Summer may have only just begun, but recent weeks of warm and dry conditions have left numerous places fragile to fires; particularly some areas of lineside vegetation. As a result, it was no surprise to see Ex-LNER A4 Class - 60007 “Sir Nigel Gresley” make a noticeably subdued performance as it returned to the south-west, leading the ‘English Riviera Express’ with BR Class 47 - 47712 “Lady Diana Spencer” providing assistance. The tour would be operated by Locomotive Services Ltd, under their Saphos Trains banner.
The tour originated at Slough under diesel power, working through Reading, Newbury and Westbury to reach Taunton, where the A4 would take the reins. The tour would then continue south through Exeter and Paignton, and over onto the metals of the Dartmouth Steam Railway; working through to Kingswear. After reaching its destination, 60007 would work light to Churston to be turned and serviced before returning to Kingswear, ready to work the return leg to Taunton before being relieved for the remainder of the trip back to Slough. For operational convenience, 60007 would be stabled at Bishops Lydeard on the West Somerset Railway prior to, and after, working its sections of the tour.
This restrained performance was first demonstrated at Victory Crossing, with the A4 coasting through the Somerset countryside. As 60007 began the ascent of Goodrington Bank, matters seemed more favourable with the pacific at least audible as it climbed the gradient. After arriving into Kingswear, the pacific is seen leaving the seaside to head to Churston, and subsequently back at the head of the tour before lifting the consist out of Kingswear. Finally, combating unfortunate timing with a cloud, 60007 passed Pugham Farm on the final leg of its journey back to Taunton.
Footnote:
The day served as a test for a new tripod, which was only acquired the night before. Something of a ‘baptism of fire’.
All footage filmed on Saturday the 3rd of June 2023.
Негізгі бет 60007 "Sir Nigel Gresley" exercises caution with the 'English Riviera Express' 03/06/2023
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