Adrock's trip reports

[Techniquest]

It does hit home how fortunate you are that you weren't involved in the incident, whenever such things cause disruption. It looks like it was an excellent day for you overall, despite the delays and major plans change during the day. Plenty of winners and new coverage, not bad going at all

 

[Kite159]

Sounded like the day went completely wrong, but at least you should be able to visit the Arms on another Sunday.

 

[adrock1976]

Day 4 – South Eastern Railway bits and homeward bound via Stoke on Trent 9 May


Today was the day I would be heading back home after an extra night's stay in London. I checked out not long after 9 and then made my way to Hither Green station. As my booked London Midland train from Euston was the 13:46, I decided to have an attempt at clearing some SER shacks within the London zonal system as it is very rare I venture onto SER metals. After purchasing the Off Peak One Day Travelcard, it was a hike over to Platform 6 for the 7 minutes delayed 09:29 Cannon Street via Sidcup and Woolwich Arsenal to Bexley, which was formed by dud 465908, dud 465240, and winning 466027. It was over to the opposite platform for the slightly delayed 09:55 Charing Cross service, formed by duds 465182+038 and winning 466007 to Lee. It was then over to the opposite platform for the 10:14 Gravesend service to Albany Park, formed by winning 465176 and dud 465190. It was then to Mottingham (I've already scored Nottingham and Mottingham now, I only require Cottingham to complete the set) on the 10:28 CHX service, formed by winning 465189 and dud 465020, while having spotted 66849 hauling what appeared to be track replacement trailers towards London with old track strapped in after alighting at Mottingham. It was then onboard the 10:47 Gravesend service to Sidcup, formed by dud 465042 and winning 466021.


After purchasing a cup of tea, it was onboard the 11:01 CHX service to New Eltham, formed by double duds 465183+018. I had spotted 66713 hauling covered wagons in the direction of London before hopping on the 12 minutes delayed 11:06 Cannon Street via Woolwich Arsenal service, which was formed by winning 376027 and dud 376004 for the run to Belvedere. It was a rapid dash over the evil looking footbridge for the 5 minutes delayed 11:40 CST via Barnehurst service, which was formed by double winners 376025+035 for a bus stop bash to Erith. It was over to the opposite platform, and it was announced that the 11:58 CST service had been cancelled, and that there were still some minor delays in the opposite direction. As I felt that I did not want to push my luck any further and as I was not far from the edge of the London zonal system and being south of the mighty Thames, I decided to head straight to London Bridge and Euston. Of note, I have scored all the stations along the Sidcup loop, so am pleased with the progress made this morning. It was then onboard the 12:08 CST service via Woolwich Arsenal to LBG, which was formed by double winners 465003+466040. I then made my way to the Underground northbound Northern Line platform to board 51617+618 to Euston.


Upon arrival at EUS, I exited the Underground system and nipped to the Sainsbury's to purchase a meal deal for lunch. I then made my way to Platform 18 for the 13:46 Crewe via Stafford and Stoke on Trent service, which was formed by a rather busy winning 350106. I made my way to the 1st Class section (as it was only a couple of pounds more than Standard at the time of booking) and found a couple of empty airline seats. It became apparent as to the reason why nobody wanted to sit there, as there was a foul smell of stale sick that remained, even though it had been cleared. I then found somewhere else to sit, even though the smell was still around, it was not so bad in comparison. Perhaps the next time I intend travelling on LM's electric fleet, maybe I should bring along a hoover and some cleaning products?


It was an uneventful run northbound, and I decided to bail at Alsager, as the Crewe service from Derby is an offical recognised connection from SOT onto the 17:09 Edinburgh Waverley via Preston service. Soon after the train departed and went over the level crossing, 153326 arrived more or less immediately afterwards on the 16:16 Derby service. After the near half hour fester, it was onboard the 16:49 Crewe service, formed by winning 153355 for some dogbox action to go to the final stop and seeing the 15:30 EUS – Glasgow Central via Trent Valley Railway whizzing by the vicinity of Gresty Bridge south of Crewe station.


I made my way to the original footbridge near the station exit so as to check the screen for the 17:09, but it was terminating at Preston due to problems with the overhead wires between Penrith and Carlisle. It was winning 390016 “Virgin Champion” that took me northbound initially as far as Warrington Bank Quay where the train got held. Furthermore, the 15:30 EUS – GLC that I spotted earlier had also been held at WBQ. As everything had come to a standstill, some passengers had stepped onto the platform, and during the standstill, I had spotted 67002+82308 on a Manchester – some destination on the Chester & Holyhead Railway service. Various announcements were made by the station staff and onboard crew, and rather surprisingly, it was the Edinburgh Waverley (that I was on) that was allowed to continue north, departing 17:50 – 25 minutes behind schedule. It was announced that the train would terminate at Lancaster, with replacement buses for northwards connections. However, upon arrival at Preston, it was announced that replacement buses would be operating from Preston to points north of Lancaster.


After alighting the train, I decided to enquire at the booking office to see if it was possible to get to Edinburgh before 23:30 via Blackburn, Leeds, York, and Newcastle. As the time now was after 18:30, it was not possible go go via that route, so it was over to Platform 7 to join the queue for the replacement buses. Eventually, the queue was going forwards with some lengthy pauses, and I managed to get on a Metcalfe's coach (based in Carlisle) and departed the station car park at 19:45 for the journey along the A6 Garstang Road and joining the M6 at the end of the original Preston Bypass. There were 2 passengers in front of me who were heading to Montrose – good luck with that I thought. Arrival at Carlisle Citadel was 21:25.


While at the station, I had spotted 66206 hauling trailers southbound, 325011+003+008 heading north, 153351+359 on the 22:00 Whitehaven service, WCRC 47826 in the loops west of Platform 1, 350408 in the centre tracks, 90018+020 hauling car wagons southbound, 156448 in Platform 8, and 156504 in Platform 7. As the Lancaster & Carlisle Railway had been reopened and traffic moving again, it was on board the delayed 21:50 that was running 30 minutes behind schedule, formed by dud 390005 “City of Wolverhampton” arriving at Glasgow Central at 23:35 and being unable to complete the remainder of my journey by rail to Barnhill. A taxi was arranged for quite a few passengers, as some were going to Edinburgh, Uphall, Airdrie, Cathcart, Helensburgh, Stirling, and maybe Montrose (unsure if the 2 passengers in front of me on the bus were put up in accommodation overnight, or if it was arranged for them to board the overnight Aberdeen sleeper train).


Overall, it was disappointing to end the Preston – Glasgow leg by being caught up in delays. I did manage to get a small handful of winning Class 465/466s and 376s in earlier in the day. I will consider emailing the management team at London Midland with a picture of what a hoover and cleaning products look like, as in most instances, the Class 350s I've landed could do with a thorough clean. On a final point, I will do exactly the same thing again on future railtours that start from London, by travelling down on the Friday to do some bits and pieces, and possibly on the Sunday if there is engineering works somewhere along the routes to the north of England and Scotland.

 

[Techniquest]

A very good morning on Southeastern for you, but a shame about the issues on the way north. I saw the huge delays and cancellations on RTT whilst up in the Edinburgh area, glad I wasn't on the WCML myself that day!

 

[Kite159]

Not the best end of the weekend, but On the bright side, you will probably get some RTVs for the delays

 

[Keith Jarrett]

Some good reading there but you do seem to have had a streak of bad luck with RRBs - if nothing else, your RRB mileage must be increasing exponentially!

The problems with Berney Arms were well publicised that day - and discussed elsewhere on the forum. And I wonder what Greater Anglia did with the Buckenham sop that day as it's the same trains. But at least they could stop the Lowestoft trains to cover.

 

[55013]

Looks like a few good days, although you seem to have had more than your share of bad luck with regards to delays and cancellations.

 

[FQ]

Sounds like a good morning! Shame it all fell apart in the evening... What is your RRB mileage like now

 

[adrock1976]

Introduction


I had a couple of Delay Repay vouchers from the summer of 2015 that were needing used up, so decided to use them for the 4 from 8 days FNE Rover, basing myself in York. As I already compiled a draft plan last year as I was intending to do the FNE Rover back in August, I only had to delete those sections of track bashing from the draft plan that I have already done during the intervening period. Those were the sections between Retford and Barnetby (I did that section with my partner back in February), and the section between Doncaster and Knottingley West/Ferrybridge North Junction via Askern (I did that on a Sunday diversion on the way back from London in April, therefore saving me having to fit this route around the Grand Central open access services via Pontefract Monkhill). Furthermore, I decided to leave the Newcastle – Thornaby via Sunderland and Hartlepool, and Middlesbrough – Whitby for when I next do the Tyne Tees Day Ranger, plus the Knottingley – Wakefield Kirkgate via Pontefract Tanshelf when I next do a West Yorkshire PTE Train Rover. On a closing point, I was rather surprised that the Milford Junction – Gascoigne Wood Junction PSUL move had been reinstated after withdrawal in November (now running daily – this used to be Sundays Only), which would mean that it would save me having to fit it in on a Sunday evening on my way back from London.




Day 1 – Outward bound and getting stuck right in (13 June)


It was an early sort of rise for me (I deem an early rise by my standards being at 03:30 so as I can walk down to Glasgow Central for the 04:28 London departure) just after 05:30 so as to be out of the door by 06:10 for the 57 bus to GLC. It was to Platform 2 for the 06:50 London Kings Cross via Edinburgh and York to take up my reserved seat in 1st Class. The set was formed by winning DVT and loco 82200+91102 “City of York” respectively for the run to Doncaster. Of note, 350408 (07:09 Manchester Airport) and 380110 (07:03 North Berwick via Carstairs and EDB) were spotted in Platform 1, with 170436 having just departed Platform 9 with the Inverness via Rutherglen & Coatbridge Railway service.


At EDB, 90046 was spotted at the Newcastle side of the station, while 66037 was at Craigentinny and power car 43302 was facing London. At Newcastle Central, 156444, 221134 (to GLC), 185106, and 67034 (facing London) were all spotted here. After alighting at Doncaster, 66637 heading northbound, 220017 (to Southampton Central), 322482 (to Leeds), and Colas Rail 60087+56087 were all spotted before I got stuck into the rover.


It was onboard the 11:08 all stations service to Scunthorpe, which was formed by 142016. There was a loud thudding noise and a slight shake while crossing the canal swingbridge at Crowle, and was rather surprised that the bodyshell of the train was still attached to the underframe. More importantly, after alighting at the terminus station, all of the bones in my body remained attached and in working order too. Of note, I have never experienced a bone shaking ride like that before. After a short fester, it was on board the 12:03 Cleethorpes service which was formed by 185111 for the run to Grimsby Town, where I bailed. During the course of this leg of the journey, EWS 67403 and 67091 were spotted at the steelworks at Scunthorpe, GBRf 66519 spotted at Barnetby, and 153310 at Habrough.


After having a brief wander around town, it was back to the station for the 13:04 Barton upon Humber service, which was formed by 153358 for some dogbox thrash. I remained on for the run back to Cleethorpes (I was intending to alight at New Clee and walk to Grimsby Docks, but had a power nap and noticed the train crawling through New Clee – a request stop), and back on the same dogbox for the short run to GMB, where I went into town to purchase some late lunch before heading back to the station, spotting 153311 arriving into Platform 3 to form the 15:45 departure to Lincoln Central or Newark Northgate. I boarded the 15:34 Manchester Airport via Sheffield service, which was formed by 185110 for the run to Sheffield, while having spotted 66095 hauling oil tankers eastbound at Brockleby Junction, 66621 at the steelworks, 142065+144001 at Scunthorpe station in the Cleethorpes facing bay platform, and GBRf 66778 at Roberts Road yard in Doncaster facing Sheffield.


During the short fester here before my next move, I had spotted 222003 that would form a London SP service, 158845 on a Leeds service, 43303+357 on a ICXC Glasgow Central via LDS service, and 185112 on the 20 minutes delayed 17:10 CLE service before boarding the 7 minutes delayed 17:23 Retford service, which was formed by 142009. This arrived at Retford 5 minutes behind schedule, and it was over to the opposite platform for the run west on the 8 minutes delayed 18:14 that was formed by the same unit I arrived on. My intended plan was to remain on to Meadowhall Interchange and then back to SHF, but due to the delay, I decided to bail at SHF so as to make my way to do a PSUL move and not miss out on the chance of doing so. Of note, the train was now 10 minutes behind schedule, having meant to have departed SHF at 18:57. 150112 on the 19:12 LDS via Barnsley limited stop service, and 142086+158851 were spotted in the York-facing bay and Platform 3 respectively.


I then boarded the 19:26 GLC via LDS service, which was formed by 221138 for the run to Leeds City, calling at Wakefield Westgate – the centre of the West Riding of Yorkshire. At LDS before making my way over to Platform 12 to do the PSUL move, I had spotted 66739 heading eastbound, and 185139 on a slightly delayed 20:12 service. I then boarded the 20:20 Hull service, which was formed by 185113 for the run to Selby. This is the one that was the PSUL move I had targeted, which runs via Midland Railway metals on departure from LDS and going via Methley Junction, Castleford, Milford Junction, and joining the Leeds & Selby Railway at Gascoigne Wood Junction to proceed along its normal route. At the yard at Milford Junction, 66144 was spotted facing south – perhaps on a next working to Drax power station maybe?


Selby station, although only having 2 through platforms and a Leeds-facing bay, has the appearance of being a former Intercity station, which it was before the purpose built track between Temple Hirst Junction and Hambleton Junction was open for traffic in 1983. It was then over to the London and Leeds side for the 21:03 Hull – Doncaster service, which was formed by 43060+045 for the one-stop run to DON. I then made my way to Platform 7 for the 21:27 local all stations Leeds service, which to my surprise was formed by 144011 (I was expecting a Class 322, or any electric train) for a run to South Elmsall, and back to DON on the slightly delayed 21:54 which was formed by as expected an electric train in the guise of 322484. Having ended the day's proceedings, I made my way to York on the 22:31, which was formed by 220025 and checked in and put my head down for the night.


I am pleased that I have got the Barton upon Humber branch in, as the connections are not very friendly, plus it was new track from Habrough to BAU too. Other new track was Woodhouse – Retford, Castleford – Selby via Milford Junction (the PSUL move), and Selby – Doncaster. These were the main objectives today. Of note, every train I had for haulage were all winners today, which was a nice surprise for me.


Stay tuned for the next 3 days of the trip.

 

[FQ]

Certainly not my kind of day but it sounds like a good time was had there!

 

[adrock1976]

Day 2 – Scarborough and Hull circular, plus some odd bits and pieces (14 June)


It was another early start for me, making my way to the station for the 08:40 departure to Scarborough. It was dud 185151 that did the honours all the way to SCA. After taking a brief wander about, it was back on the same train that would form the 09:50 Liverpool LS service for a bus stop bash to Seamer. After a short fester, it was onboard the 10:05 Hull service, which was formed by dud 158797 for the run to Beverley – the centre of the East Riding of Yorkshire. I had a short fester here before boarding the 11:28 SCA service to Driffield, which was formed by my first winner today 158904. I went for a brief wander about and purchased something light plus a cup of tea from a bakery before heading back to the station, and more importantly, to be on the right side of the level crossing as there is no footbridge between the platforms. It was then onboard the 11:57 HUL service, formed by 158851 for the run all the way to Hull Paragon, and being one of the very few services to call at Arram.


As I did not have my sheet of required units on me, I did not know if one of the Class 185s on the 12:38 Manchester Piccadilly service was required or not. I hopped on anyway, and checking this against my sheet of required units back home, they were both dud 185137 (the one I was unsure about)+185113 (I had this one yesterday). I bailed at Brough, the place where for a good number of years I've always heard it being pronounced as “Brow”, but transpires it is actually “Broth”... or “Bruv”... or even “Broch” (similar to a German pronunciation. I've no idea now of how it is meant to be pronounced, but as somebody explained to me years ago when I had difficulty in pronouncing placenames in Wales, it does not matter how you pronounce it as long as you know where it is


Anyway, it was over to the Hull platform for the 12:52 SCA service, which was formed by 158787 for the run eastwards back to HUL. It was then onboard the 13:15 York via Sherburn-in-Elmet service, which was formed by 158908 for the run all the way back to YRK. Before my next move, I got a light lunch and a cup of tea from the Pumpkin store next to the London-facing bay platforms – I believe the Pumpkin outlets used to be the Travellers Fayre stores in the 1980s and 1990s, perhaps somebody could confirm if this is the case or not? Before boarding the same train I arrived on, I had spotted 43487+467 on the 14:53 Grand Central Sunderland service (my 2 remaining GC powercars, as I landed 4 out of 6 when I did the Tyne & Tees Day Ranger back in August 2015), and 43290+306 on the 5 minutes delayed 14:58 London KX service.


It was back on board 158908 for the 15:02 HUL via Hambleton North and East Junctions. My original intention was to take it to Howden to meet the 15:38 KGX service, but due to the ICEC 14:58 KGX service being delayed on departing YRK, the 15:02 was therefore 5 minutes behind schedule, but pulled back a couple of minutes upon arrival at Selby where I bailed. I decided to bail here as I remembered that Howden station has staggered platforms either side of the level crossing, but no staggered footbridge to connect the platforms or to get over the crossing on foot when the barriers are down. Observations at SBY were that 142025 was on the 15:41 to YRK, 144019 on the 15:54 Huddersfield via Bradford Interchange, and 180109 on the 15:41 HUL service.


I then hopped onboard the 15:47 KGX departure for the short run to Doncaster, which was formed by 180110. It was here at DON that I had hit a barren spell of track bashing, as my next 2 moves were linked to a PSUL move I was intending to do. I switched to some spotting in the meantime, and the observations were that 66050 was hauling containers southbound, 220025 was on the 15 minutes delayed 16:19 Reading – Newcastle service, 180001 on the 16:24 GC Bradford Interchange service, 67003 was stabled at the neighbouring Wabtec works, 185112 was on a Manchester Airport service, 66710 was hauling empty flatbed wagons southbound, 158792 on the 16:49 limited stop service to Sheffield, 185144 on the 15 minutes delayed 16:37 to Cleethorpes, and 82209+91117 on the slightly delayed 16:46 KGX service, which had to clear off from Platform 1 before resuming some more new track bashing moves.


It was onboard the 5 minutes delayed 16:52 Beverley via Goole and Hull service, which was formed by a soon to be heavily loaded 142045. I eventually found somewhere to sit, with a quartet of passengers behind me on a visit somewhere going by the conversation. Of note, one of the guys (probably in his fifties) was mentioning to his travelling companion (must have been either his sister or sister in law) remarked that they (the train operating company) must have brought this train out of the ark, as he could remember these when they were new back in 1985. Anyway, the train started to gradually empty out slightly along its route, as it calls all stations except Saltmarshe on the way to Beverley. On approaching Goole from the Doncaster direction, I noticed that there is a chimney tower that appears to look like a penis. As my original intention was to bail at Hessle, I decided to bail one stop before at Ferriby due to having lost another 3 minutes, making the train run 8 minutes behind schedule and not wanting to miss the next move that would link in with the PSUL move.


It was over to the westbound platform for the 17:55 SHF service, which was formed by 158843 for the run to Goole. I went for a brief wander to pick up something light from the ASDA store before heading back to the station. Of note, I found Goole to be one of these weird places that some of the locals that were hanging about just outside the station appear to be interbred, and that the local flower festival according to the posters and placards is seemingly organised by the Masons! ??? Anyway, it was to another main task today, with that being the PSUL move between Goole and Knottingley. I boarded the 18:49 Leeds via Castleford service, which was formed by 153363+150136 for the run all the way to LDS, taking a seat in the dogbox. At Knottingley, 66040 was spotted facing westbound hauling what appeared to be track equipment of some sort, while after arriving at LDS, 66769 was hauling Lafarge Tarmac wagons eastbound, 221131was on the 20 minutes delayed 20:08 Edinburgh Waverley service, 158795 in Platform 15, and 158853 in Platform 16 having all been spotted.


It was then onboard the 20:33 TPE MIA – YRK service for the non-stop run to YRK, which was formed by 185131. 66051 and 66739 were spotted at Neville Hill depot. It was then onboard the 21:12 LDS via Harrogate service, which was formed by dud 150214 for the short run to Hammerton, and back to YRK on the 21:28 that was formed by 150222. A final task for this evening was to go for a spin northbound to Darlington and back, of which I had 2 options. They were the 21:47 ICXC service, and the 21:53 ICEC Newcastle service. With the 21:47 being slightly delayed and formed by dud 220015, I gave that a miss and opted for the 21:53 NCL, which was formed by dud 43251 and winning 43305. As this was immediately behind the XC, the train got held between Northallerton and Darlington for a few minutes, with the delay having increased to 15 minutes behind schedule. I decided to remain on to Durham, where the delay was reduced to 12 minutes after arriving at 22:51. I crossed under to the London platform for the 23:00 LDS service, which was the EMT powercars that I had yesterday, being 43060+045 for the run back to YRK, arriving 20 minutes ahead of schedule at 23:55.


I achieved what I set out to do today, with that being the circular trip and the PSUL from Goole to Knottingley and on to Castleford. There was a lot of new track for me today.
Stay tuned for Day 3 and Day 4.

 

[alexf380]

A fantastic first two days there, Adam. I do admire your writing style, very much looking forward to the rest of the trip.

Also, the comment about the chimney on the approach to Goole had me howling with laughter, it was so out the blue!

 

[FQ]

Sounds like a fun time there! Good to see you got a couple of HSTs there. I can't believe you had 150214 - it's my last Northern 150 required for sight!

 

[Keith Jarrett]

Days 1 & 2 seemed to go well - looking forward to seeing how you get on with days 3 & 4. Plenty of variety there to keep us all entertained.

 

[adrock1976]

Day 3 – North Riding of Yorkshire abyss, PSUL moves, and bits and pieces (15 June)


The objective of today's bashing trip was to mainly concentrate on the parts of Yorkshire that are not covered by the PTE Day Rangers, or the bits that can be slightly awkward to do. Furthermore, I built the plans around the various PSUL moves a while ago, with one or two slight revisions. Anyway, I initially planned a short bus ride from Blossom Street to Poppleton Bar P&R with a short walk to Poppleton station, but did not feel like doing that, so decided to pick up the train at York station instead. It was onboard the 08:47 Leeds via Harrogate service, which was formed by 150112 for the run to Knaresborough, and then crossing underneath the level crossing to the York platform for the 09:16 to Cattal, which were formed by 150276+150205 for the bus stop bash. It was then over the barrow crossing to the Ripon/Leeds platform for the 09:27 LDS service, which was formed by 142065 to Pannal. I had originally planned to alight at Harrogate and walk to Starbeck, but I did not like the look of the clouds in the sky. At Pannal, it was over the roadbridge to the opposite platform for the 09:56 YRK service, which was formed by dud 144011 and winner 144006 for the run all the way back to YRK, taking a seat in the quiet rear unit to escape a primary school outing that boarded the front unit.


It was then onboard the 11:02 Selby via Sherburn-in-Elmet service, which was formed by 158848. 66707 was spotted ready to haul ballast wagons westbound at Gascoigne Wood, with 180110 at SBY on the 6 minutes delayed 11:39 KGX – Hull Paragon service. I then boarded the 11:54 Huddersfield via Bradford Interchange service that was formed by 150203 for the run to Leeds, calling all stations along the Leeds & Selby Railway. While waiting for my next move, I had spotted EWS 66129 hauling oil tankers eastbound, 185140 on the HUL service, 185150 on a Newcastle service, 185120 on a Liverpool LS service, and 185149 on a Middlesbrough service. I then boarded the 5 minutes delayed 12:48 Sheffield via Moorthorpe local all stations service, which was formed by dud 142050 and winning 144003. It is noted that 144002 was coupled to the rear when arriving from Neville Hill depot, and was detached so as to form the 12:56 Huddersfield local service via London & North Western Railway.


I bailed from the train at Bolton-on-Dearne having spotted 66592 hauling containers northbound at Fitzwilliam just a few minutes before. It was then over to the northbound platform for the 5 minutes delayed 13:41 LDS service, which was formed by a second meeting of now recent dud 142065 for a short hop to Moorthorpe so as to position myself for the first of three PSUL moves today. This was the limited service that sees 2 journeys in each direction daily via Pontefract Baghill, and it was only a short fester before hopping on the 14:02 YRK service, which was formed by 144007. It is noted that 4 passengers alighted at Baghill, with 2 boarding. Arrival at Sherburn-in-Elmet was 6 minutes early, so hung around for the departure time of 14:32. I alighted at Ulleskelf (a limited service station in the middle of nowhere) and not surprisingly, nobody else alighted with me or boarded the train for the one stop to YRK. After having a 30 minute fester here, it was back on board 144007 for the southbound run to Rotherham Central, with the guard expecting to see me again. Of note, there were 2 passengers who alighted at Ulleskelf with just myself boarding, and at Baghill, arrival was 5 minutes early with 2 passengers alighting with one boarding here.


After using the lavatory, it was onboard the slightly delayed and busy 16:27 LDS service for a run to the next stop of Swinton (Yorkshire), which was to be a third meeting with 142065. It was a short fester before boarding the 16:48 Doncaster service, which was formed by 142029 to Conisbrough. Soon after alighting, I had spotted 66592 running light engine heading in the Doncaster direction. It was then over to the southbound platform for the 17:12 Lincoln Central via Sheffield and Retford, which was formed by 142057+144009 for a bus stop bash to Mexborough, and then crossing to the Doncaster platform for the slightly delayed 17:19 Adwick service, which was formed by 142088 for the run to DON and spotting 66778 and 66710 at Roberts Road yard on the way. I was now in a position for the second PSUL move of the day that I was intending to do. Before that, I had spotted 43317+206 on an Aberdeen service that briefly paused along the northbound centre track, and 185105 on the Hull service.


It was soon onboard the 17:38 Bradford Interchange via Wakefield Kirkgate and Halifax, which was formed by 180105 for the run to Brighouse. This is the PSUL service that runs via Hare Park Junction and Crofton West Junction between DON and Wakefield Kirkgate. There was a slight pause just outside Kirkgate before pulling into the platform, and having spotted 66712 hauling the Drax wagons eastbound. At Brighouse, it was over to the eastbound platform for the 18:33 Huddersfield service, which was formed by dud 142016 and winning 142022 for the short run to HUD. After arriving at HUD, I had spotted 158791 sitting in Platform 6 forming the 18:59 LDS via Dewsbury local service, and 156421 in Platform 4a forming the 18:48 Manchester Victoria local service before exiting the station to pick up something light from the Tesco store.


Back to the station, I had spotted 185132 on a Scarborough service, 150139 on a MCV local, and 185137 on a Manchester Airport service before boarding the 19:18 Sheffield via Penistone service. This was formed by dud 144014 for the run to Dodworth, keeping an eye on the PIS screens at some of the intermediate stations due to parts of the route being single track in places. According to the screen at Stocksmoor (I think) and Denby Dale, the northbound service I was intending to meet was showing as 15 minutes delayed. I referred to the timetable and worked out that my intended northbound run from Dodworth to Denby Dale could be pulled back to Penistone if need be, as I had observed that is a passing point along the line. I did not wander too far away from Dodworth station, so as to keep an eye on the situation. Eventually, the 20:14 HUD arrived 18 minutes behind schedule, which was formed by 144015 for the run to Penistone. The guard had explained to me after a discussion of my intention to have met the southbound train at Denby Dale but pulling back to Penistone that the driver that was meant to have been on this service had took a heart attack before starting – hope the driver makes a recovery from that. It was over to the opposite platform for the 20:52 SHF service that was running on time and formed by 144018 for the run all the way to SHF to set me up for the third and final PSUL move of the day.


At SHF, I had spotted 66114 hauling coal wagons northbound, 150136 in Platform 3a, 222003 “Tornado” in Platform 2, 158770+886 on the 20 minutes delayed 21:37 Liverpool LS – Nottingham service, and 170308 stabled in the centre tracks. It was on board the 12 minutes delayed 21:54 YRK service, which was formed by dud 220025. it is noted that this is the 17:46 departure from Southampton Central and is the PSUL that runs via Woodburn Junction – Rotherham Central Junction and Aldwarke North Junction - Thrybergh Junction - Mexborough East Junction. However, it was announced by the train crew that due to the delay, it would go via the normal route (via Rotherham Masborough) between SHF and DON, so as to allow passengers to make onward connections at DON and YRK. It was good customer service/passenger experience of both the traincrew and the signallers to have done that, so top marks all around. Of note, the train arrived at DON at its scheduled time of 22:29, so was a good judgement call all round. Meanwhile, I can easily have another attempt at this in the future on a South Yorkshire PTE Day Ranger, or take advantage of a diversion due to engineering works, whichever happens first. Anyway, I bailed at DON as intended and got the 22:46 NCL service north to YRK, which was formed by winning loco 91119 and dud DVT 82201.


I am reasonably happy with today's efforts as I have covered a fair amount of new track, and covered some awkward bits and pieces too. Regarding my PSUL moves today, I had a feeling that the 17:46 ex-SOU did not produce, but as Meatloaf once sung, Two out of Three ain't Bad. Of note, the only gaps in the track of normal scheduled passenger services I require are between Pannal and Weeton, and Meadowhall Interchange and Rotherham Central – which can easily be done with the PTE Day Rangers.

 

[Kite159]

Sounded like a productive few days there Adam

 

[adrock1976]

Day 4 – Newcastle & Carlisle Railway, Chathill visit, and homeward bound (16 June)


Today is my final day of using the rover, so I would make use of it to get me heading in a northward direction and do a few bits and pieces along the way. I checked out of my accommodation and made my way to the station for the 08:50 Newcastle Central service, which was formed by 220014 for a run to Darlington. 142079 was sitting in the London-facing bay platforms that would be on the 09:31 Saltburn service. I then boarded the 7 minutes delayed 09:23 Edinburgh Waverley service to NCL, which was formed by dud loco 91127 and winning DVT 82205.


Before heading westbound onto the N&CR to clear shacks, I had spotted 67024 sitting in the siding at the Carlisle end, 185110 that would form the 10:05 Liverpool LS service, 156448 in Platform 12, the Voyager I had not long ago (220014) in the platform next to it, and 142089 on the 10:15 to Morpeth, of which I was confident of meeting it again during the course of the day. It was over to Platform 7 for the 10:15 (Gateshead) Metrocentre service, which was formed by 156443 for the run to the end. Of note, Metrocentre (I'm sure the proper name is Gateshead Metrocentre) I last visited this station in 1990 and was not impressed at all, and still not impressed today, as it looks like it has been plonked down in the middle of nowhere with the worst type planning that is possible. The only good thing it has is that it is integrated with the bus network.


Anyway, it was over to the Newcastle platform to reboard 156443 for a bus stop bash to Dunston, a station which is rather surprisingly only has a 60 minute frequency. Needless to say, I was the only passenger who alighted, with nobody boarding to go the one stop to NCL. During the 15 minute fester, I had spotted GBRf 66735 hauling coal wagons westbound, before boarding the 10:50 MCE service, which was formed by 156480 with 2 passengers alighting and nobody else boarding with me. At MCE, it was only a 6 or 7 minute same platform fester before boarding the 11:02 Hexham local service, which was formed by 156484 for the run to Corbridge. I was observing in particular the layout of Wylam station, as I would have a 3 minute connection here later on, so as to work out which set of doors would be optimal.


After the 20 minute fester, it was back onboard 156484 for the 11:48 Nunthorpe service for a short hop to Stocksfield. During the fester here and after a wander, I had spotted DRS 66301 running light engine eastbound upon returning back to the station. It was then onboard the 8 minutes delayed 12:21 HEX service for a countryside version of a bus stop bash to Riding Mill, which was formed by dud 142092. I pulled out the timetable and worked out that the eastbound departure from HEX would be more or less back on schedule due to the 10 minutes or so layover there. 142018 passed through to Carlisle non-stop, before being back on 142092 for the 12:54 Nunthorpe service to Wylam, having positioned myself at the front doors so as to go over the staggered footbridge to the Carlisle platform. Of note, Wylam has staggered platforms either side of the level crossing, and is in the fortunate situation of having a staggered footbridge too that goes over the crossing and connects both platforms. It was then onboard the 13:10 HEX service to Prudhoe, which was formed by 142068 and would turn out to be one of several meetings of this one today.


It was onboard the 13:34 NCL service to MCE, which was formed by 156479. I nipped across to Greggs to get some light lunch before heading to the Carlisle platform for the 14:02 HEX service, which was formed by 142067 for a bus stop bash to Blaydon. It is rather surprising that Blaydon has a frequency of a train that calls every 2 hours, despite it being on the edge of the PTE area. Of note, I was the only passenger who alighted here, with nobody boarding. It was exactly the same on the 14:10 NCL service, which was formed by the expected second visit of 142068 for the run to the end. It is noted that the inbound route uses the High Level Bridge across the mighty Tyne, and with the tight curves either side of the bridge, the squealing from the wheels was horrendous. After alighting from the train, I made my way to Platform 2 for the 14:36 EDB ICXC service, which was formed by dud 221131 for the northbound run to Morpeth, spotting 142089 in the London platform ready to depart with a 14:49 MCE service.


After going for a wander into town and back to the station, I had spotted 82218+91118 passing through non-stop with a London KX service. Soon after, it was onboard the 15:49 MCE service, which was formed by today's new dud 156480 that I had earlier on. I bailed at Manors, which surprisingly has a train every 60 minutes that calls here, although perhaps maybe due to the more frequent Tyne & Wear Metro that is nearby. I had spotted GBRf 66520 running light engine southbound before the 16:17 MPT service arrived, which was formed by 142089 as expected for a short run to Cramlington, with the station being located at a major road junction. It was a 30 minute fester and before hopping on the 16:57 MCE service, 82213+91125 was spotted on a KGX service, and 91120+82229 was on a EDB service. It was then back on board 142089 for the run south to NCL. During the 25 minute break here, I checked the screens first of all then made my way to the travel centre to purchase an Alnmouth for Alnwick to Chathill single (I already had the Chathill to Barnhill 1st Class Advance Single to get me home afterwards) so as to record me having used Chathill station in both directions today.


It was over to Platform 5 and while on my way over to the footbridge, I had spotted 221126 on the 56 minutes delayed Aberdeen ICXC service, 221133 on the 17:37 Glasgow Central service, and 221136 on the 17:41 Bristol TM via LDS service. I boarded the 17:38 Chathill service, which was formed by a third meeting of 142068 for the northbound run all the way to the end. Of note, just after departing Morpeth, this train pulls into the loop immediately north of the station so as to allow a northbound ICEC service to overtake, and therefore me having scored my only piece of new track today. Furthermore, there was 1 passenger who alighted at Pegswood, 7 at Widdrington, 3 at Acklington, and 6 with me at Chathill, with 3 of those being cyclists. Chathill station is one of these limited service stations in the middle of the countryside, and I had a brief look around while waiting for the train to return southbound for the 19:10 HEX departure. The telephone kiosk seems to have had the payphone removed at some point in 2014 according to a notice that was stuck up inside. I decided to not wander too far, so as I can be on the southbound side of the level crossing and not to leave me stranded in the rain. I took shelter in the waiting room after using my strength to slide the door open – perhaps I should have had some Weetabix earlier on this morning?


The train had returned a few minutes before departure time, and it was back onboard 142068 with me being the solitary passenger who boarded for the run south to MPT. I reckon that this is most likely to be my highest mileage Class 142, going by the number of times and the distances involved I've had with it today. There were several passengers who boarded at Alnmouth for Alnwick – perhaps this is due to Stagecoach/Virgin cutting calls, as there used to be a 19:40 ALM – KGX southbound departure calling at MPT as well. Of note, there was 1 passenger who boarded at Acklington who alighted at the next stop of Widdrington, with 1 passenger alighting at Pegswood. After alighting at MPT, it was underneath to the northbound platform where I spotted 43321+378 running non-stop on an ICXC GLC service. I then boarded the 20:00 EDB non-stop service, which was formed by duds 91119+82201. After stopping off at the 1st Class lounge at EDB (and having what seemed like a Spanish Inquisition type of interrogation), I made my way to Platform 10 for the 21:30 Glasgow QS via Falkirk High and Anniesland service, which was formed by dud 170412 (unlikely to be either of my 2 remaining Scotrail Class 170s, 170456 and 471) for the run to Croy. The electrification works seem to be coming along nicely, with various masts, cantilevers, and wires in place. After alighting at Croy, it was then more or less immediately onto the 22:16 from the Stirling direction to GLQ service via Springburn, which was formed by dud 156460 back home to Springburn, where I ended my journey.


Conclusion


Overall, I felt that this was a worthwhile trip, as I got several awkward bits done and dusted out of the way. I have also covered a lot of new track as well, plus I've managed to visit what are 2 of the most awkwardest stations in the North East, being Ulleskelf and Chathill (I already did Teesside Airport back in February). They are awkward in the sense that you can only really arrive and depart from both stations by train, due to there not being any reasonable alternative modes available that are within walking distance that link up with the trains. I have reduced my Class 142, 150, 156, and 158 requirements quite a bit, and has given me some ideas on where to focus for a clearout of those in the future, assuming Heaton Depot keeps to east of the Pennines, Newton Heath west, and Neville Hill straddling the two. Furthermore, I will use the various Day Rangers for future visits to the area, which would enable me to have a sharper focus on clearing out units now I've bashed all the track that has standard regular passenger services running over it.

 

[Kite159]

Congrats on getting Chathill into the bag, I bet the pacer thrash from 142068 would have been good as well

 

[FQ]

I bet the pacer thrash from 142068 would have been good as well

Certainly not the way I would have used a North East but it sounds like you had a brilliant time anyway!

 

[rg177]

Sounds like an excellent few days on my stomping grounds.

And indeed 142068 is a little monster, had it make up 6 minutes from Wakefield to Leeds once as the driver hammered the poor sod all the way

 

[Kite159]

Not as good as the dog box thrash from an EMT unit towards Lincoln from Barnetby, a good long speedy section

 

[alexf380]

A great end to your trip Adam. And I must agree with Kite in that respect, the Pacer thrash is almost envious!

 

[Techniquest]

Having had shocking signal lately, I've only just read your North East adventure. Very productive time there, that's for sure and a lot there that I need!

 

[adrock1976]

Due to me having a meeting in London this weekend, I decided to do the GA Day Ranger the day before my meeting. I had already covered some sections of track in the region when I stewarded at a festival near Southwold five years ago, so was not to fussed about covering those sections again. I would concentrate on the Norwich – Great Yarmouth via Berney Arms, Norwich – Sheringham, Ipswich – Felixstowe, and Ipswich – Cambridge. Fortune was also on my side as due to my unsuccessful attempt in visiting Berney Arms on a Sunday back in May, I had already covered the track via Lingwood, so was able to fit in the loco hauled set that works the NRW – Great Yarmouth via Lingwood route. Although I would not be able to visit Berney Arms, on the bright side it means that I will have no missing track along both routes to Great Yarmouth, and that I could fit in a Spooner Row visit as well. Of note, the only uncovered section within the area of the ranger would be Bury St Edmunds – Ely, which I can do another time in the future.


After dinner at my partner's residence the previous evening, it was onboard the 22:40 Glasgow Central service from Paisley GS, which was formed by 380005. It was then over to Platform 9 for the 23:40 London Euston sleeper service, with 92018 having brought the set in from Polmadie depot, and Freightliner 90042 on the duty of hauling the set to London. I had reserved a berth back in April in Mike coach – the number being 23, and when I checked in with the host, it was mentioned that I would be sharing with somebody. Fortunately, it was with somebody who going by his Motorhead t-shirt, shares the same musical tastes as me. We both had a brief discussion before retiring and settling down for the night, of which I slept really well probably with me already felling tired.


The sleeper train went the normal route via the Trent Valley Railway and Weedon, and arrived at EUS Platform 1 at 06:12, 55 minutes ahead of schedule. After I had my wake up tea and shortbread and got washed in the cabin, I left the train just after seven, so as to top up my Oyster card downstairs at the Underground. There was a sign announcing that the Bank branch of the Northern Line was having problems southbound, so decided to walk along to the Metropolitan Railway at Euston Square to make my way towards Liverpool Street. I did some linear hopping along the way, first boarding 21038+037 to Kings Cross, 21374+373 to Farringdon, 21089+090 to Barbican, 21388+387 to Moorgate, and 21079+080 to Liverpool Street, exiting the Underground system and being in the concourse of the mainline station at 07:55.


I made my way to Platform 6 for the 08:03 Cambridge service, calling at Tottenham Hale and CBG only. This was formed by a trio of Class 379s, with those being 379014+013+023, with me taking a seat in the leading unit for the run all the way to CBG, arriving into Platform 8 at 09:08 and covering new track between Broxbourne and CBG. It was immediately over the bridge to Platform 5 for the 09:12 Norwich service, which was formed by 170205. This is the departure I was aiming for, as this is the train that calls at Spooner Row – one of only a few to do so and letting the guard know of my intentions as I additionally purchased an Attleborough – Spooner Row single so as to record my presence of having alighted there.


After alighting the train, I was surprised to see that the station has very short platforms, with both being staggered either side of the level crossing. I then exited onto Station Road heading northbound towards the main A47, over the bridge that straddles the dual carriageway, while paying attention to the signs pointing in the generic direction of Wymondham. I continued onto the old London Road, and was looking out for a bus stop. I could not see anything marked as a bus stop, nor any timetable posters, but I noted that there were two lay-bys (one in each direction) and using gut instinct believed that was the bus stop. I walked over to the eastbound side of the road and hung about, having see a bus heading westbound gave me confidence that there would be one along shortly, which would be due at 10:37 or thereabouts. It was not too long before the Firstbus service 13 was approaching, with me making sure to attract the driver's attention by flagging it down. It was then a short ride along the old London Road to Market Cross in Wymondham, where after a quick wander around, I made my way to the railway station a short walk away.


As it was a while since I had some tea, I purchased one from the station bistro before waiting for my next move. Of note, 158863 to Liverpool and 158810 to Norwich were spotted before boarding the five minutes delayed 11:15 NRW service, formed by 170202. Upon arrival at NRW, having observed a Class 170 with a damaged cab end and the former VTWC set at Crown Point depot, I rapidly made my way from Platform 3a to 5 to board the 11:36 Great Yarmouth via Berney Arms service, which was formed by a very busy 153309 for some dogbox thrash. There were some passengers who alighted at Cantley and Reedham, but it was a very small handful, and not surprisingly, there was nobody who boarded or alighted at Berney Arms. I covered some new track between Reedham and Great Yarmouth on this move, and remained on board for the 12:17 NRW via Lingwood service for some more thrash for the westbound journey to Lingwood.


It was a short fester here (going by countryside standards) for the 12:51 Great Yarmouth service, which this is the loco hauled set. It was 37405+419 that did the honours of taking me the one stop to Acle, where I had a 30 minute or so fester before the locos returned on the 13:28, which I remained on board for some loco thrash all the way to NRW. Before my next move, 158777 was spotted working the next Liverpool LS service, while 90001 “Crown Point” was on the former VTWC set and 90014 Norfolk and Norwich Festival” was on the normal GA set that would be forming the next two departures to London. For a filler move, I then boarded the 14:05 Lowestoft service, which was formed by a busy 153322 for a quick run to Brundall, then over the staggered footbridge over the level crossing to the opposite platform for the 14:22 back to NRW, which was formed by 156409.


I made my way over to Platform 6 for the 14:45 Sheringham service, which was formed by 156412 for the run there and back, covering some more new track in the process as well. Of note, 170270 was sitting in the siding west of Platform 6, 156422 was sitting on the track between Platforms 4 and 5, and 90002 “Eastern Daily Press” before the Sheringham train pulled in. Furthermore, 153314 was spotted at Crown Point, 156416 at North Walsham on the southbound Norwich service, double dogboxes 153322+314 on the northbound service on my way back. Upon arrival at NRW, I had spotted 158847 on the Manchester Piccadilly service, and 68017 “Hornet” facing London after I made my way to Platform 2 for the 17:00 London LS service. This was formed by 90013+82102 for an uneventful southbound run to Norwich's fierce rival, Ipswich.


At IPS, I had spotted 156407 at the buffers of Platform 1a, and 156417 on the Lowestoft service before getting myself a cup of tea from the catering outlet further along the London platform just beyond the station exit. Anyway, it was to Platform 2 for the 17:58 Felixstowe service, which was formed by 153306 for some more dogbox thrash. At Derby Road, 66570 was spotted hauling containers, and 66538 was spotted at Trimley St Mary hauling containers. I remained on the dogbox back to Ipswich, having covered some new track and scoring 3 out of 5 Class 153s of the GA fleet for haulage today. Back at IPS, I had spotted 170273 in Platform 1a, and 66537, 66588, 66554, and 66504 in the yard on the Norwich side of the station. Additionally, 360112+103+117 had arrived from London LS on a terminating service.


I hopped on board the 19:04 Norwich IC service, which was formed by 82118+90015 “Colchester Castle” for a filler move to Stowmarket, where I would pick up the Cambridge service. On passing East Suffolk Junction, 66725 was spotted plus 66554 was hauling containers too. After I alighted at Stowmarket, I checked the screen and found that the 19:28 CBG service was delayed by 17 minutes. Of note, 66011 was spotted in the Norwich loop just south of the station ready to haul what looked like aggregates wagons, 90007 “Sir John Betjeman” + 82112 was on the 19:29 London LS service, and 170208 was on the 19:45 IPS service. Eventually, the delayed 19:28 CBG service arrived just after the IPS bound service, and it was on board 170203 for the run to CBG. As this service is timetabled to sit at Bury St Edmunds for 7 or 8 minutes, this helped to claw back the delay, with arrival at CBG only being 3 minutes behind.


After alighting at CBG, I went to the main entrance to check the departure screens and it was apparent that there had been problems with the overhead wires earlier on. The effect it seemed to have had was that there was nothing running between Ely and Kings Lynn for the time being. Fortunately, my intended departure south to London was running fine, as it was starting here. I boarded the 21:04 London LS service, which was formed by dud 317514 and winning 317664 for the journey south, calling at Whittlesford Parkway, Audley End, Bishop's Stortford, Harlow Town, Broxbourne, Cheshunt, Tottenham Hale, and LST. I hung around briefly for a quick look to see if there were any winning 315s on the Shenfield services, but did not observe any, so it was time for a cup of tea and something light from the Costa catering outlet on the main concourse. It was then a walk over to Moorgate for the Underground Northern Line south to London Bridge, hopping on 51605+606 for the two stop hop south. After leaving the Underground system it was over to the Southeastern Railway side for the 23:14 Sevenoaks via Lewisham service, which was formed by winning 465244 and duds 465180+466007 for the run to Hither Green, where I would be staying for the weekend.


Overall, I achieved what I had set out to do today, and I have covered a fair amount of new track. Furthermore, everything worked out as planned, compared to my previous attempt in May when I last ventured onto Great Eastern Railway metals with that day turning into a disaster. The only bit of missing track from my coverage in the GA Ranger area is Bury St Edmunds – Ely. Of note, the bits of track missing for me outside of the ranger area of Great Eastern Railway metals is Manningtree – Harwich Town, Thorpe-le-Soken – Walton-on-the Naze, both curves to Colchester Town, Marks Tey – Sudbury, and Shenfield – Southend Victoria and Southminster, and Ely – Kings Lynn that are needed. Of the Great Northern Railway metals, it is Hitchin – Cambridge that I require, with all of the above requiring some clever ticketing due to being in the abyss between London Fare Zone 6 and regional day rangers.

 

[Kite159]

Sounded like a good day in Anglia land

 

[Techniquest]

A very good day had there, both for shack scoring and for winners!

 

[FQ]

Well done on getting Spooner Row! Sounds like a great time was had there! I really want to get to Anglia land...

AGA only have 5 153s?!

 

[adrock1976]

Due to me staying near Hither Green station this weekend, I decided to take up the opportunity of taking advantage of engineering works diversions to do some microgricing and having a clearout too. With the SER mainline being closed between Grove Park and Petts Wood, this meant that trains from both Charing Cross and Cannon Street to Grove Park would be diverted to terminate at Bromley North on Saturday only, replacing the Grove Park – Bromley North local shuttle. This provided the chance to board and alight trains from Platforms 1 and 2 at Hither Green, where in normal circumstances has only a few that call at those platforms. I would do this first thing in the morning before going to my meeting, with me doing the Mid Kent Railway and the North Kent Railway via Greenwich in the evening.


It was an early rise and I set out for the walk to Hither Green station just after 07:15, arriving on Platform 4 at around 07:30. I boarded the five minutes delayed 07:38 Cannon Street – Bromley North via Lewisham service (the Charing Cross – Bromley North services run direct avoiding Lewisham), which was formed by my first winner of the day 465194 for the run to a golf course station, Sundridge Park. Of note, I also did the microgrice of the crossover from the main line into Platform 1 at Grove Park (the platform normally used for the shuttle) on the way south. It was over to the London platform for the slightly delayed 07:59 CHX avoiding Lewisham service to await 465194 for the northbound hop to HGR, where I was expecting it to arrive into Platform 1, but got routed into Platform 3 instead much to my surprise.


Anyway, it was a short fester on neighbouring Platform 3 for the 08:23 CHX – Bromley North service, which was formed by dud 465164 for a bus stop bash to Grove Park. On passing the depot between Hither Green and Grove Park, I observed Class 465/466s on the Dover side of the tracks, and Class 375 or 376s on the London side of the tracks. At Grove Park, it was a short fester on Platform 1 (the only platform in use today) for the 08:33 CHX service, which was formed by 465184 for the bus stop bash north to HGR and alighting at Platform 1, which I should have done half an hour ago on the previous CHX service. It was then over to Platform 3 for the 08:49 CST service via Lewisham, which was formed by as expected 465164 for the northbound run to London Bridge. I then made my way to the Underground to the Northern Line, and boarded 51594+593 for the northbound run to Euston, changing to 11012+011 northbound Victoria Line to Highbury & Islington. I exited the station and went for breakfast at The White Swan JDW before heading to my meeting venue.


After my meeting had finished and staying on for some socialising, it was back down to Highbury & Islington for a quick eyeball at which Class 313s were on the 17:13 Moorgate service, but both were dud (I only require 4 of the GTL fleet) so immediately went to the adjacent Victoria Line platform (the Northern City Line services on Saturdays and Sundays are every 15 minutes between MOG and Alexandra Palace, with Mondays – Fridays being at least every 10 minutes, therefore decided not to hang around) to immediately board 11055+056 for the run to Euston. It was over to the adjacent southbound Northern Line Bank Branch platform to immediately hop on 51517+516 for the run to London Bridge, where I immediately launched into a sprint up the escalators, exit the Underground system, fast pacing along to the South Eastern Railway side, though the gateline, and up to Platform 1 to start my evening half an hour early to how I planned it. After making my way to Platform 1, it was more or less immediately that the 17:34 Hayes (Kent) via Lewisham service would arrive, which was formed by double winners 376023+026 for a run to Eden Park on the Mid Kent Railway.


It was over to the London platform for the 18:13 CHX service, which was formed by 376033+014 for a brief run north to New Beckenham, then going down and under to the Hayes platform to board the 18:29, formed by 376036+010 for a short run south to West Wickham, which is the last station before Hayes. It is noted that there are only 2 or 3 minutes to change platforms here, so if anybody is intending to score West Wickham, you would need to rely on the Hayes service running on time and be near the centre of the train (if 2 units coupled together) to nip over the footbridge to the London platform. Anyway, the 18:41 CHX service more or less immediately pulled into the platform just as I came off the bridge, which was formed by 376011+017 for a northbound hop to Clock House, which is situated along the main Beckenham Road. It was over to the Hayes platform for the 19:01 service, which was formed by 376029+007 for a bus stop bash to Elmers End. I then nipped into the nearby Tesco for a meal deal before heading back to the station to board the 19:17 CHX avoiding Lewisham service, which was formed by dud 465177 plus winning 465044+466010 for the northbound run to Waterloo East, having now completed all stations along the MKR.


I then made my way downstairs to the Southwark Jubilee Line Extension exit, and was surprised that there were 2 separate gatelines but with no way to exit the complex onto street level between the mainline and Underground gatelines. Anyway, it was onboard 96490+421 (both centre cars were recorded, as it can be slightly tricky to get the cab ends due to the platform screens on the Extension section) for a short eastbound hop to London Bridge, again exiting the Underground system and making my way to Platform 1, now switching my focus to the North Kent Railway. It is of note that due to engineering works, the NKR is closed between Plumstead and Dartford (most likely due to London Crossrail works at Abbey Wood) this weekend, therefore all trains are terminating at Plumstead with the good old fashioned rail replacement buses in operation.


Anyway, I took a look to see what was on the 20:01 Plumstead service (by this point I could have started this section 40 minutes early, as my intended plan was to aim for the 20:41 departure, and already having started the Mid Kent Railway section 30 minutes earlier than planned), but was a trio of duds with me having had them on the 23:14 LBG – HGR last night, therefore I declined. Ten minutes later, it was onboard the 20:11, which was formed by dud 465167 and winner 465239 for the run to Westcombe Park. It was down and under to the London platform for the 20:27 Cannon Street service, formed by winner 465045 and dud 465175 for a hop to the home of the band Squeeze, Deptford. Again, it was down and under to the opposite platform for the 20:37 Plumstead service, formed by double duds 465034+020 to Woolwich Dockyard. It was up and over to the London platform for the 20:52 to Greenwich, formed by double winners for the first time on this route 465019+023. I had a gentle saunter over to the Dartford platform for the 2109 service, but declined when it was 465175+045 that appeared, but with me still being on schedule 30 minutes ahead.


I then boarded the 21:19 (the frequency in the evening is every 10/20 minutes, and not the simple and straightforward every 15 minutes), which was formed by winning 465174 and dud 465176 for a bus stop bash to Maze Hill. It was then over to the London platform to board duds 465239+167 as expected for the run back to London Bridge, leaving me with only Plumstead and Abbey Wood to score along the North Kent Railway. At LBG, I visited the booking office to purchase a BZ6 to a station outwith the zones for tomorrow before heading to the Underground to board a Jubilee Line westbound service to Southwark, formed by 96010+087. I made my way via the point of no return to Waterloo East Platform Charlie for the 22:09 Bromley North avoiding Lewisham service, which was formed by winning 465007 for the southbound run to Hither Green, arriving into Platform 2. I now only need to board a London train departing from Platform 1, which I intend to do tomorrow.


Overall, I managed to complete the microgrices as planned today, and of more importance, without any major unplanned disruption or last minute service alterations. I have not done too bad in reducing the Class 465/466 and Class 376 requirements, bearing in mind I was not intentionally targeting any required ones in particular. Of note, the only class I have intentionally targeted south of the mighty Thames are most forum members' good old favourite Class 442s, which I cleared all 24 back in December 2015 with my final 4 required piggies due to them gradually being withdrawn from service. As I still need quite a bit south of the Thames, I have not bothered to compile a sheet of my requirements at this moment in time, but may do in the future when I do not require so much stuff across all the classes.

 

[Techniquest]

Quite a productive day there, lots of little bits I've never done involved. Takes some doing to clear the Southeastern Metro shacks doesn't it!

Your mention of making a list of requirements has reminded me of the memory I made this morning, that is that I have yet to post my quarterly update on 'Your Haulage Requirements' which seems to have died a death recently.

 

[Kite159]

Sounded like a good day in SET metro land, well done on clearing the Hayes line without making use of the tram from either Elmers End or a short walk at Clock House to Kent House via Beckenham Road tram stop