A RAIL37 Churnet Valley Railway picture report

STEAM & DIESEL IN THE CHURNET VALLEY 7th JULY 2002 - Part 2

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A smart hike down the valley and the next train was the 13.02 from Cheddleton with 33102 in charge (OK so not EVERY train was different).

The return service had 5197 at its head and the big engine was having to work for its living as the passenger loading grew. Notice the smoke running ahead of the chimney the same way that 71000 "Duke of Gloucester" does and that has windshields.

Plenty of time before the next so I ambled along the canal towpath. Occasionally there was the sound of birds or running water but, otherwise, the silence was deafening. This valley is truly amazing. Arrival at Consall meant I could buy a bottle of water because boy was it hot. A quiet sit down before 68030 arrived in charge of the 14.17 from Cheddleton - I do wish that the powers that be would decide to face the engined South for photographic purposes - that's where the sun is. Front end boiler shots invariably mean a shot into the sun.

The signalmen - preparing the equipment for two-train operations.

Gare de Dave

The return service was the 13.30 from Froghall and it was double heading diesels this time with D8154 leading 33102. Great - no kettles at last.

After a spirited run up the valley the two diesels stopped at Leekbrook to reverse for the short journey back to Cheddleton. There were video cameras everywhere.

The 33 and the 20 being detached at Cheddleton to allow the S160 to regain control with the 15.32 for Froghall.

And finally........having taken some 53 shots on the day I had run out of megabytes and so this was the last. The S160 number 5197 taking out the 15.32 and penultimate train of the day. Thanks to all you guys who worked hard to provide the entertainment - it was a great day and I hope it made millions. If not, well there's always next time.

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Part 1