few days before the event it was announced that the 66 was unable to attend but a second 73 would instead visit. Fine by me. The only problem was the new working timetable didn't even show the second 73 as doing anything!

I left Plymouth on the 0625 to Taunton and then waited a while for the bus to Bishops Lydeard. I was there by 9 and was able to witness the Deltic starting up! I'd not heard a Deltic before and what an amazing sound! It was a while before my plan to catch it so I headed west on the 1st gen DMU to Blue Anchor.

From here it was D1661, North Star back to Williton. Here is where I would meet the Deltic and get first haulage off of one. I took this to Minehead. After a few photos in and around Minehead station I took the return to Bishops Lydeard behind the Deltic all the way! It was now time for 73119 hauling a goods train with brakevans to Norten Fitzwarren station. Little used, we were able to get off and see the 73 detach and run round the new loop to take us back to Bishops Lydeard.

Now it was time to head to Williton again. This time behind D6566. Once here I had a few minutes to see and photograph the newly arrived Class 14 D9518. It was then a doubled headed Western and Hymek back to Bishops Lydeard.

They then both returned to Williton where the Hymek was removed and the Warship added. Onwards to Blue Anchor. The final train of the day was D6575! Another winner!

It was then a walk to the bus stop and onto Taunton station. I don't know what was going on but all trains were running late. I jumped on a train that was running late but was earlier than my intended train. Much better. Was an HST and now the entertainment coach is free even better!

A thoroughly enjoyable day. Shame the second 73 wasn't working. To be honest I don't understand why it didn't just do what the 66 was planned into do on the original timetable!

10th June 2012 - Paignton and Dartmouth Heritage Gala

No way planned whatsoever but had to be done. When I found out that the rarely seen Rat was out I made plans to do this. Luckily it was a day off. Having looked at the timetable I should be able to bag 2 winning steam trains including a visiting 4936 Kinlet Hall as well. And if what I read on a different website is true I'll get a brakevan ride behind the 08 at Churston.

So left Plymouth on the 0840. Arriving into Newton Abbot on time at 0920 I had a 6 minute wait for the train to Paignton.

Once I arrived at Paignton it was a short walk over to the Paignton and Dartmouth Steam Railway. First up was 4936 Kinlet Hall. It was short and sweet as I only did it to Churston. At Churston I waited for the next train to Kingswear which was 7827 Lydham Manor. During my wait a had two brake van rides behind the 08, D3014.

I returned to Paignton behind 7827 and the next train was the Class 25, D7535 which I got to Kingswear and back.

As with what seems like most days now, the weather was awful. But I got four new winners including an 08. Can't complain about that!

7th June 2012 - Colas Logs

Not normally running on a Thursday the return leg of the Log train to Chirk. Because it's my day off I thought I'd make the most of it and headed to Newton Abbot for a photo.

The added bonus was being able to photograph the Diamond Jubilee HST power car that was at Plymouth. Horrible wet day but a couple of reasonable pictures.

5th June 2012 - Toton and Bridgnorth

No travel but flying visits to Toton and on my way home a call in at Bridgnorth.

I've been to Toton a few times now in the last year or so but it's always worth it. Despite the difficulty in spotting whats in the area just in front of the main shed, where things do change, I always seem to spot something new. This time was no exception. A big shunt around has occurred and has revealed a few more 60s and 08s that were required. Also what helped was I parked up on the A52 and looked over from the bridge and got numbers otherwise not seen. In total I got five new 60s an two three 08s.

Because of diversions I also got some photos of passenger trains passing Toton. Oliver Cromwell was also due and I was going to stay but it had failed on its way up!

On my way home we went to Bridgnorth with some family. I parked near the station so naturally took some photos. Also under cover was D1013 which was required for sight. Added bonus for the day.

2nd June 2012 - Railfest 2012

I was lucky enough not to be working on the opening day of Railfest 2012 and booked my ticket months ago. In fact when I booked my ticket there wasn't really that much announced about it so maybe it was a risk. But as time went on it sounded better and better so by the time I went I was really looking forward to it.

I drove up to Derby with my wife and we stayed with my mother in law on the Friday. Initially it was me going to York on my own but my wife wanted to go too (York not Railfest!). This was fine but she didn't like my plan but that was tough. I had planned to get to York with time to get breakfast before the event started. And the bit she didn't like? It meant 2 changes of train! Only direct trains are XC ones and I've been on all of them so wanted to avoid them!

So we left Derby at 0607 on a winning 222001. Part one of my plan worked! I didn't know there was engineering works in the area an much to my surprise we left derby in the wrong direction. This was good. Next question was which way would we go? To my delight we went past Toton. New track within 20 odd minutes of leaving Derby. Nice! I also managed to spot winners at Toton. Although travelling at speed and trying to get the numbers was a tad tricky! I managed to see two new 66s and a 60. The move around of locos there recently was good for me as it meant I could now see a once before hidden 60! There were quite a few freightliner 66s there which must be to do with the HOBC train. We soon joined the the normal route to Sheffield at Chrsterfield. From here I expected the normal route to Sheffield. But once again we diverted. Brilliant! This time we headed off towards Barrow Hill. I had done this bit recently but not beyond the turn back point of the lines just off the depot. So more winning route as we went round Sheffield and came back into it from the North. Fantastic day so far and we weren't even at York!

Time at Sheffield to grab a quick cup of tea. It was then onto 144009 to Doncaster. Winner for sight and obviously haulage. Part two of my plan worked! At Doncaster we waited for the Edinburgh train to York. It was rammed but luckily it's only 20 odd minutes to stand! It was also a winning 91 in the form of 91132. That's Part 3 of my plan working!

Upon arrival at York we headed to the Punch Bowel for Breakfast. Was a good breakfast ad set me up. Been a long time since my bowel of Coco Pops at 0500! Me and my wife then went separate ways with. Me heading back to the station.

Once at the NRM I was so glad I bought a ticket already! The queues were stupidly long already!

Once inside I saw for the first time in my life my favourite Steam train! The 'City of Truro'! Why is it my favourite? I guess it was in the GWR and carries the name of the city I was born. It was being used for train rides so I'd be able to get haulage off of it too!

First up though was 43159, the fastest diesel locomotive in the world. Been a long time since I'd been in the cab of an HST. And then for comparison, 41001. The HST prototype power car. Now being refurbished it was back at the NRM from Neville Hill for Railfest. The cabs were very different but 159s cab had been changed quite a bit after the life extension work done on it!

I then queued to cab 60007, Sir Nigel Gresley. Fantastic because it had a lit fire (as I later found out a lot of the steam exhibits did!).

I then saw 57604 and my first disappointment of the day. It was not available for cabbing. I then realised there were lots of exhibits like this.

I worked my way round a few more steam engine cabs and soon a
Came across 91110. This was the star of the show and was due to be named later on as the opening to Railfest. It was currently under a massive cover. I moved on towards the edge of the site where I saw 221144, the 2 car voyager was on display. I wasn't bothered about cabbing this as this had been done last year at central rivers. Infact i'd been in the cab as it moved round central rivers under its own power. Star of that day was also 57308, Tin Tin. Bizarrely the last time I saw 57308 she was attached to 221144 dragging it round central rivers. Today they were attached at the NRM! I did cab the 57.

Nearby was newly acquired and painted 57309. Now in DRS livery. The cab was not open which was disappointing. It was then time to head back to 91110 for its naming ceremony.

The whole ceremony took about 1 hour 15 minutes. 91110 was to be named Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. It included a full new livery for the train and all was to be revealed with a flypast by a Hurricane, Spitfire and Lancaster. In my opinion it was very well put together and didn't feel at any point like it dragged. Carol Vorderman who works closely with the charity was given the duty of revealing the name and new livery.

I like it. I have taken quite a few photos of the train but also grabbed one on my iPhone. I uploaded this I Flickr straight away but will upload the rest when I get home.

After this it was time to head back towards the Edge of the site again. There was a GBRF 66 and 92 (92 new for sight) but no access to the cabs. Also present was a DRS 20 and recently released from Barrow Hill 37. Again no cab access. I did get access to two more steam engines and 56312.

I now needed some food. I grabbed an expensive (but nice!) cheeseburger. I also got a pint of Flying Scotsman. The Flying Scotsman was present in its war time black livery. A photo was got but that wasn't easy and therefore not that great!

Next up was a cab visit to a GWR 4500 Class. This was more like it! I had to actually climb into the cab! And the same with the next cab visit! The Duchess of Hamilton. Apparently they hadn't quite finished getting the steps ready!

After that I paid a visit to 395019s cab! I was nearly done now! I had an hour left before meeting my wife! So I headed back to where the 'City of Truro' was running. On the way I saw 55002 and it has steps leading to it but a closed sign. It turns out the steps were at the wrong end due to only one cab nearly finished. I was fortunate enough though to be allowed in the good end. It meant another climb (good!) but got the cab in! Thanks to the guy at the NRM who allowed this!

It was now my ride behind No 2012 Teddy and then 'City of Truro'. I need to get a longer ride at some point but for now this will do!

That was pretty much everything to see and do. I had a quick look round the trade stands and then had a quick scoot round the main museum. It was then off to meet my wife. We had about an hour and half till our train back. So we headed to the second Wetherspoons for a pint.

After that is was time for heading back to Derby. This was a two train trip. In rolled a dud Meridian 222006! Part 4 of the plan foiled! A change (after passing Toton again) was required at East Midlands Parkway. Part 5 of the plan was good! So 4 out 5 trains were winners! Good going!

So a fantastic day done and dusted! I've been in plenty of cabs (shame it wasn't more). Not been in this many since open days from when I was a kid. And I managed a fair few on stations in those days. Got 7 winners including 'City of Truro' and new track! Next up Mazey Day. One tour now cancelled but two left to try and get on!

24th May 2012 - West Midlands Daytripper

Wasn't at all planned like this. Supposed to do a west midlands trip next Thursday but am unable to now so bought a ticket from Cheltenham to Birmingham to extend my Rover whic expires after today. Then I got a West Midlands Daytripper ticket for £5.60 and went after winners.

Off at Birmingham I saw a required Super Voyager. So I jumped on it o Wolverhampton. From here everything was did but I didn't want to stay to long so jumped on the pendo to New Street. I overheard an announcement saying it won't stop at Sandwell and Dudley which I was odd. Well odd until I realised we weren't going that way! We headed right towards Bescot! Bonus! Done this route before on a tour but not in this direction.

Back at New Street again I saw a required 158 so got on that. There problems mounting in wolves area so I bailed at Smethwick and headed to Moor Street.

Rather handily a required 172 rolled in to take me there. It was then a short trip to Snow Hill behind a Chiltern 168. Next up was a 170 to Jewellery Quarter. Not been on a 170 on this line before (I don't think!). It was then a dud 172 back to Moor Street. I then did an out and back to Solihull courtesy of a winning 165 and 168.

Whilst waiting for the next winner at Moor Street two came in at once! I got on the easy one (the platform I was on) and worked out when the other would return. I bailed at Snow Hill. I then decided to take the tram to Wednesbury. I was hoping to see 1 and 2 there seeing as though they are now stored and unlikely to work again. I saw 2 but not 1. It was now back to the national network for 172342. In the mean time I'd seen another I needed and worked out my move for that too. After both were caught I headed back to New Street on a dud 323. After wondering round looking for a winner I found one in the form of 350118. I took this to International and returned on a late 390010. Two more in the book.

It was now time for dinner. Surprisingly I haven't done any Wetherspoons in Birmingham! So I went to the nearest and had a curry and a pint.

It was then back to the station. I saw a quick move to Five Ways and back and this bagged me two more winners!

So a productive day again. Not sure when I'll next be here but im getting close to finishing things now. Two 172s left and then I need to find the remaining Chiltern one. My 168s are coming along nicely too. Only Severn left of them. I also need to try and get my remaining XC 170s. I saw two I needed at New Street but they had finished there and then went to depot. It would seem the two carriage ones rarely get to Cardiff.

And another 519miles done. Next up Railfest 2012 in York.

17th May 2012 - Day in the Cardiff area!

So because I had used a FOSS to get me to the Swanage Diesel gala last week I still had days left on my ticket! Today would see me heading to Cardiff. A fair few locos about too. A winning DRS 66 at Bridgwater was a good start followed by a 70 at Stoke Gifford.

Once at Cardiff it was a case of wait and see. My first sighting of a winning train was running on the Ebbw Vale line. Not ideal as my ticket wasn't valid. Never mind. It was only a few quid to Risca!

Once back in Cardiff it wasn't long to wait for my next winner! A 175 to Newport. A dud back to Cardiff and in the station was a winning fgw 150! Wow my luck was all there! So back to Newport! Now I needed to be back at Cardiff for the WAG and decided that because there were potentially 2 trains due of which I may need, I'd wait and see and still be ok! The first came in and was no good. Then a winner came in! But it was going the wrong way! Dilemma! I didn't know what was on the WAG but had a funny feeling it may have been a good one. I checked out what I was able to do. I was able to take 150237 to Severn Tunnel Junction (not been there before!) and get back to Newport before the WAG left Cardiff. I already had a ticket to Cwmbran for later from Newport as I was planning to get dinner there in a Wetherspoons. So I did this and it nearly went wrong!

At Severn Tunnel junction my train came in on time. We left 26 minutes late and have no idea why!! I spotted a winning 66 trundle by too which was good. Anyway I made the WAG at Newport with seconds to spare! Good job! It was 67001 and very much a winner! That's only 7 more required for haulage!

It was then dinner in Spoons! And a very long wait till the next train! But quite unbelievably when it turned up it was a winner! 175006!

Once at Newport it was time to head home! Just as we left I saw my 3rd winning 66 of the day hauling a car train.

So a fantastic day! 6 winning trains for haulage including a big one in the form of a 67 and 4 locos for sight! And home by 2200! Nice!

12th May 2012 - Swanage Diesel Gala Day 2

Because originally there was supposed to be a bigger line up at Swanage I bought a 2 day ticket to get everything in without it being a huge rush! Obviously I got it all easily on the Friday.

Anyway I had paid for a ticket so I was going and I had also bought the driver experience to drive a Class 20. Again this wasn't there but there were using an 08 so it was better than nothing! My only hope now was it was 08436 being used as I had ha a cab ride in D3591 yesterday!

Didn't need an early start today! So I caught a train from Pokesdown to Wareham and waited for the bus to Corfe Castle. Finally at the railway it was a double header of the 27 and 33 which took me to Norden.

A few trips up and down the line on all the available traction was had and soon it was time for my driver experience. I was able to get some line side photos on my walk to where it was taking place which was good. I then found out D3591 had failed that morning on its way down and 08436 was being used! Brilliant!

I loved it! I was in full control of the 08 for just short of a mile further up the line towards Furzebrook and back. Thoroughly enjoyed it! Next time the 20? Hope so!

It was then back to Swanage to meet my wife and friend. We would all then be heading to Harmans Cross for the ale festival.

After a few hours there we had to head to Corfe for the bus back to Wareham. I left slightly before the girls to go an see a friend who was working in the signal box. The trains had started running late again! Didn't matter as we ha planned an hour or so in Corfe at a pub! I managed a few photos from the signal box which i liked! Was also good to see Marco again after many years!

So a good second day! Hopefully I can go next year and hopefully the Swanage organisers will get some luck and have no failing trains leading convoys to the event! 2 years in a row, or worse still, 3 locos failing is bad luck!

11th May 2012 - Swanage Diesel Gala Day 1

Thankfully my friend said she would drive me to Swanage for the start of the day! I needed to be there for an 8 o'clock start and buses from Bournemouth to Swanage aren't great at that time! To get there via public transport would have required me getting on the bus at 0530 in Boscombe! Hmmmm! Luckily a more sociable 0700 leaving time was had!

So at Swanage the first train should have been 08436 and D3591. Only 08436 was present! D3591 had failed. This was not good! They were already 4 locos short due to two loco failures trying to bring a convoy of traction to the event.

Anyway off we went from Swanage to Norden in the brake van behind 08436! I also did Norden - Harmans Cross and back whilst waiting for the next train I was able to catch. I think it's safe to say 08436 is my most hauled by shunter with over 10 miles in the bank! I also met a mate at Harmans Cross he was here for the failed shunter so wasn't best pleased and didn't hang around for long.

So the next train was 50026. Working her first train in 22 years and looking splendid in BR Blue Large Logo livery, I did this to Swanage. It was then D5401 which took me back to Norden. My first Class 27 for sight too! It was then, working it's first passenger train since being bought by Network Rail 57312 with D5401 back to Swanage.

Next up was 33111s turn. I took this to Norden and then back to Harmans Cross. By now I had done all the diesels here except the failed shunter!! Whilst at Harmans Cross Dave turned up again. Still no news about the failed shunter.

He went off to see if he could find anything out. I headed back to Norden behind the 57 and 27 again. It was during this move I got a message saying D3591 had been fixed and was doing cab rides at Swanage.

So off I went back there and luckily got a ride! I'm not sure show long they were doing them but didn't seem like long. So we went off the platform down to siding number 2! D3591 in the book and in the cab! 0.4 miles there and back!

My next train was the substituted diesel!!!! D80104! Yes someone put a D in front of the number. It wasn't a diesel but was required for haulage. I got this to Corfe Castle as I decided it was time for photos!

I spent the next couple of hours at the Castle taken photos from high up. Was pleased with some of them so was worth it. It was soon time to head to Norden again as the late arrival of a 73136 was due. Well done GBRailfrieght for supplying at short notice. The 73 led 33111 to Swanage and was the only time I saw it lead. For the rest of the weekend it worked with the 57 and was used as a translator for the braking.

After this it was ale time. Off I went to Harmans Cross for a few pints at the festival. Being close to the line was obviously good. However during one of 50026s runs it had issues. It shut down in the station and when it restarted and moved it only went a few coach lengths out of the station.

It eventually got going but this meant it was now late for its return and this was my train to Corfe! I was now going to miss the bus to Wareham!

In the end I managed to get hold of my wife who was heading to Bournemouth from Plymouth. She obviously said she would divert slightly and pick me up! Phew! Would have been a stupidly long wait till the next train!

Good day despite the unfortunate situation of missing locos. Eight winners either way. Tomorrow would see me drive a train!

10th May 2012 - On the way to Bournemouth

For my first Swanage Diesel Gala I was able to book Friday off work therefore took the opportunity to go for 2 days. I was also able to stay with a friend in Bournemouth so I travelled up on the Thursday.

I decided I would head to the Portsmouth area and see what was about. Like my last trip here I left Plymouth at 0748. Last time I made -2 connection at Westbury. No such lul this time. We got held at a red signal near Castle Cary and we had to proceed at 30mph until the next signal because it was broken and were given permission I proceed.

Nevermind. To kill the what would be about 50 minute wait I headed north to Bradford-on-Avon and then caught ye train to Portsmouth from there!

I didn't get as far as Portsmouth. I was getting hungry so bailed at Fareham. Time for a pint in one Wetherspoons and then lunch and another pint in the other one! It was Thursday so a curry was the order of the day!

It was now 1400 and as of yet no winning trains. Not even for sight! The next few hours got a lot better! I pretty much spent my time between Fratton, Portsmouth & Southsea and Portsmouth Harbour. Moves between these stations saw me bag 17 winning units. Mostly 450s but I got another 444 and a couple of 377s.

I didn't want to be too late as I wanted to see my friend who i was staying with. A shorter than normal day but very productive.

29th April 2012 - Going Home

My short stay in Huddersfield was over and was time to head back to Leeds for my train home. Being a Sunday meant a late start to services so I grabbed breakfast in Wetherspoons. The second wetherspoons was visited for another cup of tea.

I caught the 0915 TPE service off Huddersfield towards Leeds. My train home wasn't until 1405 so I had some time to kill. A got another West Yorkshire rover and got onto a winning East Coast HST. I took this to Wakefield Westgate and then thought i had a bit of a wait. Next train wasn't supposed to be until about 35 minutes later but whilst I was waiting I noticed a 144 had sneaked in on the other side (I was a bit busy paying more attention to my phone and listening to music!). It turned out that this train (and wasn't on any PIS) was the 0940 to Leeds. Fine by me! Required and no lengthy wait. I also managed to then catch two 0940 trains in a row!

Back at Leeds I planned a move to Shipley on a winning 333. It was then a dud 333 to Bingley before a winning 144 to Keighley. I saw a winning steam train coming into Keighley adjacent to the national network but no chance of a picture! It was absolutely pouring with rain and my train was due! Didn't really fancy getting wet and missing my train!

Back at Leeds I saw a move to Menston on another 333. The return also provided a winner. My 333s have come along nicely in one morning!

There was time for one more move. I decided on an out and back to Dewsbury. It provided me with one winning 185.

So the morning gave me 9 winning trains. Not bad. It was now time to see what my ride home would produce. A winning 91!

There was absolutely nothing to report on the way home! Every single loco I saw between Leeds and Plymouth via London was dud! The only bit of excitement was my first HST via Melksham.

A good few days away and plenty I winning trains! The weeks total mileage came in at 2732! There would be nothing for the next two weeks nearly. 10 days at work was looming before I would make may way towards the South Coast for the Swanage Diesel Gala.

28th April 2012 - A Day in Manchester

For my second day I headed over to Manchester and got a GMPTE ticket. £4.60 for a rather large area. Stockport over to Bolton and Wigan. And included the trams. I started out on a dud TPE 185 to Piccadilly at 0528. I had no set plan so just jumped on what I needed (but I did make sure I wouldn't be stuck somewhere for hours).

First up was a Pendo to Stockport. Very short trip but this short trips was all I needed. From Stockport the next train took me to Altrincham. This was a winning 150 and was new route too. From here to save any waiting I jumped on a tram and headed back to Piccadilly. All new route until I got to Piccadily Gardens. One day I'll spend more time on the trams but I got a great seat right at the front.

Once I was back at Piccadilly I spotted an 11 car Pendo. First one i'd seen and thought it'll be rude not to get on! So off to Stockport again. Then a 323 to Cheadle Hulme followed by another 150 back to Stockport. Another 150 (sub series 2 this time mind!) took me back to Piccadilly. My next moves were similar. Pendo to Stockport and a 185 back. I didn't do these moves all day as that would have done my head in! I did see a winning 08 at Longsight on my trips to and from Stockport which was good.

Next up was a trip west to Bolton on a winning 185. A return towards Manchester on another 185 saw me bail at Salford Crescent. A short trip over to Salford Central saw me on a winning nodding donkey. A second one took me to Victoria. I then headed to Littleborough on a 150 before returning on a 158. After Rochdale was new track too. Two more Donkeys took me to Bolton via a change at Salford Crescent. My first 156 of the day was from Bolton to Manchester Oxford Road. It was now time for lunch so i headed to the nearest Spoons. I then headed back to Piccadilly courtesy of another 185. Another out and back to Stockport grabbed me another Pendo and two 158s. I then did an out and back to Marple. Winning track and a new 150 and 142. The 150 was an ex London midland in Centro livery. It was required hence I got on. I took a photo at Piccadilly and then got on. A few minutes later somebody else took a photo and got on. But they then got grief from a Northern employee. Not sure what it is about Northern in Manchester. I've had grief from them in the past but not anywhere else on northern territory. Odd.

My next series of moves was basically between Piccadilly, Oxford Road and Deansgate. During this set up moves I grabbed three 150s, a 156, a 158 and three 185s. The last one took me to the airport. From here another 185 took me back to Piccadilly. My last two moves incidentally grabbed me 185148 and then 149! My last Stockport move often day bagged a 142 and 323. It was then more Piccadilly to Oxford Roa moves. This grabbed me more 142s, 156s, 157s and a 175 unit. The 175 was a bonus as I don't need many of these and I thought I'd better get while I can! It was then back over to Victoria via Salford Crescent. It was now 1900 and I was getting tired. So I did one last move to Bolton and then made my way back to Huddersfield on a variety I 142s, 150s, 156s and 185s. I was back in my hotel by 2130. Early by my standards but I was well and truly done! A great day with a massive 45 winning trains for haulage. A great return for £4.60!!!