David Hennessey's Train World http://davidhennesseystrainworld.fotopic.net/ 32 rows en-gb 60 The Boot and Hoot, at Capenhurst and Hooton http://davidhennesseystrainworld.fotopic.net/c1780907.html On the rather dicy afternoon of Saturday 14th November 2009 (weather wise), Pathfinder Tours operated the Boot and Hoot - a 'Spin and Win' excursion from Eastleigh to Hooton via Banbury and Donnington Freight Terminal. The charter was originally booked to feature Hanson/Artemis 56312 top and tailing with a DB Schenker 66, but was substituted for Hanson traction's 31190 a few days earlier. These scenes show the tour's progress at Capenhurst and Hooton. 31190 is seen at full blast at Capenhurst, while DB Schenker 66139 is seen at Hooton, ready to reverse the tour for it's next leg of the journey to Runcorn via Ellesmere Port and Folly Lane. Thanks to Aaron Roberts, Stuart Jennion, Mike Hanable and YouTubers Merseyrailmad, merseyrail508124 and Victorialine67 for the company and laughs! Saturday 14 November 2009: On the rather dicy afternoon of Saturday 14th November 2009 (weather wise), Pathfinder Tours operated the Boot and Hoot - a 'Spin and Win' excursion from Eastleigh to Hooton via Banbury and Donnington Freight Terminal. The charter was originally booked to feature Hanson/Artemis 56312 top and tailing with a DB Schenker 66, but was substituted for Hanson traction's 31190 a few days earlier. These scenes show the tour's progress at Capenhurst and Hooton. 31190 is seen at full blast at Capenhurst, while DB Schenker 66139 is seen at Hooton, ready to reverse the tour for it's next leg of the journey to Runcorn via Ellesmere Port and Folly Lane. Thanks to Aaron Roberts, Stuart Jennion, Mike Hanable and YouTubers Merseyrailmad, merseyrail508124 and Victorialine67 for the company and laughs!

Hanson's Class 31 diesel 31190 goes full throttle through Capenhurst, on Pathfinder's Boot and Hoot tour. Hanson's Class 31 diesel 31190 goes full throttle through Capenhurst, on Pathfinder's Boot and Hoot tour. DB Schenker 66139 at Hooton. Having dropped onto Pathfinder's Boot and Hoot, she was drawn forward into the station, to await the signal to proceed to Runcorn via Ellesmere Port and Folly Lane. DB Schenker 66139 draws away from Hooton, with Pathfinder Tour's Boot and Hoot. Hanson's Class 31 diesel 31190 trails Pathfinder Tour's Boot and Hoot tour out of Hooton.

Published in David Hennessey's Train World

]]> Sat Nov 14 2009 East Lancashire Railway Diesel Day (7th November 2009) http://davidhennesseystrainworld.fotopic.net/c1777924.html The East Lancashire Railway laid on it's final diesel themed day for 2009, on Saturday 7th November. Five diesels were out in force - ex EWS 37418 (Pectinidae) and 37109 doubled headed a few passenger services between Heywood and Rawtenstall, BR Class 24 D5054 was on top and tail duty (and also double heading) with BR Hymek D7076, and BR Railfreight 37901 Mirrlees Pioneer was also out and about with a demonstration goods train. Thanks to HSTJohnny, Luke McMahon, Dave Martin, Chris Gallagher, Bradleigh Ennis, Mike Williams, Tom Donnelly and Mike Hanable for the company and laughs. Saturday 7 November 2009: The East Lancashire Railway laid on it's final diesel themed day for 2009, on Saturday 7th November. Five diesels were out in force - ex EWS 37418 (Pectinidae) and 37109 doubled headed a few passenger services between Heywood and Rawtenstall, BR Class 24 D5054 was on top and tail duty (and also double heading) with BR Hymek D7076, and BR Railfreight 37901 Mirrlees Pioneer was also out and about with a demonstration goods train. Thanks to HSTJohnny, Luke McMahon, Dave Martin, Chris Gallagher, Bradleigh Ennis, Mike Williams, Tom Donnelly and Mike Hanable for the company and laughs.

Ex EWS 37418 (Pectinidae) runs round it's train at a wet and miserable Rawtenstall. Ex EWS 37418 still carries it's Pectinidae name, but what will happen to it once 37418 is repainted? BR Hymek (class 35) D7076 pauses at Ramsbottom, while working a Rawtenstall service. BR Class 24 D5054 was double heading with D7076. However the former was having issues with it's boiler, as she fills Ramsbottom with clag. BR Hymek (class 35) D7076 takes a breather at Rawtenstall. Class 24 D5054 continues to kick out some clag at Rawtenstall. BR Class 24 D5054 waits at Heywood with a service to Rawtenstall via Bury. BR Class 24 D5054 clags around the corner into Bury Bolton Street. BR Railfreight 37901 Mirrlees Pioneer was out and about with a demonstration goods train. Seen here entering Bury Bolton Street, having been up the line to Rawtenstall. BR 08944 stands at Castlecroft diesel shed. BR Peak 45135 stands outside Castlecroft shed, as she awaits some attention. Ex EWS 37109 double headed some services with 37418 throughout the day. The duo enter Ramsbottom on a service to Heywood. Ex EWS 37418 (Pectinidae) follows 37109 into Ramsbottom, as the duo work a Heywood bound service. Ex EWS 37109 and BR Hymek (class 35) D7076 rub shoulders at Ramsbottom. Ex EWS 37109 and 37418 (Pectinidae) head out of Ramsbottom, and continue their run to Heywood. BR Railfreight 37901 Mirrlees Pioneer waits at Ramsbottom, with another run of the demonstration goods train.

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]]> Sat Nov 7 2009 The Severn Valley Railway: Tornado and friends! http://davidhennesseystrainworld.fotopic.net/c1774354.html For one week only (24th October 2009 to 1st November 2009), the Severn Valley Railway played host to the A1 Steam Locomotive Trust's 60163 Tornado. The headline-grabbing machine made two round trips each day during the Autumn Half Term week; Peter Hughes (of Rainhill MRC) and I made a visit on Thursday 29th October 2009, in order to get a ride. Some of the railway's regular fleet of steam locos were out and about; GWR Manor 4-6-0 number 7812 Earlestoke Manor, Small Prarie 2-6-2 tank number 4566 and Large Prarie 2-6-2 tank number 5164, plus many more. Also dropping in for a visit was GWR 'King' 4-6-0 number 6024 King Edward I. Finally, resident BR Class 73 diesel/electric loco 73006 was also out in force. Thursday 29 October 2009: For one week only (24th October 2009 to 1st November 2009), the Severn Valley Railway played host to the A1 Steam Locomotive Trust's 60163 Tornado. The headline-grabbing machine made two round trips each day during the Autumn Half Term week; Peter Hughes (of Rainhill MRC) and I made a visit on Thursday 29th October 2009, in order to get a ride. Some of the railway's regular fleet of steam locos were out and about; GWR Manor 4-6-0 number 7812 Earlestoke Manor, Small Prarie 2-6-2 tank number 4566 and Large Prarie 2-6-2 tank number 5164, plus many more. Also dropping in for a visit was GWR 'King' 4-6-0 number 6024 King Edward I. Finally, resident BR Class 73 diesel/electric loco 73006 was also out in force.

The star of the show: A1 4-6-2 number 60163 Tornado stands ready for action at Kidderminster, Severn Valley Railway. Resident GWR Manor 4-6-0 number 7812 Earlestoke Manor prepares to depart Kidderminster on the Severn Valley Railway, with the first train of the day to Bridgnorth. The nameplate (and plaque) of A1 number 60163 Tornado at Kidderminster, Severn Valley Railway. GWR Small Prarie 2-6-2 number 4566 stands at the water tower at Kidderminster, Severn Valley Railway. GWR Manor 4-6-0 number 7812 Earlestoke Manor gets going from Kidderminster on the Severn Valley Railway, with the first train of the day to Bridgnorth. Representing diesel action for the day, was BR Class 73 diesel/electric 73006. Seen here at Kidderminister, Severn Valley Railway. Beautiful Autumn colours in evidence at Highley, Severn Valley Railway. A1 4-6-2 number 60163 Tornado stands tender first at Bridgnorth (Severn Valley Railway), at the end of her first run from Kidderminster. A1 4-6-2 number 60163 Tornado prepares to run round. At Bridgnorth loco depot, GWR Manor 7812 Earlestoke Manor and LMS 2-6-0 number 42968 keep each other company, while the latter undergoes some maintenance. A1 4-6-2 number 60163 Tornado runs round at Bridgnorth, Severn Valley Railway. A study in black and white: A1 4-6-2 number 60163 Tornado stands at Bridgnorth (Severn Valley Railway). A 'chrome' version of A1 4-6-2 number 60163 Tornado standing at Bridgnorth, Severn Valley Railway. 1949 or 2009? Either way, it's the tender of A1 4-6-2 number 60163 Tornado at Bridgnorth, Severn Valley Railway. A1 4-6-2 number 60163 Tornado attracts two more admirers at Bridgnorth, Severn Valley Railway. LNER Teak 3rd Open carriage 43600 (in black and white) at Bridgnorth, Severn Valley Railway GWR 7812 Earlestoke Manor and LMS 42968 continue to keep each other company at Bridgnorth, Severn Valley Railway. BR Class 73 number 73006 made a run up the Severn Valley Railway and came to rest at Bridgnorth. Seen here out in the loco yard. At Bewdley (Severn Valley Railway), GWR small Prarie 2-6-2 number 4566 awaits the signal, with a service to Bridgnorth. At Kidderminister (Severn Valley Railway, A1 4-6-2 number 60163 Tornado runs round her train, ready for the second departure of the day to Bridgnorth. On the mainline near Kidderminster (Severn Valley Railway), DB Schenker 66092 hurtles by with a steel train in tow. Awaiting the road ahead? GWR King 4-6-0 number 6024 King Edward I stands lifeless at Kidderminster, Severn Valley Railway. GWR King 4-6-0 number 6024 King Edward I stands on display at Kidderminster, Severn Valley Railway. 0-6-0 tank engine Warwickshire faces the elements at Kidderminster, Severn Valley Railway. GWR King 4-6-0 number 6024 King Edward I at Kidderminster, Severn Valley Railway. GWR large Prarie 2-6-2 tank 5164 stands at Kidderminster (Severn Valley Railway), having arrived on a service from Bridgnorth.

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]]> Thu Oct 29 2009 LoadHaul/DB Schenker 60059 Swinden Dalesman at Lea Green (23rd October 2009) http://davidhennesseystrainworld.fotopic.net/c1771707.html On the afternoon of Friday 23rd October 2009, an early running Liverpool Seaforth to Tinsley steel working was in the capable buffers of DB Schenker 60059 Swinden Dalesman (still wearing it's LoadHaul livery from old times). In the solitary photograph, 60059 is seen passing under the St Helens Linkway at Lea Green, while the movement was running earlier than expected. Thanks to Aaron Roberts for the information concerning this movement. Friday 23 October 2009: On the afternoon of Friday 23rd October 2009, an early running Liverpool Seaforth to Tinsley steel working was in the capable buffers of DB Schenker 60059 Swinden Dalesman (still wearing it's LoadHaul livery from old times). In the solitary photograph, 60059 is seen passing under the St Helens Linkway at Lea Green, while the movement was running earlier than expected. Thanks to Aaron Roberts for the information concerning this movement.

LoadHaul/DB Schenker 60059 Swinden Dalesman passes under the St Helens Linkway at Lea Green, with an early running Liverpool Seaforth to Tinsley steel train.

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]]> Fri Oct 23 2009 A morning at Warrington Bank Quay (17/10/09) http://davidhennesseystrainworld.fotopic.net/c1769138.html An hour's session at Warrington Bank Quay this morning (Saturday 17th October 2009) produced some good action. First, Compass Tour's Pennine Lakelander with Hanson/Artemis 56312 at the helm, pulled up for a short pathing stop. DB Schenker 67001 was tagged on the rear, presumably for train heating or stock movements. Another surprise showed up as well, in the form of GBRf 66704 Colechester Power Signalbox dragging BR Class 50 diesel 50049 Defiance, and a First Great Western Mk3 buffet (the latter inbetween two barrier vehicles). Plus, DB Schenker 60039 and 92042 were seen idling about in the South bay on the opposite platform. Saturday 17 October 2009: An hour's session at Warrington Bank Quay this morning (Saturday 17th October 2009) produced some good action. First, Compass Tour's Pennine Lakelander with Hanson/Artemis 56312 at the helm, pulled up for a short pathing stop. DB Schenker 67001 was tagged on the rear, presumably for train heating or stock movements. Another surprise showed up as well, in the form of GBRf 66704 Colechester Power Signalbox dragging BR Class 50 diesel 50049 Defiance, and a First Great Western Mk3 buffet (the latter inbetween two barrier vehicles). Plus, DB Schenker 60039 and 92042 were seen idling about in the South bay on the opposite platform.

DB Schenker 60039 keeps company with 92042 in the South Bay platform at Warrington Bank Quay. DB Schenker 92042 Honnegar keeps company with 60039 in the South Bay Platform at Warrington Bank Quay. Hanson/Artemis 56312 arrives at Warrington Bank Quay, with Compass Tour's Pennine Lakelander tour, bound for Carlisle. The tour pulled in for a short pathing stop before proceeding onwards to the North. DB Schenker 67001 was tagged on the rear of Compass Tour's Pennine Lakelander, presumably for train heating and stock movements. Seen here trailing the tour into Warrington Bank Quay. GBRf 66704 Colechester Power Signalbox, BR 50049 Defiance and a First Great Western Mk3 buffet cruise South through Warrington Bank Quay. The movement originated from Carlisle, and was en route to Cardiff. (apologies for the poor quality) Fertis 56018 continues to knock around Warrington Arpley yard.

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]]> Sat Oct 17 2009 Bolgheri and Grosseto http://davidhennesseystrainworld.fotopic.net/c1762435.html During a recent holiday in the Tuscany region of Italy, I visited two stations on the Pisa to Roma Termini line, which is part of the Trenitalia rail network; Bolgheri (Friday 25th September 2009) and Grosseto (Sunday 27th September 2009). A variety of electric and diesel locomotives were hard at work on passenger services, and some goods trains as well. There were also electric multiple units, and loco-hauled push pull trains. Wednesday 30 September 2009: During a recent holiday in the Tuscany region of Italy, I visited two stations on the Pisa to Roma Termini line, which is part of the Trenitalia rail network; Bolgheri (Friday 25th September 2009) and Grosseto (Sunday 27th September 2009). A variety of electric and diesel locomotives were hard at work on passenger services, and some goods trains as well. There were also electric multiple units, and loco-hauled push pull trains.

On Friday 25th September, Class E655 number 537 heads a train of rails (presumably an engineer's train of some sort) through Bolgheri station, in the direction of Pisa. Class E444 number 109 powers a Rome bound express through Bolgheri at near 100 miles per hour. Friday 25th September. Grosseto was the place to be on Sunday 27th September. Here, Class E655 number 243 prepares to depart with a van train in tow, having made a quick driver exchange. Class E655 number 243 powers it's van train away from Grosseto, heading towards Pisa. Sunday 27th September. In a siding at Grosseto on Sunday 27th September, Class E464 number 161 sits with an empty push-pull passenger set. Class ALe642 number 044 sits awaiting passengers at Grosseto. Sunday 27th September A driving van trailer (B12L) waits for passengers at Grosseto. Sunday 27th September 2009. A Rome bound express headed by Class E444 number 115, arrives at Grosseto on Sunday 27th September 2009. Class D445 number 1081 waits at Grosseto, readyto work a push-pull passenger service towards Pisa. Sunday 27th September 2009. In the last shot taken at Grosseto on Sunday 27th September 2009, Class E464 number 393 waits at the station with a service to Pisa.

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]]> Wed Sep 30 2009 The Western Slater at Chester http://davidhennesseystrainworld.fotopic.net/c1756979.html At 10:30 this morning (Saturday 19th September 2009), the DTG's Class 52 Western diesel D1015 Western Champion made a fifteen minute appearance at Chester, en route to Blaenau Ffestiniog with Pathfinder Tour's 'Western Slater' charter. D1015 arrived at Chester to spend a fifteen minute layover before proceeding to Llandudno Junction (to run round for the trip down the Conwy Valley line); thrash and clag made for a spectacular departure! Also included, is Arriva Trains Wales 57315 on the (Saturday's only) London to Holyhead Virgin Pendolino Drag (390009 Treaty of Union being the unit). Saturday 19 September 2009: At 10:30 this morning (Saturday 19th September 2009), the DTG's Class 52 Western diesel D1015 Western Champion made a fifteen minute appearance at Chester, en route to Blaenau Ffestiniog with Pathfinder Tour's 'Western Slater' charter. D1015 arrived at Chester to spend a fifteen minute layover before proceeding to Llandudno Junction (to run round for the trip down the Conwy Valley line); thrash and clag made for a spectacular departure! Also included, is Arriva Trains Wales 57315 on the (Saturday's only) London to Holyhead Virgin Pendolino Drag (390009 Treaty of Union being the unit).

D1015 Western Champion rolls into Chester station with Pathfinder Tour's 'Western Slater', running very much on time. Viewed from the Manchester/Crewe platform, D1015 Western Champion pauses at Chester, on the outward run of Pathfinder's 'Western Slater'. On the Wales platform, D1015 Western Champion makes it's third appearance at Chester in preservation, while working Pathfinder's 'Western Slater'. In a last view at Chester, D1015 Western Champion prepares to make a hellfire exit, continuing on it's way to Llandudno Junction (to run round for the trip down the Conwy Valley to Blaenau Ffestiniog). En route to Holyhead, Arriva Trains Wales liveried 57315 brings the morning Virgin pendolino drag (which only happens on Saturdays now), into Chester. Arriva Trains Wales 57315 prepares to depart Chester with the Saturday London to Holyhead Virgin Pendolino Drag.

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]]> Sat Sep 19 2009 York Part 2: The Yorkshire Scot (aka the St Helens Girl Guiding Express) http://davidhennesseystrainworld.fotopic.net/c1751541.html In the second collection of recent pictures from York (Sunday 6th September 2009), LMS 'Royal Scot' 4-6-0 number 46115 Scots Guardsman hauled Railway Touring Company's Yorkshire Scot. The tour was also running as the St Helens Girl Guiding Express, as a party of Girl Guides boarded the train at St Helens Junction. Also featuring (at the National Railway Museum), GWR Hall number 5972 Olton Hall alias Hogwarts Castle, BR Britannia 70013 Oliver Cromwell, LMS Duchess 6229 Duchess of Hamilton, plus two of the museum's regulars... Thanks to Keith Naylor and Aaron Roberts for the company. Sunday 6 September 2009: In the second collection of recent pictures from York (Sunday 6th September 2009), LMS 'Royal Scot' 4-6-0 number 46115 Scots Guardsman hauled Railway Touring Company's Yorkshire Scot. The tour was also running as the St Helens Girl Guiding Express, as a party of Girl Guides boarded the train at St Helens Junction. Also featuring (at the National Railway Museum), GWR Hall number 5972 Olton Hall alias Hogwarts Castle, BR Britannia 70013 Oliver Cromwell, LMS Duchess 6229 Duchess of Hamilton, plus two of the museum's regulars... Thanks to Keith Naylor and Aaron Roberts for the company.

LMS 'Royal Scot' 46115 Scots Guardsman waits the right away at Liverpool Lime Street, with Railway Touring Company's Yorkshire Scot (or the St Helens Girl Guiding Express) A smokebox view of LMS 'Royal Scot' 46115 Scots Guardsman. The St Helens Girl Guiding Express headboard, worn by LMS 'Royal Scot' 46115 Scots Guardsman at Liverpool Lime Street. LMS 'Royal Scot' 46115 Scots Guardsman emits steam from the safety valves at Liverpool Lime Street. For one day only, LMS 'Royal Scot' 46115 Scots Guardsman was renamed The Girl Guide (as carried by long scrapped classmate 46168). The nameplate was fitted 24 hours earlier, and is seen here at Liverpool Lime Street. Advenza Freight 66841 stands in York loco stabling sidings. LMS 'Royal Scot' 46115 Scots Guardsman rests at York, at the end of her run on the Railway Touring Company's Yorkshire Scot (or the St Helens Girl Guiding Express). LMS 'Royal Scot' 46115 Scots Guardsman leaves her stock in the platfom at York, and heads off to the National Railway Museum for servicing. In the South Yard at the National Railway Museum, ex Royal Train 47798 Prince William continues to be left out in the open. LMS 'Royal Scot' 46115 Scots Guardsman undergoes servicing in the South Yard at the National Railway Museum. GWR Hall 4-6-0 number 5972 Olton Hall (alias Hogwarts Castle) was giving rides in the South Yard at the National Railway Museum. She takes a quick breather before going on another short run up and down the yard. In the Great Hall at the National Railway Museum, another inspection of LMS Duchess number 6229 Duchess of Hamilton (in streamline form) was in order. Having perfomed on the last Scarborough Spa Expresses for 2009, BR Britannia 70013 Oliver Cromwell was making a brief stay at the National Railway Museum. At the National Railway Museum, BR Britannia 70013 Oliver Cromwell stands silent. LNER A4 number 4468 Mallard, still wearing it's Coronation headboard, continues to win admiration in the Great Hall at the National Railway Museum. Refreshed and ready for the return to Liverpool, LMS 'Royal Scot' 46115 Scots Guardsman shows off it's headboard (The St Helens Girl Guiding Express) at York.

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]]> Sun Sep 6 2009 York Part 1: Bank Holiday Monday Bonanza (31/08/09) http://davidhennesseystrainworld.fotopic.net/c1749205.html Welcome to a two part special of collections taken at York, on Monday 31st August and Sunday 6th September 2009. First up, Bank Holiday Monday on August 31st 2009. With the final week of the 2009 Scarborough Spa Express trains (run by West Coast Railways), BR Britannia 4-6-2 number 70013 Oliver Cromwell was assigned to work the York to Scarborough trains (running via the Harrogate loop and Leeds before heading out to Scarborough). The collection also features the usual goings on at the National Railway Museum, and at York Station. Thanks to David Holden for the company. Monday 31 August 2009: Welcome to a two part special of collections taken at York, on Monday 31st August and Sunday 6th September 2009. First up, Bank Holiday Monday on August 31st 2009. With the final week of the 2009 Scarborough Spa Express trains (run by West Coast Railways), BR Britannia 4-6-2 number 70013 Oliver Cromwell was assigned to work the York to Scarborough trains (running via the Harrogate loop and Leeds before heading out to Scarborough). The collection also features the usual goings on at the National Railway Museum, and at York Station. Thanks to David Holden for the company.

Cross Country HST Powercar 43207 pauses at York on a service to the West Country. West Coast Railway's 37516 idles in York loco stabling sidings. DB Schenker 66098 pauses briefly at York, with a steel train in tow. Freightliner 66515 passes York with a coal train going towards Holgate sidings. BR Britannia 70013 Oliver Cromwell arrives at York with the outward bound Scarborough Spa Express. Earlier on, 70013 had started from York, and picked up passengers from Harrogate (via the loop line) and Leeds, before returning to gain a path to Scarborough. BR Britannia 70013 Oliver Cromwell simmers under the roof of York station, before proceeding to Scarborough Having made it's second passenger pickup, BR Britannia 70013 Oliver Cromwell gets going from York, heading towards Scarborough. Former Fragonset 31106 was recently repainted into BR Blue. She is seen here rolling into York with a test train heading towards the North. NXEC liveried HST Powercar 43317 waits at York with a service to London Kings Cross. Grand Central HST Powercar 43084 leaves York on a Sunderland to London Kings Cross service. Onwards to the National Railway Museum. LMS Coronation 4-6-2 number 6229 Duchess of Hamilton stands in the Great Hall. Her streamlined casing (as she originally carried) was made over a four year period at Tyseley. Alongside LMS 6229 Duchess of Hamilton stood a 1934 Chrysler Airflow. The car, placed alongside the Duchess, forms part of a temporary exhibition on streamlining in the 1930's. A view of LM 6229 Duchess of Hamilton's streamlined front, including the smokebox doors and headlights placed above the buffers. In an aerial view (from the footbridge), LMS 6229 Duchess of Hamilton glistens in the Great Hall, painted in the Crimson and Gold livery of the late 1930's. In the Works at the National Railway Museum, the long running overhaul of LNER A3 4-6-2 number 4472 Flying Scotsman, appears to have made a bit of progress... A last look at LMS 6229 Duchess of Hamilton inside the Great Hall. Out in the South Yard at the National Railway Museum, ex Royal Train 47798 Prince William stands out in the open. Visiting the National Railway Museum for the Summer, was GWR Hall 4-6-0 number 5972 Olton Hall (alias Hogwarts Castle). She is seen standing in the South Yard. A smokebox view of GWR Hall 4-6-0 number 5972 Olton Hall (alias Hogwarts Castle) at the National Railway Museum, York. NXEC HST Powercar 43307 trails out of York, en route to London Kings Cross.

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]]> Mon Aug 31 2009 Barmouth and Porthmadog (27/08/2009) http://davidhennesseystrainworld.fotopic.net/c1746796.html On the penultimate day of it's 2009 operation, West Coast Railway's The Cambrian (hauled once again by BR Standard 2-6-0 number 76079) made it's journey from Machynlleth to Porthmadog and back, via Barmouth. 76079 crosses over Barmouth Bridge, and is later seen at Porthmadog. Also at Porthmadog, the usual hustle and bustle of both the Ffestiniog and the Welsh Highland (Heritage) Railways was in evidence. Fairlies, Bagnalls and Pocket Rockets galore! Thursday 27 August 2009: On the penultimate day of it's 2009 operation, West Coast Railway's The Cambrian (hauled once again by BR Standard 2-6-0 number 76079) made it's journey from Machynlleth to Porthmadog and back, via Barmouth. 76079 crosses over Barmouth Bridge, and is later seen at Porthmadog. Also at Porthmadog, the usual hustle and bustle of both the Ffestiniog and the Welsh Highland (Heritage) Railways was in evidence. Fairlies, Bagnalls and Pocket Rockets galore!

BR Standard 2-6-0 number 76079 begins it's crossing of Barmouth Bridge, with West Coast Railway's The Cambrian in tow. About midway in it's crossing of Barmouth Bridge, BR Standard 2-6-0 number 76079 gets into it's usual stride with The Cambrian. Framed by the 'swing' girders of Barmouth Bridge, BR Standard 2-6-0 number 76079 nears the end of it's crossing over the Afon Mawddach River, a stunning scenic feature on the Cardigan Bay Coast. At Porthmadog, the usual hustle and bustle of the Ffestiniog Railway was in evidence. 1879 built Double Fairlie Merddin Emrys, gets going from Porthmadog Harbour station with the 13:35 PM service to Blaenau Ffestiniog. Serviced during it's lunchtime stopover at Porthmadog, BR Standard 2-6-0 number 76079 waits tender first in the platform, ready to work the return run of The Cambrian to Machynlleth. At the Welsh Highland (Heritage) Railway's Porthmadog station (for Gelerts Farm), Bagnall 0-4-2 tank engine Gelert runs round it's train, ready for another run to Gelert's Farm. Back at the Ffestiniog Railway's Porthmadog Harbour Station, 1992 built Double Fairlie David Lloyd George, runs round it's train to form the 16:00 PM departure to Blaenau Ffestiniog. In blustery conditions (soon to be accompanied by heavy drizzle), Ffestiniog Railway 1992 built Double Fairlie David Lloyd George begins it's run over the Cob, with the 16:00 PM service to Blaenau Ffestiniog. The Ffestiniog Railway is well known for it's selection of heritage carriages. As Merddin Emrys takes it's empty stock to be shunted at Porthmadog Harbour station, three examples of the 1870's liveried variety can be seen. Nearest to Merddin Emrys is coach 15, coach 18 is in the middle, and coach 19 is nearest to the camera. At Porthmadog Harbour station on the Ffestiniog Railway, 1879 built Double Fairlie Merddin Emrys shunts it's empty coaches, before heading home to Boston Lodge. Waiting at Porthmadog Harbour Station with the 18:20 PM service to Blaeanau Ffestiniog, 1979 built Doudle Fairlie Earl of Merioneth (Iarll Merionydd in Welsh) waits patiently, as the heavy winds and drizzle kick in. Built in the 1870's (and rebuilt ten years ago in 1999), Ffestiniog Railway Single Fairlie 0-4-4 Taliesin waits at Porthmadog Harbour Station. She was to work the 19:15 PM 'Jazz Express' to Tanybwlch. At Porthmadog Harbour station, Ffestiniog Railway 1992 built Double Fairlie David Lloyd George arrives back from Blaenau Ffestiniog. Ffestiniog Single Fairlie 0-4-4 Taliesin prepares to shunt four of the coaches into the sidings at Porthmadog Harbour station. The rest of the train with Taliesin at the helm, would depart as the 19:15 PM 'Jazz Express' to Tanybwlch.

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]]> Thu Aug 27 2009 The Great Garratt Gathering at the Manchester Museum of Science and Industry http://davidhennesseystrainworld.fotopic.net/c1741109.html On the weekend of Friday 14th, Saturday 15th and Sunday 16th August, the Manchester Museum of Science and Industry hosted the Great Garratt Gathering, an event bringing together many things associated with Garratt, Beyer Peacock and other things. The guestlist consisted of: 1) The Welsh Highland Railway's K1 0-4-0+0-4-0, whose appearance in Manchester was timed to coincide with it's 100th Birthday 2) The Bressingham Steam Museum's 0-4-0+0-4-0 William Francis 3) The Keighley & Worth Valley Railway's Lancashire and Yorkshire 0-6-0 'Ironclad' 957 4) The Foxfield Railway's Beyer Peacock 0-4-0 saddletank number 1 (shunter at the Beyer Peacock Works at Gorton) 5) The East Lancashire Railway's Hymek diesel D7076 6) The National Tramway Museum's (Crich) Steam Tram Engine number. 47 (alias Beyer Peacock Works Shunter number 2) The usual MOSI exhibits included: 1) The replica Liverpool and Manchester 0-2-2 Planet 2) GL Class Beyer-Garratt 4-8-2+2-8-4 number 2352 3) The Vulcan Foundry's 4-4-0 number 30644 4) Metropolitain/Vickers EM2 (Class 77) 27001 Ariadne Plus, there were many examples of Garratts ranging in all shapes and sizes. Train rides, a goods train, model railways and a variety of other attractions made for a great event. Thanks go to the following: 1) The staff and volunteers at MOSI, for their hard work in the organising and operation of the event. 2) The Alsager Railway Association for permission to photograph their 0 Gauge Hassell Harbour Bridge layout 3) The 16mm Garratt Owners and Operators Association, for permission to photograph their Ttarrag Shed Layout 4) Various owners of Garratts, locos, vehicles and other things Saturday 15 August 2009: On the weekend of Friday 14th, Saturday 15th and Sunday 16th August, the Manchester Museum of Science and Industry hosted the Great Garratt Gathering, an event bringing together many things associated with Garratt, Beyer Peacock and other things. The guestlist consisted of: 1) The Welsh Highland Railway's K1 0-4-0+0-4-0, whose appearance in Manchester was timed to coincide with it's 100th Birthday 2) The Bressingham Steam Museum's 0-4-0+0-4-0 William Francis 3) The Keighley & Worth Valley Railway's Lancashire and Yorkshire 0-6-0 'Ironclad' 957 4) The Foxfield Railway's Beyer Peacock 0-4-0 saddletank number 1 (shunter at the Beyer Peacock Works at Gorton) 5) The East Lancashire Railway's Hymek diesel D7076 6) The National Tramway Museum's (Crich) Steam Tram Engine number. 47 (alias Beyer Peacock Works Shunter number 2) The usual MOSI exhibits included: 1) The replica Liverpool and Manchester 0-2-2 Planet 2) GL Class Beyer-Garratt 4-8-2+2-8-4 number 2352 3) The Vulcan Foundry's 4-4-0 number 30644 4) Metropolitain/Vickers EM2 (Class 77) 27001 Ariadne Plus, there were many examples of Garratts ranging in all shapes and sizes. Train rides, a goods train, model railways and a variety of other attractions made for a great event. Thanks go to the following: 1) The staff and volunteers at MOSI, for their hard work in the organising and operation of the event. 2) The Alsager Railway Association for permission to photograph their 0 Gauge Hassell Harbour Bridge layout 3) The 16mm Garratt Owners and Operators Association, for permission to photograph their Ttarrag Shed Layout 4) Various owners of Garratts, locos, vehicles and other things

The Welsh Highland's K1 Garratt stands in light steam, while on a lowloader. After the event, K1 was to take a tour of it's birthplace at Gorton, where Beyer Peacock's works once were. The appearance was timed to coincide with K1's 100th Birthday. The Manchester Museum of Science and Industry's Liverpool & Manchester replica 0-2-2 Planet, gets up steam ready for it's day's work. The Welsh Highland's K1 Garratt, out in the open at the Manchester Museum of Science & Industry. Visiting from the Bressingham Steam Museum, Beyer Peacock 0-4-0+0-4-0 William Francis stands outside the 'power house' at the Manchester Museum of Science and Industry. English Electric Battery Shunter number 1378 parks up under the mural of the Liverpool and Manchester railway, on a siding out of reach of the public. The East Lancashire Railway's Hymek diesel D7076 is posed outside the Warehouses of Liverpool Road, at the Manchester Museum of Science and Industry. The Foxfield Railway's Beyer Peacock 0-4-0 shunter number 1, shunts a goods train on Liverpool Road, at the Manchester Museum of Science and Industry. The Keighley & Worth Valley Railway's Lancashire & Yorkshire 0-4-0 'Ironclad' 957, gets steam up and awaits visitors to it's footplate. Manchester Museum of Science and Industry. The Bressingham Steam Museum's 0-4-0+0-4-0 William Francis, on display at the Manchester Museum of Science and Industry. In the Power Hall at the Manchester Museum of Science and Industry, the coal-end of GL Beyer Garratt 4-8-2+2-8-4 number 2352 is joined by a miniature freelance Garratt. The frontal view of GL Beyer Garratt 4-8-2+2-8-4 number 2352, with a miniature replica of an African Garratt. Manchester Museum of Science and Industry. A replica of an African Railways Garratt, on display next to the full size GL Beyer Peacock. Manchester Museum of Science and Industry. The Isle of Man Stean Railway's Beyer Peacock 2-4-0 tank Pender is sectioned in the Power Hall, for visitors to fully understand the workings of a steam loco. Manchester Museum of Science and Industry. Former Woodhead EM2 (Class 77) 27001 Ariadne on display in the Power Hall, at Manchester Museum of Science and Industry. A 7 The replica Liverpool and Manchester 0-2-2 Planet, takes a passenger shuttle past the L&M Mural (depicting the route from the 1830's till circa the 1950's), at the Manchester Museum of Science and Industry. Beyer Peacock 0-4-0 Shunter number 1 waits to take it's turn on the passenger shuttles, at the Manchester Museum of Science and Industry. The replica Liverpool and Manchester 0-2-2 Planet takes a rest from passenger duties, at the Manchester Museum of Science and Industry. The National Tramway Museum's (Crich) Beyer Peacock Steam Tram number 47, on display in the Power Hall at the Manchester Museum of Science and Industry. In the 'Special Exhibition Hall at the Manchester Museum of Science and Industry, there various models of Garratts on display, but also of great interest, was an 0 Gauge layout called Hassell Harbour Bridge, owned by the Alsager Railway Association. Here, an LMS Royal Scot in Black livery sits in a coal siding. Hassell Harbour Bridge by the Alsager Railway Association had various kinds of locomotives from pre-grouping and post grouping eras. Here, a Great Central 'Atlantic' sits in a siding. The nicely scratch built pub at Hassell Harbour Bridge, a layout owned by the Alsager Railway Association. A GWR small prarie 2-6-2 tank passes the pub on Hassell Harbour Bridge. Near the colliery on Hassell Harbour Bridge, an 0-4-0+0-4-0 Garratt brings in empty coal waggons. An express headed by a GWR 2-6-0 speeds by on Hassell Harbour Bridge. A BR Standard 4 tank heads a train of vans at Hassell Harbour Bridge. A BR 2-8-0+0-8-2 Garratt heads a heavy coal train towards Hassell Harbour Bridge. The 'piece de resistance' of Hassell Harbour Bridge; the steel girder bridge spanning the river below. A goods train headed by an LNER N2 0-6-2 tank engine makes it's way across. LNER 'Footballer' 4-6-0 number 2871 Manchester City poses for a quick picture at Hassell Harbour Bridge. The Moors Valley Railway's 0-4-0+0-4-0 William Rufus stands on display in the Power Hall, at the Manchester Museum of Science and Industry The Manchester Museum of Science and Industry's resident Vulcan built 4-4-0 number 3064 was dragged out into the open for display. On the right, Lancashire and Yorkshire 0-6-0 Ironclad 957 passes by. The Manchester Museum of Science and Industry's resident Vulcan built 4-4-0 number 3064 stands displayed alongside Bressingham based 0-4-0+0-4-0 William Francis. Beyer Peacock Shunter number 1 stands on display inbetween passenger duties at the Manchester Museum of Science and Industry. Bressingham's 0-4-0+0-4-0 Garratt William Francis awaits more admirers at the Manchester Museum of Science and Industry. Vulcan built 4-4-0 number 3064 soaks up the sunshine (accompanied by the odd shower) at the Manchester Museum of Science and Industry. 7 English Electric Battery Shunter number 1378 soaks up the sun at the Manchester Museum of Science and Industry. Somewhere in the backstreets of London near Paddington in the 60's? Could be, if the Arriva sticker doesn't give the game away! A London Routemaster stands with BR Hymek D7076 near the Warehouses of Liverpool Road, at the Manchester Museum of Science and Industry. Lancashire and Yorkshire 0-6-0 Ironclad 957 shunts a goods train (2 vans, 2 open waggons and a brakevan) outside the warehouses of Liverpool Road, at the Manchester Museum of Science and Industry. In the Power Hall, a 16mm gauge layout called Ttarrag Shed was in operation, with various garratts based on prototypes, or freelance. A latter example is seen here, with an NGG16 (some of the real things can be seen at the Welsh Highland Railway) in the background. A Black NGG16 2-6-2+2-6-2 Garratt sits among various other models on Ttarrag shed. A freelance 0-4-0+0-4-0 Garratt sits in a siding at Ttarrag shed. A blue K1 0-4-0+0-4-0 Garratt waits with a goods train at Ttarrag shed. The Welsh Highland Railway's K1 Garratt under a late afternoon sky at the Manchester Museum of Science and Industry. Vulcan 4-4-0 number 3064 soaks up the late afternoon atmosphere, at the Manchester Museum of Science and Industry. As well as steam powered rail vehicles, there were also two steam powered road vehicles. Here, Aveling and Porter Steamroller 11788 sits on display at the Manchester Museum of Science and Industry. John Fowler Traction Engine King of the Road on display at the Manchester Museum of Science and Industry. The bridge over Hassell Harbour, in a brief moment when trains don't cross... A BR 2-6-0+0-6-2 Garratt makes it's way across the bridge at Hassell Harbour, with a heavy coal train in tow. A GWR small Prarie tank rumbles light engine over Hassell Harbour Bridge.

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]]> Sat Aug 15 2009 The Blackpool Wakes Week Excursion, with LMS 46115 Scots Guardsman http://davidhennesseystrainworld.fotopic.net/c1738352.html On Sunday 9th August 2009, Visit Blackpool and West Coast Railways organised a one-way only Carnforth to Blackpool steam hauled excursion, to celebrate 'Wakes Week'. The train was hauled by LMS 'Royal Scot' 4-6-0 number 46115 Scots Guardsman, and ran via Hellifield, Blackburn and Preston, before arriving at Blackpool North. These scenes show 46115's arrival, stock shunting movements, and departure back to Preston with the empty coaches. Sunday 9 August 2009: On Sunday 9th August 2009, Visit Blackpool and West Coast Railways organised a one-way only Carnforth to Blackpool steam hauled excursion, to celebrate 'Wakes Week'. The train was hauled by LMS 'Royal Scot' 4-6-0 number 46115 Scots Guardsman, and ran via Hellifield, Blackburn and Preston, before arriving at Blackpool North. These scenes show 46115's arrival, stock shunting movements, and departure back to Preston with the empty coaches.

LMS Royal Scot number 46115 Scots Guardsman rolls into Blackpool North with the 'Wakes Week' excursion from Carnforth. Blackpool North is notable for still having semaphore signalling in operation. LMS Royal Scot number 46115 Scots Guardsman rolls into platform 3 at Blackpool North, with the 'Wakes Week' excursion. LMS Royal Scot 46115 Scots Guardsman rests at Platform 3 at Blackpool North, having hauled the 'Wakes Week' excursion from Carnforth. The train was organised by Visit Blackpool, and West Coast Railways. From the opposite platform, LMS Royal Scot 46115 Scots Guardsman continues to attract admirers at Blackpool North. With the tower dominating the skyline, LMS Royal Scot 46115 Scots Guardsman reverses out of Blackpool North Platform 3. 46115 pushed the stock towards the unit storage sidings, where she would run round, and bring the stock back into the station. With semaphore signals in the background, LMS Royal Scot 46115 Scots Guardsman reverses out of Blackpool North, pushing the stock towards the unit sidings outside the station. Having run round the stock in the unit sidings, LMS Royal Scot 46115 Scots Guardsman pushes the stock into Blackpool North Platform 3, while emitting steam from the safety valves. A final look at LMS Royal Scot 46115 Scots Guardsman at Blackpool North. She would then depart tender first back to Preston (via Poulton Le Fylde), where she would run round the coaches again before taking them back to Carnforth.

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]]> Sun Aug 9 2009 The North Wales Fellsman at Mostyn (02/08/2009) http://davidhennesseystrainworld.fotopic.net/c1737049.html Compass Tours operated a tour called the North Wales Fellsman on Sunday 2nd August 2009. The charter produced two DB Schenker class 37 diesels. 37670 St Blazey (recently repainted into the new DBS colours) and 37401 (still wearing the old EWS scheme) passed Mostyn around 12:35, as the solitary photograph shows. Sunday 2 August 2009: Compass Tours operated a tour called the North Wales Fellsman on Sunday 2nd August 2009. The charter produced two DB Schenker class 37 diesels. 37670 St Blazey (recently repainted into the new DBS colours) and 37401 (still wearing the old EWS scheme) passed Mostyn around 12:35, as the solitary photograph shows.

DB Schenker 37670 St Blazey (in the new DBS colours) and 37401 (in the old EWS livery) pass the Duke of Lancaster's mooring point near Mostyn, while working Compass Tour's North Wales Fellsman from Holyhead to Carlisle. Sunday 2nd August 2009. The shot was taken from the car park of a Sunday market.

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]]> Sun Aug 2 2009 The North Wales Coast Express 2009 Collection http://davidhennesseystrainworld.fotopic.net/c1737043.html This is a collection featuring photographs taken of Railway Touring Company's North Wales Coast Express, running from Liverpool to Holyhead on Sunday 2nd, 16th, and 23rd August 2009. The locos featured are LMS Coronation Pacific 6233 Duchess of Sutherland and LMS Princess Pacific 6201 Princess Elizabeth. Sunday 2 August 2009: This is a collection featuring photographs taken of Railway Touring Company's North Wales Coast Express, running from Liverpool to Holyhead on Sunday 2nd, 16th, and 23rd August 2009. The locos featured are LMS Coronation Pacific 6233 Duchess of Sutherland and LMS Princess Pacific 6201 Princess Elizabeth.

The first North Wales Coast Express of 2009, ran on Sunday 2nd August 2009 with LMS Coronation Pacific 6233 Duchess of Sutherland. She is seen here at Llandudno Junction, during a waterstop on the run to Holyhead. The train was originally intended to call at Llandudno itself, but the length of the train (12 carriages and West Coast Railway's 47245) put paid to the plan. After a two week break (the August 9th run was cancelled due to LMS 46115 Scots Guardsman being elsewhere), normal service was resumed on Sunday 16th August 2009. LMS 4-6-2 number 6201 Princess Elizabeth speeds through Lea Green station on time, with the outward run of the North Wales Coast Express. Sunday 23rd August 2009 saw LMS Coronation 4-6-2 number 6233 Duchess of Sutherland work the last North Wales Coast Express for 2009 (the 30th August run was cancelled). She is seen here passing Lea Green Road, on the outward journey towards Holyhead. West Coast Railway's 57601 was ticking away on the rear.

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]]> Sun Aug 2 2009 Warrington Bank Quay (24/07/2009) http://davidhennesseystrainworld.fotopic.net/c1730485.html A two hour session at Warrington Bank Quay produced some good action. Firstly, BR Standard 2-6-0 number 76079 sped through towards Crewe, running about fourteen minutes early. She was on her way to Crewe, where she was to head off to Machynlleth in Wales. From there, she is to work the 2009 season of The Cambrian. Secondly, West Coast Railway's 47804 and 47826 top and tailed an ECS movement towards Crewe (47804 is featured in the collection, and 47826 is being mentioned for the record, owing to a poor quality, unpublished shot) Thirdly, DB Schenker 66181 passed platform 1, with a scrap train in tow. It was sat at the North end of the station earlier on, with a few unknown problems. Finally, West Coast Railways 33207 Jim Martin brings the Cambrian stock from Carnforth, towards Crewe where 76079 were waiting to join up. In Arpley yard, Fertis 56018 was still knocking around, with DB Schenker 60087 Barry Needham keeping company. Thanks go to Bradleigh Ennis (bradleigh10) and Sam Bacon (mststv) for the company and laughs. Friday 24 July 2009: A two hour session at Warrington Bank Quay produced some good action. Firstly, BR Standard 2-6-0 number 76079 sped through towards Crewe, running about fourteen minutes early. She was on her way to Crewe, where she was to head off to Machynlleth in Wales. From there, she is to work the 2009 season of The Cambrian. Secondly, West Coast Railway's 47804 and 47826 top and tailed an ECS movement towards Crewe (47804 is featured in the collection, and 47826 is being mentioned for the record, owing to a poor quality, unpublished shot) Thirdly, DB Schenker 66181 passed platform 1, with a scrap train in tow. It was sat at the North end of the station earlier on, with a few unknown problems. Finally, West Coast Railways 33207 Jim Martin brings the Cambrian stock from Carnforth, towards Crewe where 76079 were waiting to join up. In Arpley yard, Fertis 56018 was still knocking around, with DB Schenker 60087 Barry Needham keeping company. Thanks go to Bradleigh Ennis (bradleigh10) and Sam Bacon (mststv) for the company and laughs.

Fertis 56018 continues to hang around Warrington Arpley, as DB Schenker 60087 Barry Needham lurks in the distance. DB Schenker 66181 was sat at the North end of Warrington Bank Quay, with a few technical issues. With a scrap train in tow, she awaits attention. BR Standard 2-6-0 number 76079 prepares to race through Warrington Bank Quay, on an early running movement from Bury to Machynlleth via Crewe and Shrewsbury. West Coast Railway's 47804 powers through Warrington Bank Quay, with an ECS towards Crewe. On the rear was 47826. DB Schenker 66181 rolls past Platform 1 at Warrington Bank Quay. West Coast Railways 33207 Jim Martin passes Warrington Bank Quay, with the stock for the 2009 Cambrian trains. The diesel and stock would join 76079 at Crewe, before proceeding onwards to Machynlleth.

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]]> Fri Jul 24 2009 Fleetwood Tram Sunday 2009 (19/07/2009) http://davidhennesseystrainworld.fotopic.net/c1728288.html The 25th Annual 'Tram Sunday' event took place at Fleetwood on Sunday 19th July 2009; for one day of the year, Lord Street was sealed off to display vintage cars, trams, and other vehicles etc. However, this collection focuses on some of the trams operating the normal services from Blackpool, terminating for the day at Fisherman's Walk. I took a quick ride to Cleveleys and back, and here is what it produced. Sunday 19 July 2009: The 25th Annual 'Tram Sunday' event took place at Fleetwood on Sunday 19th July 2009; for one day of the year, Lord Street was sealed off to display vintage cars, trams, and other vehicles etc. However, this collection focuses on some of the trams operating the normal services from Blackpool, terminating for the day at Fisherman's Walk. I took a quick ride to Cleveleys and back, and here is what it produced.

On display at Fleetwood Fisherman's Walk, was the 'Wild West Train' styled Illuminations tram - restored a few years ago. Blackpool & Fleetwood single decker tram 619 at Fleetwood Fisherman's Walk, preparing to crossover to the Blackpool line, to make a return run. Blackpool Tramway 'Boat' car 600 at Fleetwood Fisherman's Walk, preparing to make a return run to Blackpool. Heritage tramcar 147 (Michael Airey) pauses at Cleveleys, before going onward to Fleetwood. The top-deck interior of Blackpool Tramway 'Balloon' car 717, while en route to Fleetwood. The bottom-deck interior of Blackpool Tramway 'Balloon' car 717, at Fleetwood. Heritage tramcar 147 (Michael Airey) unloads it's passengers at Fleetwood Fisherman's Walk, before running round for it's next trip. Blackpool Tramway 'Balloon' car 717 waits to run round at Fleetwood Fisherman's Walk. Blackpool Tramway double decker 724 awaits passengers before heading for Blackpool Starr Gate. Heritage tramcar 147 (Michael Airey) prepares to make one of it's last runs of the day at Fleetwood Fisherman's Walk.

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]]> Sun Jul 19 2009 The Electric Scot, and the DRS Carlisle Kingmoor 2009 Open Day http://davidhennesseystrainworld.fotopic.net/c1724985.html On Saturday 11th July 2009, the AC Locomotive Group's 87002 Royal Sovereign was rostered to work Spitfire Tour's Electric Scot from Birmingham to Glasgow (going to Scotland via Carlisle, and also touring the Ayr and Cathcart circle lines). The Mk1 and Mk2 coaching stock was provided by West Coast Railways, along with 47786 Roy Castle OBE for assistance. Having been desperate for a ride behind a class 87 electric loco (since the ill-fated 'Electric Scot Farewell' in December 2007), this was one opportunity I certainly couldn't afford to miss. As a side attraction however, the tour paused at Carlisle on both the outward and return journeys, to allow passengers to visit the 2009 open day at DRS Carlisle Kingmoor. As well as the usual fleet of 20's, 37's, 47's, 57's and 66's, the event played host to BR Class 50 diesel 50049 Defiance, and Colas Rail's 47739 Robin of Templecombe (indicating that Colas Rail 47's will soon take over from Virgin 57/3's on the Carlisle to Chirk log trains). An added bonus at Carlisle station, was the appearance of the 'Queen of Scots' coaching stock on a movement from Fort William to Carnforth, behind West Coast Railway's 47760. Many thanks go to the following YouTubers and enthusiasts for their great company and laughs: Aaron Roberts (Woolybak8) Alex Roberts (alex57601) Mike Williams (55022RSG) Tom Donnelly (87006) John Dean (87002theBEAST) Ian Morris (Victorialine67) Adrian Gibson (djmadboy2) Rob Bray (37057viking) Chris Gallagher (D832) Bradleigh Ennis (bradleigh10) Stephen Harper (ThePrescotPhotter) Enjoy the pictures! Saturday 11 July 2009: On Saturday 11th July 2009, the AC Locomotive Group's 87002 Royal Sovereign was rostered to work Spitfire Tour's Electric Scot from Birmingham to Glasgow (going to Scotland via Carlisle, and also touring the Ayr and Cathcart circle lines). The Mk1 and Mk2 coaching stock was provided by West Coast Railways, along with 47786 Roy Castle OBE for assistance. Having been desperate for a ride behind a class 87 electric loco (since the ill-fated 'Electric Scot Farewell' in December 2007), this was one opportunity I certainly couldn't afford to miss. As a side attraction however, the tour paused at Carlisle on both the outward and return journeys, to allow passengers to visit the 2009 open day at DRS Carlisle Kingmoor. As well as the usual fleet of 20's, 37's, 47's, 57's and 66's, the event played host to BR Class 50 diesel 50049 Defiance, and Colas Rail's 47739 Robin of Templecombe (indicating that Colas Rail 47's will soon take over from Virgin 57/3's on the Carlisle to Chirk log trains). An added bonus at Carlisle station, was the appearance of the 'Queen of Scots' coaching stock on a movement from Fort William to Carnforth, behind West Coast Railway's 47760. Many thanks go to the following YouTubers and enthusiasts for their great company and laughs: Aaron Roberts (Woolybak8) Alex Roberts (alex57601) Mike Williams (55022RSG) Tom Donnelly (87006) John Dean (87002theBEAST) Ian Morris (Victorialine67) Adrian Gibson (djmadboy2) Rob Bray (37057viking) Chris Gallagher (D832) Bradleigh Ennis (bradleigh10) Stephen Harper (ThePrescotPhotter) Enjoy the pictures!

BR 87002 Royal Sovereign rolls into Warrington Bank Quay, with Spitfire Tour's Electric Scot, bound for Glasgow. West Coast Railway's 47786 Roy Castle OBE tags along on the back of Spitfire Tour's Electric Scot. Pausing at Preston for a pathing stop, BR 87002 Royal Sovereign (at the head of Spitfire Tour's Electric Scot) revels is currently the sole operational 87 in the United Kingdom. BR 87002 Royal Sovereign at Preston, adorned with the Spitfire Railtours headboard. West Coast Railway's 47786 Roy Castle OBE came along for the ride on Spitfire Tour's Electric Scot. Seen here at Preston. BR 87002's Royal Sovereign nameplate, is temporarily joined by a BR 'Terrier' sticker. BR 87002 sparkles in the sunshine at Carlisle, before going onward to Glasgow with Spitfire Tour's Electric Scot. In the loco sidings at Carlisle, Arriva Trains Wales 57315 stands silent. Virgin 57311 Parker stands parked up in Carlisle. Virgin 57305 John Tracy stands parked up in Carlisle. An overview of DRS Carlisle Kingmoor, sitting right next to the WCML. DRS/Stobart Rail 66411 Eddie the Engine at Carlisle Kingmoor. DRS/Malcolm 66412 at Carlisle Kingmoor. The nameplate on DRS 37610 was commemorating a former company director. DRS 47790 (appearing as 47593) awaits naming at Carlisle Kingmoor. DRS 37423 also awaits naming at Carlisle Kingmoor. DRS 57008 Telford International Railfreight Park at Carlisle Kingmoor. DRS 57012 in the sunshine at Carlisle Kingmoor A working miniature replica of a BR Western Region Hymek diesel loco, at Carlisle Kingmoor. DRS 37229 Jonty Jarvis at Carlisle Kingmoor. DRS 57011 awaits attention inside the works shed at Carlisle Kingmoor. DRS 66431 and 66420 inside the works shed at Carlisle Kingmoor. DRS 20311 'Class 20 Fifty' in the blazing sunshine at Carlisle Kingmoor. DRS 20303 and 20303 potter up and down at Carlisle Kingmoor; a few of the locos were started up and moved around at many times during the day. BR Class 50 diesel 50049 Defiance stands on display at DRS Carlisle Kingmoor. DRS/Stobart Rail 66414 James the Engine on display at Carlisle Kingmoor. DRS 20302 at Carlisle Kingmoor. Colas Rail 47739 Robin of Templecombe potters around at Carlisle Kingmoor. Inside the works shed of DRS Carlisle Kingmoor, 37603's body is suspended on the jacks, while it's bogies await inspection. DRS 37510 is adorned with a 'DRS London on a mission' headboard, as she awaits customers to her cabs at Carlisle Kingmoor. DRS 66423 at Carlisle Kingmoor. From the cab of DRS 37510, 57010 rests at Carlisle Kingmoor. DRS 66423 and 66433 (under the loco wash) at Carlisle Kingmoor. DRS 37069 inside the works shed at Carlisle Kingmoor. The engine doors of DRS 20311 were opened to reveal the engine. Carlisle Kingmoor. DRS 20302 in company with 20303 at Carlisle Kingmoor. A British Rail 'Cockney Sparrow' adorns the bodyside of DRS 37087 'Keighley and Worth Valley Railway 40th Anniversary 1968-2008', at Carlisle Kingmoor. DRS 37423 was named 'Spirit of the Lakes' after a competition had been held to name the locomotive. The winner, Mr Bill Wilson, poses with the loco shortly after the naming ceremony at Carlisle Kingmoor. Colas Rail 47739 Robin of Templecombe moves around at Carlisle Kingmoor. The cab interior of DRS 66431 at Carlisle Kingmoor. The 'DRS London on a mission' headboard, worn by DRS 37510 at Carlisle Kingmoor. DRS/Stobart Rail 66414 James the Engine, pottering around at Carlisle Kingmoor. Four locos in one shot: Colas Rail 47739 Robin of Templecombe (left), DRS 20303 and 20302 (middle), and 20311 (right), at Carlisle Kingmoor. BR Class 50 diesel 50049 Defiance, at Carlisle Kingmoor. DRS 37087 'Keighley and Worth Valley Railway 40th Anniversary 1968-2008, at Carlisle Kingmoor. DRS 37087 'Keighley and Worth Valley Railway 40th Anniversary 1968-2008, and 37229 Jonty Jarvis at Carlisle Kingmoor. A miniature model of a BR Class 33 diesel at Carlisle Kingmoor. DRS 57012 at Carlisle Kingmoor. The sloping track in the foreground is used for loading/unloading locos onto heavy carrying lorries. DRS 57008 Telford International Railfreight Park June 2008, and 57012 (in the background), at Carlisle Kingmoor. The cab of DRS/Malcolm 66412 at Carlisle Kingmoor.

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]]> Sat Jul 11 2009 Charters and other things at Warrington Bank Quay http://davidhennesseystrainworld.fotopic.net/c1714443.html Pictures taken on Friday 19th June 2009 and Saturday 20th June 2009 of two charters passing through Warrington Bank Quay. Friday 19th June saw D1015 Western Champion calling briefly at Warrington Bank Quay for a driver exchange. D1015 was on her way to Inverness in Scotland, hauling the first leg of Pathfinder's Western Chieftain; a three day tour taking the preserved Class 52 diesel to Scotland for the second time in it's preservation career. Then on Saturday 20th June 2009, Tyseley based GWR Castle 4-6-0 number 5043 Earl of Mount Edgcombe raced Northwards, with an early running Birmingham (Tyseley) to Carlisle charter (the Castle came on at Crewe, after the charter arrived from Birmingham behind 47580). The collection also includes the usual appearances of DB Schenker locos around Bank Quay and Arpley. Friday 19 June 2009: Pictures taken on Friday 19th June 2009 and Saturday 20th June 2009 of two charters passing through Warrington Bank Quay. Friday 19th June saw D1015 Western Champion calling briefly at Warrington Bank Quay for a driver exchange. D1015 was on her way to Inverness in Scotland, hauling the first leg of Pathfinder's Western Chieftain; a three day tour taking the preserved Class 52 diesel to Scotland for the second time in it's preservation career. Then on Saturday 20th June 2009, Tyseley based GWR Castle 4-6-0 number 5043 Earl of Mount Edgcombe raced Northwards, with an early running Birmingham (Tyseley) to Carlisle charter (the Castle came on at Crewe, after the charter arrived from Birmingham behind 47580). The collection also includes the usual appearances of DB Schenker locos around Bank Quay and Arpley.

DB Schenker 66138 leaves the Warrington Arpley line and passes Bank Quay, with two tankers bound for Dallam. BR Class 52 Western diesel D1015 Western Champion rolls into Warrington Bank Quay for a brief driver exchange. D1015 was on her way to Inverness in Scotland, working the first leg of Pathfinder Tour's Western Chieftain, marking D1015's second trip North of the border. BR Class 52 Western diesel D1015 Western Champion rolls into Warrington Bank Quay for a brief driver exchange. D1015 was on her way to Inverness in Scotland, working the first leg of Pathfinder Tour's Western Chieftain, marking D1015's second trip North of the border. Having picked up a new driver, BR Class 52 Western diesel D1015 Western Champion prepares to make a hellfire exit with Pathfinder Tour's Western Cheiftain tour from Warrington Bank Quay, to the next port of call at Preston. DB Schenker 66138 returns through Warrington Bank Quay, having dropped off the two tankers at Dallam. Reinstated to traffic by DB Schenker earlier in 2009, 37401 rests behind the locked gates at Warrington Arpley. Another DB Schenker loco reinstated earlier in 2009, 37670 St Blazey keeps company with 37401 at Warrington Arpley. DB Schenker 67026 and 67030 tick over at Warrington Arpley. On Saturday 20th June 2009, Tyseley based GWR Castle class 4-6-0 number 5043 Earl of Mount Edgcombe thunders North through Warrington Bank Quay, with an early running charter from Birmingham to Carlisle. On Saturday 20th June 2009, Tyseley based GWR Castle class 4-6-0 number 5043 Earl of Mount Edgcombe thunders North through Warrington Bank Quay, with an early running charter from Birmingham to Carlisle. DB Schenker 60087 Barry Needham passes under Slutchers Lane Bridge with a loaded coal train bound for Fiddlers Ferry.

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]]> Fri Jun 19 2009 Freight action at Acton Bridge http://davidhennesseystrainworld.fotopic.net/c1713724.html A day's outing to Acton Bridge produced some good freight action, and also some interesting light engine movements. DB Schenker 66152 (in new DBS livery), various freight trains and the rare appearance of NXEA 90004 on West Coast metals provided some good excitement! Thanks to Aaron Roberts (Woolybak8) and Mike Williams (HSTMike125) for the company and laughs. Tuesday 16 June 2009: A day's outing to Acton Bridge produced some good freight action, and also some interesting light engine movements. DB Schenker 66152 (in new DBS livery), various freight trains and the rare appearance of NXEA 90004 on West Coast metals provided some good excitement! Thanks to Aaron Roberts (Woolybak8) and Mike Williams (HSTMike125) for the company and laughs.

DB Schenker 66152 (in the DBS red livery) passes Acton Bridge en route to Warrington Arpley. DB Schenker 66152 (in the DBS red livery) returns South through Acton Bridge, having picked up 66188 (presumably from Warrington Arpley). DB Schenker 66126 passes through Acton Bridge, on a Runcorn to Warrington Arpley enterprise. Freightliner 66580 heads North through Acton Bridge on a container train. Freightliner 66624 passes South through Acton Bridge with a train of new Network Rail waggons in tow. 'Royal' DB Schenker 67005 The Queen's Messenger passes Acton Bridge on a Dowlow to Warrington Arpley freight train. DRS 66433 heads North through Acton Bridge on a container train. DRS 66425 heads South through Acton Bridge on a container train. Freightliner 86501 and 90040 pass Northward through Acton Bridge. A rarity on the West Coast: National Express East Anglia liveried 90004 and DB Schenker 90020 Collingwood pass South through Acton Bridge with a car train from Garston.

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]]> Tue Jun 16 2009 The East Lancs Crusader at Warrington Bank Quay http://davidhennesseystrainworld.fotopic.net/c1711586.html At around 09:35 this morning (Saturday 13th June 2009), the Class 40 Preservation Society's 40145 (East Lancashire Railway) called briefly at Warrington Bank Quay, working the East Lancs Crusader charter from Rawtenstall to Aberystwyth. Here are a few shots taken during the brief passenger stop at Warrington Bank Quay. Thanks to Aaron Roberts for the brief company this morning. Saturday 13 June 2009: At around 09:35 this morning (Saturday 13th June 2009), the Class 40 Preservation Society's 40145 (East Lancashire Railway) called briefly at Warrington Bank Quay, working the East Lancs Crusader charter from Rawtenstall to Aberystwyth. Here are a few shots taken during the brief passenger stop at Warrington Bank Quay. Thanks to Aaron Roberts for the brief company this morning.

DB Schenker 92041 Vaughan Williams basks in the sunshine while resting in the bay platforms at Warrington Bank Quay. Virgin Pendolino 390042 City of Bangor arrives at Warrington Bank Quay on a service to Glasgow. Arriva Trains Wales 175114 arrives at Warrington Bank Quay on a service to Manchester Piccadilly. The Class 40 Preservation Society's 40145 (East Lancashire Railway) arrives at Warrington Bank Quay on the East Lancs Crusader charter, bound for Aberystwyth. 40145 pauses at Warrington Bank Quay, with the East Lancs Crusader charter. The train had originated at Rawtenstall on the East Lancashire Railway, before heading to Aberystwyth via Manchester, Warrington, Crewe and Shrewsbury. The East Lancs Crusader headboard adorned on 40145. A last look at 40145 at Warrington Bank Quay, before she got going with the East Lancs Crusader charter. The next stop was Crewe, and then onward to Aberystwyth via Shrewsbury. Fertis 56018 continues to knock around Warrington Arpley. It is hoped she will be moved some time soon.

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]]> Sat Jun 13 2009 Long Marston Open Weekend 2009 (07/06/2009) http://davidhennesseystrainworld.fotopic.net/c1709528.html The MoD base at Long Marston near Stratford Upon Avon held a two day open weekend on Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th June 2009, with various railway vehicles on display. My dad and I made a visit on the Sunday, under good periods of sunshine. Guest locos were Tyseley's 47580 County of Essex, Virgin Trains 57307 Lady Penelope, Class 50 diesels 50026 Indomitable and 50035 Ark Royal (appearing as 50135 in fictitious Load Haul livery), ex Virgin 86233, GBRf 66730 and many more visitors, rubbing shoulders with stored 86's, 87's, 20's, 37's a 56 and other rusting stock. Shuttles around the site were provided with WPR 0-6-0 Saddle Tank Earl David, and BR 03 Shunter 11230 top and tailing. A great day out, organised in support of the charity 'Help for Heroes' (http://www.helpforheroes.org.uk). Enjoy the pictures! Sunday 7 June 2009: The MoD base at Long Marston near Stratford Upon Avon held a two day open weekend on Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th June 2009, with various railway vehicles on display. My dad and I made a visit on the Sunday, under good periods of sunshine. Guest locos were Tyseley's 47580 County of Essex, Virgin Trains 57307 Lady Penelope, Class 50 diesels 50026 Indomitable and 50035 Ark Royal (appearing as 50135 in fictitious Load Haul livery), ex Virgin 86233, GBRf 66730 and many more visitors, rubbing shoulders with stored 86's, 87's, 20's, 37's a 56 and other rusting stock. Shuttles around the site were provided with WPR 0-6-0 Saddle Tank Earl David, and BR 03 Shunter 11230 top and tailing. A great day out, organised in support of the charity 'Help for Heroes' (http://www.helpforheroes.org.uk). Enjoy the pictures!

At the entrance to the site at Long Marston, ex Virgin 86258 appeared with what seemed to be an orange undercoat of paint. However, all was not what it seemed... What looks like a shunting loco, but on road wheels rather than rail. This unusual contraption was found near the entrance of the site at Long Marston. At Long Marston, ex Virgin 87004 rubs shoulders with one of Electric Traction Service's recently acquired class 86 locomotives. Another look at one of Electric Traction Service's class 86 locos at Long Marston, fresh from a repaint. Left to rust in the open at Long Marson, ex BR 08736 stands robbed of parts. Vandalised, graffitied and robbed of parts, ex Load Haul 56021 contemplates its fate at Long Marston. From Tyseley, ex BR 47580 County of Essex, stands on display at Long Marston. Formerly owned by the AC Loco Group, ex BR Class 73 number 73138 stands at Long Marston, awaiting a buyer. A majority of the 86 electric locos on site at Long Marston, were a mix of Virgin and (the now defunct) Anglia. Here, Anglia 86217 stands with faded paintwork. Ex Virgin 86231 at Long Marston, quietly contemplating it's fate, with a rust mark where it's nameplate used to be. Intercity liveried ex Virgin 86228 Vulcan Heritage stands at Long Marston. Hopefully she may return to service in the near future... Looking reasonably presentable for the event, Virgin 57307 Lady Penelope stands on display at Long Marston. GBRf provided Long Marston with a 66 for the weekend. 66730 was the 'shed' on display. One of Long Marston's shunting locos, a small 0-4-0 diesel, stands silent. Former DRS 37029 stands among rusting stock at Long Marston. Compare this shot with one of my previous encounters of 37029 in 2006: http://www.davidhennesseystrainworld.fotopic.net/p32471603.html Ex Harry Needle 20905 stands with 20901 at Long Marston. This was the cab end view. The nose end of ex Harry Needle 20905 at Long Marston. The cab end of ex Harry Needle 20901 at Long Marston. Ex Virgin 87031 (and 87030) stand at Long Marston. Some of the ex Virgin 87 locos are now in service in Bulgaria, but what are the chances of 87031 ever turning a wheel again? Ex Anglia 86215 The Round Tabler at Long Marston. National Coal Board Hunslet 0-6-0 diesel shunter 503 on display at Long Marston. With shiny buffers and white wheel rims, Virgin 57307 Lady Penelope awaits more photographs at Long Marston. Former Virgin 86233 (painted in 1960's blue with white cab windows and half yellow warning pannel) was recently moved to Long Marston, and is awaiting some form of attention. BR Class 50 diesel 50026 Indomitable was one of the locos fresh from a visit to Eastleigh Open Weekend in May 2009. She is seen here on display at Long Marston. Formerly based at the now closed Old Oak Common depot, BR 50035 Ark Royal was recently tuned out in fictitious Load Haul livery, and renumbered 50135. Seen here at Long Marston. Long Marston based 0-4-0 diesel shunter 01512 Conductor stands on display. Ex DRS 20902 stands out in the open at Long Marston. Another ex DRS loco 20903 stands in the open at Long Marston. Tyseley based 47580 County of Essex awaits more photographers at Long Marston. Ex Virgin 87013 at Long Marston, hoping for a new life in Bulgaria. At the entrance to Long Marston, ex Virgin 86258 still retained her Virgin colours on one side, with the orange undercoat on the other. A BR Class 117 DMU stands at Long Marston, complete with window damage covered over with black sacks and tape. Ex BR 31423 quietly contemplating fate at Long Marston. Once hard at work in the 1990's, Ex BR (and Trans Rail) 37412 stands at Long Marson, with a few windows missing (or broken), and cables hanging out one of it's front headlights. Former BR/Trans Rail 37672 is another loco quietly rusting away at Long Marston. Former Virgin and Freightliner 47829 (the Police liveried class 47 diesel) stands lined up with other redundant locos at Long Marston. 37696 rusting away at Long Marston. Former BR 20057 looks sorry for itself at Long Marston. Ex BR 08813 stands lifeless at Long Marston. Ex BR 31439 and 31301 rusting away at Long Marston, unlikey to ever work again. Ex BR/Trans Rail 37898 contemplates fate at Long Marston. The AC Locomotive Group's 86401 Northampton Town stands on display at Long Marston. She is hoping to follow 86101, in returning to mainline use. One of EuroPhoenix's recently repainted class 86 locomotives stands on display at Long Marston. This example will soon see service in Europe. Rides around the Long Marston site were provided by a steam loco and a diesel shunter, topping and tailing three Mk1 coaches. Here, WPR 0-6-0 saddle tank Earl David, glistens under the sunshine, having brought in another shuttle. The train rides went from one end of the Long Marston site, to the car park at the other end. Here, BR 04 diesel shunter 11230 awaits more passengers. The train rides at Long Marston provided some views of locos not designated as accessible to the public. This is ex BR (Rail Express Systems) 47746. Viewed from the Long Marston shuttle, ex BR Railfreight 20215 contemplates the end of it's days, with a fellow classmate. Ex Virgin 87021 stands sandwiched between a pair of it's classmates at Long Marston. WPR 0-6-0 saddle tank Earl David stands at the end of it's run on the Long Marston shuttle. The AC Loco Group's 86401 Northampton Town (looking smart in BR Network Southeast livery) awaits it's last photographers at Long Marston.

Published in David Hennessey's Train World

]]> Sun Jun 7 2009 Class 37 day at the East Lancashire Railway (Saturday 30th May 2009) http://davidhennesseystrainworld.fotopic.net/c1705263.html Saturday 30th May 2009 saw the East Lancashire Railway stage a one-day event, when no less than three Class 37 diesel locos were rosted to work services between Heywood, Bury and Rawtenstall. Ex EWS 37418 (Pectinidae) made it's public debut in fine hellfire style, a good few months after subsequent work required to get her in shape. Another ex-EWS tractor was 37109, fresh from a repaint into BR Blue. Another hellfire machine, especially when paired up with four BR Blue & Grey Mk1 coaches. BR Railfrieight 37901 Mirrlees Pionner was also out and about, topping and tailing some services with 37109. A cracking day out, with loads of thrash and clag thrown in for good measure! Thanks to the following for their usual company and laughs: David Holden Woolybak8 (Aaron Roberts) mststv Trainzrule4eva D335Media (Ewan Rutledge) 37057viking (Rob Bray) Nath40145/StationEndGroup (Nathan Bridge) Dave Martin Chris Gallagher and all other bashers in attendance. Enjoy the pictures! Saturday 30 May 2009: Saturday 30th May 2009 saw the East Lancashire Railway stage a one-day event, when no less than three Class 37 diesel locos were rosted to work services between Heywood, Bury and Rawtenstall. Ex EWS 37418 (Pectinidae) made it's public debut in fine hellfire style, a good few months after subsequent work required to get her in shape. Another ex-EWS tractor was 37109, fresh from a repaint into BR Blue. Another hellfire machine, especially when paired up with four BR Blue & Grey Mk1 coaches. BR Railfrieight 37901 Mirrlees Pionner was also out and about, topping and tailing some services with 37109. A cracking day out, with loads of thrash and clag thrown in for good measure! Thanks to the following for their usual company and laughs: David Holden Woolybak8 (Aaron Roberts) mststv Trainzrule4eva D335Media (Ewan Rutledge) 37057viking (Rob Bray) Nath40145/StationEndGroup (Nathan Bridge) Dave Martin Chris Gallagher and all other bashers in attendance. Enjoy the pictures!

Sparking in the late May sunshine, ew EWS 37109 was making one of it's first runs after it's repaint into BR blue. She is seen here at Ramsbottom, while working a service to Rawtenstall. Ex EWS 37109 rests at Rawtenstall. In yet another of my 'keyhole' arty farty shots, ex EWS 37109 runs round at Rawtenstall. Back at Bury Bolton Street, ex EWS 37109 waits to proceed to Heywood. Former EWS 37418 (currently wearing it's Pectinidae name), shows off it's nameplate. At Ramsbottom, ex EWS 37418 (Pectinidae) pauses to await the arrival of 37109 and 37901. Ex EWS 37418 basks in the sun at Heywood. Ex EWS 37418 (Pectinidae) prepares to leave for Bury Bolton Street, having run round at Heywood. BR Railfreight 37901 Mirrlees Pioneer is the third tractor to bask in glorious late-Spring sunshine at Heywood. Ex EWS 37109 waits at Heywood, with a return service to Bury Bolton Street. The worksplate of 37109; the loco is one of the many relics of a great railway works, sadly no longer in existence. Steam was also at work on 30/05/2009; BR Jinty 0-6-0 tank 47324 worked the East Lancashire Railway's steam service. She is seen here at Bury Bolton Street, waiting to leave for Heywood. BR Railfreight 37901 Mirrlees Pioneer stands at Bury Bolton Street. Ex EWS 37418 (Pectinidae) at Bury Bolton Street, awaiting a path to Heywood.

Published in David Hennessey's Train World

]]> Sat May 30 2009 DRS Weekend at the Crewe Heritage Centre (16/05/2009) http://davidhennesseystrainworld.fotopic.net/c1698462.html Four locos from Direct Rail Services were on site at Crewe Heritage Centre on Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th May 2009. The locos were (in numerical order) 20314, 37682, 57003 and 66413. All four locos were on display in the yard, and fired up at certain times of the day. Representing steam, were LMS pacifics 6201 Princess Elizabeth and 6233 Duchess of Sutherland, and GWR 2-8-0 tank 5224. Supplementing the event, was the centre's usual attractions of Advance Passenger Train 370003, Class 47's D1824 and 47575, ex Virgin 87035 and various other items on display. Thanks go to the following for their company and laughs: David Holden, Woolybak8, trainzrule4eva, Victorialine67/thrashmerchant37401, HSTmike125, TheXtremeEnthusiast, loonies125, Bradleigh10 and others in attendance. Enjoy the pictures! Saturday 16 May 2009: Four locos from Direct Rail Services were on site at Crewe Heritage Centre on Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th May 2009. The locos were (in numerical order) 20314, 37682, 57003 and 66413. All four locos were on display in the yard, and fired up at certain times of the day. Representing steam, were LMS pacifics 6201 Princess Elizabeth and 6233 Duchess of Sutherland, and GWR 2-8-0 tank 5224. Supplementing the event, was the centre's usual attractions of Advance Passenger Train 370003, Class 47's D1824 and 47575, ex Virgin 87035 and various other items on display. Thanks go to the following for their company and laughs: David Holden, Woolybak8, trainzrule4eva, Victorialine67/thrashmerchant37401, HSTmike125, TheXtremeEnthusiast, loonies125, Bradleigh10 and others in attendance. Enjoy the pictures!

The ill-fated BR Advanced Passenger Train unit 370003 stands in her usual place close to the entrance of Crewe Heritage Centre, with access to the cab and the carriages provided. Some of the controls of BR Advance Passenger Train unit 370003 at Crewe Heritage Centre. Ex Virgin 87035 at Crewe Heritage Centre, undergoing a repaint from Virgin red, to BR Blue. The tartan-coloured interior of a standard class coach, aboard BR Advanced Passenger Train unit 370003. Former BR 47575 out on display at Crewe Heritage Centre. The Waterman Trust's GWR 2-8-0 tank 5224 stands out in the open at Crewe Heritage Centre. In a brief shower, LMS Coronation 4-6-2 number 6233 Duchess of Sutherland gets a soaking at Crewe Heritage Centre. DRS 66413 was one of the four DRS locos on site at Crewe Heritage Centre. Old school DRS traction was represented (twice) as well. Here, DRS 20314 stands next to 66413 at Crewe Heritage Centre. LMS Princess 4-6-2 number 6201 Princess Elizabeth at her new home at the Crewe Heritage Centre. BR green 47 D1842 out in the open at Crewe Heritage Centre. An 0-4-0 saddle tank engine named Elizabeth (restored cosmetically) on display at Crewe Heritage Centre. DRS 57003 at Crewe Heritage Centre, adorned with the 'DRS Crewe on a Mission' headboard. DRS 57003 and 37682 stand alongside each other at Crewe Heritage Centre. Former EWS and now owned by DRS, 37682 (formerly Hartlepool Pipe Mill), stands fired up at Crewe Heritage Centre. Taken from one of the publically accesible signalboxes at Crewe Heritage Centre, DRS 57003 and 37682 stand alongside each other, with their engines temporarily running for the enjoyment of visitors. BR Class 03 shunter D2073 waits around at Crewe Heritage Centre. The yellow coloured Cowans & Sheldon crane 96719, is one of the many items of rolling stock on display at Crewe Heritage Centre. Yet another look at BR Advanced Passenger Train unit 370003 at Crewe Heritage Centre. Viewed from the balcony of Crewe Heritage Centre's No 1 signalbox, Arriva Trains Wales 158836 comes off the Chester line, en route towards Crewe station. The nameplate and 'Royal Crown' of LMS Coronation 4-6-2 number 6233 Duchess of Sutherland, at Crewe Heritage Centre. DRS 66413 basks in the brief sunshine at Crewe Heritage Centre. Another look at GWR 2-8-0 tank 5224 at Crewe Heritage Centre, as from behind, a Virgin Pendolino speeds by on the West Coast Main Line.

Published in David Hennessey's Train World

]]> Sat May 16 2009 Steel Steam and Stars 2: The Llangollen Railway's Spring Steam Gala 2009 http://davidhennesseystrainworld.fotopic.net/c1688825.html Following the successful first gala in 2007, the Llangollen Railway and the 6880 Betton Grange Society staged a sequel, entitled Steel Steam and Stars 2. This time around, the event was held for nine days, beginning Saturday 18th April and ending on Sunday 26th April 2009. As with the first gala, an all star cast of resident and visiting locomotives were busy working trains between Llangollen and Carrog, with double headers, autotrains, goods trains and non-stop services. The locos were: 1) LMS 'Royal Scot' 4-6-0 number 6100 Royal Scot (from Bressingham Steam Museum) 2) LNER D49 4-4-0 number 246 Morayshire (from the Bo'ness and Kinneil Railway) 3) LNER B1 4-6-0 number 1306 Mayflower (from the Battlefield Railway) 4) GWR 'Dukedog' 4-4-0 number 9017 (Earl of Berkley, from the Bluebell Railway) 5) GWR 'City' 4-4-0 number 3440 City of Truro (from the Gloucestershire and Warwickshire Railway and National Railway Museum) 6) GWR 56xx 0-6-2 tank 5643 (from the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway) 7) GWR 'Small Prarie' 2-6-2 tank 5526 (from the South Devon Railway) 8) LMS 'Black 5' 4-6-0 number 44806 (Llangollen resident, running as 44801) 9) GWR 'Large Prarie' 2-6-2 tank number 5199 (Llangollen resident) 10) GWR 'Small Pannier' 0-6-0 tank number 6430 (Llangollen Resident) There was also visits to Llangollen works and engine sheds, and also side attractions at Glyndyfrydy and Carrog; the latter station played host to the West Lancashire Light Railway's Hunslet 0-4-0 tank engine Irish Mail, giving footplate rides on a temporary stretch of 2ft gauge track. There were even visiting passenger carriages for the event; the Great Central Railway's ex-Eastern Region 'Beavertail' observation car E1719E, and the South Devon Railway's autocoach W228 (sharing autotrain duties with the Llangollen's resident autocoach W167). Thanks are extended to the 6880 Betton Grange Society, and to the staff and volunteers of Llangollen Railway, for making this event possible; it is hoped that a third gala will be staged in two years time. Enjoy the pictures! Monday 27 April 2009: Following the successful first gala in 2007, the Llangollen Railway and the 6880 Betton Grange Society staged a sequel, entitled Steel Steam and Stars 2. This time around, the event was held for nine days, beginning Saturday 18th April and ending on Sunday 26th April 2009. As with the first gala, an all star cast of resident and visiting locomotives were busy working trains between Llangollen and Carrog, with double headers, autotrains, goods trains and non-stop services. The locos were: 1) LMS 'Royal Scot' 4-6-0 number 6100 Royal Scot (from Bressingham Steam Museum) 2) LNER D49 4-4-0 number 246 Morayshire (from the Bo'ness and Kinneil Railway) 3) LNER B1 4-6-0 number 1306 Mayflower (from the Battlefield Railway) 4) GWR 'Dukedog' 4-4-0 number 9017 (Earl of Berkley, from the Bluebell Railway) 5) GWR 'City' 4-4-0 number 3440 City of Truro (from the Gloucestershire and Warwickshire Railway and National Railway Museum) 6) GWR 56xx 0-6-2 tank 5643 (from the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway) 7) GWR 'Small Prarie' 2-6-2 tank 5526 (from the South Devon Railway) 8) LMS 'Black 5' 4-6-0 number 44806 (Llangollen resident, running as 44801) 9) GWR 'Large Prarie' 2-6-2 tank number 5199 (Llangollen resident) 10) GWR 'Small Pannier' 0-6-0 tank number 6430 (Llangollen Resident) There was also visits to Llangollen works and engine sheds, and also side attractions at Glyndyfrydy and Carrog; the latter station played host to the West Lancashire Light Railway's Hunslet 0-4-0 tank engine Irish Mail, giving footplate rides on a temporary stretch of 2ft gauge track. There were even visiting passenger carriages for the event; the Great Central Railway's ex-Eastern Region 'Beavertail' observation car E1719E, and the South Devon Railway's autocoach W228 (sharing autotrain duties with the Llangollen's resident autocoach W167). Thanks are extended to the 6880 Betton Grange Society, and to the staff and volunteers of Llangollen Railway, for making this event possible; it is hoped that a third gala will be staged in two years time. Enjoy the pictures!

The cab and nameplate of the 6880 Betton Grange Society's project; to recreate a GWR 'Grange' 4-6-0. From the Didcot Railway Centre, the boiler and powerbogie for GWR Steam Railmotor 93, makes good progress. Another ongoing restoration project at Llangollen works; GWR 'Prarie' 2-6-2 tank 5532 continues to be restored. Planned to steam for the gala, but sadly not ready in time, BR Standard 4 tank 80072's restoration progresses slowly, but steadily. Compare this with the last photo of it taken: http://www.davidhennesseystrainworld.fotopic.net/p40524007.html LNER B1 4-6-0 number 1306 Mayflower at rest in Llangollen Works. Out in the loco yard at Llangollen, LMS Black 5 number 44806 (running as 44801) simmers in the warm April sunshine. GWR 56xx 0-6-2 tank 5643 outside in Llangollen loco yard. LMS Royal Scot 4-6-0 number 6100 Royal Scot out on display in Llangollen loco yard. The recently restored sixteen wheeler is about to undergo preperations at Crewe, for a return to the mainline. The nameplate and plaque ofLMS Royal Scot 4-6-0 number 6100 Royal Scot. The plaque commemorates 6100's trip across the pond in 1933 for the 'Century of Progress Exposition', and the subsequent tour of the USA and Canada. The plaque speaks for itself. GWR 'Small Pannier' 0-6-0 tank number 6430 in Llangollen loco yard. At Carrog, the West Lancashire Light Railway's Hunslet 0-4-0 tank Irish Mail, gives footplate rides on a temporary stretch of 2ft gauge track. GWR Dukedog 4-6-0 number 9017 arrives at Carrog, with a BR 'Suburban' coaching set from Llangollen. 9017 was painted in early BR plain black livery, for the occasion of the gala. LNER D49 4-4-0 number 246 Morayshire arrives at Glyndyfrydy, with a service to Carrog. The Great Central Railway's ex Eastern Region 'Beavertail' observation car E1719E, heads out of Glyndyfrydy, behind a rake of BR 'Blood and Custard' liveried Mk1's. The nameplate of LNER D49 4-4-0 number 246 Morayshire, visiting from the Bo'ness and Kinneil Railway in Scotland. LNER D49 4-4-0 number 246 Morayshire runs round at Llangollen, ready for another run to Carrog. GWR 'Large Prarie' 2-6-2 tank 5199 is adorned with two headboards (Tanefield Railway Co, and The Farne Islander) at Llangollen loco yard. GWR 'Small Prarie' 2-6-2 tank 5526 on shed at Llangollen loco yard. On the left, GWR 28xx 2-8-2 number 3802, sits out of traffic awaiting repairs. Out of traffic but looking presentable, GWR Manor 4-6-0 number 7822 Foxcote Manor, stands inside Llangollen works, adorned with the 'Talyllyn Railway Special Train'; a reminder of the many excursions that ran on the Cambrian system in the 1950's. Another view of LNER B1 4-6-0 number 1306 Mayflower at rest in Llangollen Works. GWR 4-4-0 number 3440 City of Truro runs round at Llangollen. GWR 4-4-0 number 3440 City of Truro gets going from Llangollen on a service to Carrog. GWR Dukedog 4-4-0 number 9017 takes on water at Llangollen. GWR Dukedog 4-4-0 number 9017 runs round at Llangollen, ready for another run to Carrog. GWR Dukedog 4-4-0 number 9017 pulls out of Llangollen with the BR 'Suburban' coaching stock, en route to Carrog. LNER D49 4-4-0 number 246 Morayshire passes Llangollen Station Signalbox, as she runs round at Llangollen. Ex Eastern Region 'Beavertail' observation car E1719E at Llangollen. The Llangollen's resident ex Eastern Region buffet coach E1706E at Llangollen. She was part of a rake of 'Blood and Custard' liveried Mk1 coaches. GWR Dukedog 4-4-0 number 9017 prepares to leave a rain soaked Llangollen, adorned with the Cambrian Coast Express headboard. GWR Small Prarie 2-6-2 tank 5526 backs into Llangollen. GWR Dukedog 4-4-0 number 9017 blasts under the bridge at Llangollen, as she departs bound for Carrog. GWR Small Prarie 2-6-2 tank 5526 prepares to leave Llangollen on a service to Carrog. At Carrog, LMS Royal Scot 4-6-0 number 6100 Royal Scot, dissapears into the distance on a service to Llangollen. GWR Dukedog 4-4-0 number 9017 stands at Carrog, ready with a departure to Llangollen. The West Lancashire Light Railway's Hunslet 0-4-0 tank Irish Mail, potters up and down it's temporary 2ft gauge track, giving footplate rides at Carrog. LNER D49 4-4-0 number 246 Morayshire, and B1 4-6-0 number 1306 Mayflower, approach Carrog with a double header from Llangollen. LNER B1 4-6-0 number 1306 Mayflower arrives at Glyndyfrydy with a service to Llangollen. The Llangollen Railway's resident autocoach W167 leads the autotrain service out of Glyndyfrdy towards Carrog. GWR 'Small Pannier' 0-6-0 tank 6430 powers it's autotrain (with autocoaches W167 and W228) out of Glydyfrydy. LNER B1 4-6-0 number 1306 Mayflower leaves Llangollen with the goods train in tow. LNER D49 4-4-0 number 246 Morayshire banks the goods train out of Llangollen. Autocoach W167 awaits more passengers at Llangollen. GWR 'Small Pannier' 0-6-0 tank 6430 waits at Llangollen with another autotrain service to Carrog. The South Devon Railway's Autocoach W228 waits at Llangollen for more passengers. LNER D49 4-4-0 number 246 Morayshire rests in the Llangollen Railway's loco yard. LNER B1 4-6-0 number 1306 Mayflower stands over the inspection pit at the Langollen Railway's loco yard, and has her fire dropped. GWR 2880 2-8-0 number 3802 stands in Llangollen loco yard, minus it's wheels, tender, and part of it's boiler cladding. LNER B1 4-6-0 number 1306 Mayflower, taking a well earned rest in Llangollen loco yard. GWR Manor 4-6-0 number 7822 Foxcote Manor and BR Class 25 diesel 25313 rest alongside each other at Llangollen Works. An 0-4-0 tank engine undergoes restoration inside Llangollen Works.

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]]> Mon Apr 27 2009 Warrington Bank Quay (16/04/2009) http://davidhennesseystrainworld.fotopic.net/c1683467.html Some good stuff was sighted at Warrington Bank Quay today, including DB Schenker 60040 on a coal train, various DB Schenker and Freightliner 66's, and a Merseyrail 507 unit drag from Birkenhead to Doncaster, dragged by DB Schenker 67008. Also included was Fertis 56018 (still) knocking around Warrington Arpley yard, and also the appearance of recently reinstated 37406 The Saltire Society. Enjoy the pictures. Thursday 16 April 2009: Some good stuff was sighted at Warrington Bank Quay today, including DB Schenker 60040 on a coal train, various DB Schenker and Freightliner 66's, and a Merseyrail 507 unit drag from Birkenhead to Doncaster, dragged by DB Schenker 67008. Also included was Fertis 56018 (still) knocking around Warrington Arpley yard, and also the appearance of recently reinstated 37406 The Saltire Society. Enjoy the pictures.

DB Schenker 66194 sits in the South bay at Warrington Arpley, in company with 92030 Ashford. DB Schenker 92030 Ashford, stabled in the South Bay at Warrington Bank Quay. DB Schenker 66119 races through Warrington Bank Quay, with an engineer's train from Crewe. At Warrington Arpley, Fertis 56018 (still awaiting transfer South), keeps company with the recently reinstated DB Schenker 37406 The Saltire Society. Behind the gates of Warrington Arpley, DB Schenker 37406 The Saltire Society, awaits it's next duties. DB Schenker 66119 returns light engine past Warrington Bank Quay, heading for Arpley. Freightliner 66607 passes Warrington Bank Quay, with a batch of new Network Rail engineerng waggons in tow. DB Schenker 66194 passes Warrington Bank Quay, with the afternoon Arpley to Liverpool Gladstone Dock freight working. DB Schenker 60040 The Territorial Army Centenary pauses at Warrington Bank Quay for a driver change, before proceeding towards Arpley with a coal train from Liverpool. DRS 66419 heads South through Warrington Bank Quay, with a container train. DB Schenker 60040 The Territorial Army Centenary passes under Slutchers Lane, with it's coal train bound for Fiddlers Ferry. Freightliner 66565 arrives briefly at Warrington Bank Quay for a driver change, with a coal train in tow. DB Schenker 67008 arrives at the back of Warrington Bank Quay, with a Merseyrail 507 drag from Birkenhead to Doncaster. The unit being dragged was 507020 John Peel. Merseyrail 507020 John Peel, pauses in unfamiliar surroundings at Warrington Bank Quay. DB Schenker 67008 waits at Warrington Bank Quay with it's Birkenhead to Doncaster 507 unit drag.

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]]> Thu Apr 16 2009 York Model Railway Show 2009 http://davidhennesseystrainworld.fotopic.net/c1682899.html The 47th Annual York Model Railway Show was held at York Racecourse on the Easter weekend of the 11th to the 13th of April 2009, and featured a variety of layouts in all scales and gauges. Thanks go to the various layout owners and societies for permission to have their work recorded for this collection. Monday 13 April 2009: The 47th Annual York Model Railway Show was held at York Racecourse on the Easter weekend of the 11th to the 13th of April 2009, and featured a variety of layouts in all scales and gauges. Thanks go to the various layout owners and societies for permission to have their work recorded for this collection.

A narrow gauge diesel awaits more work on the Creek Alley, Bumble Hole & Llon Gof railway, a 16mm scale layout owned by Paul Towers. A freelance 'quarry' Hunslet 0-4-0 awaits duty on the Creek Alley, Bumble Hole & Llon Gof railway, a 16mm scale layout owned by Paul Towers. Another narrow gauge diesel goes about it's shunting on the Creek Alley, Bumble Hole & Llon Gof railway, a 16mm scale layout owned by Paul Towers. Down on the wharf of Sowood (an 0 gauge layout owned by Norman & Nick Hughes), some goods waggons await collection. An LNER J72 tank engine pauses at Sowood (an 0 gauge layout owned by Norman & Nick Hughes). The station and goods yard of Penlan (a 4mm EM Scale layout owned by Sandy Croall). A GWR 2-4-0 tank engine waits with it's autotrain at Llaniog,

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]]> Mon Apr 13 2009 Acton Bridge (07/04/2009) http://davidhennesseystrainworld.fotopic.net/c1678683.html A day out to Acton Bridge produced some good freight traffic, with DB Schenker, Freightliner and DRS locos undertaking a variety of duties. Passenger traffic was represented by the usual flux of London Midland Desiro units, and Virgin Pendolinos and Voyagers. Thanks to the following for their good company and laughs: Stephen Harper Aaron Roberts (Wooybak8) Jez Smith (PrentonPimp) Kiyran Burke (StationEndGroup) Nathan Bridge (StationEndGroup) Tuesday 7 April 2009: A day out to Acton Bridge produced some good freight traffic, with DB Schenker, Freightliner and DRS locos undertaking a variety of duties. Passenger traffic was represented by the usual flux of London Midland Desiro units, and Virgin Pendolinos and Voyagers. Thanks to the following for their good company and laughs: Stephen Harper Aaron Roberts (Wooybak8) Jez Smith (PrentonPimp) Kiyran Burke (StationEndGroup) Nathan Bridge (StationEndGroup)

DB Schenker 66145 works a train of MGR coal waggons through Acton Bridge, heading towards Scotland. London Midland Desiro 350232 passes Acton Bridge on a Liverpool to Birmingham New Street service. DB Schenker 66102 drags a pair of unidentified 92's through Acton Bridge, heading towards Crewe. DRS 57007 passes Acton Bridge with empty flats in tow, heading towards Crewe. Freightliner 66593 (MG Mersey Multimodal Group) passes Acton Bridge with a Ditton liner train. DB Schenker 66004 cruises northwards through Acton Bridge with a coal train in tow. DB Schenker 67030 passes Acton Bridge on a Dowlow to Warrington Arpley working. DB Schenker 67029 Royal Diamond heads North through Acton Bridge. Freightliner/Bardon Aggregates 66623 Bill Bolsover passes Acton Bridge with brand new Network Rail engineering waggons bound for Crewe. DRS 66419 heads South through Acton Bridge with a container tran in tow. DB Schenker 92003 Beethoven passes light engine through Acton Bridge, heading for Ditton car terminal. DRS 57007 returns Northwards through Acton Bridge, with the same empty flats in tow. DB Schenker 66097 passes Acton Bridge on another coal train. Freightliner 90043 'Freightliner Coatbridge' passes Acton Bridge on a Northbound container train.

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]]> Tue Apr 7 2009 Grand National 2009 Charters at Runcorn and Liverpool South Parkway http://davidhennesseystrainworld.fotopic.net/c1676875.html Two well known luxury charter trains, the Venice Simplon Orient Express and the Northern Belle, ran seperate excursions from London to Runcorn and Liverpool Edge Hill, in conjunction with the 2009 Grand National. David Holden and I were on hand to record the two charters, plus DB Schenker 60085 on an empty coal train heading for Wapping Sidings. Enjoy the pictures! Saturday 4 April 2009: Two well known luxury charter trains, the Venice Simplon Orient Express and the Northern Belle, ran seperate excursions from London to Runcorn and Liverpool Edge Hill, in conjunction with the 2009 Grand National. David Holden and I were on hand to record the two charters, plus DB Schenker 60085 on an empty coal train heading for Wapping Sidings. Enjoy the pictures!

DB Schenker 90039 passes Runcorn, while working the London Euston to Liverpool Edge Hill Northern Belle excursion. 67008 was on the rear. At Runcorn, Virgin Pendolino 390027 Virgin Buccanier, passes London Midland Desiro 350103; the latter was on a service to Birmingham. DB Schenker 67026 arrives at Runcorn, with the London Victoria to Runcorn VSOE Pullman train. 67025 Western Star was at the rear. Some of the Pullman cars of the VSOE, as they unload their passengers at Runcorn. DB Schenker 67026 awaits the right away from Runcorn, with the empty VSOE working towards Edge Hill and Allerton. DB Schenker 67025 Western Star was at the rear of the London Victoria to Runcorn VSOE excursion. Seen here tailing the Pullmans out of Runcorn, en route towards Edge Hill and Allerton. The ECS of the Northern Belle headed to Crewe for servicing. Here at Runcorn, DB Schenker 90039 tails the set through Runcorn; 67008 was working the run to Crewe. DB Schenker 67025 Western Star appears at Liverpool South Parkway, while taking the VSOE to Allerton for servicing (due to Edge Hill being refurbished). DB Schenker 67026 tails the VSOE set through Liverpool South Parkway, en route to Allerton. DB Schenker 60085 MINI - Pride of Oxford, passes Liverpool South Parkway (unusually running on one of the fast lines), with an empty coal train from Fiddlers Ferry. She ran round her train at Wapping.

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]]> Sat Apr 4 2009 A grand day out with Valiant (28/03/2009) http://davidhennesseystrainworld.fotopic.net/c1673460.html BR Class 50 diesel 50015 Valliant was scheduled to work the Saturday diesel diagram of the low season, on the East Lancashire Railway. I went along to have a bash, and to enjoy company and laughs with some good friends. Steam was represented too, in the form of visiting BR Standard 4 tank 80098, and an Aveiling and Porter traction engine on the station forecourt at Rawtenstall! Thanks to the following YouTubers for the company and laughs: mststv Woolybak8 37057viking class90productions (formerly known as trainzarethebest) RoyalDiamond67029 Saturday 28 March 2009: BR Class 50 diesel 50015 Valliant was scheduled to work the Saturday diesel diagram of the low season, on the East Lancashire Railway. I went along to have a bash, and to enjoy company and laughs with some good friends. Steam was represented too, in the form of visiting BR Standard 4 tank 80098, and an Aveiling and Porter traction engine on the station forecourt at Rawtenstall! Thanks to the following YouTubers for the company and laughs: mststv Woolybak8 37057viking class90productions (formerly known as trainzarethebest) RoyalDiamond67029

BR 50015 Valiant waits at Ramsbottom, with the first train of the day to Rawtenstall. Through the keyhole of a Mk1 corridor gangway door, BR 50015 Valiant runs round at Rawtenstall. BR 50015 Valiant at Heywood, ready to work another service to Rawtenstall via Bury. BR Standard 4 tank 80098 provided the steam hauled service, as she waits at Bury Bolton Street. Back at Rawtenstall, BR 50015 Valiant runs round it's train. BR Standard 4 tank 80098 waits at Ramsbottom, for a path to Rawtenstall. Woolybak8 pauses for thought at Bury Bolton Street, while clutching a self-made paper plane! BR 50015 Valiant waits at Bury Bolton Street, before continuing to Heywood. At Rawtenstall, Aveiling and Porter traction engine Joanne is prepared for turning round, before dissapearing up the road. BR 50015 Valiant waits at Bury Bolton Street, before continuing onwards once more to Heywood.

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]]> Sat Mar 28 2009 Mother's Day Northern Belle at Lea Green http://davidhennesseystrainworld.fotopic.net/c1671017.html VSOE ran a Mother's Day Northern Belle excursion from Crewe to Morecambe and return, via Liverpool where the train (top and tailed) called at Lime Street station after coming up from Crewe, before reversing to run outward towards Morecambe. DB Schenker 67008 (not featured in the solitary photograph, but being mentioned for the record) and 67021 were in charge of this excursion. The train is seen on the outward run to Morecambe, and viewed from the bridge at Lea Green Road. Thanks to Yahoo Liverpool Rail for information beforehand. Check out the video over on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j6aStc2nF-U Sunday 22 March 2009: VSOE ran a Mother's Day Northern Belle excursion from Crewe to Morecambe and return, via Liverpool where the train (top and tailed) called at Lime Street station after coming up from Crewe, before reversing to run outward towards Morecambe. DB Schenker 67008 (not featured in the solitary photograph, but being mentioned for the record) and 67021 were in charge of this excursion. The train is seen on the outward run to Morecambe, and viewed from the bridge at Lea Green Road. Thanks to Yahoo Liverpool Rail for information beforehand. Check out the video over on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j6aStc2nF-U

DB Schenker 67021 leads the Morecambe bound 'Mother's Day Northern Belle' excursion, passing under Lea Green Road. 67008 was at the rear.

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]]> Sun Mar 22 2009 The East Lancashire Railway's Spring 2009 Diesel Gala http://davidhennesseystrainworld.fotopic.net/c1667086.html The East Lancashire Railway held a two day diesel weekend on Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th March (with the overnight service taking place inbetween), with trains hauled by various diesel locos operating in top and tail mode. The locos were: 1) BR Class 55 Deltic 55022 Royal Scots Grey 2) BR Class 47 number47402 Gateshead 3) BR (Railfreight) 37/9 number 37901 Mirrlees Pioneer 4) BR Class 24 number D5054 Phil Southern 5) BR Class 50 number 50015 Valliant 6) BR Class 40 D335 7) BR 1305 (The Thumper) Thanks to Aaron Roberts, David Holden, Chris Gallagher, Alex Riley, David Martin and all other bashers in attendance, for good company and top laughs! Saturday 14 March 2009: The East Lancashire Railway held a two day diesel weekend on Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th March (with the overnight service taking place inbetween), with trains hauled by various diesel locos operating in top and tail mode. The locos were: 1) BR Class 55 Deltic 55022 Royal Scots Grey 2) BR Class 47 number47402 Gateshead 3) BR (Railfreight) 37/9 number 37901 Mirrlees Pioneer 4) BR Class 24 number D5054 Phil Southern 5) BR Class 50 number 50015 Valliant 6) BR Class 40 D335 7) BR 1305 (The Thumper) Thanks to Aaron Roberts, David Holden, Chris Gallagher, Alex Riley, David Martin and all other bashers in attendance, for good company and top laughs!

BR 1305 (The Thumper) awaits passengers at Bury Bolton Street, for the shuttle service to Ramsbottom. BR Class 47 number 47402 Gateshead stands at Bury Bolton Street, on a service to Rawtenstall. BR Class 55 Deltic 55022 Royal Scots Grey at Ramsbottom, on the rear of a service to Heywood. BR Class 50 number 50015 Valliant powers out of Ramsbottom, en route to Heywood. BR Class 55 Deltic 55022 Royal Scots Grey at Heywood, ready to work a return run to Bury Bolton Street. BR Class 50 number 50015 Valliant stands at Bury Bolton Street, on the rear of the service to Rawtenstall. BR Class 24 number D5054 Phil Southern at Bury Bolton Street, waiting to work a service to Heywood. BR 1305 (The Thumper) arrives at Bury Bolton street, having been on a shuttle service to Ramsbottom. BR Class 55 Deltic 55022 Royal Scots Grey stands at Rawtenstall, at the end of a good run. BR Class 50 number 50015 Valliant waits at Rawtenstall, to lead a service to Heywood. BR Class 33 D6525 Captain Bill Smith RNR arrives at Ramsbottom, en route to Rawtenstall. BR Class 24 number D5054 Phil Southern at Ramsbottom, tailing the train lead by BR Class 33 D6525 Captain Bill Smith RNR. BR Class 40 D335 at Bury Bolton Street, on the rear of a service to Rawtenstall. BR Class 40 D335 at Bury Bolton Street, on the rear of a service to Rawtenstall. BR Class 50 number 50015 Valliant basks in the sunshine at Heywood. BR Class 55 Deltic 55022 Royal Scots Grey prepares to depart Heywood, on another run to Rawtenstall. BR (Railfreight) 37/9 number 37901 Mirrlees Pioneer at Ramsbottom, on the rear of a service to Heywood. BR Class 55 Deltic 55022 Royal Scots Grey prepares to depart Ramsbottom, en route to Rawtenstall. BR 1305 (The Thumper) stands idle at Bury Bolton Street, soon after a shuttle service from Ramsbottom. BR Class 33 D6525 Captain Bill Smith RNR pulls out of Bury Bolton Street, with a service to Rawtenstall.

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]]> Sat Mar 14 2009 Northallerton and York (featuring the Tyne Tornado) http://davidhennesseystrainworld.fotopic.net/c1666371.html A few hours out to my usual East Coast haunt of York, plus heading to Northallerton (a new location in my book), produced quite a lot of traffic. The main attraction however, was the A1 Steam Locomotive Trust's 60163 Tornado working the York to Newcastle steam leg of Pathfinder Tour's Tyne Tornado, which had started in Cardiff with two DB Schenker class 67's, which were 67001 and 67006 Royal Sovereign (not featured, but being mentioned for the record). Then it was back to York for a few hours looking around at the National Railway Museum. Hope you enjoy the pictures! Thursday 12 March 2009: A few hours out to my usual East Coast haunt of York, plus heading to Northallerton (a new location in my book), produced quite a lot of traffic. The main attraction however, was the A1 Steam Locomotive Trust's 60163 Tornado working the York to Newcastle steam leg of Pathfinder Tour's Tyne Tornado, which had started in Cardiff with two DB Schenker class 67's, which were 67001 and 67006 Royal Sovereign (not featured, but being mentioned for the record). Then it was back to York for a few hours looking around at the National Railway Museum. Hope you enjoy the pictures!

While waiting for the Grand Central HST to Northallerton, I decided to get a few shots. Here, DRS 37603 stands idle in York Parcels Sidings. Cross Country Voyager 220020 stands at platform 5, York station, on a South bound service. NXEC 91128 arrives at York with a service to Newcastle. NXEC 91119 arrives at York on a service to Edinburgh. Grand Central 43067 arrives at York. This was the HST that I took to Northallerton. Grand Central 43123 at York, on the rear of a Sunderland bound service. An unidentified (UID) Cross Country Voyager races through Northallerton. First Trans Pennine 185118 departs Northallerton on a service to Manchester Airport. First Trans Pennine 185139 arrives at Northallerton, on a service to Middlesborough. Cross Country Voyager 221122 races Northwards through Northallerton. Freightliner 66564 passes Northallerton on a coal train heading North. Another unidentified Cross Country Voyager cruises South through Northallerton. First Trans Pennine 185130 arrives at Northallerton on a service to Newcastle. NXEC 91115 passes Northallerton on a service towards the North. First Trans Pennine 185115 departs Northallerton on a service to Manchester Airport. Freightliner 66560 passes Northallerton on another coal train going North. First Trans Pennine 185151 at Northallerton, on a service to Middlesborough. NXEC 91127 arrives at Northallerton on a stopping service. NXEC HST Powercar 43307 races through Northallerton, heading towards York. The main attraction racing through Northallerton, heading for Newcastle: The A1 Steam Locomotive Trust's 60163 Tornado in charge of Pathfinder Tour's Tyne Tornado, which had originated from Cardiff, with a pair of DB Schenker 67's. 60163 took over at York, and got going only a few minutes late. The locomotive (built in 2008) is already making a name for itself, with a few successful tours under it's belt, and the prospect of many more to come. She also recently had the prestigious honour of hauling the Royal Train from York to Leeds, on the day of her naming ceremony. Back at York, Freightliner 66558 passes through the station, with a coal train heading for York Holgate BR Class 52 D1023 Western Fusilier stands within the confines of the Great Hall. BR 31018 in the Great Hall. National Railway Museum, York. GWR King 4-6-0 number 6000 King George V, positioned over the inspection pit in the Great Hall. National Railway Museum, York. Former BR and Virgin 87001 Royal Scot/Stephenson in the Great Hall. National Railway Museum, York. North Eastern Railway 2-2-4 tank engine 66 Aerolite basks in the brightness of the Great Hall. National Railway Museum, York. GWR Star 4-6-0 4003 Lode Star in the Great Hall. National Railway Museum, York. GWR Star 4-6-0 4003 Lode Star, and Southern 'Schools' 4-4-0 925 Cheltenham, stand side by side in the Great Hall. National Railway Museum, York. A closer look at GWR King 4-6-0 6000 King George V, in the Great Hall. National Railway Museum, York. LMS 2-6-4 tank 2500 under the bright roof of the Great Hall. National Railway Museum, York. Another look at former BR and Virgin 87001 Royal Scot/Stephenson in the Great Hall. National Railway Museum, York. The Japanese Shinkansen Bullet Train in the Great Hall. National Railway Museum, York. South Eastern & Chatham Railway 4-4-0 737 lurking in the corner of the Great Exhibition area. National Railway Museum, York. GWR 2-8-0 number 2818 in the Great Exhibition area. National Railway Museum, York. National Railway Museum, York. NER 4-4-0 1621 in the Exhibition Hall. National Railway Museum, York. LSWR tank 30245 in the Exhibition Hall. National Railway Museum, York. LMS Black 5 number 5000 in the 'Royal Trains' section of the Exhibition Hall. National Railway Museum, York. SR Battle of Britain 34051 Winston Churchill in the Exhibition Hall. National Railway Museum, York. In the works, BR D8000 undergoes some attention. National Railway Museum, York. From the balcony leading to the Works, BR D1023 Western Fusilier stands around in the Great Hall. National Railway Museum, York. From the footbridge, ex BR/Virgin 87001 Royal Scot/Stephenson in the Great Hall. National Railway Museum, York. From the footbridge, GWR King 4-6-0 6000 King George V in the Great Hall. National Railway Museum, York. BR Merchant Navy 35029 Ellerman Lines (sectioned to demomstrate the workings of a steam engine), stands without power in the Great Hall. National Railway Museum, York. Lancashire & Yorkshire 2-4-2 tank 1008, and LBSCR 0-4-2 214 Gladstone, stand next to each other in the Great Hall. National Railway Museum, York. GWR 4003 Lode Star and 6000 King George V, keep various other locos company in the Great Hall. National Railway Museum, York. BR Prototype HST Powercar 41001 in the Great Hall. National Railway Museum, York. LNER A4 4468 Mallard in the Great Hall. National Railway Museum, York. A sectioned replica of Stephenson's Rocket. National Railway Museum, York. In the last shot of the day, DRS 37603 awaits duty in York Parcels Sidings.

Published in David Hennessey's Train World

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