Adrock's trip reports

[Kite159]

Congrats on the rare track, a few additional stations into your book and a required 158.

Apart from the delays caused by cancelled trains sounded like a good day. Helensburgh Upper is easier to get than the others, although as the name suggests it's higher than central (so it be easier to walk down to Helensburgh Central)

 

[Techniquest]

I did that bit of track a little over 4 years ago

A nice little local adventure, although your description of Larkhall and the other location makes me 1) wonder what the 1690 thing was and 2) feel like I won't be doing those areas on my own!

 

[adrock1976]

I did that bit of track a little over 4 years ago

A nice little local adventure, although your description of Larkhall and the other location makes me 1) wonder what the 1690 thing was and 2) feel like I won't be doing those areas on my own!

The 1690 reference is to do with the Battle of the Boyne at Drogheda in Ireland, where Prince William of Orange defeated the English monarch James II. The events on 12th July every year are organised by the Orange Order mainly in Northern Ireland and the West of Scotland.

There was a recent report out a few years ago that apparently, there are more Orange marches and events in Glasgow than what there is in Belfast and across Northern Ireland. Most notably, those events appear to attract quite a lot of undesirables, which makes it one half of Scotland's shame.

Regarding Larkhall, you should be OK by yourself as long as you are not wearing anything that is green, as the local residents seem to prefer red, white, and blue.

 

[Techniquest]

Ah OK, I tend to avoid wearing green anyway, so I should be safe as houses!

 

[adrock1976]

Intro


My plan for this trip originally started out as a Bristol – Westbury – Castle Cary – Weymouth – Southampton – Salisbury – Westbury – Bristol circular a couple of years ago. When investigating fares for this plan and due to the historic rivalry between the Great Western Railway and the London & South Western Railway, I did find a reasonable fare that would be valid for both arms to a station at the midway point (I cannot remember if it was Bournemouth or Brockenhurst, or another station between those). I was looking at the Rovers & Rangers page on the National Rail Enquiries website for a different bashing trip, and stumbled upon the FOSS Rover, which was a similar fare. I started to build a plan to cover quite a bit of new track following on from the original circular trip for the whole area of the rover, with most of the plan remaining relatively unchanged until recently, while retaining the original circular trip and additionally fitting in the Dr Days Junction – Feeder Road Junction PSUL move and some summer Saturdays Only IC125 services in the mix too. Furthermore, as I would be based in Bristol and by switching to a Devon Day Ranger, this would also give me the chance to do the summer Sundays Only Exeter – Okehampton service, and also to visit Newtown St Cyres and Portsmouth Arms stations as ironically, the 4 hour frequency both stations receive on Sundays is more frequent than on Mondays to Saturdays. Also, as I would be travelling to London on the overnight train, I would take a quick run up to Gospel Oak to see if I can land my final LO Class 172s (172007 and 008) for haulage before the Gospel Oak – Barking line closes totally for electrification works.


Day 1 – Outward bound, LO Class 172s, and getting stuck right in 17 August


My journey to London started the previous night, where after setting out of the flat just after 22:45, it was a short walk onto the main Springburn Road for the 57 bus into the city centre. Due to the Intercity booking office side at Glasgow Central shuts at 21:30, I picked up the FoSS Rover at Queen Street, as I knew it would be reasonably quiet. After the rover was eventually found on the screen and issued, I only had to part with something in the region of £10 as I used some Delay Repay vouchers from last summer that were going to expire soon. It was then a walk over to GLC to board the 23:40 London Euston via Trent Valley Railway and Northampton loop service, with 92018 having brought in the set from Polmadie depot. I had originally booked myself into Papa coach, but I got moved into November coach instead, but still had a berth to myself. I then purchased a cheese ploughmans sandwich and an Earl Grey tea, consuming it in the lounge car, and then back to the berth to settle down for the night.


Arrival at EUS was on schedule at 07:00, and having left the train at around 07:30 and making my way to the Underground, it was dud 90042 that hauled the set from Glasgow. When I eventually made my way to the northbound Victoria Line platform, it was onboard dud 11088+087 for the run to Highbury & Islington (I was not bothered that they were dud, as I was concentrating on LO 172007 and 008, with the frequency on GOBLIN being every 12 minutes with 4 sets out in service), then onboard the 08:04 Clapham Junction via Willesden Junction service, formed by dud 378255 for the westbound run to Gospel Oak. The 08:20 and 08:32 South Tottenham services were duds 172001 and 002 respectively, so declined those. The 08:44 was required 172008 so I hopped on that for a bus stop bash to Upper Holloway. I was keeping a lookout for the fourth diagram, which was dud 172005, meaning that 172007 is not out this morning. I then walked down Holloway Road to Highbury Corner, where I got a large veggie breakfast at The White Swan Wetherspoons.


It was to the southbound Victoria Line platform and onboard winners 11053+054 to Kings Cross St Pancras, then to the Metropolitan Railway westbound platform onboard 21091+092 to Great Portland Street, then onboard 21428+427 to Paddington (Bishops Bridge Road platforms). I then made my way to Platform 13 to see what was on the 10:18 Bedwyn service, but it was dud Thames Turbo 166217, so made my way to Platform 5 to board the 10:30 Bristol TM service, which was formed by 43131+197 for the run to Swindon. At Acton, the train slowed down before it came to a halt. Eventually, it proceeded slowly before picking up speed past West Drayton, with the service being delayed by 15 minutes caused by a broken down train. On the approach to Swindon, the guard announced that any passengers for Kemble, Stroud, Stonehouse, Gloucester, and Cheltenham, that the 11:36 connecting service would be held and would be departing from Platform 2. Credit is due to the signallers, traincrew, and station staff for holding the connection, as arrival at Swindon was 12 minutes behind schedule.


It was onboard the 11:36 Cheltenham Spa via Gloucester service, formed by 158890 that has strayed from the GWR's fierce rivals the L&SWR/South West Trains out on hire. Although the train departed 8 minutes behind schedule, it had made the time up by Stonehouse, probably due to the timetable still based on when the line had the single track section between Kemble and Stroud. On a side note, it is a scenic line, passing through the Mendip Hills, and also the first bit of new track I've scored today. On the approach to Gloucester, 150129 and 153233 were spotted in the yard before I alighted, then with me remaining on the same platform for the 12:48 Nottingham via Birmingham service, formed by 170523+110 for the run to Ashchurch for Tewkesbury.


It was over to the southbound platform for the 10 minutes delayed 13:24 Weymouth service, formed by dud 150131 to Cam & Dursley via Gloucester. There was a chap with a child who boarded this train by mistake and only realised that after it departed in the opposite direction they were expecting. It transpired that they were intending to board the 13:58 Maesteg service, which was behind on the curve waiting for the Weymouth to clear the platform. After alighting at Cam & Dursley, it was up the evil ramp and over to the northbound platform for the 14:14 back to GCR, formed by a recently refurbished and posh looking 150933 taking my position in the odd centre coach 52248 that was one half of 150248 for haulage, so therefore half a winner (I would like to note that technically, the end coaches are dud, as I had them when it was 150233). As this train would be forming the 14:41 Westbury service, it was back onboard the centre coach for the run to Filton Abbey Wood, thrashing away along Midland Railway metals to Westerleigh Junction to join GWR metals, passing the Virgin Azuma at Stoke Gifford. It is noted that the last time I did this section was back in 1988 on a day trip to Clifton Zoo, with the traction being a Class 47+Mk II coaches southbound and an IC125 with the original Valenta engines northbound to Birmingham.


Upon alighting at Filton Abbey Wood, it was over to the opposite platform for the 15:30 Paignton – Cardiff Central service, formed by a busy 150246 for the short hop round the corner to Patchway. It was back to FIT on the slightly delayed 15:39 Taunton via Weston-super-Mare service, formed by 150261 to position myself for my next move. After a short fester, it was on board the 15:57 Bath Spa service, formed by dud 158763 for the short run to Keynsham. Of note, this is the PSUL move that uses the section of track between Dr Days Junction and Feeder Road Junction, which runs close to Kingsland Road depot (I think it is that one, and definitely not St Phillips Marsh). It was then over to the westbound platform for the 16:18 Great Malvern service, formed by winner on all fronts 150925, again taking my position in the odd centre coach 57209 for haulage (one half of 150209 – I believe its matching partner coach was involved in the 1988 accident somewhere near Liverpool and was crushed) to one of Brunel's finest buildings, Bristol Temple Meads station. It was then over to Platform 1 to board the 16:35 Avonmouth service (I had identified a linear hop to Lawrence Hill, then Stapleton Road, as my original plan had me on the 16:45 Bristol Parkway/Stoke Gifford service to Stapleton Road), formed by dud 150122 to Lawrence Hill. As the BPW service was delayed by 5 minutes, it was over to the Bristol platform for the slightly delayed 16:55 Warminster service, formed by winner for everything haulage wise 158958, again taking a position in the odd end coach 57746 (the centre and opposite end were formerly 158776) back to BRI. Of note, the delayed Parkway service that I declined was required 150127, which pulled into Lawrence Hill at the same time as the Warminster service.


It was then over to Platform 15 for the 17:17 London Paddington – Weston-super-Mare service, formed by 43172 “Harry Patch - The last survivor of the trenches” +145 for the run to Nailsea & Backwell. As most of the stations along the route to WSM have short platforms, it is usually the front 4 coaches that you board or alight from. I nipped downstairs to the garage along the country lane to purchase something cold and wet before heading back to the same platform for the 17:40 WSM service, formed by 150127 for the run to the end. I had originally intended to take a brief wander to the sea (debatable if it can be found as the tide can be quite far out) as it was a pleasant evening, but as the train got held at Worle Junction to allow the 12 minutes delayed Taunton – Cardiff Central via WSM to pass due to the single track section via WSM between Worle and Uphill Junction, this meant that as the train was delayed by 8 minutes, I abandoned that plan.


Upon arrival at WSM, I remained onboard for the 18:15 Avonmouth service for the run back to Worle. It was a very gentle saunter over the evil looking footbridge to the opposite platform and having noted that the 18:21 Cardiff Central – Taunton via WSM service was delayed by 10 minutes, I decided that if it is required, that I would take it to Highbridge & Burnham and then pick up the PAD – TAU service there to go to the next stop Bridgwater as I was going to alight there off the IC125 anyway. It was dud 150246 that rolled in, so declined that as I would be meeting that at Bridgwater later on. Eventually, it was onboard the 18:45 IC125 TAU service, formed by 43142 “Reading Panel Signal Box 1965-2010” +023 for the run to Bridgwater, again being delayed at Worle Junction waiting for a delayed TAU – CDF service to clear the WSM single track loop.


At Bridgwater, it was then immediately over to the London platform for the 19:29 TAU – BRI via WSM service, formed by as expected dud 150246 for the run to Nailsea & Backwell. I then took a gentle saunter down to road level and under the bridge to the opposite platform to wait for the 20:29 PAD – WSM IC125 service, formed by 43158+176 for a short run to Weston Milton, the only other station along the single track section. Again, as is common with the stations between BRI and WSM, I alighted from the front 4 coaches due to a short platform, then had a brief wander up to the main road to see what was about. There was not anything of note except a hostelry and residential streets, so it was back to the station in the light drizzle for the 21:05 TAU – BRI service, formed by 150102 for a run to Yatton. As is common with some GWR stations when the line was built, it seems a trek from the station to the settlement that it is named after. It was then onboard the 21:35 PAD – WSM IC125 service, formed by dud pair 43021“David Austin – Cartoonist” +037 “Penydarren” for the run to WSM. It was not long for the slightly delayed 22:01 TAU – PAD via BRI IC125 service, formed by 43094+136 for the run back to BRI to call it a day and walk via Victoria Street to my accommodation in Nelson Street.


Overall, I have managed to achieve what I had set out to do, scoring the Swindon – Gloucester via Stroud and the Weston-super-Mare loop as new track, plus the PSUL move too. I have also managed to reduce my IC125 powercar requirements slightly, as at the start of today, I was requiring a whopping 101 out of 119. I am aware that 27 GWR IC125 sets (most likely the Old Oak Common based sets) will eventually make their way to Scotland in the next few years, meaning that there will be 54 powercars. I am also aware that GWR directly own 5 IC125 sets outright, so those with the 10 powercars are highly likely to remain, and to complicate things further, I believe that the Landore depot (Swansea/Abertawe) powercars have slightly different engines to the rest of the fleet, meaning that it is unlikely that those would make their way to Scotland.


Stay tuned for the next installment.

 

[55013]

Looks like a good first day, with a nice bit of variety.
It reminds me that I must do another FOSS sometime, probably next year.

 

[Kite159]

Of note, this is the PSUL move that uses the section of track between Dr Days Junction and Feeder Road Junction, which runs behind St Phillips Marsh depot

Are you sure about that Adam as the depot is on the other side of Bristol?

Sounded like a good first day on a FoSS

 

[adrock1976]

I've had a look at the Baker atlas and it is not SPM, but I think Kingsland Road. I always seem to get mixed up with the two of them.

I have fixed that in the previous post.

Sounds like a great start but is 378285 a typo?

I've checked and it is actually 378255, which was dud.

I've fixed that too.

 

[FQ]

Sounds like a great start but is 378285 a typo?

 

[adrock1976]

Day 2 – Bristol, Salisbury, Southampton, Weymouth, and Bristol circular 18 August


After a reasonably satisfactory night's sleep, it was a gentle saunter to Temple Meads station to board the 09:07 Westbury service, formed by 153318 and dud 150131 that was locked out of use for a run to Trowbridge to score my first new track of the day between Bath Spa and Trowbridge. During the brief fester here, I had a play around on the ticket machine and noticed that this one can issue tickets to start from another station as well as the next day, which is useful to know. I used this machine to purchase a Westbury – Dilton Marsh return. Anyway, it was soon onboard the 09:54 Portsmouth Harbour service, formed by 158951, taking a position in the odd coach 52741 for haulage for a brief run to Westbury (these hybrid sets can be tricky to find the matching partner of the odd coach on a different set, hence that is the reason why I'm concentrating on the odd coaches for haulage first so as to eventually get the sets how they were originally formed if I land it again in future, as how I did it years ago when Class 150s had the odd coach in the centre on the Stourbridge line).


It was over to Platform 1 for the 10:08 Warminster service, for a meeting with the now in use dud 150131 for a bus stop bash to the request stop of Dilton Marsh, which is the shortest platform I have ever seen in my life. After alighting, there was one passenger who boarded with an under 16, and after seeing the train depart, I took a gentle saunter down to road level and looking at the map of the local area. It was then under the bridge and across the road to the opposite platform (or what passes off as one as it is a very short hump) for the 10:29 WSB service and the expected return of dud 150131, clearly signalling to the driver to stop. Of note, there were 3 passengers who alighted here, with 2 and an under 16 boarding with me. On the approach to WSB, 66095, 66082, and a UI Aggregated Industries loco were spotted on the Salisbury/Taunton side of the yard. Furthermore, after alighting, 150232+246 were on the 10:37 Weymouth service, 150249 was on the 10:38 BRI service, 66095 was hauling ballast wagons in the London direction on the Bristol/London side of the yard, before performing a shunt move into the yard itself, and GBRf 66713 was spotted on that side of the yard too.


After purchasing a cup of tea, it was over to Platform 1 for the 11:02 Portsmouth Harbour service, formed by 158958 that I had yesterday. As I already had the odd coach, I took up a position in the original end coach (57776) of when it was formerly part of 158776 for the run to Warminster. While waiting on the platform for the 11:21 Southampton Central service, 159012 was on the 11:12 London Waterloo – BRI via Salisbury service, before hopping on the return of dud 150131 to go to the next stop at Salisbury, spotting one coach of 159104 at the depot. At Salisbury, 159022+106 were in Platform 5, 159004 in the siding next to it, 158881 in Platform 4, 158961 on the 11:40 Cardiff Central service, 158885+159005 on the 11:47 Exeter St Davids service, and 159107 in Platform 6. It was then over to Platform 4 (platform alteration) for the 11:56 Chandlers Ford/Romsey via Southampton service, formed by 158881 for the run to SOU, spotting 66935, 66517, and a GBRf Class 70 in the Redbridge/Millbrook area on the approach to SOU.


It was then over to Platform 4 where I had some leeway built into my plans that would give me a couple of options for my next move. Before that, 70011 was passing through with containers in the Millbrook direction. After that, the 12:43 Manchester – Bournemouth service was dud 221131, so I declined that for the 12:52 Weymouth service, formed by 444026 for a run to Brockenhurst. It was then over to Platform 1 for the 13:16 Poole local service, formed by 444045 for a bus stop bash to the next station Sway (not for dancing lessons, but to meet a London Waterloo service). I then went over to the London platform for the 13:27 WAT local service, formed by 450039 to go 2 stops to the Mondays to Fridays limited service station Beaulieu Road (the frequency is every 60 minutes on Saturdays and Sundays during the daytime. I attempted to score this on a Sunday back in May but failed when I got caught up in the infamous delays all round on the Great Eastern Railway on the way back from a failed attempt to score Berney Arms). I was the only passenger who alighted with one boarding. I then made my way to the Weymouth platform via the ramp and opening and closing the gate for each side. This station is sited along country lanes in the New Forest, with the only residential building of note is the one adjacent to the Weymouth platform, with some horses in view too.


Anyway, it was on board the 13:44 local Poole service, formed by 444020 for a short run to Brockenhurst. Of note, there were 4 passengers and 2 under 16s who boarded at Beaulieu Road with me. On arrival at BCU, I went for a brief wander around before heading back for the 14:15 WAT limited stop service, formed by 444042 for a run to Southampton Airport Parkway, spotting 59201, 66553, 66571+501, and 66523 between Redbridge and Millbrook west of Southampton Central. After alighting at SOA, I remained on the same platform for the slightly delayed 14:46 Romsey via Eastleigh service, formed by 158880 for the run to Romsey, scoring some more new track today. I then had a gentle saunter to the Southampton platform after noticing that Romsey is a Transition Town, and briefly exited the station via the ramp for a quick look. On my way back, I stumbled upon a grey cat (most likely a feral cat) that was giving me the evil eye, but eventually seemed happy after gently coaxing it and petting it, as it would not escape from me initially, but went back into the bushes just before the train arrived.


It was onboard the 15:20 Romsey via Southampton service, formed by the return of recent dud 158881 for the run to SOU. A thing that has puzzled me on the Salisbury – Romsey service is that rather surprisingly, there is First Class accommodation shown in the timetable, despite it being a local all stations stopping service. In my view, First Class for local all stations services should ideally be scrapped, and left for the medium distance limited stop regional services and north of the mighty Thames, the long distance traditional Intercity services. Furthermore, I have noticed that the front door of the SWT Class 158s seems locked out of use for some strange reason unbeknown to me.


After alighting at SOU, it was over to Platform 4 again where I had some leeway for my next move. As the 15:43 MAN – Bournemouth service was dud 220007, I declined that for the 15:51 Weymouth service, formed by 444006 for a run to Brockenhurst, spotting 220020 on the 15:46 Newcastle Central via Doncaster service, with 66593, 66592, 66416, and 70014 spotted around the Millbrook area. The next move was on the 16:12 Lymington Pier service, formed by 158882 for the run there and back, before seeing the 16:39 Weymouth service departing 2 minutes early from Platform 3, with it being 444041. As I already built into my plan for this happening, I still had some leeway. It was on board the 16:57 MAN – Bournemouth service, formed by dud 220017 (I'm not having much luck with ICXC Voyagers here, a similar fate I've experienced in Manchester, Stockport, and Edinburgh Waverley on most occasions) for the run to its terminus at Bournemouth.


During the short fester on the same busy platform, I had observed a few ladies with under 16s in tow, with one of them in tears and hobbling along barefoot, of what seemed to be an injury of some sort. One of the ladies was enquiring about first aid to one of the station staff, but as the London bound train had already pulled into the opposite platform, one of them carried the child and the group then ran for the London train. The only thing I could think of was that the young lassie probably got stung by a jellyfish or something, as the group looked like they had been to the beach. Anyway, it was soon onboard the rather busy and heavily loaded 17:24 Weymouth service, formed by 444029 for a short run to Poole. It was then over to the London platform for the 17:40 WAT limited stop service, formed by 444009 for a bus stop bash to Parkstone.I then crossed to the Weymouth platform for the 5 minutes delayed 17:51 local service back to Poole, formed by 444040.


As I had a near 20 minute fester here, I had a brief wander nearby, and returning back to the Weymouth platform after being unimpressed with what I saw. Back in the days when there used to be direct ICXC services from the Birmingham direction to Poole, whenever I would hear it announced at Birmingham NS, I had dreams in my mind of Poole being a pleasant and exotic place by the seaside. How reality bites many years later. Of note, the station is sited on a curve, meaning that the platforms are not nice and straight, and that there is a huge monolith of a concrete multi-storey car park not far away in full view. Nothing seems to blend in well here – perhaps Poole being a poorer relation to neighbouring and more pleasant Bournemouth?


Anyway, it was onboard the 5 minutes delayed 18:19 Weymouth local all stations service, formed by 444037 for a linear hop to Wool (no knitted garments required due to it being a pleasant and warm day), then around 10 minutes or so later, it was onboard the 18:55 WEY service, formed by 444025 for the run all the way to Weymouth. It is noted that this is where I would have a roll of the dice to see if I could pull off a 1 minute connection to score both Dorchester stations and Upwey visits before heading back to Bristol on the last departure of the day. Fortunately, the gamble paid off, as owing to the single track section on the approach to Weymouth, a train cannot depart unless the line is clear. It was a very quick change across to the opposite island face of the platform to hop on the 19:20 WAT service, formed by as expected 444037 from earlier for a run to Dorchester South.


I then had a gentle saunter to Dorchester West, where soon after I arrived, a couple of lads who had just come from a festival arrived not long after me with all their equipment. It transpired that they were attempting to get to Feniton in Devon. I explained to them that I was not sure if it was still possible to complete that journey tonight, as I was unsure of how the connections at Castle Cary towards Exeter worked out. Likewise with both Yeovil stations, and via Southampton and Salisbury. I suggested for them to try the help point contact to see if they could help. Eventually, it was onboard the 19:54 Gloucester – Weymouth service, formed by 150232 for a short run downhill to Upwey. The 2 guys did not bother boarding the train at all from what I observed.


After alighting at Upwey, it was over to the London platform and before I had a brief wander, I wanted to see if 444025 was on the 20:14 WAT service, just to test my prediction. The WAT service was drawing in soon, and my prediction was spot on indeed. I then went for a quick wander then back to the London platform for the 20:26 Bristol TM service, formed much to my surprise 158958 that I've landed for the third time. This is now a total winner for me owing to it being a hybrid set, with me taking a seat in the centre coach (52776) and having scored the original formation of 158776 in addition to the odd coach yesterday.


On arrival at Dorchester West, the 2 guys from the festival earlier on had made it over to the Bristol platform, but it was unclear if they boarded this train or not as they were at the far end of the platform facing Weymouth. Furthermore, at Maiden Newton, the train got held for 20 minutes while the traincrew were dealing with an ill passenger who required medical attention. Arrival at BRI was 12 minutes behind schedule, with the normal 7 minute layover at Westbury being of big help in clawing back some of the delay.


Overall, I've scored quite a lot of new track today, with the sections being Bath Spa – Trowbridge, Westbury – Salisbury, Eastleigh – Romsey via Chandlers Ford, Southampton Central – Weymouth, Brockenhurst – Lymington Pier, and Weymouth – Westbury via Yeovil Pen Mill and Frome. In addition, all of the electric SWT fleet, plus their Class 158s were all winners today, bearing in mind that I have not got round to compiling a sheet of requirements for the electric trains that operate south of the mighty Thames.

 

[James Wake]

On arrival at Dorchester West, the 2 guys from the festival earlier on had made it over to the Bristol platform, but it was unclear if they boarded this train or not as they were at the far end of the platform facing Weymouth.

They could have made it by boarding that train to Yeovil Pen Mill, then getting the 2130 SWT to Yeovil Junction then the 2141 to Exeter as far as Feniton. I could probably have found that out for them on my phone if I was there.

Anyway another excellent read

 

[adrock1976]

Day 3 – An island adventure, plus some bits and pieces 19 August


The original purpose of today's plan when I had it in draft form a couple of years ago was for me to finish in the Portsmouth/Havant area and head to London in the evening via Haslemere and Guildford, so as to tie it in with my quarterly weekend meetings. As I would not be doing that, I modified it slightly so as to score Chandlers Ford station (I might as well, as I have already done Eastleigh and Romsey), and also to score Dean on the way back to Bristol. Additionally, I had also originally planned to cover all three sides of the Havant – Cosham – Hilsea triangle, and to have an extended trip onto the Isle of Wight. During the time since I drew up the plans, I have already covered the Havant – Portsmouth Harbour and the Island Line (including the steam railway) in 2015 on a railtour. This meant that it was only the top side and left hand side of the triangle I was requiring track wise, and the only stations I was requiring on the island was Ryde St Johns Road, Brading, and Lake (also the request stop on the steam railway, Astley I think).


It was an early rise as I was already awake, so gently making my way to Temple Meads station in the heavy showers to stop off at the booking office to attempt to purchase the Portsmouth Harbour – Ryde Pier head day return, but the clerk could not get it up on the system. I explained that I would sort it out at the Portsmouth end. As my intention was start with the 09:40 Gloucester service to Yate, I decided first of all to check what Voyager was on the 09:30 Plymouth – Edinburgh Waverley via Leeds service, which was formed by 221137 (my first winning ICXC 220/221 in the FoSS area). I hopped onboard this for a linear run to Bristol Parkway/Stoke Gifford, having spotted 66256 and another unidentified Class 66 sitting in the loop at the side of Platforms 1 and 2 island. Having remained on the same platform, 43128+125 was on the 09:45 PAD – Cardiff Central service before I hopped on the 09:52 GCR service, formed by dud 158766 for a run to Yate.


It was up onto the main road and across to the Bristol platform (Yate has staggered platforms either side of a road bridge) for the slightly delayed 10:16 Gloucester – Westbury service, formed by dud 158763 back to BRI, having spotted 43304+285 on the 10:45 Plymouth service and 43159+071 on the 11:30 to PAD. It was over to Platform 13 for the 11:00 PAD service, formed by 43146 in the "Building a Greater West" livery + dud 124 at the rear for the short run to Bath Spa. After I had a brief wander into the centre and back to the London platform, it was onboard the 11:36 Cardiff – Portsmouth Harbour service, formed by 158798 (I've noticed the end coaches match the unit number, but the centre coach is 58715 – unsure if this was built as a 3 car set or whether it is a hybrid, as the coaches normally begin with 52 or 57) taking a seat in the centre coach for the run to Southampton Central. Observations during the journey were that 153305 at Trowbridge on the 11:53 Swindon service, 153373 and 70809 at Westbury, 159015+021, 159106, and 158890 at Salisbury, 66570, 577, 593, 558, and 70110 between Redbridge and Millbrook, and 220030 on the 13:16 SOU – Manchester service.


After purchasing a cup of tea, it was over to Platform 2 for the 7 minutes delayed 13:13 Govia Thameslink Railway London Victoria via Horsham service, formed by 377156 for a run to Southbourne Halt (it has the “Halt” suffix on the map of the local area). Owing to the delay, this ran non-stop to Cosham, omitting the normal calls at Swanwick, Fareham, and Portchester to claw back time. Arrival at Southbourne was on time. It was then over the level crossing to the opposite platform (it is noted that there is no footbridge here between the platforms) where during the intended brief fester, I had a play around on the ticket machine and still could not get the PMH – RYP to come up. I tried the previous stop, Portsmouth & Southsea, but to no avail. I then tried Fratton and surprisingly, it worked, so I started again and purchased a Fratton – Lake day return (Route: Any Permitted + Hovercraft). I then glanced at the screen and noticed that my intended 14:12 SOU service was delayed by 25 minutes or so and would arrive after the 14:26 Littlehampton – PMS service (it transpired that according to the RTT website, this train ran between East Croydon and Fareham due to an issue with the traincrew). After consulting the timetable and as both these trains call at Emsworth, this gave me a chance to do an unexpected linear hop, even though it would most likely delay me getting to Ryde by an hour (I intended to be on the 15:15 catamaran), depending on how the following events work out. It was onboard the 7 minutes delayed 14:26 PMS service to Emsworth, which to my surprise was formed by dud 377416, as I was expecting one of 1976s finest, a Class 313. It was a brief wait before the 25 minutes delayed 14:15 service rolled in, formed by dud 377110 for a short run to Cosham, having clawed back 5 minutes and completing the top side of the triangle.


It was over to the opposite platform (although Cosham station has a level crossing, there is the added bonus of a footbridge between platforms) for the 14:58 WAT – PMH service, formed by 450567 round the left side of the triangle to Fratton. It is noted that I had already consulted the timetable, and this service would have arrived at PMH a couple of minutes after the 15:15 catamaran service to Ryde had departed. I had already decided to switch a couple of things around, and also to forego the Brading station score to help me get back on my intended schedule. It was over to the London platform for the 15:08 PMH – WAT via Basingstoke service, formed by 444035+023 for a hop to the next stop Hilsea. It was over to the Portsmouth platform for a 20 minute fester in the light showers, observing the trio of required 450087 and 035, plus dud 103 on the 15:33 Waterloo via Haslemere service. Soon after, it was on board the slightly delayed 15:33 PMH service, formed by dud 450083 for a linear hop to Fratton, then on the slightly delayed 15:40 to Portsmouth & Southsea, formed by 450566 arriving into Platform 4.


I consulted the screens before going upstairs, then it was onboard the 15:59 PMH service, formed by 377426 for the short hop to the harbour. It was then down the ramp to join the queue for the 16:15 catamaran, of which the vessel that was on this departure was Wightlink Rider II. Wight Sun was the vehicle ferry just a short distance away from where the catamaran had moored. Of note, the showers had now cleared so I went out onto the open deck. After disembarking at Ryde Pier Head, it was to the railway platform for the 16:49 Shanklin service, formed by a busy 008 for the run to Ryde St Johns Road. Having spotted the second diagram today, I knew it would be dud, as I had that both times last year on the railtour. At the depot, 009, 004, and a paint peeling “Raptor” were spotted. I then hopped onboard the 17:13 Shanklin service, formed by dud 007 for the run to the penultimate stop Lake, before heading back to RYP on the 17:41 and the same unit.


It was onboard the 18:10 additional sailing back to PMH, of which the vessel was Wightlink I. Of note, the top deck was closed, so I took a seat near the front on the right hand side. After disembarking, it was onboard the slightly delayed 18:37 Littlehampton service, formed by 313208 (I had a note of my 5 remaining Brighton based Class 313s, so I was intentionally keeping a look out for them) for a run to Fratton. It was then over to the Portsmouth platform for the 6 minutes delayed 18:49 PMS service, formed by 313216 for a run to the end and back to Fratton on the 18:59 LIT service that it would form. It was a short wait on the same platform for the 19:08 WAT via Basingstoke service, formed by 444019 to Eastleigh and with me now back on my original schedule. Of note, 59104 was in the yard with the headlamps facing Portsmouth, with 66720 stabled.


It was over to Platform 1 for my next move, where 66592 hauling containers in the London direction came to a brief pause to change drivers, and likewise with 66594 “Spirit of Kyoto” hauling containers through Platform 3 in the Southampton direction. It was soon onboard the slightly delayed 19:50 Romsey via Chandlers Ford service, formed by dud 158880 for a short run to Chandlers Ford, and back on the same unit on the 2014 Salisbury via SOU service, passing 70016 hauling containers in the London direction near Millbrook. I bailed from this train at Dean, while paying attention to the 20:46 departure from Salisbury to check that it is running on time (as I will be attempting a 3 minute connection at Romsey onto the last direct Bristol train at 21:22, but with a get out of jail free card if need be), then crossed over to the Southampton platform via the level crossing (no footbridge at Dean) to board the 21:08 Romsey via SOU service, formed by dud 158882 that I had on the Lymington shuttle yesterday for the run to Romsey.


It was over to the opposite platform and when I checked the screen, the 21:22 PMH – Cardiff Central service had been cancelled. There was a guy on the platform who was also intending to get that train, and was going to Chippenham. I suggested to board the 21:31 Westbury service and enquire with the staff for the onward journey. When the slightly delayed 21:31 rolled in and formed by 158886 (an SWT unit operating a GWR service), I mentioned to the guard that there is somebody who is travelling to Chippenham, but the guy never boarded this train. There was a call at Dilton Marsh either to let somebody off or to let somebody on before terminating at Westbury. It was over to Platform 3 for the 22:32 service to BRI, formed by dud 158766 + winning dogbox 153305, with me opting for some dogbox thrash for an uneventful run back to Bristol and drawing the day to a close.


Overall, I felt that it was a worthwhile exercise today regarding nipping across to the Isle of Wight for some rapid fire bashing. Although my initial plan came apart slightly due to the Govia Thameslink Railway service being delayed, I switched a couple of things around to help me get back on schedule. I have also scored new track between Fareham – Havant, and Cosham – Hilsea, completing all three sides of the triangle in that area.


Stay tuned for the next installment

 

[Kite159]

Just be thankful your Southern service wasn't cancelled

Sounded like another good day, I must head back to the Island at some point to see if I can get lucky with scoring 008 or 009

 

[adrock1976]

Day 4 – Yeovil stations connecting curve and various bits and pieces 20 August


Today's plan was to cover the Severn Beach line and also the curve that connects both Yeovil stations, as it now has a regular passenger service. Of the additional bits and pieces, I would attempt to do the Pilning station visit, as presently it has one service in each direction on Saturdays Only. Additionally, although I have been on various trains on separate occasions that have called at all stations between London Waterloo and Exeter/Barnstaple (Cranbrook had not opened at the time when I did the L&SWR route to Exeter in 2015), with the exception of Grateley. While I am not too far away, I might as well turn a station call into a flying visit, as it is easier to do it from the Salisbury end. Furthermore, I would also attempt to fit in the summer Saturdays Only Bristol TM – Weymouth IC125 into the plan during the course of the day.


It was an early rise and setting off at around 06:50, it was a walk in the chilly breeze and heavy showers to Temple Meads station, picking up a Devon Day Ranger from the booking office for tomorrow. As my original plan was to start with the Pilning visit then bus to Severn Beach, I immediately decided to abandon that for another day as due to the inclement weather, I did not fancy the 40 minute fester at Severn Tunnel Junction. Furthermore, I had also investigated either walking or having a short hop to Caldicot, but the timings did not work out very well at all. It was over to Platform 5 for the 07:16 Severn Beach service, formed by 150104 for the run all the way to the end of the line, remaining onboard for the run back along the line to Sea Mills. It was a 10 minute fester on the same platform for the 08:21 Avonmouth service, formed by 150243 for the run to the end and remaining on board for the southbound run to Clifton Down, passing 150104 on the 08:48 Avonmouth service.


I was considering walking to Redland, but the map of the local area on the platform was not clear, so it was to the nearby bus stop for the number 8 Firstbus service to Redland station, via Black Boy Hill. The showers had eased off, but there was still a chilly breeze. Of note, the bus announces the names of stops like as happens in London, which was very helpful. After alighting at Redland station, it was a short walk along Lovers Walk to the platform, with a 10 minute fester or so for the 09:26 Severn Beach service formed by 150239 to St Andrews Road. Of note, the section of the line between Avonmouth and Severn Beach appears to be an area of industrial decline, with some abandoned coal wagons at Portbury yard, and some odd pockets of a phase of regeneration going by what appears to be some buildings in the former docks area being demolished, and there are some recent looking industrial units including an ASDA store on the Bristol side of the tracks.


Anyway, it was back on board 150239 for the 10:00 BRI service, where I bailed at Stapleton Road for a linear hop, then onto the 10:34 WSB service to BRI. As it was my intention to score this station on Wednesday but was unable to due to delays, I decided upon this course of action. Of note, Stapleton Road has a low platform, and what appears to be a recently installed shelter is one of the chocolate teapot variety i.e. that there were gaps where panes of glass or perspex were supposed to be in the frame. The showers had started again, but I felt drier outside than inside the shelter. There were a few passengers who arrived for the 10:34, but 10:34 came and went, with the screen on the help point remaining blank. A few minutes after the scheduled departure time, I decided to use the help point to contact somebody (most likely not local) to enquire about the 10:34. They explained that it is delayed (which myself and fellow passengers were already aware) and that the train is presently at Bristol Parkway, and should be here in 5 minutes or so. The person also gave alternative connections to Westbury as well. 5 minutes went, and there was a train approaching, but not the 10:34, but instead a delayed ICXC 220 zooming through. Another passenger tried the help point, and got somebody different, and it was ascertained that the 10:34 was running 25 minutes behind schedule, and would be the next train – a huge sigh of relief for my fellow passengers.


Eventually, it was onboard a very busy 150128 with some Newcastle United FC fans for the short run to Temple Meads. As I had pencilled in the 10:45 PAD – Weston-super-Mare Saturdays Only IC125, I obviously abandoned that due to the delay, so had a look around to see if anything was required before my next main move. Required 43126+144 were spotted arriving into Platform 13 off the 09:30 PAD terminating service and forming an empty coaching stock move to St Phillips Marsh depot. The 11:30 PAD service were double duds 43088+036, and the 11:22 Portsmouth Harbour service was dud 158957, so declined those and purchased a cup of tea from the Pumpkin outlet before boarding the 11:49 Weymouth service, formed by dud 150122 for a run to Yeovil Pen Mill, arriving 8 minutes behind schedule. Of note, 70809, 70805, 804, 806, and 66132 were spotted at Westbury.


It was over the footbridge to the opposite platform (be aware that although the island platform has a face for trains at the side platform for doors to be opened both sides, it is the doors on the side platform and not the island platforms that are opened) for the 13:28 Yeovil Junction short working, formed by 159018 for the short hop round the curve. At YVJ, 159007+107 were on the 13:39 Exeter St Davids service, before hoping back on 159018 to go back round the curve to Pen Mill station. It was then onboard the 5 minutes delayed 14:06 Gloucester service, formed by the return of dud 150243 from first thing this morning for a run to Westbury. Of note, a group of ladies who were either going to or on their way back from a wedding event boarded at Castle Cary, and were in high spirits so much that when I pulled out a disposable plastic cup (from the overnight train) to have a sip of water, they filled it with champagne before I opened my bottle of water.


It was onboard the 15:06 Swindon service, formed by dud 150128 for a run to Melksham. I then went for a brief wander up to the main road before heading back to the platform for the 15:48 Warminster service, formed by 150121 for a short hop to Trowbridge. As I was going to hop on the 16:16 Cardiff Central service to Bradford on Avon to meet the 16:24 Salisbury service, I abandoned that as it was slightly delayed and eliminating my 2 minute connection. The CDF service was dud 158957 anyway, so no loss there. The 16:19 Westbury service was dud 158763, so declined that and hopped on the 16:30 Salisbury service that I would have picked up at Bradford on Avon, formed by 159105 for the run to SAL, spotting 66005, 053, 003, and 135 at Westbury. On arrival at SAL, 158885 was in the siding next to Platform 5, 159107 being the rear unit for the 17:21 London Waterloo service that would attach to the train I just alighted from, 158888 in Platform 6 on the 17:56 Romsey service, and 158959 on the 17:32 Portsmouth Harbour service.


After purchasing a cup of tea, it was onboard the 17:47 Waterloo service, formed by 159104 for a short run to Grateley. I had a brief look around, and noticed on the map of the local area that there is a place called Palestine not far from the station. Obviously, I would imagine that it is very different from Palestine in North East Africa – North West Asia region, but that would be for a different thread in the General Discussion section. Anyway, it was over to the opposite platform for the 18:07 SAL service, formed by 159021 arriving into Platform 3 to attach to 159003 to form the 18:21 WAT service. It transpired that this was a rustled-up formation, as the train that would have arrived from Exeter got caught up with signalling problems around Pinhoe. Of note, 158952 was on the 18:32 PMH service, and 158880 was on the Romsey service.


It was onboard the 18:40 Cardiff Central service, formed by 158954 and taking a seat in the odd end coach 57747 for haulage (it will be a huge sigh of relief when I find the matching partners eventually of the odd coaches that are in these hybrid sets) for the run to Bradford on Avon. It was a 15 minute fester here for the 5 minutes delayed 19:32 WEY – BRI SO IC125 service, formed by 43129+162 for some uphill thrash (not quite the same as when the powercars had the original Valenta engines) to Oldfield Park (I would imagine it is not often an IC125 calls at both Oldfield Park and Keynsham). It was then up the evil ramp and over the roadbridge to the London platform to see 43181+187 (both required) passing through on a PAD – WSM service, before boarding the 20:03 Frome service formed by the return of dud 150121 to Avoncliffe Halt, which as a short platform. Not surprisingly, I was the only passenger who alighted here, with nobody boarding.


I then had a gentle saunter up to the canal and over the bridge and down to the Bristol platform, with a short fester before hopping on the 20:32 WEY – BRI service formed by dud from this morning 150239 and partial winning 158960. I did say partial, as 150239 was the leading unit, I was only going one stop to Freshford, another station with a short platform and having to alight from the front unit here too. Of note, I was the only passenger who boarded, with nobody alighting. I then had a 20 minute fester then boarded the 20:56 WSB – BRI service formed by dud 150246 for the run back to Temple Meads.


After having a quick look around to see if there was anything required, I boarded the 21:59 Exeter St Davids via Weston-super-Mare service, formed by 153333 and dud 150221 for a run to Parson Street. I walked along the main road (West Street, or something that contains a compass point in its name) and turning off right down a side street to follow the railway line to Bedminster station, which is situated along a street called Hereford Drive (or something like that). I made my way up the ramp to Platform 1 (it is not clear which platform is which, as there are no signs mentioning which direction the platforms are for) for the 22:34 Taunton – BRI service. As my brain was starting to shut down for the evening, I thought I saw something briefly flash up on the help point screen on the opposite island platform, but thought as I was tired, my mind was playing tricks on me. It transpired that I was on the wrong platform, after having seen dud 150232+required 150120 drawing into Platform 2, realising that I would not be able to make a dash down the long ramp and under and up another long ramp, I decided to walk back to my accommodation, as it is equidistant from Temple Meads station.


Overall, I've scored the Severn Beach line and the curve connecting both Yeovil stations as new track today, plus I managed to meet the Saturdays Only Bristol – Weymouth IC125 during the course of the day. I also took a slight deviation to score Grateley, and reduce my Class 159 requirements slightly.


Stay tuned for the next installment.

 

[Kite159]

I think the asda store you saw on the Severn Beach line is part of a large distribution centre.

Agreed with having first class on the Romsey Sixes, it is rather pointless, I think some peak time services the area is declassified. The front door being locked out of use has caught many a passenger out, it's a SWT thing (same with the 159s and I believe the 442s when they were doing the services they were built for)...

As for the 3car 158 you had with GWR (7XX), it was a 3car as built with the middle car having an odd carriage number (similar to the 3car 158s Northern have)

----

Sounded like another good day, weather aside. GRT is just a basic little station in a place with housing and not a lot else

 

[adrock1976]

Day 5 – A switch to Devon Day Ranger and the Okehampton line 21 August


As I head a dreadful night's sleep, I was awake early enough to get ready for the walk to Temple Meads station. After I purchased a tea, it was along to Platform 4 for the 08:44 ICXC Plymouth service, formed by 220028 for the run to Tiverton Parkway. There was a delay along the way, which resulted in an arrival of 8 minutes behind schedule, and spotting 150265 (required)+244 (dud) on the 09:51 EXD – Severn Beach via WSM service. Remaining on the same platform, it was then onboard the 5 minutes delayed 09:47 BRI – Penzance via WSM service, formed by dud 150246 + required 150202 for the run to Exeter St Davids. Upon arrival, as I was not still properly awake yet, I made my way to the refreshment rooms but abandoned that when I realised it was Star*ucks (insert consonant of your choice). As a point of principle, I boycott them due to them openly admitting to dodge paying a fair share of tax, plus years ago before that came to light, the staff do not know how to make tea properly, as I was served something not far from cat pee and therefore rejected it.


Anyway, it was out of the station to the Costa at the end of the square before heading back to the platform for the 10:25 London Waterloo service, formed by 159019 for the run to Pinhoe. 220006 was on the Aberdeen via Leeds service. At Pinhoe, it is noted that the trains pass each other here due to the single track section east of Pinhoe, and that from my observations, the level crossing barriers remain down until both trains have cleared the platforms. Also, there is the absence of a footbridge, hence making it tricky to score this station. However, my intention was to walk to Polsloe Bridge station via the park on the Exeter side of the track and along Pinhoe Road. After going underneath the railway bridge and up some narrow stairs to the remaining in use Exeter platform, I had arrived with 10 minutes to spare as intended (the disused platform on the Exmouth side is covered with what seems to be common south west of the mighty Thames, and rather invasive and a pain to get rid of due to being controlled waste, Japanese Knotweed).


As my intention was to take the 11:25 Exmouth service to Newcourt, it transpired that the previous service (the 10:53) was running 25 minutes behind schedule, and as my senses turned out right that there was the possibility of that train terminating at Topsham so as to get it back on time after boarding double winning Pacers 143618+617, instead of me bailing at Digby & Sowton or Newcourt, I remained on to Topsham. The reason being that Topsham is a passing point along the single track section, with the trains timetabled to arrive and depart in opposite directions at more or less the same time. Also, it is a level crossing station, with no footbridge. After alighting at Topsham, it was over to the Exeter platform to reboard the double Pacers (that I would have met at Newcourt anyway) for the run to Exeter Central. Of note, it would have been 150263 (required) that I would have took to Newcourt on the 11:25 from Polsloe Bridge.


It was then a short fester having spotted required 143611+621 on the 11:52 Exmouth service, which I had a feeling I would be meeting those for haulage later on. I boarded the 11:59 Barnstaple service, formed by another winning duo of Pacers 143620+612, asking the guard which set of doors to be at for the station I would be alighting at on request. I took a seat in the front unit, with the guard announcing that at Exeter St Davids, that there is expected to be a large group of Scouts boarding the rear train, which was helpful and all credit is due to the station staff at EXD relaying the information to the station staff at EXC, even though St Davids was built by the GWR, and Central built by the London & South Western Railway many moons ago. Anyway, it was not long before I alighted at the request stop of Newtown St Cyres, which has a short platform and a raised hump. It was a short fester before heading back to EXD on the 10 minutes delayed 12:21 service, formed by dud 150221. It seemed tha the delay was caused by a passenger who had slipped while boarding the train at the previous stop Crediton, and had a bandaged leg. On arrival at EXD, there were some first aiders/paramedics who carried the injured passenger away for further treatment, and more importantly, a speedy recovery.


I had a couple of options here to head west before making my way to Okehampton. First of all, 150120 was spotted on the 12:47 Exmouth service, a remote possibility of landing that for haulage later. My first option was the 12:53 Leeds – Plymouth ICXC IC125 diagram, which I declined when I saw that the leading powercar was dud 43384 (I have seen this with 304 a few times this year at Birmingham, York, and Edinburgh, but when it departed, it was required 303 on the rear, much to my surprise). However, it was soon onboard the 13:02 Paignton service, which was formed by as expected winning pair that I spotted earlier 143621+611 for a run past Starcross and parallel to the sea wall to Dawlish, gricing the westbound loop at Dawlish Warren along the way (I did the London loop in summer 2015 on my previous visit). It was over to the London platform for the 13:27 Exmouth via Exeter Central service, formed by as expected dud pair from earlier 143617+618 for the run to Digby & Sowton for an extended filler move. At EXC, required 150124 was spotted on the 13:52 Exmouth – Paignton service, after some uphill Pacer thrash through St Davids Tunnel between EXD and EXC.


It was back to Exeter Central on the 14:15 Exmouth – EXD service, formed by dud 150221, where during the short fester before my next move, dud 159006 was spotted on the 14:30 London Waterloo service. It was soon onboard the 14:30 Okehampton service, which was formed by dud dogbox pair 153372+153329, much to my surprise as I was expecting a 150. Of note, it did not matter to me that it was dud, as the main task was to bash the track as the line to Okehampton has a Sundays Only service in operation between May and September. There were quite a few passengers who boarded at both Exeter stations, making the train heavily loaded. While on board, there was somebody who was doing a survey of the passengers' journey so as to work out the viability of a daily service, and to try to have it as a franchise requirement. From what I could tell, there were quite a few locals who were making use of the service, as some were on their way back home and some were heading for a day out. When I was surveyed, I explained that my previous train that I used to change into this service was from Digby & Sowton, as although I technically started my journey on Tuesday night from Glasgow Central, my data would probably be disregarded as an outlier if any inferential statistic tests are carried out on the data that has been gathered.


I remained onboard for the return journey, with my data for the survey being from Okehampton to Barnstaple. I alighted from the dogboxes at Crediton, where it was a 20 minute fester for the 16:18 Barnstaple service. It was onboard the return of dud 150221 (that seems to be following me around everywhere today), being held for 10 minutes before departing to wait for the delayed 16:17 (153361 was on this working) Exeter bound service to clear the single track section. I alighted at the request stop of Portsmouth Arms (not surprisingly, I was the only passenger to do so, with nobody boarding) and during the 40 minute fester here, I noticed that rather bizarrely, the platform seems to be undergoing renovation works. Both the bench and the shelter were fenced off. I went for a very slow crawl to the main road and had a quick look about, and found that the hostelry that the station was named after seems to be a B&B establishment. Eventually, it was back onboard 150221 for the 10 minutes delayed 17:37 back to Exeter St Davids with me being the only passenger who boarded, but with somebody alighting much to my surprise. At Crediton, 150263 was spotted on the 18:17 Barnstaple service, and 159018+020 were sitting in the sidings at EXD.


After I alighted at EXD, I took a look around to see if I could do a rapid dash to and from Central before my next main move, but abandoned that when the 18:46 Exmouth service was slightly delayed and rather much to my chagrin, was required 153370+150124. 221136 was on the 18:47 Plymouth service, while my first option of my next main move was the 18:52 PAD via Westbury service, which I declined as it was dud 43195 and required 43040. As I was next to the depot, I spotted dogboxes 153318, and 372+379 from the Okehampton service, 143619 (my sole remaining Exeter based Class 143), 150106, and 143020+612 that I had earlier on. It was then onboard my second option, which was the slightly delayed 18:58 Paignton – Birmingham NS service, formed by 221121 for a linear hop to Taunton. Of note, 150120+153373+150128 were spotted on the 19:33 EXD service, before boarding the 19:44 PAD service formed by dud 43027 and winning 43149 “University of Plymouth” for the run to Castle Cary.


I had a quick look around and noticed that the only thing of note was a visitor centre (obviously closed at this time of day) that sells and produces locally made cider. Of note, this is the station that is the closest to the site of the Glastonbury Festival, albeit it is stll a fair trek. There was a passenger who alighted with me who was trying to get a taxi to Shepton Mallet by the sounds of the conversation. It was to the westbound platform for the 20:30 PAD – Plymouth avoiding Westbury service, formed by dud 43098 and winning 43025 carrying possibly the longest text of a nameplate “IRO The Institution of Railway Operators 2000-2010 Ten Years of Promoting Operational Excellence”. After alighting at Taunton, I checked the screens and noticed that what would have been my final move of the evening to get back to Bristol, the 21:27 Plymouth – PAD via BRI service was running 20 minutes behind schedule. I then consulted the timetable and realised that I could take the 20:59 Manchester – Paignton service to Tiverton Parkway, and meet the delayed 21:14 (the 21:27 I would have picked up at TAU) if it was a required 220 or 221. I was rewarded with winning 220027 for the run to TVP, where it was a gentle saunter over the evil looking bridge to the London platform and the announcement that the 21:27 Aberdeen – Plymouth service was delayed by 50 minutes.


Eventually, it was onboard the 25 minutes delayed 21:14 PAD via BRI service, formed by 43134+177 for a run to Bath Spa, as I was feeling lucky and could meet the 22:48 (subsequently retimed 6 minutes later today when I found out on arrival) after the delay was reduced to 15 minutes behind schedule after departing BRI. It was then back to BRI on the retimed 22:54, formed by 43128+125, handing in an iPad to the traincrew after noticing that somebody must have left it behind when I was walking through a Standard Class coach towards the centre of the train after departing Bath Spa.


Overall, I have covered both the Okehampton line and Taunton – Castle Cary section as new track today. I have also scored the Intercity stations of Tiverton Parkway and Taunton, meaning that the only Great Western Railway IC stations I require are Bodmin Parkway and Neath. I would also stretch things slightly to say that I also require High Wycombe, Warwick Parkway, and Wrexham General, although on GWR metals, the services at those stations are not provided by the GWR franchise. I have reduced my Exeter based Class 143s down to 1, with very little effort in doing so today, plus I have reduced my 220/221 and IC125 powercars slightly as well. Of note, the only track I require of GWR metals is the direct line avoiding both Frome and Westbury, and also Princes Risborough – Aylesbury. The only London & South Western Railway track that I require is Surbiton – Guildford via Cobham & Stoke d'Abernon, and the funny bit that was constructed by both the L&SWR and London, Brighton, & South Coast Railway from both Ewell stations via Epsom to Dorking, Effingham Junction, and Horsham.

 

[Kite159]

Congrats on a good day in Devon, getting a couple of those hard to get stations on the Barnstaple line done

(Although I'm sure you meant 159019 to the very hard to get (unless the Exeter bound service is delayed) Pinhoe rather than 150019)

 

[adrock1976]

I've fixed the typo.

I think the awkwardest one to do on the Barnstaple line on Mondays to Saturdays is Eggesford, with the awkward layout due to the level crossing at a road junction.

The final installment of this leg is below. I will be going back for some more during the course of this week.

Day 6 – Homeward bound and some West Midlands bits and pieces 22 August


It was time to start heading back home after checking out of my accommodation for the walk to Temple Meads station. It was onboard the 09: 00 Manchester service, formed by dud 220002 for a run to Cheltenham Spa, spotting 66507 at Stoke Gifford along the way. 170637 was on the 10:02 Nottingham service, before I boarded the 7 minutes delayed 10:00 York – Plymouth IC125 service formed by 43321+357 for the southbound run to Bristol Parkway/Stoke Gifford. It was then a rapid dash over the footbridge for the slightly delayed 10:39 Edinburgh Waverley service, formed by 221137 for the run back to CNM, having spotted 170519 on the 10:09 Cardiff Central service not long after alighting.


I then had a short fester before boarding required 153368 + dud 150243 on the 11:20 Swindon via Gloucester service. Technically, the dogbox was half a winner, as it was not in use for the run to Gloucester, where it would be uncoupled. It was then a hike from Platform 4 to Platform 1 at GCR for the 11:36 Great Malvern service, formed by dud 150104 for the run to the end. However, as there was a slight delay on the approach to Abbotswood Junction (the connecting link from the Birmingham & Gloucester Railway (MR) to the Oxford, Worcester, & Wolverhampton Railway (GWR)), this made the train run 10 minutes behind schedule from Worcester Shrub Hill onwards. Looking at my sheet, I decided to bail at Malvern Link, then that way, I would be on the same platform for the PAD – Hereford IC125 service. Of note, the 12:36 HFD – PAD service I would have picked up at Great Malvern for a bus stop bash was required Thames Turbo 166219, and the 12:42 from MVL to HFD that was running 5 minutes delayed was required 170519. I would have gone back to MVL on 150104 that was on the 12:51 Weymouth service.


Anyway, I hung about for the 12:58 PAD – HFD IC125 service, which were dud powercars 43177+124 that I had last night on the Tiverton Parkway – Bath Spa leg, so declined those. It was over to the opposite platform for the busy 13:13 HFD – Birmingham New Street via Bromsgrove service (that I would have picked up at GMV if the IC125 was required) that was formed by required 150107 (I only need 105 to have had all 3 LM Class 150s) for the short run to Worcester Foregate Street, and had a brief wander around nearby to pick up some lunch. After arriving back at the station, it was onboard the 13:51 Whitlocks End service, formed by dud 172339 for the run to Kidderminster, then after a 15 minute fester, it was onboard the 14:25 Whitlocks End service formed by dud 172342 for a run to Hagley, where 12 minutes later it was onboard the 14:44 Dorridge service formed by dud pair 172220+214 for a bus stop bash to Stourbridge Junction.


After taking a look to see if 139001 was on the SBJ – Town shuttle (I had calculated that it should be 001 this week, as they change over every Sunday, and it was an odd number of weeks from when I was last here in July on the way back from Cardiff), I was dismayed that it was dud 002 that was out today. I'm unsure if 001 was having technical issues, as on the approach to SBJ, I saw a couple of people working on the one in the shed. Anyway, it was onboard the 14:57 Stratford-upon-Avon via Shirley service, formed by 172345 for the run to Smethwick Galton Bridge, then downstairs to Platform 4 for the 15:23 Birmingham International service (announced as 4 coaches, but only 2 turned up) formed by 158831 to Birmingham New Street.


It was over to Platform 1 to board the 15:50 London Euston IC service, formed by 390135 “City of Lancaster” for a run to Birmingham International, then a short fester for the 16:14 Bournemouth service, formed by 221134 to Coventry. Of note, 221127 was on the 16:27 Manchester service, 350113 on the 16:30 BHM service, 390154 on the 16:31 EUS service, and 390125 was on the 16:42 Glasgow Central via Preston service. It was onboard the 16:42 Nuneaton service formed by 153371 for a run to Bermuda Park, one of the 2 recently opened stations along the route. I last did this line back in 1989 on a Coventry – Skegness/Lincoln Central/Cleethorpes (cannot remember which destination) to Nottingham in a Class 11x. Back to the present day, it was less than a 20 minute fester before the dogbox rolled in on the 17:18 service to take me back to Coventry, to then hop onboard the 17:42 Edinburgh Waverley via Preston service formed by dud pair 221104+102 for a short run to Birmingham International.


Before my next move, 158839 was on the 18:09 Aberystwyth service (again, announced as 4 on the screen, but only 2 present), 350261 on the 18:05 BHM service, and 390006 was on the 8 minutes delayed 18:00 EUS service. I hopped onboard the 5 minutes delayed 18:05 EUS via Northampton service (the former Network SouthEast services operated by Class 317s), formed by 350114 for a run to Canley Halt (I was originally going to alight at Tile Hill, but changed my mind), then over the footbridge (you can just about make out the location of the former level crossing that is now removed, with Canley Road severed into 2 different sections) to the Birmingham platform for the 18:33 to BHM, formed by 350236 for the run to the end.


It was over to Platform 6 for the 19:15 Glasgow Central via Preston service, formed by recent dud 390135 “City of Lancaster”. After departure, 220016 was stabled on the centre track between Platforms 5 and 6, 350119, 153362, 09204 Arriva Traincare, 90046, and 37057 were spotted near the vicinity of Gresty Bridge, Crewe, with 350127 and 175103 spotted in the Birmingham facing bay platforms. After departure from Preston, 57311 was spotted at the Lancaster end of Platforms 3 and 4. Of note, arrival at Glasgow Central was 10 minutes behind schedule, therefore as what normally happens, breaks my connection from Queen Street owing to the minimum 30 minutes connection time.

 

[Kite159]

Sounded like a good last day with some more winners for your book

 

[Techniquest]

Sorry for the delay in reading these, which filled three quarters of my work-bound commute this morning. It's been a busy few days, and I'm still a long way from catching up with the forum!

An amazing 6 days for you there adrock, you sure filled your books well there. An excellent read as well, but I should imagine you were glad to get back home to your own bed after so many days away!

I won't mention how many times I've had 150105...

 

[adrock1976]

Day 7 – Coventry Arena and Gloucester diversions 29 August


As I had to return home for some tasks last week and as I had a few days left of the FoSS Rover, I decided to go back for some second helpings, with the main focus being on the IC125 powercars. I would be basing myself in London, and as the fare from London Terminals to Reading is not much less than the Thames Branches Day Ranger, by combining it with a Newbury – Westbury CDR as there is an official doubleback via Reading as well as being able to travel via Swindon, I decided to plump for that option, keeping all possibilities open. Furthermore, it would also give me three attempts at landing my final London Overground Class 172 (172007) as well by taking a short run up to Gospel Oak from Camden Road.


It was my usual early rise to set out at 03:45 for the walk to Glasgow Central station and straight to Platform 1 for the 04:28 London Euston via Trent Valley Railway service, formed by dud 390151 “Virgin Ambassador” for the southbound run to Preston. At Carlisle Citadel, 92014 was on the northbound Caledonian Sleeper, when after arrival at Preston, 350404+402 was on the Edinburgh Waverley, and yet to be prepared 156438+142057+156472 I think were on the 07:14 Blackpool North departure (according to the screens). It was onboard the 07:17 London Euston via Birmingham service, formed by dud 390153 “Mission Accomplished” for the southbound run to Wolverhampton or Birmingham depending on how this and other trains are running once in the West Midlands region. At Wigan NW, 319382 was on the 07xx Liverpool LS – Preston limited stop service, and 319374 was on the local all stations service to LIV, while at Warrington BQ, 158825+824 were on the origin from somewhere in North Wales or Chester – Manchester Piccadilly service, and at Crewe, 221107 was on the shuttles to Chester due to engineering works south of Rugby, and 350106 was on a Birmingham – Liverpool LS service.


Arrival at Wolverhampton was surprisingly on time, and I decided to bail to see if the 08:41 Manchester – Bournemouth ICXC was a required 220/221 or not. I was keeping an eye on the screen, and eventually, the Bournemouth service arrived 5 minutes behind schedule. It was obvious that the Bournemouth service would be the first to depart and follow the Shrewsbury – Birmingham local service, with the London train behind as it calls at Sandwell & Dudley. It was onboard my first winner of the day 221141 for the run to BHM, arriving at around 09:05, and then making my way to Platform 12a for the 09:22 Stansted Airport service, formed by dud 170110 for the run to Nuneaton. I then hopped on the 10:14 Coventry service when it was ready to be opened up after the layover and formed by winning dogbox 153354 for the run to Coventry Arena. Of note, there is the stadium on the Nuneaton side of the track and a huge retail park on the Coventry side. It was back on the dogbox on the 10:49 Nuneaton service all the way to the end, then over to Platform 6 for the 11:10 Birmingham service, formed by required 170518, spotting 70001 and 66598 at Landor Street depot.


After nipping out of the station to pick up some lunch from the Tesco at the junction of New Street and Temple Street, it was to Platform 10b for the 12:17 Plymouth service, formed by required and heavily loaded 220005. The heavy loading is most likely attributed to there being no Manchester – Bristol TM short workings today due to engineering works and diversions. I eventually found somewhere to sit, after examining the good old fashioned paper reservation labels. Of note, 170113 was stabled on the centre track between Platforms 9 and 10. Departure was a few minutes late, but got back on time before I bailed at Cheltenham Spa. It was a short fester before boarding the 13:10 Nottingham – Cardiff Central service, formed by required 170108 for the run to Lydney. At Gloucester, 150122 was spotted in the siding, while 150231 was on a Cheltenham Spa service.


It was over to the London/Birmingham platform after the train departed and the level crossing barriers rose (there is no footbridge between the platforms here), and into the shade as it was quite hot. Soon after, it was onboard the 14:00 Maesteg – Gloucester service back to GCR, formed by required 150259. Of note, observations were that 150232 was in Platform 3 facing Newport, 170639 was on the 14:25 Nottingham – Cardiff service, dud powercar pair 43177+134 passing through Platforms 1 and 2 on a London Paddington – Swansea diverted service, 170636 on the 14:50 to Nottingham, 158961 on the 15:09 Cheltenham Spa service, and 66024+66xx4 were hauling ballast wagons in the direction of Newport. It was then onboard the 18 minutes delayed 15:09 Cheltenham Spa – London Paddington via Stroud service, formed by dud 43133 + required 43018 for the run to Stroud. It was announced that the delay was caused by a train fault, and that it was my intention to have a brief wander during the 17 minute fester here, but the delay scuppered that plan. As I had calculated that the delay would make my next move a zero minute connection or a -1, I decided to go for the gamble. Fortunately, I pulled it off, as the 15:45 PAD – GCR service was 8 minutes delayed, and it was onboard dud 43128 + required 43069 for a short hop to neighbouring Stonehouse.


It was over to the London platform and into the shade before boarding the slightly delayed 16:25 Swindon service, formed by wholly required 158950 (another hybrid set), and doing my old fashioned task of riding the odd coach in the set 57751 for haulage (the other 2 are 57761+52761). This means that I have now had both coaches of former 158751, as I had its matching partner 52751 that is part of 158951 recently on a Trowbridge – Westbury hop. At Swindon, I had spotted 43005+041 on the 17:08 PAD service before boarding the 17:08 “Capitals United” PAD – Swansea service, formed by required pair 43092+140 “Landore Diesel Depot Celebrating 50 Years 1963-2013” (and its Welsh translation for possibly the longest text of a nameplate) for the run to Newport via Gloucester. After alighting at NWP, I had spotted 175113 on the 18:35 Chester service, before declining the dud pair of powercars 43134+177 on the 18:39 PAD service that I saw earlier at Gloucester. As it was my intention to take the 18:39 to Swindon and then score Kemble as a filler move, I was happy to forego that and await the 19:39 PAD service, while keeping a lookout for anything that is required that is heading in the Cardiff direction.


I hung around to see what was on the 18:53 CNM – Maesteg service, and was rewarded with required 150237 for the short run to Cardiff Central, meaning that I have now got 50% of the 36 ATW Class 150s. After nipping to the convenience store at the station for something cold and wet, it was to Platform 1 for the 19:25 London Paddington service, formed by required pair 43156 “Dartington International Summer School” + 43168 to Reading via Gloucester, scoring the microgrice of the centre track as a result of the diversion. Of note, 66058 was spotted facing London at Alexandra Dock hauling containers, while at Severn Tunnel Junction 66647 was hauling ballast wagons in the direction of the tunnel. After passing Stroud, the train slowed down and came to a halt for a few minutes or so. It was then on the move again, passing through Kemble 15 minutes behind schedule as a result of a signalling problem. It departed Swindon 8 minutes behind schedule, with an arrival at Reading 5 minutes down and the onwards departure being 4 minutes down.


After alighting at Reading, I had spotted 800004 “Sir Daniel Gooch” in Platform 9 looking rather elegant by my visual inspection of the interior layout from the outside during nightfall. Let's hope that the fixtures and fittings do not fall apart after being in service after 5 minutes, like what happened to some of the Voyagers back in the early noughties. Anyway, it was onboard the 21:51 Bristol TM – PAD service, formed by required pair 43042+175 “GWR - 175th Anniversary” for the non-stop run to PAD. It was then over to the Bishops Bridge Road platforms of the Metropolitan/H&C Underground platforms and onboard dud 21450+459 to Euston Square, then a walk along North Gower Street and Hampstead Road to my accommodation in Bayham Street, Camden.


Overall, I am happy with today's trip, as I have got the rare microgrice of the centre track at Gloucester, plus I've reduced my IC125 powercar requirements slightly.


Stay tuned for the next few days.

 

[Techniquest]

Oh my good gosh, we were on the same service! I was on 43092+43140 from Paddington to Newport that day too! I was in coach C for the bulk of my journey, although I was heavily into my tunes and books at the time having given up on the WiFi.

I then left Newport on 175113, so we will have passed within feet of each other without knowing it!

Looks like you had a really good day, and of course it was an excellent read. Always good fun to see what people get up on my old stomping grounds!

 

[FQ]

Good to see lots of trams there! Nathan wouldn't like 43156 appearing for you - it's one of his last few required GWR powercars.

 

[adrock1976]

Day 8 – Hunt for 172007, North London Railway clearout, and attack of the IC125s


The aim of today is to nip along to Gospel Oak to see if 172007 is out, to score a couple of stations along the North London Railway, and the main task to get as many IC125 powercars as possible. Also, I would build it around the non-stop Reading – Taunton services that travel direct along the mainline that use the Westbury and Frome avoiding lines, so as to score the track. This would mean that the only required track of GWR metals I would have left would be the Princes Risborough – Aylesbury section.


It was an early rise, but not as early when compared to yesterday and setting off from my accommodation not long after 08:00, it was a short walk along to Camden Road station. I was unsure if I have boarded or alighted a train here, but this course of action makes it certain for sure. It was onboard a busy 08:23 Clapham Junction service, formed by required 378213 getting me off to a winning start for the short hop to Gospel Oak. The 08:32 South Tottenham service was dud, so declined that (I had 4 chances at this time of day as the peak frequency is every 12 minutes, with the off-peak frequency every 15 minutes and requires 3 diagrams). A few minutes after the 08:32 departed, I would be keeping a lookout for what would be on the 08:44 departure, and lo and behold, it was my final London Overground Class 172 that rolled in. I hopped onboard 172007 for the run to South Tottenham and back on the 09:10 departure that it would form, meaning that I do not need to come here again (I still require the track between Blackhorse Road and Barking, so can do the electric fleet along that section when they eventually come into service).


I then went over to the westbound platform for the slightly delayed 09:32 Richmond service, formed by required 378218 for the 2 stop hop along to Finchley Road & Frognal, then over to the eastbound platform for the 09:36 Stratford service formed by dud 378227 for a bus stop bash to Hampstead Heath. It was then over to the westbound platform for the slightly delayed 09:39 Richmond service formed by required 378222 for a short hop to Brondesbury Park, then a rapid dash over to the eastbound platform for the 09:50 Stratford service, formed by dud 378232 for a bus stop bash to West Hampstead (NLR). I then exited the NLR station and went over the road to the Metropolitan Railway station to board 96022+075 for a bus stop bash to Finchley Road, then on 21008+007 to Baker Street, then on 21403+404 to Paddington (Bishops Bridge Road).


After checking the departure screen and what IC125s were already on the platforms, by process of elimination I worked out that the 10:22 Hereford via Oxford would depart from Platform 5, which had a required powercar. Of note, the 10:00 Paignton via Bristol TM, the 10:08 Penzance, and the 10:15 Cardiff Central all had dud powercars, therefore I declined those. My process of elimination was right in that the 10:22 HFD would be departing from Platform 5, so it was onboard with required 43154 + dud 43197 for the run to Reading. During this leg of the journey, 66080, 66093, 66004, and 66054 were all spotted, with 72211 having some kind of race with the IC125. Arrival at RDG was on Platform 9, with my next move being to see what the 10:59 Bristol TM would produce, which would be on Platform 8 with the bonus of it being the same island platform.


I boarded the 10:59 BRI service as it was required pair 43164+137 “Newton Abbot 150” for a run to Swindon. The 11:36 Cheltenham Spa service was 158890, the hired in SWT set and was dud as I already had that almost 2 weeks ago, therefore I declined a run to Kemble. It was onboard the 11:40 Swansea service, with required pair 43194+010 for a run to Bristol Parkway/Stoke Gifford. There was a slight lull here before boarding the 12:32 PAD service, which was formed by double duds 43140+092 back to Swindon, where it was then on the 13:01 BRI service formed of dud 43071+ required 43159 for a run to Chippenham, then back to Swindon on the 13:25 PAD formed by fresh double duds 43137+164 as expected. It was then onboard the 13:45 PAD service, formed by double duds 43042+175 for a run to Reading. After purchasing a cup of tea, it was onto Platform 7 for the 14:34 Penzance service, formed by required pair 43148 “Bristol 2015 European Green Capital” + 43151 for the non-stop run to Taunton, gricing the avoiding lines at both Westbury and Frome. At Fairwood Junction (I think that is the one where the Westbury avoiding line rejoins the track that runs through Westbury station), 59101 was spotted hauling aggregates in the direction of Taunton. I would also like to mention that the guard was happy with my combination of the FoSS Rover and one of my Newbury – Westbury for this journey – all credit for understanding the use of Condition 19c in the NRCoC, and the official doubleback between NBY and RDG.


It was over to Platform 3 to see if the delayed inbound working that would form the 16:07 Cardiff Central via Weston-super-Mare was required. Much to my delight, I was rewarded with required 153380+150106 for the run to Highbridge & Burnham. It was then over to the opposite platform for the 7 minutes delayed 16:38 Taunton service, formed by dud 158766 for the run back to TAU, arriving a couple of minutes behind schedule. As the 17:06 Penzance service was dud, I declined that as a filler move to Tiverton Parkway and hung around for a game of ICXC Voyager bingo. The 17:15 Glasgow Central – Penzance service was required 221135, with the 17:22 Exeter St Davids – Manchester Piccadilly being dud 221119. As the 17:37 Plymouth – London Paddington service was showing as on time according to the screen, that explains how I did not take a run to TVP on the required 221 (I would have had to relied on the 17:37 being a minimum of 15 minutes delayed to have pulled it off). Anyway, it was onboard the 17:37 “The Mayflower”, formed by required pair 43035+132 for the non-stop run to Reading. Again, the guard was happy with my combination of the tickets I possessed. Somewhere between the Westbury area and Pewsey, the train came to a halt and was delayed due to signalling problems. Eventually, the train was on the move and arrived at Reading 23 minutes behind schedule, with me doing the microgrice into Platform 11 via the recent curve that branches to the right off the left side of the triangle just past the previous location of the depot that goes underneath the flyover if I'm making sense here.


I had a look at the screens to see if there was anything required on services heading towards London. I hung about on neighbouring Platform 10 for the 19:28 departure off Cardiff Central, but that was double duds, therefore I declined. Next was the 19:33 off Worcester Foregate Street, of which I was thinking it may be an IC125 or a Thames Turbo. I was wrong on both counts as it was 180104, and thinking that I've had it at some point in the last couple of years since I started recording my rail journeys again (turns out I got confused with the Grand Central and GWR's sister TOC Hull Trains as that is where I've had Class 180s before), I declined that and decided to focus on the IC125s. Next up was the 19:46 off Weston-super-Mare via BRI, which was required pair 43005+041 “Meningitis Trust support for Life” for the run to PAD, of which this set was painted in the green GWR livery (unsure if this is one of the five sets that First Group directly own outright).


After arrival at PAD, I took a look around to see if anything required was around. The 20:15 Greenford, 20:15 Swansea, 20:22 Great Malvern, 20:27 Oxford, and the 20:35 Swansea services were all dud, so I went for a cup of tea before checking the 20:45 Greenford (which was dud). It was over to Platform 4 for the 20:48 Oxford service, formed by required 165108 for the run to Slough. During the fester of just under 10 minutes, I had spotted 800004+002 passing through heading westbound before the 21:20 Windsor & Eton Central shuttle rolled in, of which I hopped onboard required 165114 for the run there and back. I had pulled off a -1 minute connection onto the 21:35 Oxford departure, formed by required 166221 for the run to Reading. It is noted that this train has recently had a new WC installed, similar to what some Class 150s have had. At Reading, I checked the screens for London bound services with first up being the 21:58 off Great Malvern. Again, I declined the Class 180 to see what was on the 22:02 off Exeter via Westbury service, which arrived 10 minutes behind schedule on Platform 11 and was a dud pair of powercars. I decided to immediately head over to Platform 15 for the 22:14 off Swansea and was rewarded with required pair 43182+063 for the run to PAD. Having decided to call it a day, it was over to the Bishops Bridge Road platforms of the Underground and onboard 21528+527 to Euston Square, and walking via North Gower Street and Hampstead Road to my accommodation.


Overall, I was rather surprised that on my first attempt, it was the second departure from Gospel Oak (the 08:44) that landed me my final LO Class 172. I have also bagged a few Class 378s, and several IC125 powercars as well. I have also scored both the Westbury and Frome avoiding lines, and also realising that the recent new track around the Reading triangle too. Furthermore, I have scored the North London Railway and the Metropolitan Railway stations at West Hampstead, completing the trio as I already had the Midland Railway (Thameslink) station back in 2014.


Stay tuned for the final day of validity of the FoSS, and the homeward bound trip next day too.

 

[Kite159]

Sounded like a very productive day, well done on scoring the avoiding tracks

 

[FQ]

Well done on getting your last 172 in LO! Strangely enough, 007 was my last required one for sight. Plenty of trams there although I don't like the fact that the IEPs were out and about instead of having a large group of engineers fix a major fault or a huge group of firefighters sort out a fire on one .

 

[adrock1976]

Day 9 – Final day of the FoSS Rover and attack of the IC125s Part II 31 August


As today is the final day of validity of my FoSS Rover and having covered every inch of track within its validity area, I decided to clear out some more IC125 powercars, with an option of switching to Thames Turbos if the powercars are mostly the ones I had yesterday if need be. As I have not built an itinerary at all for today's trip, I was doing it the good old fashioned way of using timetables, a blank sheet of paper, and a pen. I made my way from my accommodation to Euston Square to board 21479+480 to Paddington (Bishops Bridge Road platforms) and to start off by checking the screens.


The 10:00 Paignton via Bristol TM and the 10:08 Penzance were both dud pairs, so it was to check what was on the 10:15 Cardiff Central service where I was rewarded with dud 43125 + required 43163 that has the Visit Plymouth – Ocean City vinyls (this powercar formerly had the “Exeter Panel Signal Box 21st Anniversary 2009” nameplate). I hopped onboard this for a run to Reading, spotting 66114 and 109 at Acton, 66050 at Hayes & Harlington, and 66152 facing London at West Drayton. The 10:59 Bristol TM service was up next, with me being rewarded with required pair 43034 “TravelWatch SouthWest” + 43174 for a run to Swindon. During the fester here, the 11:36 Cheltenham Spa service was 158890 (the hired in SWT set), the 11:40 Swansea service was a dud pair, while a couple of London bound services were required pairs of powercars, so I made a note and consulted the timetable to work out when they would be back. 66501 was passing through hauling containers in the London direction. I then purchased a cup of tea from the Pumpkin outlet on Platform 4 before my next move.


Next up was the 12:01 BRI service, which had dud pair 43133+018, which I decided to hop on for a quick spin to Chippenham, so as to meet the 12:25 PAD service. I then returned back to Swindon on the 7 minutes delayed 12:25, which had required 43193+ dud 43177, so reasonably worthwhile judgement call. I then checked the screens to see what was next, with some services currently being subject to delays. The 13:01 BRI service was a dud pair, so I declined that for the 13:15 Cardiff Central service, which had required 43024 “Great Western Society 1961-2011 Didcot Railway Centre” + dud 43196 for a run to Newport. On the approach to the Severn Tunnel just beyond Pilning station, the train came to a halt and remained stationary for almost 15 minutes before proceeding through the tunnel. It was announced that the delay was caused by a track fault. Arrival at Newport was 15 minutes behind schedule.


My intention now was to see what was on the 14:39 Swansea – PAD service, hoping that it was a required pair I saw earlier on, thinking that the 14:09 Cardiff Central – PAD had already departed. Much to my surprise, it was sitting in Platform 1 after the inbound 11:15 PAD – CDF was terminated here due to being almost 60 minutes behind schedule according to the RTT website. After checking out the powercars, both were required 43070 “The Corps of Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers” +179 “Pride of Laira” (according to the Abrail website, this powercar is bizarrely allocated to Old Oak Common depot, rather than Laira depot), so I hopped onboard and with the departure being 20 minutes behind schedule, I decided to bail at Bristol Parkway/Stoke Gifford for a quick linear hop (or as quick as it is during the recovery from the earlier disruption).


During the fester here, I had spotted 220004 on the 45 minutes delayed 14:09 Penzance – Manchester which was being terminated at Birmingham NS, 150265 on the 14:52 Great Malvern service, 221140 (required) on the 14:57 Manchester – Exeter St Davids service, and 66552 in the sidings next to the invisible Platform 1. It was then onboard the 15:02 PAD service, which had required 43056 and dud 43172 “Harry Patch - The last survivor of the trenches” for the run to Swindon. The train had came to a halt after passing Wootton Bassett Junction, with the announcement that the train would be proceeding at a cautionary speed as there were reports of a defective track in the area, of which the driver would be carrying out a visual inspection and to report back to the signaller. Eventually, arrival at Swindon was 20 minutes behind schedule. It was over to Platform 1 for the 15minutes delayed 15:45 PAD service, which had required pair 43053 “University of Worcester” + 43150 for a run to Reading, having spotted 66501 hauling oil tankers in the Bristol/Cardiff direction before departure. It was then back to Swindon on the 16:42 Swansea service, with dud pair 43042+175 having the honours of doing so.


It was over to Platform 3 for the slightly delayed 17:29 Swansea – PAD service, which as expected had required pair 43030 “Christian Lewis Trust” + 43086 that I noted down earlier for a run to Reading. I then purchased a cup of tea after letting the 18:12 Swansea service go, as both powercars were dud. It was then on the 18:28 BRI service that had required pair 43032+127 “Sir Peter Parker 1924 – 2002 Cotswold Line 150” to Didcot Parkway, then onboard the 18:56 Swansea service which had dud pair 43071+159 to take me to Swindon. During the fester here, the 19:29 PAD and the 19:31 Weston-super-Mare via Bristol both had dud pairs of powercars, so next up was the 19:41 Swansea service that had required pair 43138+012 “Exeter Panel Signal Box 21st Anniversary 2009”. I was intending to take a run to Newport, but when the train arrived at Bristol Parkway, I noticed that there were passengers on the London/Birmingham platform, meaning that the 20:02 SWA – PAD service was slightly delayed. I bailed here and made a rapid dash (the best that can be amongst the huge crowds going up the stairs and over the footbridge), with my reward being dud pair 43170+023 with a 7 minute late departure for a run to Didcot Parkway.


As I was feeling peckish, I decided to go for a wander to the Tesco store, as I have seen it so many times from the window on a passing train, therefore should know how to get to it. Different proposition when viewing from ground level, and when it is dark as well. I decided to head back to the station and get something from the convenience store. I checked the screen for the following London departures, with both departures from Oxford being dud Thames Turbos. Observations included 6086, 66176+169, 166213 on the 21:25 Oxford service, and dud pair 43125+163 on the 21:27 Bristol TM service. As I was now starting to wind things down for the evening, I decided to hop on the 21:29 PAD service, which had recently fresh dud pair 43127+032 as expected for a run to Reading, where having declined the 22:02 off Exeter as it was a dud pair, it was to PAD on the 8 minutes delayed 22:14 off Swansea on dud pair 43018+133, arriving at PAD a couple of minutes early having made up the time due to a clear run. I then made my way over to the Bishops Bridge Road platforms of the Underground, and boarded 21420+419 to Euston Square, and walking to my accommodation.


Overall, I have managed to bag some more required powercars today. I might have got a few more if it was not for being caught up in delays mid afternoon.


Stay tuned for the homeward bound trip.

 

[FQ]

Lots of winners there! Nathan needs a few of the ones that you got and I couldn't help but notice 43053 in there - it's the best GWR powercar (even if Tech comes and says otherwise )

 

[Kite159]

Lots of required 43s being scored

 

[adrock1976]

Day 10 – Hunting for Class 313s, 139001, and homeward bound 1 September


As today is the day I head back home, and as I have had 172007 for haulage to clear the LO 172s, I decided to do a couple of bits and pieces on the North London Railway, with that being scoring Brondesbury and Caledonian Road & Barnsbury stations before having a large veggie breakfast at the JDW White Swan near Highbury & Islington station. After checking out, it was a short walk to Camden Road station to board the 5 minutes delayed 08:40 Clapham Junction service, formed by required 378256 for a run to Brondesbury. It was then over to the eastbound platform for the 7 minutes delayed 08:56 Stratford service, formed by dud 378227 to Caledonian Road & Barnsbury. I alighted here as I was unsure if I have scored this station previously, so did it to be sure. The 09:20 and 09:28 Stratford services were cancelled, so it was then onboard the slightly delayed 09:35 Stratford service, formed by dud 378222 for a bus stop bash to Highbury & Islington. Of note, the delays were caused by a broken down train earlier on.


After I had some breakfast and as I had a couple of hours before my booked 13:10 departure from Marylebone, I decided to take a walk along to Drayton Park station to see if any of my required final 4 Class 313s are out today, arriving at the station just before 10:50. Having spotted 2 out of the 4 required 313s heading into the tunnel to Moorgate (not consecutively), I made a note of when the first requirement would make a comeback, while keeping a lookout for the final 2. Of note, it is understandable the reason why this station is closed when matches are played at the nearby Ashburton Grove stadium (home of Arsenal FC), as the island platform is narrow. Eventually, I nipped upstairs to tap in my Oyster a few minutes before hopping on the 11:38 Hertford North service, formed by required 313122 for a bus stop bash round the corner to Finsbury Park.


It was over to Platform 3 for the 11:51 MOG service, not forgetting to tap the Oyster on the standalone reader at the bottom of the stairs as Platform 8 and 7 has a gateline. It was back round the corner on (as expected) dud 313042 to Drayton Park, then boarding required 313055 for a run to Hornsey. Before heading back south, 70081 was hauling London Underground branded track maintenance wagons northbound, 91128+82209, 43238+208, and 387120+104 all zooming through on the centre northbound track, while 317436 and 82207+91108 were on the centre southbound track heading towards Kings Cross. Having declined the 12:08 MOG service as it was dud as expected, my final shot today would be the 12:18, which was dud 313060 that I boarded for the southbound run to Highbury & Islington. It was to the adjacent southbound Victoria Line platform to immediately board dud 11013+014 to Kings Cross St Pancras.


It was a transfer to the Metropolitan for a couple of linear hops. First it was 21502+501 to Euston Square, 21087+088 to Great Portland Street, and 21525+526 to Baker Street. I then walked along Melcombe Street to Marylebone station, stopping off at the newsagents outside the station to get something cold and wet. It was then over to Platform 3 where the 13:10 Birmingham Moor Street service was already in the platform and boarding. This was the loco set that would be formed by 68008 “Avenger” + 82303 for the run all the way to Birmingham. Near Bordesley station, 66221 was spotted hauling rail wagons off the Birmingham & Gloucester Railway onto the GWR metals heading in the London direction. After alighting the loco hauled set, it was over to the adjacent platform for the slightly delayed 14:59 Kidderminster service (a zero minute connection as the service off MYB arrives at the same time), formed by required pair 172216+336 for the run to Stourbridge Junction.


It was over to the opposite platform to see if 139001 was out today. Again, it was dud 002 (not sure if 001 is having mechanical problems or not) so declined and headed to Smethwick Galton Bridge on the 15:37 Whitlocks End service, formed by required 172341. It was then downstairs to Platform 4 to see what would be on the 16:07 local all stations service to Walsall, which I would decline as the screen had displayed that it would be formed of 3 coaches, meaning a Class 323 (it's a pity that my sole remaining one to clear the class, 323238 is a Manchester based one, and as I've stated in previous reports, that is the one that eludes me for haulage). I hung about for the 16:22 Birmingham International service off either Aberystwyth or Holyhead via Shrewsbury, which was dud pair 158829+150213. Yes, you read that right and it is not a typo, there was really a Class 150 attached to a 158 on an ATW service. I managed to squeeze onto the 158 as the 150 was the same for the run to Birmingham NS, while feeling like I had just entered a playgroup outing with the number of under 5 years that were on the train.


After alighting at BHM, I then had a quick glance over at Platform 1 to see what was on the 16:50 London Euston Intercity service, but it was a dud Pendolino. I then hopped onboard the 16:54 EUS via Northampton service, formed by a busy and required 350235 for a run to Birmingham International. The 17:14 Manchester – Bournemouth ICXC was dud, so next up was the 16:20 Glasgow Central – EUS service, formed by dud 390156 “Stockport 170” that I boarded for the run to Coventry. I then made my way over to a busy Platform 2 after spotting 66532 hauling containers in the London direction. It was then a squeeze onboard the 5 minutes delayed 17:42 Nuneaton service formed by required 153375 for a run to Bedworth, and back to COV on the same dogbox but lightly loaded on the 18:22 that ran to time throughout.


It was across to the adjacent Platform 3 for the 18:42 Glasgow Central service, formed by dud 390044 “Virgin Lionheart” for the run all the way back to GLC. Observations during the journey were that 221129 was stabled on the centre track between Platforms 5 and 6 at BHM, 390011 was on the 19:45 EUS service at Wolverhampton, 153320, 09204 in Arriva Traincare livery, 86610, and 37609+602 was on the track maintenance train at the Crewe South/Gresty Bridge area, an LM 350 and 2xEMT 153s were spotted at Crewe station, 175104 was on the 20:3x Manchester – destination in North Wales or Chester, 319377 was on the Liverpool LS local all stations service at Wigan NW, and a trio of 86604+608+6xx was hauling containers in the London direction at Carlisle Citadel. Of note, the train was delayed north of Carlisle, arriving at GLC at 23:26 and unsurprisingly, breaking my connection with the last train from Queen Street.


Regarding the whole trip, it was a worthwhile and enjoyable experience in that I had a whole wide range of traction, plus I managed to cover quite a lot of new track. In regards to the GWR IC125 powercars, I would have been happy if I reduced my remaining number to something like 80. I done far better than that, with my remaining powercars standing at 45 required as I type. Coincidently, that is equal to what is allocated to Landore depot, Swansea, albeit the 45 remaining powercars are not all from there. I require 14 from both Landore and Laira, and 17 from Old Oak Common. Furthermore, I have realised that I have visited every station along the “M5” corridor between Birmingham and Exeter, with the exception of Bedminster and the 2016 site of Bromsgrove. It seems like the required train in the West Midlands that will elude me is 139001, similar as how in Manchester 323238 is elusive.