The Rail Vac machine at Lostwithiel was due to be moved to Burngullow early this afternoon. A Colas Rail Class 66847 one of only five that Colas has in its fleet was despatched from Westbury early this morning and arrived at Lostwithiel in the down loop at 11.30 However it was then realised that the rail vac needed various adjustments carried out before it could be moved to Burngullow. It was eventually decided to abandoned the attempt today and return the engine in the path booked back to Westbury at 15.23,being the 15.08 from Burngullow. Liaison between the various companies involved would have avoided this situation of over 320 miles for a wasted journey and the crew involved.
151019a 66108 Hauls the 13.05 from Fowey to Goonbarrow seen passing through Lostwithiel for the run round loops. Copyright Roger Winnen
151019b Colas Rail 66847 in the down loop at Lostwithiel awaiting the expected move of the Rail Vac to Burngullow being passed by 66108 running around the clay empties to Goonbarrow. Copyright Roger Winnen
151019f 66108 Departs Lostwithiel at 14.55 with the clay empties to Goonbarrow Copyright Roger Winnen.
151019g The Railhead treatment train approaches Lostwithiel on its run from Westbury via Salisbury to Westbury and St Blazey. Copyright Roger Winnen.
151019e After its wasted journey 66847 prepares to depart Lostwithiel at 15.23 the schedule originally for this engine being the 15.08 Burngullow to Westbury Down TC. Copyright Roger Winnen