Midlands Rail Photos http://midlandrailpics.fotopic.net/ 18 rows en-gb 60 November http://midlandrailpics.fotopic.net/c1776496.html 1st - Tornado at the SVR 2nd - Northampton, Stafford & Crewe 8th - Remembereance day at the SVR 9th - Tug at Water Orton 14th - 'The SLS Special' Pannier tour & 'The Boot & Hoot' 15th - Churnet Valley 'Anything Goes' gala Sunday 1 November 2009: 1st - Tornado at the SVR 2nd - Northampton, Stafford & Crewe 8th - Remembereance day at the SVR 9th - Tug at Water Orton 14th - 'The SLS Special' Pannier tour & 'The Boot & Hoot' 15th - Churnet Valley 'Anything Goes' gala

The classic view of Victoria Bridge crossing the Severn. The beautiful Autumnal colours were on show near Trimpley Resevoir as the N2 eases past the waterworks, as seen from Seckley viewpoint. The patchy sun shines across Victoria Bridge and the slithering Severn seen from Seckley viewpoint. The sun and smoke weren't out to play when Tornado passed my way on the last chimney first run of Tornado in daylight hours seen creeping over Victoria Bridge, seen from Seckley Viewpoint. The sun sets and the N2 smokes across Victoria Bridge amongst the vastly improved weather. A desiro tries its hardest to blend into the Northampton horizon. Stafford! The view of Crewe DMD complete with a few spoons. The Ruston reflects in Bwedley sidings after the heavy rain of the morning. A Rememberance Day Special arrives at Bewdley, amongst the growing Christmas decorations. The footplate experience comes to an end for a few guests and now the real driver takes over and waits for the road out of Bewdley. The work continues at Bewdley. Another rememberence service appropriatley garnished with a wreath of poppis on the approach to Bewdley. The only glimpse of sun for the whole day just caught the front of 42968 leaving Highley. The evening draws in at Highley signal box but the fire still burns. A location I've always wanted to get to was finally got to on a murky morning, but 60011 was there to brighten the mood seen heading away from the M42 after passing through Water Orton then north over the Tame river. What an introduction to mainline Panniers! 9600 & 9466 thunder across Oxley Viaduct on the outward leg of 'The SLS Special'. Even the weather couldn't keep em away as the pair pass the walls of photographers at Coalbrookdale on the way back to Bescot. An unnamed hoodie;) joins his fellow photographers in capturing 31190 making its slow way into Donington RFT with 'The Boot & Hoot' tour. A local resident greets the tour on arrival. Every possible location had at least one person there to see the Panniers on thier way. Here we view the pair storming past the gallery near Blakedown. At the SVR the home fleet took over with 5764 & 4566 seen coasting across the Viaduct outside Kidderminster. A magnificent loco was out to play during the CVR's 'Anything Goes' gala, Class S160 5197 reaches 25 after departing Consall, on the way to Cheddleton. A few strange arrangements were to be found during the gala, such as this, with D2334 on the front, being banked by 5199 out of Consall. The canal is nestled next to the railway at Consall, with the river just meters away its quite a squeeze in the fairly small valley. A little worse for wear but still sounding sweet, 33102 rings out the classic Sulzer sound across the Valley on the way to Cheddleton.

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]]> Sun Nov 1 2009 October http://midlandrailpics.fotopic.net/c1771532.html 1st - WCRC saloon 4th - NVR Diesel Gala 5th - 37401 6G45 8th - SVR Diesel Gala 9th - SVR Diesel Gala 10th - Grendon 12th - Stenson, Kegworth & Lichfield 17th - The Jorvic Growler 18th - East Lancs Diesel Gala 19th - 60074 & 47580 24th - Buffer Puffer 8.0 25th - GWR Diesel Gala 26th - Swift at Bescot Thursday 1 October 2009: 1st - WCRC saloon 4th - NVR Diesel Gala 5th - 37401 6G45 8th - SVR Diesel Gala 9th - SVR Diesel Gala 10th - Grendon 12th - Stenson, Kegworth & Lichfield 17th - The Jorvic Growler 18th - East Lancs Diesel Gala 19th - 60074 & 47580 24th - Buffer Puffer 8.0 25th - GWR Diesel Gala 26th - Swift at Bescot

The metalwork of Water Orton's bridge frames a Voyager and the approaching spoon. Alycidon runs round the stock at Wansford on its first service of the day to Peterborough. One of the advantages of the foreign stock is the best view in the house. At Peterborough D9009 provides it's own power on the run round. 31271 & 31108 run round thier train at Peterborough. A random telephone box at Wansford overshadows D9009. 50008 sits at Ferry Meadows in the setting sun. The empties signify the end of the Gala. D9009 stands next to the gates of the railway. D5185 runs round its train shortly before the penultimate service arrives. Final memories of Wansford are captured in zeros and ones. A pleasnt scene over the river Nene as 50008 makes its final arrival into Wansford. Always good for a Growl. 37401 takes charge of the 6G45 to Bescot, seen thundering through Wiggington, north of Tamworth. The drivers at the SVR we always friendly and provide a warm welcome to the railway. D1062 looms over the partition at Kidderminster. D1062 tries to see onto the concourse at Kidderminster. 'Thats where he keeps his Stella' shouts one enthusiast. The sun finds a hole in the clouds and D444 finds a hole in the crowds at Highley. A tractor in the valley. 37264 put on a great performance on its debut in preservation. Highley became very busy at the gala thanks to the emergency timetable. 50135 arrives into the valley station. D1062 smokes into Highley as we wait for the next service. 37906 elluded me this time after it failed on the Friday. Here we see the Ruston awaiting our arrival and its departure from Arley. D821 draws the crowds in, into teh engine room it seems. Photos presented themselves at Highley quite regularly. This one involved D821 and 37906. The signallers were kept very busy at Highley. 50135 waits for its departure time at Bewdley, as do the punters with the last train back to Kidderminster. 50135 stands proud after it's storming run from Bridgnorth, seen at Kidderminster. A trip behind 73006 took us to Bewdley. D1013 pleases the punters on arrival at Bewdley. A pigeon's about to have its peace pulled off at Bewdley. I particularly liked the Load Haul liveried hi-viz' at Highley. A classic sorta shot outside Highley signal box. The crossing guards let photographers grab this shot at Highley of D821 waiting for it's next service. The staff enjoy the hours rest at Bridgnorth. The steamers still get thier work done at Bridgnorth. A common sight at Bridgnorth was this as the punters made thier way from the arriving service to the next departure mere minutes away. D1062's driver waits for the drag back to Bridgnorth. A Pendolino passes Grendon in the early morning mist. In the early morning rays at Stenson Jn. passes 97304 next to the remnants of Willington Power Station sidings. Consecutive tractors 607 & 608 pass Stenson Jn. in the early morning rays. The Duchess of Sutherland heads towards the main line off the Uttoxeter line at Willington. EMT's HST's pass Sutton Bonnington 2 to the hour. 66622 heads south at Kegworth through the Autumnal colours. As the sun dissapears north of Lichfield, 90045 speeds north. The last rays near Lichfield strike a Desiro flanking an old construction road now deralict after the completion of the Trent Valley four tracking. A quck dash to see 'The Jorvic Spoon' as it was names by some after 37516 broke and forced 47851 to tail the tour back home after 37516 was left behind at York. 37676 leads the trio some hours late at Wiggington. The view to greet guests at the ELR was this tantalising glimpse of 40145 at the other side of Bury Tunnel. One of the prettiest locos I've seen, 37109 drifts into Bury Bolton Street. 37418's apperance reminded me of the Rhymney 37 days, seen here standing at Heywood. The combination of various DMU's, some with heating, some without, depart from Ramsbottom into the sidings.

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]]> Thu Oct 1 2009 September http://midlandrailpics.fotopic.net/c1771189.html 5th - 33217 on 'The Merry-le Bone' 7th - Colin T. Gifford Exhibition 12th - GCR Diesel Gala 13th - Shakespeare Express in Monochrome 14th - Leamington & Coventry 19th - D1015 'Western Slater' tour 20th - Battlefield Diesel Gala 21st - Tamworth 26th - The Purbeck Growler & White Rose Express 30th - 47760 & 31190 6Z56 Tuesday 1 September 2009: 5th - 33217 on 'The Merry-le Bone' 7th - Colin T. Gifford Exhibition 12th - GCR Diesel Gala 13th - Shakespeare Express in Monochrome 14th - Leamington & Coventry 19th - D1015 'Western Slater' tour 20th - Battlefield Diesel Gala 21st - Tamworth 26th - The Purbeck Growler & White Rose Express 30th - 47760 & 31190 6Z56

33217 heads through Water Orton with 'The Merry-le Bone' tour to...you guesed it. Colin T. Giffords work gets admired during the SVR exhibition. The many totems and signs of the SVR's Cafe/Museum. A first for the GCR, 50007 heads past a soon to be busy Kinchley Lane. A reflective D1705 at Rothley. D1705 departs amongst a cloud of Sulzer smoke. Elgar arrives into Rothley under the watchful camcorder of the signalman. A crowd gathers to watch 50007 leave Rothley. 55019 looks beautiful in blue at Kinchley Lane. The long awaited shot at Kinchley Lane of 50007. Woodthorpe bridge was heaving all day. 47714 puts on a display for the masses. 37314 runs around at Loughborough as the work continues. 37314 keeps up the tractor traditions as she leaves Loughborough. D5185 maneuvers around the workman, concentrating hard on the job at hand. 55019 looks and sounds fantastic leaving Loughborough. Half of the GCR attendees raced off to the classic location outside Loughborough mainline to see 60009 with the 6M34 to Peak Forest, The crowds carried on into the evening as 27056 elbows itself into the shot. A border of shrubs and shutters holds a view of D123 at Woodthorpe. 55019 was still drawing the crowds late into the afternoon, seen on its penultimate run into Loughborough. 37314 rolls towards Loughborough in the rapidly setting sun at Woodthorpe. 55019 gave a spirited performance for the few that were willing to stay till the last. A fellow photographer put it best 'Thats made my hairs stand up on end'. Stratford upon Avon seems stuck in a time warp after the Shakespeare Express arrived. At Birmingham Snow Hill, they have to use platform 4 as its the only one without smoke detectors! The art of attaching a headboard. A rare view through the waiting room windows at Snow Hill. Snow Hill has a strange array of platform parifinalia, this time accompanied by the Earl of Mount Edgecombe Drivers and fireman joke amongst themselves awaiting departure. Steamers can't hold some peoples attention for that long. Many here to see the Shakespeare Express just chanced upon it at Birmingham as they continue thier journey by DMU. A Chiltern service adds to the noise around Leamington Spa station. A few minutes to kill at Leamington. Commuters bareley notice the art deco stylings and old adverts at Leamington Spa. The new layout at Rugby makes photographing the services that have a driver change easy. D1015 completes the view at Blaenau Dolwyddelan with 'The Western Slater' to Blaenau Ffestiniog. The photographers get their shots in at Blaenau Ffestiniog station alongside the Ffestiniog railway. D1015 sounds magnificent on the departure from Blaenau Ffestiniog, seen snaking round the slate heaps and past photographers atop the remains of an old viaduct shortly before dissapearing into Blaenau Ffestiniog tunnel. A beautiful overview of Colwyn Bay, complete with the day's centerpiece, D1015, skirting the North Wales Coast on it's way back to Didcot. Jostling for position as 31276 runs round at Shenton. Basher photography. 56086 awaits it turn to shine amongst the rolling fields at Shackerstone. A bridge near Market Bosworth became home to many photters over the weekend at the Battlefield and one of the sought after shots was this, of 56086, 56040 & 73114 heading south in the sun. The return working seen at Congerstone on the way back to Shackerstone. 'Oystermouth' proudly sports its Carry on Clagging trophy. Oystermouth poses at Shackerstone. Oystermouth gets admired by more visitors. The end of any gala is signified by the empties. A Battlefield proverb outside the gift shop. The rat runs alongside the wall of trees on the approach to Shackerstone. One final trip behind that classic pairing..., a grid and a ped? The sun sets and the secondman waits to get the signal into the yard.

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]]> Tue Sep 1 2009 The Netherlands http://midlandrailpics.fotopic.net/c1755369.html Visions of The Netherlands' railways over a 3 day visit to the country. Tuesday 18 August 2009: Visions of The Netherlands' railways over a 3 day visit to the country.

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]]> Tue Aug 18 2009 August http://midlandrailpics.fotopic.net/c1735941.html 3rd - 1Q12, 47786 & 47802+47501 15th - Rail-Blue Paignton Charter 16th - N2 & the LMS Fairburn Tank at the GCR 17th - Grantham, Chelmsford & Colchester 22nd - Marks Tey & Bishop Stortford 23rd - GCRn 30th - Churnet Valley Railway 37075 Saturday 1 August 2009: 3rd - 1Q12, 47786 & 47802+47501 15th - Rail-Blue Paignton Charter 16th - N2 & the LMS Fairburn Tank at the GCR 17th - Grantham, Chelmsford & Colchester 22nd - Marks Tey & Bishop Stortford 23rd - GCRn 30th - Churnet Valley Railway 37075

Nice way to start the month. Sequential tractors 610 & 611 approach Bagworth on the Ivanhoe Line with the 1Q12, only to return after we'd left because of a cable fire! 66612 heads the bright rake north at Cossington. The walkway to the platforms at Sileby lead to 66706 working another load of yellows back south. Quite by chance we chose the right place at the right time! 47786 powers through Tamworth with a regular to Carnforth. And minutes later 47802 & 47501 speed through heading south through Tamworth to Tonbridge. The Rail-Blue charter to Paignton is seen headed by 47501 & 47802 towards Water Orton and a surprising amount of photographers for such dull conditions. The newly restored GNR N2 1744 looks resplendent in its green livery near Loughborough on the GCR southbound. The other loco out that day was the LMS Fairburn Tank 42085 seen departing Loughborough. A busy scene at Grantham as North Eastern serice powers through the barrage of bridges above the station with a 365 seen slinking away in the background. Commuters await thier train without a care for anything but the arrival of thier service. The classic colours of the EC with 365513 arriving. The view from the 'Grantham Water Tower Car Park', chosen cus its cheaper than the railways car park! A 91 set speeds towards the station. Framed at Chelmsford just before we embarked on a long adventure to Holand with the 'Dutch-Flyer' train/ferry service. A change at Colchester and a view of our train glinting in the sun was had. A 90 cathces the dying rays whilst a 321 speeds London bound. Spot the Sudbury Scud! Ominous skies surround Marks Tey. The view of two very different lines joining at Marks Tey. A view from the bridge of Marks Tey seconds after the 153 departs. Then a minute later the ancient brickwork is rocked by 90014 thundering through. A crossing near Bishops Stortford warns users of approaching trains, such as 317714. A patch of sun catches a 317 as it slows for the approach to Bishops Stortford. A 317 glides past amongst the footpaths and fields. The fetching original livery is seen speeding by applied to a distant 317. 47292 looks resplendent in all its wide angle glory in the new platform at Ruddington. Did the dice come with the repaint? 'I would but I've only got one mug.' The newly painted Mk2 coach looks superb at Ruddington. The bunting is up, the sun is out and the train is off with the second service of the day with 56097 at the rear. An unusual place just outside of Ruddington where the local country park is intersected by the GCRn, giving excellent views to all as E6016 gets admired. E6016 goes about its duties amongst many admirers. 47292 gets symmetrical as it wafts into Ruddington. A HDR of the grid in the new platform awaiting its final run of the day. I tried to recreate a previous HDR I took here when 56097 was in the old platform. I think the old photo worked out better:). The Ruddington Runningboard situated inside the shed for all to admire, and smudge. A fine job has been done of the new platform, and theres plenty of signage to remind punters of the new arrangement. During my visit there was only one hardy soul working hard on dismantling the old platform. The Churnet's 5199 Prairie needed a bit of TLC, under the watchful eyes of the visitors. 'Its a bit tight down there'. The CVR's dining train looked very welcoming as we sped past on the DMU. A classic view at Cheddleton with the 104 sat awaiting departure. The entrance to the gents makes a good spot for photos of the station, seen as the shunter sneaks past. The crossing keeper waits for the next service at Cheddleton. 37075 drifts towards Cheddleton amongst the unspoilt scenery. Kingsley & Froghall through the eyes of the carriage. The tractor mascot gets ready for some thrash as 37075 sneaks up to couple. The bashers diet. 37075 heads back around the train at Leek Brook. The benefits of 1st class. Peeping Tom. 47524 hides 37075 at Cheddleton.

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]]> Sat Aug 1 2009 July http://midlandrailpics.fotopic.net/c1729006.html 4th - 1001 'Midland Forester' tour 18th - 'The Lincolnshire Poacher' & 'The Cumbrian Coast Express' 19th - Churnet Valley 37065 & BLS tour 20th - Hogwarts Castle, 90 set & 47245 26th - The Shakespeare Express 27th - Nuneaton & Rugby area WCML Wednesday 1 July 2009: 4th - 1001 'Midland Forester' tour 18th - 'The Lincolnshire Poacher' & 'The Cumbrian Coast Express' 19th - Churnet Valley 37065 & BLS tour 20th - Hogwarts Castle, 90 set & 47245 26th - The Shakespeare Express 27th - Nuneaton & Rugby area WCML

The East Midlands was home to a rare visitor, 1001 makes her way through Rearsby, near Syston, on the outward leg of the 'Midland Forester' tour. 1001 thumps off into the distance at Rearsby. Keeping with the southern theme, the GCR was running is slammer too. The return leg of the tour was seen at Barrow-upon-Soar station in the afternoon sun. The last time I'll see 1001 for some time, probably, as she heads off back south at Barrow. Well, this wasn't the shot I had planned, but then again I did arrive simultaneously with the tour, so here's D1916 at the rear of 'The Cmbrian Coast Express' on departure from Tamworth. And literally moments later 4936 'Kinlet Hall' storms the upstairs at Tamworth with 'The Lincolnshire Poacher' tour, despite the headboard. The unusual 37075 bursts into Kingsley & Froghall station on the CVR. 'Man, these train guys sure have a sense of humour' says 47524. 5199 approaches Cheddleton under an increasingly angry sky. The anger was released upon Consall as 37075 departs. The beautifully situated station of Consall gently evaporates, as did I, after the prolonged downpour. 37075 speeds into Consall across an overflow from the canal. 37075 powers from Consall. 5199 rumbles into a lightly patronised Consall. The nicer side of 37075 leads into Consall, as 4199 sits and waits for the diesel to get out of its path. Well here's a first, bowlage by a freight on a Sunday. Ironic that we were jsut a few hours earlier discussing wether we'd ever been bowled photting a railtour! 66090 with 47843 DIT almost get bowled by 66046 at Water Orton with the return of the cleverly named 'South Yorks and Mid Notts Railtour'. Most of Water Orton came out to cheer on celebrity 5972 'Olton Hall' on her way to York from Tyseley. The 90 set is still quitley going about its business, seen here with 90026 at the helm passing through Berkswell and past the old crossing keeprs house. The old faithful Southall-Carnforth produced 47245, seen at Hardwick Crossing near Sutton Park. Definitley a rushed one this! We dived out the car to be greeted by 5043 'Earl of Mount Edgecumbe' slogging up the hill out of Tyseley with an ECS for 'The Shakespeare Express'. 5043 coasts towards Bearley, shortly before passing Edstone aqueduct carrying the Stratford Canal over the railway and road below. Shame it was the wrong way round! I simply had to visit Hatton, so heres 5043 powering onto the Chiltern mainline heading back to Birmingham as the rain tests my perseverance. A Pendolino races past a great little location just south of Nuneaton station. The unmistakeable Colas livery rests on 47739 seen passing near Whitestone, south of Nuneaton. A rather hellfire sized MPV heads north near Whitestone, south of Nuneaton. The classic view at Cathiron, graced by a Pendo, shortly before some torrential rain passed by.

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]]> Wed Jul 1 2009 June http://midlandrailpics.fotopic.net/c1706913.html 1st - 97301 & Trent Valley Freight 2nd - 5x20 0Z86 & Midland Freight 5th - D1013 'Western Ranger' at the SVR 6th - D1062 'Western Courier' at the SVR & 60007 7th - 31289 'Phoenix' at the Northampton & Lamport 15th - 37218 & 37607 test train & 56312 4Z91 20th - 47580 'Castle Over Shap' 23rd - TnT 47's Green Express 26th - Thames Turbos 27th - Chinnor & Princes Risborough Gala 28th - The Watercress Line Monday 1 June 2009: 1st - 97301 & Trent Valley Freight 2nd - 5x20 0Z86 & Midland Freight 5th - D1013 'Western Ranger' at the SVR 6th - D1062 'Western Courier' at the SVR & 60007 7th - 31289 'Phoenix' at the Northampton & Lamport 15th - 37218 & 37607 test train & 56312 4Z91 20th - 47580 'Castle Over Shap' 23rd - TnT 47's Green Express 26th - Thames Turbos 27th - Chinnor & Princes Risborough Gala 28th - The Watercress Line

97301 coasts towards Whitacre Jn., through the village of Whitacre with the 5Z97 Derby-Sutton Bridge Jn. 57601 powers south with a saloon working from Carnforth to Southall seen passing through the rolling fields of Grendon near Atherstone. Atherstone's soon to be dismantled footbridge frames 86639 & 319 heading south with the 4L92. One of my favorite views from Grendon, this time filled with 92034 and the cars heading south. A 90 Modal heads North towards Tamworth at Grendon in the summer evening sun. Not long before the light dissapears completley, a Pendo is seen curving past Merevale Hall, outside Atherstone. Lea Marston is home to yet another XCHST shot seen looking north. The 6E50 steel wire working heads north at Lea Marston with 66170 in charge. 66303 catches a glimpse of sun at Arley on the Birmingham-Nuneaton line. Move of the day award went to DRS. This is the 0Z86 comprising of 20306, 308, 310, 312 & 313 seen in the New Hall Valley, near Water orton, on the Sutton Park line. An unexpected, but very welcome runner at the SVR was D1013 'Western Ranger' seen here passing through a deserted Hampton Loade station doing the 'driving school' as it was put to me by a member of staff at the SVR that day. D1013 'Western Ranger' gets signal checked just before entering Highley station with a driver training run back to Bridgnorth. Another day, another Western! This time it was to be D1062 'Western Courier' working into a very very wet Bewdley station heading for Kidderminster with the guttering doing its very best on the footbridge! The rain eased by the time D1062 reached Arley on the working back to Bridgnorth. But the rain came back with a vengance as 'Western Courier' came back from Bridgnorth, seen here not far from the site of Eardington Station. The rain put me off seeing 60007 'Sir Nigel Gresely' on his way up to Chester, but the rain finally stopped so I managed to get this shot. Here we see 60007 passing over Leek Wootton viaduct near Old Milverton on the single track section between Coventry & Leamington with 'The Cathederals Express'. The quaint Northampton & Lamport Rlwy. had 31289 'Phoenix' running the services, and here is the Goyle heading into Pitsford & Brampton station. 31289 reflects(ha!) upon the day as it waits at Pitsford & Brampton for the next service. A feature of the N&L is the ability to walk up and down the entire length, so heres a shot from trackbed level of 31289 heading towards the station. Thanks must go to the driver for the clag in this view of Phoenix heading away from Boughton Sidings. One final view of 31289 coasting back towards the station with the final service of the day. 37218 & 37607 protect the 'Mentor' from the approaching storm at Washwood Heath. 56312 approaches its final destination of Hams Hall after working from Dollands Moor as the 4Z91, seen here passing Whitacre Junction after restarting from the signal. The Gothic Waterworks at Whitacre loom over the seemingly insignificant 47580 working the 1Z80 'Castle Over Shap' tour to Carlisle, with 5043 to attach at Crewe. The morning sun shines on Whitacre Junction, and 47826 & 47804 seen snaking through the ridiculous curves on 'The Green Express' to Sailsbury. A 165 heads across an Island on the Thames on its way to Windsor. Another 165 heads past the ferris wheel, Windsor Castle and over the Thames on the way to the castle. 37116 encounters a problem after running round it's train near princes Risborough, so has to leave it's passengers behind and head off to Chinnor alone. 37116 heads back to Chinnor light engine. No smoking! 60019 'Bittern' was in service the day i visited the Watercress Line, and here she is shortly before departing, with 1125 alongside, both in HDR glory at Arlesford. 1125 makes a run into Arlesford on test with plenty of Hi-Viz' present. 34007 'Wadebridge' storms into Arlesford with the next service. Alton station, old and new. Wadbridge is framed at Alton whilst running round. Bittern gets admired on her penultimate service.

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]]> Mon Jun 1 2009 Eastleigh 100 http://midlandrailpics.fotopic.net/c1704489.html Eastleigh 100 - A centenary event held at Eastleigh Depot, filled with such a vastness of locomotives, I won't list them all here. A fun day was had by all and the weather was fantastic. Thanks to Matt for all the organisation. Sunday 24 May 2009: Eastleigh 100 - A centenary event held at Eastleigh Depot, filled with such a vastness of locomotives, I won't list them all here. A fun day was had by all and the weather was fantastic. Thanks to Matt for all the organisation.

before the event opened fully, a quick visit to the model railways was made, with the big perring upon the small. Reflections of traction in windows, D60 to be precise. The classic line up shot, from left to right D1015 'Western Champion', D60, 55022 & 47580. 47712 - cabbed it! The works is quite close to the airport, make of it what you will. Do all DRS drivers drive like this? Yeah its nice, but can you paint an ED? A handheld HDR of 37422 & E6043. Another line upish, this time of 20's. Cue Jaws music as a tiny 73 gets spyed on by a shed. A slammer refelcts in the sheer luminance of 59206. Slammers and Eastleigh. A match made in heaven. This is enough that anyone needs to see of 50135 sporting her new frock. WCRC supplied a few maroon machines in the form of 37516 & 37706 with D1015 peeking in the back. So is there gonna be an Eastleigh 101? The even more classic line up shot - D1015, D60, 55022 & 47580. Shame they could'nt quite line em' up properly, but what can I say, I'm jsut a freeloading photographer! 37608 sports an apt headboard. Old hat and new skool side by side, discarded on the well trodden ground. An empty packet for a memory card lies next to a flattened case from a roll of film.

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]]> Sun May 24 2009 GCRn Diesel Gala http://midlandrailpics.fotopic.net/c1700613.html Something of a washout this time round, but diesel filled never the less. Loco's in attendence were 08114, 20154, 37248, 47292, 56097, 66731 & 73110. Sunday 17 May 2009: Something of a washout this time round, but diesel filled never the less. Loco's in attendence were 08114, 20154, 37248, 47292, 56097, 66731 & 73110.

Bloody Gronk. Heres the culprit of all the waiting, 08114 trundles VERY slowly into Rushcliffe Halt. D7629 at the rear of the first train of the day, waiting to move from Rushcliffe. Ruddington catches a glimpse of sun, as does 20154 at the rear of the next departure. The most amazing model I've ever seen. Not because of its technical aspects, just cus its a freaking 90 you can ride behind! Thanks to the guys at the SMEE for letting us take photos up close. 20154 creeps on tiptoes across the viaduct outside Loughborough towards the southern end of the line, with 47292 about to do the same. A bit of a rushed one this! As the rain begins to lash, 47292 begins to thrash...north towards East Leake. A hop over to the GCR to grab a shot of 37314, but first a view of 78019 powering away from Loughborough heading south. 37314 heads north towards loughborough in a patch of cloud after a long while of sun. Its still a large logo 37 though. A guest to the GCRn this gala was 66731 seen heading towards Loughborough near Stanford-on-Soar. 73110 heads back north, working pretty hard to haul that shed through Stanford-on-Soar. The view from the southern portal of Barnstone Tunnel shows 56097 slowing to a halt before providing the enthusiasts with one last grid thrash back to Ruddington.

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]]> Sun May 17 2009 May http://midlandrailpics.fotopic.net/c1695793.html 1st - Crewe 2nd - 'The Heart of Wales Scenic Rambler' & 'The Welsh Mountaineer' 4th - 'The Retro Avon Grid' & Sydney Gardens 9th - 'The Cambrian Mountaineer' 10th - Footex, 37676 & 50044 11th - Comberford, near Tamworth 13th - 0Z86 & 6M67 23rd - Clan Line, Oliver Cromwell, 47760 & The Wessexman. 24th - Didcot parkway 25th - 50044 at the SVR 28th - 56311 30th - 86259, 57601 & footex 31st - Old Milverton Friday 1 May 2009: 1st - Crewe 2nd - 'The Heart of Wales Scenic Rambler' & 'The Welsh Mountaineer' 4th - 'The Retro Avon Grid' & Sydney Gardens 9th - 'The Cambrian Mountaineer' 10th - Footex, 37676 & 50044 11th - Comberford, near Tamworth 13th - 0Z86 & 6M67 23rd - Clan Line, Oliver Cromwell, 47760 & The Wessexman. 24th - Didcot parkway 25th - 50044 at the SVR 28th - 56311 30th - 86259, 57601 & footex 31st - Old Milverton

The catering staff joke amongst themselves as a Pendolino passes Crewe heading south. 90021 approaches a bay at Crewe on a quick jolly. A particularly ugly looking 31285 heads back to crewe after it's Cambrian jaunt. The showers give a chance to reflect. Literally. A Voyagers headlight leaves its trail down the Crewe platform. Thank god for that signal. Its given me something to compose my shot with twice now! 66152 heads through Crewe for the third time. So thats where all those cans went! Of course when you get there, all you get is a bloody Shed on the boring ballast working. Nevertheless, a shot is attainable here and will be used on the next visit. 57313 stands pround under the Union Jack shortly before heading off for Wales on the WAG express. Ahh what a relaxing sight. Goyle 459 purrs away as the evening sun reflects upon the rails at Crewe. 37401 & 37670 growl through Little Stretton with 'The Heart of Wales Scenic Rambler' heading for Cardiff through the Marshes. 45231 'The Sherwood Forester' & 45407 'The Lancashire Fusilier' make a fantastic sight heading towards Roman Bridge on the Conwy Valley line to Ffestiniog hauling 'The Welsh Mountaineer' on the outward leg. Here the pair are again, 45231 & 45407 emerge from the slate hills outside Blaneau Ffestiniog station, where a host of SLR's from circa 1950 were waiting for the outward leg of 'The Welsh Mountaineer'. A wounderful sight at Blaneau Ffestiniog as the Ffestiniog Railways Double Farlie loco releases steam alongside 45231 which appropriatley does the same! Yet another wounderful Welsh terminus. Llandudno plays host to a victorian weekend and 67001 led a tour there to add to the sheer amount of punters on the sea front. The return leg was steam hauled all the way to Crewe, and here the pair are seen powering towards Gwrych Castle, near Pensarn, with the return leg of 'The Welsh Mountaineer'. The fairly unique Patchwork Tunnel is the location, the completley unique 56312 & 56311 are the locos heading 'The Retro Avon Grid' railtour to Bath. The other part of the tour involved 57311 working the Bristol-Bath-Bristol section of 'The Retro Avon Grid' tour, seen here heading for Twerton, near Bath. The obligatory stop at Sydney Gardens to get 'that shot you've always wanted'. I got mine when two 150's passed. Another view of the unique architechture of Sydney Gardens this time graced with a HST. Is there any better place to carry out your hobby than this? A view towards Bath station with a HST entering the frame. Another well known landmark that Brunel gave the world to admire: Box Tunnel is seen in all its splendour with a HST heading for Swindon at speed. 57311 leads the tour back to Bristol seen passing through Twerton. That classic view at Sutton Bridge Jn., just outside Shrewsbury as 97301 passes its soon to be home with 37676 and 50044 DOR with the outward leg of 'The Cambrian Mountaineer' railtour for Aberystwyth. The wounderful view of 97301 & 37676 skirting the Afon Dyfi just after departing Dovey Junction station with 'The Cambrian Mountaineer'. Ironic reflections were not missed by the many cranks that descended on Aberystwyth as 97301 and 37676 stand at Aberystwyth awaiting the return journey. The bit I'd been waiting for! 50044 vibrates the valley with all 16 cylinders at full chat with the return working of 'The Cambrian Mountaineer' tour back towards Shrewsbury, seen at Caerhowel. 57308 leads 47786 which failed earlier in the journey from Glossop - Wembley footex with 47826 at the rear, seen through Rugeley Trent Valley. The SVR was holding its Thomas day, but the best thing for us grown ups were the faces on the steamers! Wait, I mean, seeing D1062 starting up...of course. D1062 'Western Courier' is seen in an accidental Great Western line up at Bridgnorth, shortly after starting one engine to run a few tests. Shame she didn't move! It's still a train isn't it! The day the semaphores dissapear from Kidderminster will be a slightly sad one. Here we see 150013 heading south. Never really saw the front of 37676 on the tour, but that was rectified as 'Loch Rannoch' slows to a halt outside Kidderminster to drop 50044 'Exeter' back at the Severn Valley Railway. 'Exeter' is promptly started and uncoupled ready to be handed over. 86501 heads south at Comberford, West of Tamworth with a liner. You can see it if you squint. 92042 heads south with cargowagons for Ripple Lane seen at Comberford. Water Orton is where young gricers learn the basics and old ones hone it to perfection. 37401 growls quietly up the Sutton Park line towards Bescot from Washwood Heath seen on East View Rd. Oh what a sight, 20309 dragging 20301 & 20305 forming the 0Z86 Crewe-Eastleigh mover so that 1 & 5 can be stored, seen on the Sutton Park many hundreds of minutes late at East View Rd. 37601 & 37609 drag flask39 up the hill from Park Ln. Junction onto the Sutton Park line, heading for Crewe. The Trio. Waiting for Clan Line outside Southampton, the shadows of three Vegtables were cast upon the ground... 35028 'Clan Line' slows on the approach to Southampton Central, passing Millbrook with the sprawling docks in the background hauling 'The Eastleigh Centenarian'. A quick dash across to the other side of Southampton to get a view of 'Clan Line' once again, this time just after exiting the tunnel outside Southampton with 'The Eastleigh Centenarian'. A classic location outside Southampton as 37602 & 37069 pass Totton on the outward leg of 'The Wessexman'. Just outside Brockenhurst 47760 signals the imminent approach of a steam tour... ...'The Dorset Coast Express' tour to be precise with 70013 'Oliver Cromwell' at the helm making a magnificent sound rounding the curve outside Brockenhurst. Not again... 'Clan Line' powers along with the return of 'The Eastleigh Centenarian'. A move to just outside Winchester to see our two remaining tours, the first of which was the return of 'The Dorset Coast Express' hauled by 47760 this time round. The final traction of the day was the return of 'The Wessexman' hauled by 37602 & 37069 towards Winchester. A HST passes the well photographed Didcot power station shortly after exiting the station. A HST departs in all its MTU glory out of Didcot Parkway in the glorious evening sun after a long day at Eastleigh.

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]]> Fri May 1 2009 Midland Railway Diesel Gala http://midlandrailpics.fotopic.net/c1689098.html As April tried hard to uphold her usual standards, the sun triumphed for the most part and gave light to an excellent MRC Gala which was host to 20189, 20227, 31108, 45041, 45133, 46045 and 47401. Sunday 26 April 2009: As April tried hard to uphold her usual standards, the sun triumphed for the most part and gave light to an excellent MRC Gala which was host to 20189, 20227, 31108, 45041, 45133, 46045 and 47401.

20189 leads the first train of the day into Swanwick Jn. under glorious skies. 45113 glints in the sun at Swanwick. The quaint 416 heads for a test up the Swanwick Colliery branch. 'Whats everyone lookin at?' 20189 returns from its travels as 45113 awaits its turn. Twin Peaks! Sorry, it had to be done. 45041 passes its gleaming brother 45113 as it approaches Swanwick Jn. D2138 slides into Butterley with the DMU. 45113 creeps across the embankment towards Butterley station as the fishermen & fisherwomen take up thier hobby next to ours. 08590 basks at Butterley awaiting the all clear for the run to Swanwick. 31108 enters Butterley under heavy sun. 47401 looks smashing in the sun as she approaches the Riddings run round loop at the eastern end of the line. The view from the other side, 47401 takes it easy past Ironville Cemetary on the way back to Swanwick. 46045 powers up the short incline to Swanwick Jn. station, seen in the secluded Golden Valley Woodland. A very rare occasion, or so I'm told, as the Twin Peaks 45041 & 45113 apply power in the Golden Valley Woodland on the penultimate turn of the day.

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]]> Sun Apr 26 2009 Birmingham Railway Museum Bank Holiday http://midlandrailpics.fotopic.net/c1684016.html A plesant day spent wandering around Tyseley locomtive works with plenty of steam on display, and even an electric made an apperance. Along with the owner. Many thanks go to Les Ross for making an enjoyable visit an unforgettable one. Monday 13 April 2009: A plesant day spent wandering around Tyseley locomtive works with plenty of steam on display, and even an electric made an apperance. Along with the owner. Many thanks go to Les Ross for making an enjoyable visit an unforgettable one.

9600 takes charge of the shuttles in and out of Warwick Road station(ish), seen here coasting back down the hill near the photographers gallery. A sneak peek of some of the Duchess' private parts. From design drawings in the centre, to frames, to the finished article, its all coming together slowly. A few more artifacts of the loco which hid so well considering her size. Here's Hamiltons boiler door, sitting close to her headboard. Another punter awaits his turn on the shuttle. A quick and sloppy attempt at a HDR Panorama. 9 photos and many thousands of MB of ram later, and this is what came forth. Life's easy for some on the day, unlike the fireman and driver at the front. The most impressive monopod you've ever seen? Certainly was for me, and certainly put a few smiles on faces when he extended it. Les Ross entertains the gathering by regailing stories of his loco. A rather bendy panorama of the line up in the afternoon taken from the turntable. So far the only successful HDR attempt! 4953, 47773 & 50021 sit in the afternoon sun around the turntable. Les Ross details the finer points of his locomotive to a few eager listeners. Insert your own caption as to what he was saying at the time! A panorama of the cab of 86259 itself. 'Lord of the Isles' passes Les, still regailing, on the shuttles, seen from within 'Les Ross'. Wait...that came out wrong. Les listens to a Tyseley member regail of his own stories on the railways. Ever seen this pairing before? I know I haven't, but here it is anyway, steam and electric in harmony, with Les Ross seen rushing to get his shot of this rareity involving his loco. 960301 was in attendance at the open day, seen here minuted before closing as the sun had finally moved round for this shot to be possible. Bubbles everywhere. Resident bubble 55034 stands near visitor bubble 960011 'Pandora'.

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]]> Mon Apr 13 2009 April http://midlandrailpics.fotopic.net/c1677094.html 4th - 90 Nagex at Witton 11th - 57601 Green Express 13th - Lapworth 20th - New locations around the North Midlands 22nd - 37670 at Elford 25th - 5043 'Nunney Castle' at Arley 27th - Rainy Rugby 28th - Hope Valley 29th - Worcester, Malvern & Eckington 30th - Steel, Steam & Spoons III Wednesday 1 April 2009: 4th - 90 Nagex at Witton 11th - 57601 Green Express 13th - Lapworth 20th - New locations around the North Midlands 22nd - 37670 at Elford 25th - 5043 'Nunney Castle' at Arley 27th - Rainy Rugby 28th - Hope Valley 29th - Worcester, Malvern & Eckington 30th - Steel, Steam & Spoons III

My first ever train photo with my 5D MkII! 90039 at a snails pace through Witton with a Euston - Runcorn Nagex for the Grand National. K1 Peppercorn 'Lord of The Isles' 62005 heads the 5Z62 from Barrow Hill to Tyseley for tyre tuning seen passing Portwa, north of Tamworth. A second attempt at seeing the Pendo Vice, 82101 leads 90036 through Blythe Bridge, jsut outside Hampton-in-Arden. The penultimate service of the day, 90036 speeds away from Birmingham International, seen still gathering speed at Marston Green. 57601 storms through Elford, north of Tamworth, with a Gree Express charter to Stratford-Upon-Avon having had the path ahead cleared by a HST minutes earlier. The Snow Hill-Solihull line gets some deserved attention on a plesant Spring evening. Here we see a 150 trundling through this countryside scene just outside Lapworth, heading south. Another southbound sprinter, this time seen from the other side of the tracks. Warwickshires very own Watford Gap! I promise theres a canal round there too. The M40 meets the London lines just outside Lapworth, demonstrated here with a shed heading northbound. Having just entered the Uttoxeter Line at North Stafford Jn. a lone 153 powers north-west to Crewe. A footbridge just outside Burton provides this view of a Voyager approaching the station from the north. A 170 heads north after departing Burton station, heading past one of Burton's still affluent industries. Anotehr new location for me, not far from Polesworth on the Trent Valley, a Voyager speeds past the canal in glorious weather. And anorther new location. Shortly after passing Wilnecote station, 57006 powers north with the Shipley scrap over the A5 near Tamworth. The other view from the bridge over the A5, a 170 heads south out of Tamworth. Later that evening, a XC HST heads back north, seen at Lea Marston. Some nice angles to be had at Lea Marston as a Turbostar speeds south towards Water Orton. A Voyager speeds towards the River Tame at Lea Marston heading south. One of my favorite locations, Blyth Bridge, outside Hampton-in-Arden with a 321 completing the scene following the flight path towards Birmingham. A slightly more thought out picture of a Desiro crossing the river heading north. It's spot the Turbostar time, just outside Shustoke Resevoir, next to Whitacre Jn. My first view of 37670, creeping into Elford Loop on the 6G45 Toton-Bescot. She was held long enough for me to have a quick, and very tiring, run up to 'that other bridge' at the end of Elford Loop where this shot was obtained. Around 10 minutes after she entered, she departed, sounding fantastic, on her way to meet all the other photographers on her journey home. Arley, on the Nuneaton line from Water orton, plays host to one of the most spectacular, if overcast, steam displays I've ever seen. 5043 'Nunney Castle' destroys the tranquility of this scene with her sight and mainly the sound of her echoing through the valley from miles away, heading north on 'The City Of York' railtour, heading for...you guessed it. A disgraced 90048 hides its face behind a smug 66575 on the 4L97 heading south at Rugby. The ironic water train heads onto the slows through the outer reaches of Rugbys rails as it passes Rugby S.C.C. Rugby still provides a nice frame for 90046 seen speeding south. After bad weather, and my incompitence meant I missed the shot of 90019 heading north, so this had to suffice. Here she's seen heading south, in all her Scotrail glory towards Euston. The driver concetrates hard on his braking pattern on the northbound approach to Rugby. A unidentified 158 races through Hathersage in the Hope Valley. Heading towards Grindleford is a 158 along the Hope Valley. Can you spot the 158? Answers on a postcard. I would tell you the number, but the shed never came close enough! A 66 powers amongst the peaks with a sand train heading east through Hathersage. Further along the Hope Valley is seen a 185 heading east at Bamford. Hope station in the heart of the Peaks, only to be greeted by a red 'n' white SWT 158 heading east. The most beautiful section of the line had to be Edale, which is shown here as a pair of 158's pass with some really different accents. One of the sheer peaks around Edale with the rain clouds looming as a 158 heads east. London Midland help liven this scene with one of thier colourful 150's seen crossing the River Severn on the approach to Worcester Foregate Street. Another view through the urban scenery in Worcester. A FGW 158 completes the scene from the road bridge over the Severn as the unit leaves Worcester. Another 158, this time seen not far from Great Malvern station, looking over the Severn Plains in the background, and bluebells in the fore. Much to my surprise, a HST stopped at Colwall station, with all of 3 carriages in the platfrom to let travellers alight or embark. Here we see said HST descending into Colwall Tunnel heading for Malvern. In the fleeting evening sun, a pair of Voyagers race south at Eckington, a fair few miles north of Ashchurch. As the last rays dissapear, a Voyager appears, seen here crossing the River Avon. I'll be back one day to perfect my shot, both traction and weather wise. 47727 powers towards Water Orton from the Whitacre direction with a collection of bright machinery in tow, seen passing the old Severn Trent cottages. Another colas working? Here it is, 47739 storms through Wilnecote, just outside Tamworth, heading south with the Dollands Moor steels. Unmistakeably Waswood Heath. I know its been done before but hey, sometimes the gen necessitates for those who dont know any better. 60091 heads north with da tanks. The storms reported over Bromsgrove never reached us, but the got pretty close as a Voyager runs away from the chasing weather. 47786 'Roy Castle' & 47854 'Fireman Sam's Worst Nightmare' head for Carnforth through Washwood Heath. An added extra, 37602 & 37218 cradle a flask up to Crewe, all the way from Berkeley. Hardwick crossing on the Sutton Park line was greeted by that most rare of visitors. 34067 'Tangmere' applies some power before the long descent through Sutton Park on her way south.

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]]> Wed Apr 1 2009 Glasgow http://midlandrailpics.fotopic.net/c1675766.html A day trip to Glasgow thanks to 'The Sun' 2 for 1 rail offer. A day spent on the Roundabout ticket travelling to such far flung destinations as Whifflet, Paisley, Partick and of course, Glasgow Central. Friday 27 March 2009: A day trip to Glasgow thanks to 'The Sun' 2 for 1 rail offer. A day spent on the Roundabout ticket travelling to such far flung destinations as Whifflet, Paisley, Partick and of course, Glasgow Central.

A 91 greets us on arrival at Glasgow Central. Glasgow Central definitley has its busy periods. Not sure what got the filmcrew treatment that day, all I know is that the guy bringing the tea and chips in a carboard box to the crew was appreciated far more than the hefty equipment or even the roof over thier heads. Glasgow Queen Street's lower platforms play host to 320311. Whifflet, the less said about the place the better. 66106 with an unknown working of old sleepers. I could have sworn it was a 150 if it wernt for the lack of concertina. And the panto. 318256 stands at Paisley Gilmore St. A quick shot before boarding 334026 at Paisley as she stands next to 334031. The grand scale of the roof at Central shows itself here, dwarfing a McJuniper. The sun really came out towards the end of the day as we see 156445 parallelling 334026 out of Central. The classic view of the many lines into Glasgow Central. A breath of fresh Scottish air can be breathed at the end of the platforms over the Clyde. A Pendo gracefully meanders away from Central, back to the other Capital. Now I know where all the 156's in the world are...Here in Scotland. Another view out across the Clyde. Partick is a plesant and busy station just outside the City Centre. A 320 is seen approaching, acknoledged by a brief glare from a commuter engrossed in either side of the binding. One last view of Partick just before being whisked back to Central and then home...

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]]> Fri Mar 27 2009 GCR 60's Gala http://midlandrailpics.fotopic.net/c1675728.html Shots of most of the traction running at the Great Central that day including the 101, D123, D5401 & D5830. I've tried a few different locations this time because I was convinced there were other places on that line you could get to without a hi-vis! Sunday 22 March 2009: Shots of most of the traction running at the Great Central that day including the 101, D123, D5401 & D5830. I've tried a few different locations this time because I was convinced there were other places on that line you could get to without a hi-vis!

The little green 101 was the first shot of the day, seen shortly after departing Leicster North. 63601 completes the tranquil scene at Rothley. A different angle at Kinchley Lane, with 78019 squeezing into frame. Tender first and coasting, 48305 heads towards Swithland Yard after crossing one of the bridges in the area. Kinchley Lane, from another viewpoint, elegantly exemplified by D123. Complete with random wagon, D5401 heads towards Rothley. The Q6 had her last running day at the GCR on the Sunday, and here she is powering one of many workings it carried out effortlesly that day. The DMU, always provides a 'clag shots for dummies' example. The view outside of Loughborough is very much a 1960's one with D123 departing alongside 78019 awaiting her path. D5401 heads out of Loughborough shortly before the sunlight dissapears for good. 48305 approaches with the ridiculous winds evident on the approach to Loughborough. That bridge is unique in being able to provide a gale on a calm day. D5830 makes an apperance heading towards Quorn.

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]]> Sun Mar 22 2009 Nene Valley Railway Diesel Gala http://midlandrailpics.fotopic.net/c1665626.html The Nene Valley Railway held a Diesel Gala over the 7/8th March including D306, 31271, 47270, 37518, 37667, 27056, 66732, D9516 and D9520. Very changeable weather made for some quick camera adjustments from full sun to full dull in a matter of minutes. Sunday 8 March 2009: The Nene Valley Railway held a Diesel Gala over the 7/8th March including D306, 31271, 47270, 37518, 37667, 27056, 66732, D9516 and D9520. Very changeable weather made for some quick camera adjustments from full sun to full dull in a matter of minutes.

D306 stands at Peterborough just before running around. A quick bail at Orton Mere to see 31271 pass through. 37667, the star of the show for me, is seen running around at Peterborough. Another bail at Orton Mere to see D306 jsut after the sun dissapeared for a few hours with crowds lining the fences. On the approach to Wansford are 27056 & D306 in the windiest place in the world at that exact moment. 37667 & 37518 power away from Wansford. 47270 waits as 66732 arrives at Wansford with the 13.06 from Peterborough. 31271 clags and waits the arrival of the other service at Wansford. Here is the other service, led by 37518 & 37667. 37667 goes solo on the next service, heading towards Ferry Meadows jsut before crossing the Nene. 31271 crosses the Nene on her way back to Wansford. 27056 crosses gingerly into Ferry Meadows. The weather was very changeable as seen by the clouds and the sun gleaming off 37518 in the yard. 31271 shines at the rear of a service shortly arrived at Wansford. 27056 arrives into Wansford amongst some fantastic weather. 37518 gets dragged out of Wansford on the last departure of the day with the moon in full view by this time.

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]]> Sun Mar 8 2009 March http://midlandrailpics.fotopic.net/c1663202.html 1st - DRS 47 hauled Footex 2nd - Grendon & Kingsbury 9th - 57006, 31106 & 60044 15th - A few from the SVR 16th - Kinlet Hall, 47 ECS & Tame Bridge 23rd - Barnt Green, Alvechurch & the Lickey 26th - 57010, 47 ECS & Spoon steel 28th - 47760, 37401 & 47843 29th - 37401x2 & 67028 30th - 56311, Cans & Tractorful TotonBescot. 31st - Tamworth & 31454 Sunday 1 March 2009: 1st - DRS 47 hauled Footex 2nd - Grendon & Kingsbury 9th - 57006, 31106 & 60044 15th - A few from the SVR 16th - Kinlet Hall, 47 ECS & Tame Bridge 23rd - Barnt Green, Alvechurch & the Lickey 26th - 57010, 47 ECS & Spoon steel 28th - 47760, 37401 & 47843 29th - 37401x2 & 67028 30th - 56311, Cans & Tractorful TotonBescot. 31st - Tamworth & 31454

The rareity of a spoon on a Sunday was enough to entice us out to the West Coast, let alone 2! 47832 is seen at the head of this Foot-ex from Manchester to Wembley after 402 failed at Stockport, seen here at Grendon on the Trent Valley. On a quiet Monday, 3 57's heading south at Grendon kept us amused. As you can tell from the photo, we weren't expecting em'. Another panorama attempt. Probably workse better on a wall reather than a screen. At Kingsbury on the way home we stopped to get a few shots of 60068, seen here being passed by a shed. The weather really bought this picture together as we see 66580 power through Lea Marston jsut before crossing the Tame. 57006 coasts up to a signal at Washwood Heath with the classic gas towers in the background along with the closed gates to the yard. The other view at Washwood Heath, graced by the presence of 31106 heading for Laira. A regular round these parts it would seem, 60044 heads east with the Westerleigh-Lindsey tanks at Water Orton. Just outside Bewdley a service heads towards Kidderminster. 4566 approaches Highley with the Severn just visible in the background. 4936 'Kinlet Hall' approaches Olton heading for the West Somerset Railway. Sandwell Valley Park plays host to 47760 & 47804 working an ECS from the Kidderminster to Carnforth. The aqueduct over Tame Bridge Parkway gives excellent views of the surrounding area as a WSMR service departs south. Bant green and the XC HST. 323220 approachesAlvechurch on the single track line to Redditch. Contrary to the headlights, 323220 departs towards Barnt Green. Another new location for me, Blackwell foot crossing just at the top of the Lickey Incline with the bankers siding viewable. 60091 struggles up the Lickey and through the lashing rain on the tanks. A Voyager powers past the crossing at Vigo. That old saying: 'Its bloody difficult to get a shot of 97's under a rainbow' rings true at Penns Lane on the Sutton Park Line. With the late March April showers in full swing, a very wet me took this shot of 57010 drying off at Penns Lane. WCRC really spoil us midlanders with thier continuous Carnforth-Southalls and vice versa. Heres a 47 hauling one down the Sutton Park Line at East View Road. Really was a good day for a spoon, heres two more, 47727 & 47739 haul the Burton-Dollands Moor steel, seen thundering through Wiggington. The first of three. A drab Duddeston gets Duffed up by 47760 on her way to a meeting with The Duchess up north. The much talked about 37401 leads the 'Cwm & Go' railtour solo out of Birmingham and round the curves approaching University. A quick dash to Tamworth to complete the set with 47843 & 47805 dead on the rear with a tour to Windsor. 37401 makes a second apperance in the same weekend, seen here powering the ECS from Saturdays tour about to cross the River Tame on the approach to Water Orton. We spotted her being held off before the station so popped down for a cheeky snap less than 2 minutes later! A visit to Bescot to try and beat the beast was foiled after they sent her through Birmingham New Street, but WSMR sufficed. A hop to Tame Bridge Parkway to see 67028 taking the ECS onwards after 401 was left at Bescot, but not for long. 56311 sets the scene at Water Orton for the second time after running round at Duddeston Jnc. working from Toton-Rugby with some OTP's. Fastline may have lost thier Intermodals, but the coal is still going strong, with two Fastline coals heading through Water Orton seconds apart. Are them 97's still doing driver training? Seems so! After waiting for a different pair of cans, this pair came the other way at Grendon! A day for the Can lover;) The Bescototon is normally the talking point, not this time round. It was the TotonBescot's turn to shine with 66153 leading a pair of tractors in the form of 670 & 425. Havent seen that blue streak for a while, but was very welcome. 90041 passes a fellow spotter waiting for a Spoon that never showed at Tamworth. After the northbound services finally resume normal runnin, 67025 hammers through Tamworth. We were expecting a cowboy south, but heres one north aswell, 57005 coasts through the upper level of Tamworth. Water Orton again, and 57006 powers towards the station with the down Scrap from Shipley. 31454 passes a Turbostar at Water Orton footbridge with a test train heading south. Has this ever happened at Water Orton before? Answers on a postcard please... The Germans really are invading at Water Orton as Sheds congregate on a wrekkie towards Birmingham.

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]]> Sun Mar 1 2009 York http://midlandrailpics.fotopic.net/c1663180.html A day in York, including 47712, 47773, NMT and the star attraction: Sir Nigel Gresley. Other photos include various HDR attempts in the NRM and night photos of any train that stood still for 1.3 seconds or more. Saturday 28 February 2009: A day in York, including 47712, 47773, NMT and the star attraction: Sir Nigel Gresley. Other photos include various HDR attempts in the NRM and night photos of any train that stood still for 1.3 seconds or more.

A 91 stands under the grand roof of York awaiting the all clear. My first 185! Shows how often I go north. 128 stands in the bay at the north side of the station awaiting its next turn of duty. 43314 at York. Nothing more to say really. A busy scene outside of the roof, 185134 and 146 next to 43065, preparing to please those Valenta fans any minute now. And there I was thinking freight never went through the station, and heres 66423 powering north after a quick stop. A nice surprise was to see 47712 actually move, seen here traversing the sidings just before departing for Ipswich. With 47773 imminent, the NMT was expected but not prepared for, hence this shot. 47773 seen after having arrived at York with the 'Sir Nigel Gresley' railtour. After propelling the stock out of the station, 60007 is attached and 47773 does its last maneuver until Bescot as she rags the stock back in to crowds of eager spotters. Amongst the crowds of eager spotters is seen Sir Nigel himself, awaiting departure. After having set, then cancelled the signal of the adjacent unit, 60007 makes an impressive departure on her way to the Midlands. The definition of vintage traction, an old Euston DC line unit inside the NRM. 3131 stands next to a painting of aterloo where it may or may not have once worked, I never read the infromation! One of my favorite locos in the whole NRM, 87001 looks resplendent. A difficult one this, with very effective automatic doors guarding the great hall, quick foowork was required to gather the shot of Mallard inside. Later in the evening some night photos of various trains, this one includes a northbound XC HST. Almost identical, except for the livery. And the sound. A GC set stands awaiting departure. Shortly after arriving under the grand roof, 43068 sits noisily under the excellent lighting. 86901 & 902 were a slight distraction from the movement of our service home down the departures board. York looks stunning at night, as do the 91's frequenting the platforms. Another NXEC service stands awaiting the all clear. Just for continuity because I havent seen many of these units, 155345 seen in the bay.

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]]> Sat Feb 28 2009