Richard Murrin
Roger Winnen
Guy Vincent
I have just been told that the pioneer HST power car 43002 'Sir Kenneth Grange' is due to leave Laira depot by road this coming Tuesday, July 16th, and is bound for the STEAM museum complex at Swindon. Presumably it will travel by way of the M5 and M4 but unfortunately times were not known by my contact. I understand that 43002 is to be on public display outside the Steam Museum buildings between 10am until 5pm on Wednesday 17th and Thursday 18th and will then be taken (again by road) from Swindon to the NRM in York for permanent display. The PC has been cosmetically restored and still carries nameplates and evidently made what could have been it's final journey by rail yesterday (July 13th) when it was turned by way of a 0Z77 Laira-Laira via Plymouth move partnered by 43188. This was reported in Plymouth station between 1225 and 1239.
Hopefully some of your Devonian members (and maybe Roger too) will be able to record this historic event. As I said, this info was passed to me by a reliable contact but 'don't shoot the messenger' if things don't work out as outlined. We are dealing with the railway after all!! I shall definitely make a point of keeping an eye on proceedings and, if possible, try to catch it on the M4 in the Chippenham area and definitely visit Swindon on Thursday to pay due respects!
With regards, Guy Vincent.Many thanks for keeping your ear on the rails!
Craig Munday
A lovely start to the day Thursday but cloud soon swallowed up the sky and a muggy day for all.
6G06 entered section to Goonbarrow as I was in St Blazey box. I wandered down to the crossing at Middleway just as Rog dropped the barriers. The trees behind me are higher and higher these days casting a huge shadow, even in July. I was surprised how still the stream was and saw a marvellous reflection of the bracket signal. The train and signal were brightly lit, and made a satisfying picture as the train rumbled along the causeway.
Cheers, Craig . Many thanks Craig