From the guard's van

The daily Doncaster - Tyne Yard Network Rail train was so lightly loaded today that it was just... a light engine... seen here passing Poppleton. This is regularly a class 88 diagram.  Cross Country, on the other hand, were doing plenty of business.

There were lots of platform changes today as a result of disruption caused by a tractor blocking the line (and bringing the overhead down) between Doncaster and Leeds... the Kings Cross to Leeds trains were terminating in York's platform 6. The test trains from Doncaster were not running. For some time now class 90s have been used on some of the Kings Cross - Leeds trains, but they have not ventured to York. This one did because of the disruption mentioned above. Interestingly it is one of the 90s which has no Pullman rubbing plate but is set up for 110mph running.  The train is seen leaving platform 6. Yet another commemorative addition to the basic LNER livery. A worthy celebration for the trains which saved British Railways.  The rubbish train empties pass through the station on time.  ... causing some excitement among the small (and big) boys watching. Finally.... these two ladies obviously thought that the no smoking ban in the station did

From 2000 to 2018. There is talk that the new Cross Country franchise bidders want to replace the Voyagers... probably with class 800s.  From 1962 to 2018... I wonder if the class 800s will still be around in 56 years time (2074!) ?

One of only four preserved class 35s, this particular example was built in 1962.  The 1955 modernisation plan did not cater for type 3 power locos... these were second generation designs. In total there were 101 of them built, all with hydraulic transmission as required by the Western Region.  Because they were non standard the whole class had been withdrawn by 1975. I can remember them working in the Bristol area during 1974 and early 1975. The photographs were taken at Bishops Lydeard on the West Somerset Railway and rail level access was facilitated by a lineside pass. 

... or to put it another way.... Welshpool and Llanfair Light Railway no. 14. I thought no 85 looked a bit sad in the faded black livery standing at Llanfair waiting to be restored so I dug out some pictures from 1992/3. The red livery is much more flattering. Waiting departure time at Welshpool Raven Square station.  Standing over the inspection pit at Llanfair after running the Santa Specials.  At Welshpool again.  Running round the train at Welshpool.