Scottish Trains Website: Blog

43468+43480+769002+43423+43467 at Gretna Green

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 05 Apr 2025 09:03:12 GMT

43468+43480+769002+43423+43467 at Eastriggs MOD

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 05 Apr 2025 08:58:52 GMT

Formed up and ready for departure: Rail adventure liveried power cars 43468+43480 and Debranded EMT blue HST power cars 43467+43423 top and tail 2 barrier coaches & 769002 as they await departure from Eastriggs MOD yard with 5Q88 ECS movement to Crewe TMD. 769006, which would be collected a couple of weeks later, is seen in the foreground. 13.2.25

37403 at Linlithgow

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 05 Apr 2025 08:54:00 GMT

BR Large logo liveried 37403 'Isle of Mull' pauses at Linlithgow with 5Z39 8.41 Bo'ness Ground Frame - Dundee driver training run 13.2.25

37403 at Perth

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 05 Apr 2025 08:52:09 GMT

BR Large logo liveried 37403 and 3 mark 1s cross the bridge over the River Tay at Perth with 5Z42 14.30 Dundee - Bo'ness exchange siding driver training run 11.2.25

43467+43423 tnt 43468+43480 at Carlisle

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 05 Apr 2025 08:49:35 GMT

Debranded EMT blue HST power cars 43467+43423 and Rail adventure liveried power cars 43468+43480 top and tail 2 barrier coaches through Carlisle with 5S04 King Norton OT Plant Dept - Eastriggs MOD ECS movement 12.2.25

SRPS Railtour to Inverness 8.2.25

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 23 Mar 2025 20:57:42 GMT

BR Large Logo liveried 37403 + Scotrail liveried 37409 approach Perth with 1Z37 6.58 Carlisle - Inverness SRPS railtour. 8.2.25

The Capital Scot Railtour 10.1.25

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 23 Mar 2025 20:27:45 GMT

Intercity liveried 87002 'Royal Sovereign' hauls a mixed set of Intercity & Scotrail Intercity liveried Mark 3s through Prestonpans with 5Z86 13.33 Edinburgh Waverley - Drem Signal Ef821 ECS working. DVT 82139 is on the rear.

With the sun setting, Intercity liveried 87002 'Royal Sovereign' hauls a mixed set of Intercity & Scotrail Intercity liveried Mark 3s through Prestonpans with 1Z87 15.23 Edinburgh Waverley - London Kings Cross 'The Capital's Scot' railtour. DVT 82139 is on the rear. 10.1.25

SPRS Railtour 30.12.24

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 23 Mar 2025 20:18:36 GMT

BR Large Logo liveried 37403 and Scotrail Intercity liveried 47712 top and tail the Scotrail Intercity liveried Mark 3 push pull set at Stirling with 1Z47 Bo'ness Exchange siding - Crewe SRPS Railtour 30.12.24

Lenzie Test Train 30.12.24

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 23 Mar 2025 20:16:21 GMT

Substituting for HST Power cars, Harry Needle liveried 37607 and BR Large Logo liveried 37402 pass through Lenzie with 1Q23 Newcastle - Newcastle via Glasgow Queen Street Network Rail Test Train 30.12.24

86259 at Kirknewton 23.11.24

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 24 Nov 2024 23:46:29 GMT

British Railways Electric Blue liveried 86259 'Les Ross' speeds through a snowy Kirknewton with 1Z54 5.23 Gloucester - Edinburgh Waverley 'The Edinburgh Festive Explorer' Pathfinders Railtour 23.11.24

769006 + 769959 at Kilmarnock 22.11.24

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 24 Nov 2024 23:44:52 GMT

All over White liveried 769006 + Dark Blue with grey doors liveried 769959 are seen at Kilmarnock with the 5Q75 14.16 & 5Q78 15.37 Kilmarnock Bonnyton - Kilmarnock Bonnyton via Barassie DPL test workings on 22.11.24.

769006 was one of 9 units converted from class 319s to bi mode class 769s to operate on the Rhymney - Penrath line. The Transport for Wales units were in use from 2020 until 2023 and their fleet was made up of 769002, 003, 006, 007, 008, 421, 426, 445 and 452.

769006 has been repainted out of it's TfW livery, it has also been converted for transporting mail or parcels and has all the seats in the passenger saloons removed.

006 still carries TfW posters internally and was displaying, "Welcome to this TfW service to Cardiff Central" on the destination screens. Like the other ex TfW 769s, 006 has no pantograph.

769959 was one of 19 769/9s converted to operate on Oxford / Reading to Gatwick Airport services, however GWR decided to abandon plans for their introduction in 2022 and all of the sets were handed back to their owners, Porterbrook. 769959 (and 769922) were transported to Kilmarnock for testing and were repainted into dark blue livery with grey doors. Both units retain their GWR interior. When seen on testing on 22.11.24, 769959 was displaying 'Ayr' on its destination screens.

Merseyrail Class 507s in service 26.10.24

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 27 Oct 2024 21:53:40 GMT

With only a couple of months left before they go off lease, 46 years of service for the remaining Merseyrail fleet will soon be coming to an end. 6 of the 507s remain available for service: 507001, 003, 007, 018, 023 and 029.

On 26th October I headed down to the Merseyrail area to photo some of the remaining fleet for what is probably the last time for me.

Initially, only 507018 was out on the Chester line so I headed out to Rock Ferry for it. I was just getting ready to leave when I noticed that 5C31 was activated at West Kirby and I knew that 029 was there so I headed up to Bidston to photo the ECS move. 029 was heading to Birkenhead North, then onwards to Hamilton Square to take over a Chester diagram from a 777 so I headed back to Rock Ferry (getting lost enroute!) and arriving just in time to catch 507029 heading to Chester. So I decided to wait to catch 018 again this time with the yellow side in the sun as it stopped at Rock Ferry. Unfortunately at this time I had to call it a day and head home.

An hour of BREL Class 318s & 320s at Newton 31.8.24

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 31 Aug 2024 21:45:20 GMT

	Scotrail Saltire liveried 320320+320411 arrive at Newton with 2L01 12.03 Larkhall - Dalmuir service 31.8.24
	Scotrail Saltire liveried 318253 arrives at Newton with 2F27 12.17 Motherwell - Dalmuir service 31.8.24
	Scotrail Saltire liveried 320401+320322 pause at Newton with 2L02 11.47 Dalmuir - Motherwell service 31.8.24
	Scotrail Saltire liveried 320308+320417 arrive at Newton with 2P02 12.20 service from Glasgow Central via Queens Park 31.8.24
	Scotrail Saltire liveried 320313+318261 arrive at Newton with 2L03 12.33 Larkhall - Dalmuir service 31.8.24
	Scotrail Saltire liveried 318268+320310 arrive at Newton with 2L04 12.17 Dalmuir - Larkhall service 31.8.24
	Scotrail Saltire liveried 318263+318255 pause at Newton with 2C34 12.28 service from Dalmuir - Motherwell 31.8.24
	Scotrail Saltire liveried 320413+318256 are seen at Newton, having arrived with 2M74 12.45 service from Glasgow Central via Maxwell Park 31.8.24

The full list of workings and times

Units	Working	Time
320320+320411	2L01 12.03 Larkhall - Dalmuir	12.26
318253	2F27 12.17 Motherwell - Dalmuir	12.35
320401+320322	2L02 11.47 Dalmuir - Motherwell	12.36
320308+320417	2P02 12.20 Glasgow Central - Newton via Queens Park	12.43
320417+320308	2P03 12.49 Newton - Glasgow Central via Queens Park	12.49
320313+318261	2L03 12.33 Larkhall - Dalmuir	12.53
318268+320310	2L04 12.17 Dalmuir - Larkhall	13.05
320301+320309	2F29 12.17 Cumbernauld - Dalmuir	13.08
318263+318255	2C34 12.28 Dalmuir - Motherwell	13.14
320413+318256	2M74 12.45 Glasgow Central - Newton via Maxwell Park	13.14
318256+320413	2M75 13.19 Newton - Glasgow Central via Maxwell Park	13.19

Glasgow Subway Car 101 on low loader 1.8.24

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 21:16:06 GMT

On Thursday 1st August, I'd came off the M8 at Govan to stop off at Starbuck to get a cup of tea prior to heading else where, when I noticed a crane over at the Stadler test track so I had to go and investigate! When viewing from the bridge over Edmiston Drive, Glasgow Subway Metro Cammell Power Car 101 was seen on the rear of a low loader also noted was that there was a different set of cars from the previous batch that was there a few days earlier.

Shortly after I arrived, the low loader departed and headed westwards. I followed the low loader and it went to JR Adams scrap yard at George V Docks near Braehead. There were more cars already there, which I assume to be the cars that were stabled outside on the test track the previous week. These were 101, 103, 104, 113, 116, 119, (probably 132), 203 and 205.

Replacing the cars mentioned above at Edmiston Drive were: 107, 110, 117, 121, 124, 129, 133 and 206. By 26th August those cars were joined by 106, 111, 120, 125, 207 and a couple of other cars which it wasn't possible to identify.

The status of the G2 fleet at the moment appears to be:

Scrapped: 101, 102, 103, 104, 108, 109, 113, 114, 115, 116, 119, 122, 123, 127, 131, 132, 203, 205, 208

Stored at Edmiston Drive: 106, 107, 110, 111, 117, 120, 121, 124, 125, 129, 133, 204, 206, 207

Unknown: 105, 112, 118, 126, 130, 201, 202

Preserved: 128

50007+50049 at Perth 25.8.24

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 22:38:33 GMT

Over the English Bank Holiday Weekend of 24th - 26th August, Pathfinders Railtours operated a 3 day tour departing from Taunton in Somerset called the 'Grampian Highlander', initially using 66306 to haul the train to Gloucester, where 306 was removed and swapped over for newly repainted class 50s 50007 & 50049, which would remain on the tour over the weekend. The tour then made the long journey north, heading to Aberdeen!

Sunday 25th August was day 2 of the 'Grampian Highlander' railtour, which travelled from Aberdeen to Inverness, then Inverness to Perth and back to Aberdeen. Monday 26th was the final day of the tour, departing from Aberdeen and visiting the recently opened branch to Leven, before heading south back to Gloucester and a traction swap back to a class 66 for the final leg to Taunton.

I had went out to photo the tour on the Saturday at Greenfaulds, however, having been cloudy and raining off and on for most of the afternoon, the sun came out just before the tour arrived and was right behind the train and unfortunately the backlighting from the sun wrecked the shot! I knew I wouldn't be able to get any photos on the Monday as I was working (Monday wasn't a Bank Holiday in Scotland), so I decided to make a 2nd attempt to photo the tour and headed up to Perth on the Sunday afternoon!

Rather than heading into the station it's self, I parked on Priory Place, and took photos from St Lenoards Bridge, which overlooks the station and also provides a good vantage point for movements from the south.

Having been a dreadful day weatherwise, I didn't hold out much hope of staying dry, however it did stay mostly dry apart from a couple of showers and the sun also came out very briefly as well! The tour was in the vacinity of the station for around an hour with various movements and shunts to get the stock from Platform 4 (on the Inverness line) to Platform 2 on the Aberdeen line. Below are a few photos of the action with a brief description under the shots. The tour featuring the newly repainted GBRF class 50s: 50007 'Hercules' & 50049 'Defiance' in BR Large Logo livery.


50007 & 50049 have just arrived at Perth working as 1Z50 from Inverness	50007 & 50049 await the departure of BTP liveried Scotrail Turbostar 170405 with 1T84 15.32 Aberdeen - Glasgow Queen Street service

50007 then draws forward out of Platform 4, under the road bridge	Having crossed over to the northbound line and then reversed, 50007 once again approaches the station and will pass through platform 7 and will reverse onto the rear of the train.

50049 then leads the tour out of platform 4 with 50007 now on the rear of the train, initially south before crossing over to head northwards via platform 2	50007 is seen on the rear as the tour snakes across onto the northbound line before reversing back into the station

In a brief moment of sunshine, 50007 now leading, heads the tour stock as it heads into platform 2, now working as 1Z51 to Aberdeen.	After picking up some of the passengers that didn't get back on at Platform 4, the tour departed northwards, 50049 is seen on the rear of the stock as the tour leaves.

37405+56090 and Snowploughs at Larbert 19.8.24

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 20 Aug 2024 20:10:11 GMT

It's usually rare to see snowploughs out and about in Central Scotland even in the Winter, and even rarer to see them out in the summer! However, on 19th August, with not a drop of snow in sight, only the typical Scottish summer weather: heavy rain, Harry Needle's 37405 + Colas liveried 56090 are seen with the Inverness independent snowploughs (Front ADB965224 and Rear ADB965230) at Larbert as they are about to reverse into Larbert CE Sidings, having worked 7Z33 from Inverness Millburn Yard.

The ploughs will be taken onward from Larbert CE to MOD Eastriggs for storage. The ploughs from Kingmoor and Motherwell TMD should also be collected and transferred to Eastriggs during the week.

Keith and Dufftown Railway 2.8.24

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 04 Aug 2024 00:23:07 GMT

On Friday 2nd August, I finally managed to tick off a Heritage Railway that I've wanted to visit for a long time: The Keith and Dufftown Railway!

About the Railway

The Keith and Dufftown Railway is the UK's most northerly Heritage Railway, and is situated around 40 miles North East of Aviemore and 55 miles northwest of Aberdeen in the heart of Whisky Country with many Distilleries close to the railway!

The railway's eastern terminus of Keith Town, is an approx 30 minute walk from the National Rail station in Keith, which is on the Aberdeen - Inverness line.

The Keith and Dufftown Railway running for 11 miles from Dufftown railway station to Keith Town via Drummuir and a request stop at Towiemore Halt.

Originally part of the former Great North of Scotland Railway line which linked Aberdeen with Elgin, the line closed to passengers in 1968 but was retained as a freight-only branch for British Rail, mainly for the many local distilleries, with the line truncated at Dufftown. Sporadic visits to the line by the Northern Belle followed and even an Intercity 125 HST visiting the line until complete abandonment of the line in 1991. The line passed into the hands of the Keith and Dufftown Railway Association in 1998 and the branch was severed from the National Network with the removal of some track panels at Keith. The line was re-opened between Keith Town and Dufftown in 2000 and the scenic line passes through forests and farmland and past lochs, glens and distilleries with wildlife to be seen (when I was there, there was plenty of deer that could be seen lineside and crossing the track in front of the train). There are plans to reopen the line from Keith Town up towards the Junction with the main line to enable better access to the line for the public.

Ticket office facilities and toilets are available at both Keith Town and Dufftown, with a gift shop also being available at Keith Town. Food and refreshments are available at The Buffer Stop cafe at Dufftown, which is located in a pair of Mark 1s and a mark 2 carriage (and is open Tuesday - Sunday during the operating season and is so popular that booking is required to sit in).

Trains operate on Fridays - Sundays from Easter till the end of September with departures from Dufftown at 10.30, 13.30 & 15.30 and Keith Town at 11.30, 14.30 and 16.20 (Journeys last approx 40 minutes each way). There are also special events at other times of the year.

Rolling Stock

Motive power on the line is mainly provided by 5x class 108 vehicles, which can be marshalled into 2 car or 3 car formation depending on demand one of the vehicles, DCTL 56491, has been converted into a mobile Function Coach, housing a bar, whisky snug and tables and chairs and can be used as part of the service train. A recent purchase of an ex Northern 3 car class 144 Pacer, also provides a higher capacity unit for busier times and is also used on the first journey of the day. Another recent purchase is of a class 107 multiple unit from the Strathspey Railway, which will be a future restoration project. Another future restoration project is the Class 140 prototype Pacer unit, which was one of the early purchases for the railway. There are also 3 small shunters which are used for Driving experiences and for works trains on the line.

Multiple unit Fleet List

Vehicle Type >	DBMS	DMSL	DMCL	DMCL	DTCL	Unit Name	Livery	Notes	Image
Class
107			52030	52008			British Railways Green (faded)	Purchased 2023 from Strathspey Railway, awaiting restoration
108		51568		52053		Spirit of Banffshire	British Railways Green	Both 51568 & 52053 are power vehicles meaning the unit can tackle the line's gradients with ease! 51568 facing Dufftown and 52053 facing Keith. Both vehicles arrived in 2001 and the KDRA took ownership of them in 2005.
108	53628				56224	Spirit of Speyside	British Railways Green	53628 faces in the Dufftown direction. Built in 1958 and was based in Chester / Manchester area before transferring to Oxfordshire. Part of the final class 108 working in Oct 1993 and stored at Southall till 1998. Moved to East Anglia Railway Museum in 1998, then to Dufftown on 7th March 2000. 56224 faces in the Keith direction and is a driving trailer. Built in 1959 and initially allocated to Bletchley depot and worked on the Cambridge - Oxford line. Was withdrawn in early 1990s and moved to Mid Norfolk Railway followed by Ecclesbourne Valley Railway in 2004. Arrived at Dufftown on 17th March 2010.
108					56491	'Uisge Beatha'	British Railways Green	56491 faces in the Keith direction. Built in 1960, and after withdrawal eventually ended up at Dufftown. In 2022, the vehicle was converted into a mobile function coach known as the 'Dram Tram' complete with bar, snug and seating compartment. Can carry 28 passengers.

Fleet Number	DMS	DMSL	Livery	Notes	Photo
140001	55500	55501	BR Blue Grey	1981 built prototype Pacer unit. Was initially used as an evaluation unit before becoming a driver training unit at Neville Hill Depot in Leeds in 1985 before falling out of use. The unit moved to Dufftown in 1994 and work has been carried out for restoration as and when time, resources and funds permit.

Fleet Number	DMS	MS	DMSL	Livery	Notes	Photo
144022	55822	55858	55845	Debranded Northern	Built in 1986/87 in Derby and mainly used on services around York and Leeds. Withdrawn in 2000, 144022 moved to Dufftown on 8th September 2000. 144022 Generally used on the 10.30 service from Dufftown and 11.30 return

Trip Report

I left home around 8.15am and drove the 188 miles up to Dufftown via the M9, A9 and A95 with a 30 minute stop off at Pitlochry and 15 minutes at Boat of Garten, arriving at Dufftown around 1pm. Due to the current temporary timetable in operation on Scotrail services at the moment, I decided not to risk going by train.

Upon arrival I bought a ticket for the 13.30 departure (£16 for a 22 mile round trip which is very reasonable) then went to the Sidings cafe, which is housed in a pair of Mark 1s and a Mark 2f on the platform to buy a tea and cake before getting on the train. The train was formed of DTCL 56491 'Uisge Beatha' + DMCL 52053 +DMCL 51568. I sat in 51568 near to the rear cab so as to get the drivers eye view out through the cab and sat on one of the very comfortable 3+2 seats! It was a lovely journey through the countryside and all too soon, we were at the terminus at Keith Town, where I got off and had a look about the station and got a few photos of our train.

On the 14.30 return journey I once again sat in 51568 and this time had the forward view! We stopped at Drummuir for 5 minutes, which allowed passengers to get off and have a look at some carved wooden statues near the station as well as the view of the nearby river. Once back on, we made our way towards Dufftown passing some deer on the way and having to stop a couple of times as they were on or very near to the track.

We were soon back in Dufftown where I got some photographs of the station and of the recently acquired class 107, awaiting restoration and of DBMS 53628, 'Spirit of Speyside' which was parked up further down the platform. After the 15.30 service departed, I asked if I could photograph 144022 and 140001, which were stabled in a siding outwith the station and the chairman of the KDR Association took me up to see them and also let me go aboard both units for some photos of the passenger saloons and the drivers cabs!

Once I had a look round, it was unfortunately time to head back home. The return journey was not quite as straight forward due to an accident on the A9, leading to a diversion through Aviemore, the closure of the M80 at Haggs (and diversion via Kilsyth and Croy) and the M73/74 junction at Maryville (diversion via Uddingston and Bothwell) , meaning that it took over 5 hours to get home!

I had a fantastic visit to the Keith and Dufftown railway and will definately return there! The railway is very enthusiast friendly, the volunteers and staff were all extremely friendly and could not do enough for you and I would like to say a huge thanks to the chairman, who showed me round the 144 and 140 for taking the time to do this! I would thoroughly recommend a visit! More information on the KDR can be found on their website: https://keith-dufftown-railway.co.uk/

Glasgow Subway G2 stock last day in service 28.6.24

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 05 Jul 2024 19:42:39 GMT

28th June was the final day in service for the Glasgow Subway's 2nd Gen stock consisting of 1977 built Metro Cammell motors and 1992 built Hunslet Barclay central trailers.

Initially, it was announced that one train per circle would run between 1pm and 4pm, however due to demand it was closer to 5.30pm before they returned to depot, with both sets carrying out an additional couple of runs around the circle each!

The final servicable trains were in service, one per circle and were formed of 106+207+120 and 119+203+103. 106+207+120 worked on diagram 16 on the Inner Circle & 119+203+103 worked diagram 6 on the Outer circle. Due to the number of enthusiasts and regular passengers wanting to take photos etc, it was taking longer than normal to do a full circuit with longer than normal dwell times at stations.

119+203+103 returned to depot first, terminating at Govan and with 103 leading, returned to Broomloan depot wrong line. Shortly after, 106+207+120 exited service at Govan at 17.24 and after quite a few photos and videos from well wishers, it returned to Broomloan depot, bringing 44 years of service to an end for the 2nd Gen stock.

More withdrawn Glasgow Subway G2 Stock 23.6.24

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 25 Jun 2024 21:53:33 GMT

With the Stadler compound at Edmiston Drive almost empty of G3 Stadler stock (apart from 315 which was stabled on the test track), it was possible to get a side shot of some of the latest batch of withdrawn G2 stock awaiting their fate.

The stock includes trailer 205 and Met Cam Power Cars 104 (in advertising livery), 113 & 116. Going by the advertising livery, the 5th vehicle which is partially visible is either 118 or 125. There is likely to be at least 1 possibly 2 more power cars behind the shed. 23.6.24

Confirmed withdrawn and / or disposed of cars to date are: 102, 104, 108, 109, 113, 114, 115, 116, 122, 123, 127, 128 (preserved), 131, 205 & 208

The final G2 cars are expected to run for the last time on Friday 28th June between 1pm and 3pm with one train per circle.

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Balloon 700 to North Station 15.6.24

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 15 Jun 2024 22:26:55 GMT

History is made on 15th June 2024 as Balloon 700 becomes the first of Blackpool's Heritage tram fleet to carry passengers on the new extension to North Station. The short 500 metre extension connects North Station to the Promenade at North Pier with tram services being split into 3: service T1 is Fleetwood - Starr Gate, T2 is Fleetwood - North Station and T3 is North Station to Starr Gate, all 3 services are due to run at 30 minute intervals scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p493681382

Glasgow Subway Met Cam Car at Riverside Museum 14.6.24

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 23:04:28 GMT

After operating on the Inner Circle on diagram 12 as the rear part of a 3 car formation consisting of 111 (leading), 107 (centre) and 128 (rear) on Monday 10th June, Met Cam Motor 128 was withdrawn from service and was thoroughly cleaned in preparation for its imminent transfer into preservation. Having been selected as it was in the best condition of the remaining Met Cam motor cars, 128 was loaded onto a low loader on Thursday 13th June and transferred from Broomloan depot, its home of 44 years, to its new home: Glasgow Riverside Museum where it is to be preserved and put on display as a static exhibit!

128 was available for public display from Friday 14th June.

The photos show 128 on display in the Riverside Museum on Friday 14th June.
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Chasing 37409 in the West Highlands 8.4.24

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 14 Apr 2024 19:55:48 GMT

On 3rd April, Locomotive Services Limited's Scotrail liveried 37409, three Scotrail liveried Mark 3s, DBSO 607 and British Railways Green liveried 37667 headed north from Crewe to Fort William. Later that same day, LSL announced that they would be running a tour from Fort William to Mallaig and return on Monday 8th and Tuesday 9th April, with a walk on price of £40 per head.

Departing on the one free path available (8.52 from Fort William with a 40 minute break at Mallaig and returning at 11.30, arriving at 13.38)

I decided last minute to head up to Fort William to catch 37409! Leaving home at 5.30am I drove up towards Arrochar and Tarbet, where I made a brief stop off to photograph the Caledonian Sleeper! I then got back on the road and got stuck behind a couple of slow moving vehicles. I reached Fort William just as 409 was departing the station, so managed to get in front of it and headed to Glenfinnan Viaduct to photo it there. Once it passed, I got back on the road and headed westwards.

I missed the turning for Polnish so headed Arisaig. I managed to get a few photos of the working there, then after it left, headed onwards to Mallaig, where I caught it coming in to the western terminus. After a few photos of it arriving and in the station, I headed back to Polnish to get a few photos there, then stopped off a couple of miles west of Glenfinnan where I photoed the return working from a small bridge over the line ( ending up soaked up to my ankles in a waterlogged field!). I headed back to Glenfinnan for more photos at the viaduct then back towards Fort William, where I got some photos from the Earl of Inverness Road Bridge. After this, it was time to head back home!

Here are some photos from the trip!

A West Highland Weekend 29.3.24 - 1.4.24

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 06 Apr 2024 22:24:04 GMT

From Friday 29th March - Monday 1st April, I was on a family weekend away to Ardgarten, on the shore of Loch Long, 2 miles from Arrochar and around an hour from Glasgow by car via the A82 and 90 mins by train.

Ardgartan is a lovely place to visit and I'd recommend it not just for the passing trains but also for the stunning views of Loch Long, looking down to Arrochar and of the wildlife including seals, dolphins, thrushes, ducks, geese and robins!

The location allowed for a view of the West Highland Line and the passing workings heading along the hillside. Ardgartan is also handy for Arrochar and Tarbet station, allowing some shots of the Class 156 workings to Oban and Mallaig.

Luckily when I was there the LSL Scotrail Push Pull set tour to Oban was due to pass through so managed to get a few photos of it!

Here is what was running over the weekend. I was there from 3pm on the Friday till 12pm on Easter Monday and managed to see the majority of the listed trains and photo a few of them

Friday 29th March
Fleet Number	Headcode	Time	From	To	Due	Notes
156457	1Y31	5.20	Glasgow Queen Street	Oban	6.39
73967+66739	1Y11	4.50	Edinburgh Waverley	Fort William	7.09
156499+153377	1Y20	5.17	Oban	Glasgow Queen Street	7.10
156493+156453+156474	1Y21	8.21	Glasgow Queen Street	Oban and Mallaig	9.38
153380+156492	1Y42	6.03	Mallaig	Glasgow Queen Street	10.06
156457	1Y22	8.57	Oban	Glasgow Queen Street	10.43
153377+156499	1Y25	10.36	Glasgow Queen Street	Oban	12.00
66740	0B45	8.07	Fort William Alcan	Millerhill	12.30
156457+156492+156458	1Y23	12.22	Glasgow Queen Street	Oban and Mallaig	13.40	156457 to Oban
156477+156446+156493	1Y44	10.10	Mallaig and Oban	Glasgow Queen Street	14.09	156493 from Oban
156499+153377	1Y26	14.41	Oban	Glasgow Queen Street	16.27
153373+156445	1Y29	16.34	Glasgow Queen Street	Oban	17.57
156446+153380+156477	1Y27	18.23	Glasgow Queen Street	Oban and Mallaig	19.37	156446 to Oban
156474+156453+156457	1Y48	16.05	Mallaig and Oban	Glasgow Queen Street	20.06	156457 from Oban
156445	1Y32	20.39	Oban	Glasgow Queen Street	22.18
73967+66739	1B01	19.50	Fort William	London Kings Cross	22.44

Saturday 30th March
Fleet Number	Headcode	Time	From	To	Due	Notes
156453	1Y31	5.20	Glasgow Queen Street	Oban	6.39
73967+66739	1Y11	4.50	Edinburgh Waverley	Fort William	7.09
156446+153373	1Y20	5.17	Oban	Glasgow Queen Street	7.10
156493+156457+156474	1Y21	8.21	Glasgow Queen Street	Oban and Mallaig	9.38	156493 to Oban
153380+156477	1Y42	6.03	Mallaig	Glasgow Queen Street	10.06
156453	1Y22	8.57	Oban	Glasgow Queen Street	10.43
47712	1Z62	8.23	Edinburgh Waverley	Oban	11.03	LSL Tour
156373+156446	1Y25	10.36	Glasgow Queen Street	Oban	12.00
156453+156477+156500	1Y23	12.22	Glasgow Queen Street	Oban and Mallaig	13.40	156453 to Oban
156492+156458+156493	1Y44	10.10	Mallaig and Oban	Glasgow Queen Street	14.09	156493 from Oban
47712	1Z63	14.22	Oban	Edinburgh Waverley	16.44
156453+153373	1Y26	16.11	Oban	Glasgow Queen Street	17.56
153377+156499	1Y29	16.34	Glasgow Queen Street	Oban	17.57
156492+156458	1Y27	18.23	Glasgow Queen Street	Oban and Mallaig	19.37	156492 to Oban
156457+156474+156446	1Y48	16.05	Mallaig and Oban	Glasgow Queen Street	20.06	156446 from Oban
156499	1Y32	20.39	Oban	Glasgow Queen Street	22.18

Sunday 31st March
Fleet Number	Headcode	Time	From	To	Due	Notes
cancelled	1Y29	9.03	Glasgow Queen Street	Oban	10.22
cancelled	1Y21	9.56	Glasgow Queen Street	Oban	11.12
156474+156453+156493	1Y23	12.20	Glasgow Queen Street	Oban and Mallaig	13.38	156474 to Oban
156492+156458+156500	1Y24	12.11	Oban	Glasgow Queen Street	14.09	156492 from Oban
cancelled	1Y26	16.11	Oban	Glasgow Queen Street	17.57
cancelled	1Y30	17.04	Oban	Glasgow Queen Street	18.55
156500+156458+156492	1Y27	18.21	Glasgow Queen Street	Oban and Mallaig	19.36	156500 to Oban
156477+156453+156474	1Y48	16.01	Mallaig and Oban	Glasgow Queen Street	20.06	156474 from Oban
73967+66739	1B01	19.50	Fort William	London Kings Cross	22.44

Monday 1st April
Fleet Number	Headcode	Time	From	To	Due	Notes
156457	1Y31	5.20	Glasgow Queen Street	Oban	6.39
73967+66739	1Y11	4.50	Edinburgh Waverley	Fort William	7.09
156500+153377	1Y20	5.17	Oban	Glasgow Queen Street	7.10
156446+156474+156453	1Y21	8.21	Glasgow Queen Street	Oban and Mallaig	9.38	156446 to Oban
156492	1Y42	6.03	Mallaig	Glasgow Queen Street	10.06
156457	1Y22	8.57	Oban	Glasgow Queen Street	10.43
153377+156500	1Y25	10.36	Glasgow Queen Street	Oban	12.00
156457+156492+156477	1Y23	12.22	Glasgow Queen Street	Oban and Mallaig	13.40	156457 to Oban
156493+156458+156446	1Y44	10.10	Mallaig and Oban	Glasgow Queen Street	14.09	156446 from Oban
156500+153377	1Y26	14.41	Oban	Glasgow Queen Street	16.27
156380+156450	1Y29	16.34	Glasgow Queen Street	Oban	17.57
156493+153370+156458	1Y27	18.23	Glasgow Queen Street	Oban and Mallaig	19.37	156493 to Oban
156474+156453+156457	1Y48	16.05	Mallaig and Oban	Glasgow Queen Street	20.06	156457 from Oban
156450	1Y32	20.39	Oban	Glasgow Queen Street	22.18
73967+66739	1B01	19.50	Fort William	London Kings Cross	22.44

Glasgow Subway withdrawn Met Cam vehicles 17.3.24

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 24 Mar 2024 22:28:37 GMT

With the introduction to service of the Glasgow Subway Stadler Generation 3 stock gathering pace (5 of the 17 strong fleet of 4 car trains now in service), a start has been made on withdrawing some of the Generation 2 Met Cam and Barclay stock.

Officially withdrawn in March 2024 were Met Cam power cars 115, 127 and 131, which were all long term out of service, however in recent weeks, these have been joined by Met Cam cars 102, 109, 114 and 123 as well as Barclay trailer 208. These vehicles have been moved from the main Broomloan Depot complex up to the Stadler testing and storage facility up at the end of the test track, which is visible from the Bridge over Edmiston Drive near Ibrox stadium, offering a rare chance to see the 2nd Generation stock in daylight.

There are 7 vehicles visible, 6 of them identifiable with a zoom lens on a camera from the bridge with one partially visible but not identifiable from the rear of the Ibrox overflow car park, looking at the images, there is possibly one more vehicle behind the storage shed.

From the bridge the order of the vehicles is as follows: Barclay Trailer 208, Met Cams 109, 102, 114, 131 & 123. The 7th vehicle isn't identifiable as the cab end is obscured by a shed. it is possible to get a 2/3rds side on shot of Met Cam 102 from the car park. The remaining vehicles are obscured by Stadler G3 stock.

There were four of the Stadler fleet visible when I visited: 311, 312, 315 and an unidentified unit.

https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p656518172

Glasgow Subway Fleetlist March 2024

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 19 Mar 2024 23:06:47 GMT

In the past couple of weeks, following the introduction to service of the first of the new Stadler units, the withdrawal of Glasgow Subway's 45 year old Met Cam Motor and 32 year old Barclay Trailer fleet has begun. Three long term out of service Met Cam motors which haven't ran in months were officially withdrawn a couple of weeks back, however they have been joined by some more Met Cam motors and one Barclay trailer.

Until Friday 12th April, at least 7 visible vehicles were stored out in the open at the Stadler compound at the end of the test track at Broomloan depot. 6 of the 7 were identifiable using a zoom lens on a camera from the Edminston Drive bridge.

In order from the bridge were 208, 109, 102, 114, 131 and 123 the others were unidentifiable. On 12th April, they were removed by low loader to S Norton and Co Scrapyard at King George V docks, Govan. I will update the fleetlist as and when other withdrawals of Met Cam or Barclay cars take place or other Stadler sets enter service.

Number	Vehicle Type	Built by	Entered Service	Current Livery	Status	Notes
101	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	Download Railway Guardian, All over advert	withdrawn	Stored in Stadler Compound, Edmiston Drive till 1st August, when moved to S Norton Scrapyard, KGV Docks, Govan
102	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	Withdrawn 03.24	Stored in Stadler Compound, Edmiston Drive till 12th April when moved to S Norton Scrapyard, KGV Docks, Govan
103	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	Withdrawn 28.6.24	Part of the final G2 train to run on the Outer Circle, Stored in Stadler Compound, Edmiston Drive till 1st August, when moved to S Norton Scrapyard, KGV Docks, Govan
104	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Net Zero Commitment livery	Withdrawn 06.24	Stored in Stadler Compound, Edmiston Drive till 1st August, when moved to S Norton Scrapyard, KGV Docks, Govan
105	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	Withdrawn
106	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	Withdrawn 28.6.24	Part of the last G2 train to run on the Inner Circle
107	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	Withdrawn	Stored in the Stadler Compound, Edmiston Drive
108	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	withdrawn 03.24	Stored in Stadler Compound, Edmiston Drive till 12th April when moved to S Norton Scrapyard, KGV Docks, Govan
109	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	Withdrawn 03.24	Stored in Stadler Compound, Edmiston Drive till 12th April when moved to S Norton Scrapyard, KGV Docks, Govan
110	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	Withdrawn
111	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	Withdrawn
112	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	Withdrawn
113	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	Withdrawn 06.24	Stored in Stadler Compound, Edmiston Drive
114	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	Withdrawn 03.24	Stored in Stadler Compound, Edmiston Drive till 12th April when moved to S Norton Scrapyard, KGV Docks, Govan
115	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	Withdrawn 27.3.23	Withdrawn with Train Control Fault. Stored in Stadler Compound, Edmiston Drive till 12th April when moved to S Norton Scrapyard, KGV Docks, Govan
116	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	Withdrawn 06.24	Stored in Stadler Compound, Edmiston Drive
117	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	Withdrawn	Stored in Stadler Compound, Edmiston Drive
118	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	Scottish Power / COP 26 advert livery	Withdrawn
119	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	Withdrawn 28.6.24	Part of the final G2 train to run on the Outer Circle, Stored in Stadler Compound, Edmiston Drive till 1st August, when moved to S Norton Scrapyard, KGV Docks, Govan
120	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	Withdrawn 28.6.24	Part of the final G2 train to run on the Inner Circle,
121	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	Withdrawn	Stored in Stadler Compound, Edmiston Drive
122	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	N/A	Scrapped	Withdrawn 2015 and scrapped circa 2017 to provide spare parts for other vehicles
123	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	Withdrawn 3.24	Stored in Stadler Compound, Edmiston Drive till 12th April when moved to S Norton Scrapyard, KGV Docks, Govan
124	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	Withdrawn	Stored in Stadler Compound, Edmiston Drive
125	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	Scottish Power / COP 26 advert livery	Withdrawn
126	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	Withdrawn
127	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	Withdrawn 18.6.23	Withdrawn with brake resistor fault. Stored in Stadler Compound, Edmiston Drive till 12th April when moved to S Norton Scrapyard, KGV Docks, Govan
128	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	Withdrawn 10.6.24	In Preservation at the Riverside Museum, Glasgow. Transferred from Broomloan Depot on 13th June, on display from 14th June.
129	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	Withdrawn	Stored in Stadler Compound, Edmiston Drive
130	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	Glasgow Subway 1896-2016 120 years All over Grey livery with orange doors	Withdrawn
131	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	Withdrawn 4.8.23	Stored in Stadler Compound, Edmiston Drive till 12th April when moved to S Norton Scrapyard, KGV Docks, Govan
132	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Net Zero Commitment livery	Withdrawn	Used for the Inaugaration of the new system by the Queen 1.11.79
133	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	Withdrawn	Stored in Stadler Compound, Edmiston Drive. Used for the Inaugaration of the new system by the Queen 1.11.79
201	Trailer	Hunslet Barclay	1992	Scottish Power / COP 26 advert livery	Withdrawn
202	Trailer	Hunslet Barclay	1992	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	Withdrawn
203	Trailer	Hunslet Barclay	1992	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	Withdrawn 28.6.24	Part of the final G2 train to run on the Outer Circle, Stored in Stadler Compound, Edmiston Drive till 1st August, when moved to S Norton Scrapyard, KGV Docks, Govan
204	Trailer	Hunslet Barclay	1992	SPT Net Zero Commitment livery	withdrawn
205	Trailer	Hunslet Barclay	1992	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	Withdrawn 6.24	Stored in Stadler Compound, Edmiston Drive till 1st August, when moved to S Norton Scrapyard, KGV Docks, Govan
206	Trailer	Hunslet Barclay	1992	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	Withdrawn	Stored in Stadler Compound, Edmiston Drive
207	Trailer	Hunslet Barclay	1992	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	Withdrawn 28.6.24	Part of the final G2 train to run on the Inner Circle, Stored in Stadler Compound, Edmiston Drive till 1st August, when moved to S Norton Scrapyard, KGV Docks, Govan
208	Trailer	Hunslet Barclay	1992	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	Withdrawn 03.24	Stored in Stadler Compound, Edmiston Drive till 12th April when moved to S Norton Scrapyard, KGV Docks, Govan
301	Unit	Stadler	2024	White with black window surrounds & cab ends and orange doors	in service	entered service Jan 2024
302	Unit	Stadler	2023	White with black window surrounds & cab ends and orange doors	in service	entered service 11.12.23
303	Unit	Stadler	2024	White with black window surrounds & cab ends and orange doors	in service	entered service Feb 2024
304	Unit	Stadler	2024	White with black window surrounds & cab ends and orange doors	in service	entered service March 2024
305	Unit	Stadler	2024	White with black window surrounds & cab ends and orange doors	in service	entered service March 2024
306	Unit	Stadler	2023	White with black window surrounds & cab ends and orange doors	in service	entered service 11.12.23
307	Unit	Stadler	2024	White with black window surrounds & cab ends and orange doors	in service	entered service March 2024
308	Unit	Stadler	2024	White with black window surrounds & cab ends and orange doors	in service	entered service April 2024
309	Unit	Stadler	2024	White with black window surrounds & cab ends and orange doors	in service	entered service April 2024
310	Unit	Stadler		White with black window surrounds & cab ends and orange doors	in service	entered service April 2024
311	Unit	Stadler		White with black window surrounds & cab ends and orange doors	in service	entered service June 2024
312	Unit	Stadler		White with black window surrounds & cab ends and orange doors	in service	entered service June 2024
313	Unit	Stadler		White with black window surrounds & cab ends and orange doors	not entered service yet	In Stadler compound at end of the test track
314	Unit	Stadler		White with black window surrounds & cab ends and orange doors	not entered service yet
315	Unit	Stadler		White with black window surrounds & cab ends and orange doors	not entered service yet	In Stadler compound at end of the test track
316	Unit	Stadler		White with black window surrounds & cab ends and orange doors	In service	Entered Service July 2024
317	Unit	Stadler		White with black window surrounds & cab ends and orange doors	In Service	Entered Service July 2024

320414+320414 at Motherwell 15.2.24

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 25 Feb 2024 22:19:02 GMT

Scotrail Saltire liveried 320413+320414 pause at Motherwell with 2B04 6.59 service to Carstairs 15.2.23 https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p334752891/edad3cc78

92023 at Motherwell 15.2.24

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 25 Feb 2024 22:16:10 GMT

Caledonian Sleeper liveried 92023 and Mark 5 sleeper set pause at Motherwell with 1S26 23:50 London Euston - Glasgow Central Caledonian Sleeper service 15.2.23 https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p334752891/edad3c2cb

Merseyrail Visit 14.2.24

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 23 Feb 2024 14:29:02 GMT

As part of my week off, I decided to head back down to Merseyside for some more photos and rides of the remaining Merseyrail class 507s. I drove to Ainsdale and parked up there. As there are now 4 out of 10 Southport - Hunts Cross diagrams that are now operated by 777s, it was going to be an hour before a 507 diagram into Liverpool so I caught 777020 into Liverpool Central. At Liverpool Central, I changed over onto the Wirral Line and caught 777005 to Hamilton Square, then changed there for 507020 out to New Brighton.

There were 3 class 507s out on the New Brighton service, which is a 15 minute timetable, however only 3 of the 4 diagrams were running as one diagram an hour is not running due to training on class 777s giving 2 15 minutes service and a 30 minute gap. As 507016 was one of 2 507s that I didnt have a photo of, I waited to catch it and ride it back into Liverpool Central.

Passing Birkenhead North depot I saw 507017 shunting 507002 out of the shed and 507032+013 stored in the shed awaiting scrapping. Due to a shortage of 777s, 507033 was seen operating on the West Kirby line.

Back at Liverpool Central, I caught 507015+507011 back to Ainsdale, however due to heavy loading, the sets lost time reaching there almost 12 minutes late. I got off at Ainsdale and a couple of minutes later, 507003+507018 appeared also heading to Southport (and were almost empty in comparison). 507003 has recently returned from overhaul and is fitted with a track camera on the second mans window of one of the cab ends (the window has been panelled over) and was the last 507003 that I had yet to see!

I then spent about an hour at Ainsdale awaiting the return of 507018+003 and in the meantime photoed the passing workings, which were a mix of 3 and 6 car sets and included BR Blue / Grey liveried 507001 and another unit I haven't seen very often, 507010. After catching 018+003, it was time to head home.

Units seen:

Southport - Hunts Cross

777022, 777030, 777013, 777021 (Sandhills - Hillside training run), 777020, 507015+507011, 507003+507018, 507031. 507001, 507029, 507010+507007

Chester line

777005

West Kirby line

507033

New Brighton line

777034 (stabled at New Brighton), 507016, 507020, 507030

Birkenhead North depot

230006, 230008, 230010, 507017, 507002, 507032, 507013

Stored and Spares Donor locos at Carnforth 14.2.24

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 23 Feb 2024 13:11:33 GMT

The West Coast Rail depot at Carnforth is visible from the platform at Carnforth station. Since my last visit there a few years ago, many of the stored and spares donor locomotives owned by West Coast have been moved over towards the station end of the site and are visible from the station.

West Midlands Metro 10.2-13.2.24

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 23 Feb 2024 12:57:23 GMT

The West Midlands Metro opened in 1999 and originally ran from Wolverhampton St Georges to Birmingham Snow Hill and was operated by 16 AnsaldoBreda built T69 trams, which were similar to the T68 trams which originally operated on the Manchester Metrolink. The T69 fleet were withdrawn by 2015 and replaced by a fleet of 21 CAF Urbos 3 trams, more of these trams were ordered with future expansion planned. In 2015, the line was extended from Snow Hill to Grand Central (New Street). The next extension from Grand Central to Library opened in 2019, however this section did now have OHLE and required the trams to be retrofitted with batteries to operate on this section.

A fleet of 21 CAF Urbos 100 trams were ordered for future extensions and entered service from 2021, however at this point there were a number of CAF Urbos 3 trams withdrawn for repair after cracks were discovered in the frames and later with panel issues. The line was further extended from Library to Edgbaston Village in 2022. At the Wolverhampton end of the line, an extension to Wolverhampton station opened in 2023 allowed for a second branch in the city.

Future extensions are in progress with a line from Wednesbury to Waterfront Merry Hill (and eventually on to Brierley Hill) and in the city centre a branch from Bull Street to High Street Deritend (eventually to Sollihull)

I was on a family holiday down to Birmingham and spent some time riding on and photographing the trams on the West Midlands Metro. Having 4 days in the area, I managed to photograph a number of trams in the City Centre as well as riding them between Library and Wednesbury. I found that it was mostly CAF Urbos 100 trams that were out (numbered 40 and above) and only 1 CAF urbos 3 (28) seen over the few days. There are a number of decent photography spots within the city centre, especially in the area around the Library and City Hall. I would recommend a visit!

The Prestwick Shuttle 3.2.24

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 04 Feb 2024 20:53:57 GMT

I had a trip on Scotrail's Prestwick Town - Ayr shuttle service earlier.

Starting from Prestwick Town, 156445 arrives into Prestwick Town with 5A44 Prestwick Town - Prestwick Town ECS working

The reason for the shuttle was the Station Hotel Fire. 156445 is seen at Ayr having arrived with 2A24 12.23 service from Prestwick Town. The remains of the fire damaged and now partially demolished former Station Hotel are in the background.

Work is progressing on demolishing the totally gutted south wing of the former Station Hotel. The fire in the hotel has meant the limitation of services to 2 car class 156s using the north end of Platform 4, with no services south of Ayr towards Stranraer, covered by replacement buses.

Just down from the station, Scotrail Saltire liveried 156445 passes over the River Ayr with 2A27 12.55 Ayr - Prestwick Town service

Round the other side of the bridge, there is a walkway over the River Ayr crossing. The other unit on the shuttle, Scotrail Saltire liveried 156513 passes over the bridge over the River Ayr with 2A26 12.56 Prestwick Town - Ayr

Scotrail Saltire liveried 156513 is seen at Ayr having arrived with 2A26 12.56 Ayr - Prestwick Town and awaiting departure back to Prestwick Town

Back at Prestwick and Scotrail Saltire liveried 156513 departs Prestwick Town with 5A26 12.35 Prestwick Town - Prestwick Town ECS
working

The ECS working involves the unit heading from Prestwick Town to Barassie Junction 156445 is seen at Barassie with 5A66 15.05 ECS working

Merseyrail day out 27.1.24

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 04 Feb 2024 20:42:22 GMT

On 27th January, I decided to drive down to the Merseyrail area and it was quite an eventful trip!

I reached New Brighton around 12 o clock and the Wirral lines were all massively disrupted following the failure of a 777 on a Chester service on the Mersey loop. There was a 40 minute gap between trains on the New Brighton line so I headed to a spot that I'd seen in Martyn Hilbert's Merseyrail book just outside Wallasey Grove Road Station and got a couple of pics there of late running 507011 with 777016 practically right up its tail.

Time was getting on as I was well over an hour out there waiting for those shots and wanted to try a few other spots so had to miss out Birkenhead North and Bidston and head over the river to Leeds Street to catch some of units going up and down the incline to /from Moorfields as I've been wanting to do there for ages! Luckily 507001 was running 10 + late so I managed to get it there!

Then I drove up to Formby to photo there and caught 001 up to Southport. Got a few pics up there then got 014 down to Ainsdale and got some pics there, then 018 back to Formby. Got a couple of pics there including 001 in the dark as it returned back to Southport. I had been going to stop off at Headbolt lane for a couple of pics there but had run out of time and had to head home!

Units spotted:

New Brighton (stabled): 507028, 777034

New Brighton service: 507011, 777016

Southport - Hunts Cross service: 507014, 017, 033, 018, 023, 015, 007, 029, 030, 001

Stabled at Southport: 507021, 777027, 777004, 777036

Ormskirk: 777022

Headbolt Lane: 777140, 777148

318259+320401 at Newton 26.1.24

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 04 Feb 2024 20:04:39 GMT

Scotrail Saltire liveried 318259+320401 arrive into Newton with 2F37 14.17 Cumbernauld - Dalmuir service 26.1.24

86101 tnt 87002 at Hillington West 13.1.24

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 04 Feb 2024 20:02:20 GMT

Locomotive Services Limited's Intercity liveried 86101 and 87002 top and tail a matching set of Mark 3s through Hillington West with 1Z31 13.35 Barassie Junction - Glasgow Central leg of 'The Ayr Extension' Railtour 13.1.24

385006 at Wishaw 6.1.24

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 04 Feb 2024 19:58:46 GMT

Scotrail's Class 385: 385006 is seen crossing Marshall Street Bridge on the approach to Wishaw station at sunset with 1C60 15.34 Glasgow Central - Edinburgh Waverley via Carstairs service 6.1.24

Last class 508 standing 4.1.24

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 04 Feb 2024 19:56:46 GMT

On 3rd January Merseyrail's 508108 and 508114 were withdrawn from service. The withdrawal of this pair of class 508s left 508104 as the final class 508 remaining in service. Seen at Southport, 508104 came in working as 2S37 from Hunts Cross and departed as 2U44 to Hunts Cross. 104 was withdrawn a week later along with 507004. Both units were hauled from Birkenhead North to Crewe South Junction awaiting further movement to Newport for scrapping on 5th February.

Bo'ness Diesel Gala 29.12.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 04 Feb 2024 19:28:09 GMT

The Bo'ness Diesel Gala took place on 29th December, with Colas Class 70s 70807 and 70813 the visiting locos and home fleet locos 37403 and 27001 operating the services. 47643 was on display in the Bay Platform and 37025 was used as a shunter. Here are a few photos from the Gala.

Glasgow Subway new Stadler trains 27.12.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 04 Feb 2024 19:12:59 GMT

Glasgow Subway's new 3rd Generation Stadler Subway units 306 and 302 are seen at Cessnock, Ibrox, Govan, Partick and Kelvinhall on 27th December.

Both units were in service until around 12.40pm with 306 on the front diagram and 302 behind. Both work on consecutive diagrams on the Outer circle at the moment in case of failure that the other unit can rescue the failed one.

The procedure for returning to depot appears to be that the first unit terminates at Govan, then returns wrong line back to the ramps to Broomloan Depot, whilst the 2nd unit terminates at Ibrox and heads straight to the ramps back to depot.

First impressions are that they are so much quieter than the Metro Cammell / Barclay stock, have smoother, faster accelleration and that the interior seems much brighter and more spacious!

Christmas Time at Edinburgh 21.12.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 04 Feb 2024 18:59:57 GMT

I headed over to Edinburgh after work on 21st December to catch a couple of interesting workings at Edinburgh Waverley.

First up was British Railways Green liveried 40013 'Andania' which departed heading southbound with 1Z36 16.53 Edinburgh - Leicester return leg of the 'The Edinburgh Christmas Statesman Railtour'

Later on and West Coast Railways 47813 & 47848 top and tail a set of BR Blue / Grey Mark 2s as they prepare to depart with 1Z31 'Edinburgh Polar Express' working to Portobello Junction

Up on Princes Street the trams are seen passing the Big Wheel and the Star Flyer at the Christmas Village

Before heading home, I saw Scotrail Inter7city HST power car 43028 awaits its next duty at Edinburgh Waverley with the Big Wheel, Star Flyer and Scott Monument on Princes Street lit up in the background

321419 at Holytown 8.12.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 28 Jan 2024 23:24:47 GMT

Varamis Rail's newest addition to it's fleet, 321419, which has been converted to carry parcels instead of passengers, passes through Holytown with 1Z07 Mossend - Birmingham International parcels working 8.12.23

Merseyrail trip and 507001 in BR Blue-grey 2.12.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 28 Jan 2024 23:21:52 GMT

In late November 2023, Merseyrail unveiled 507001 in a modified version of the original BR Blue/Grey livery carried by the fleet when they first entered service in 1978. The livery has been modified with all Grey doors to meet PRM regulations. The livery is also to commemorate the future withdrawal of the fleet during mid 2024.

On to the trip and on hearing the news of 001's relivery, I decided to drive down to Liverpool to get some photos while the unit was still clean! On the day in question, 001 was in service on the West Kirby branch so it meant a drive through Liverpool and over to Birkenhead North for some photos! Heavy traffic in Liverpool meant that the journey took longer than expected and that I didn't reach Birkenhead North station till 1pm (about an hour later than expected).

Luckily I caught 507001 a few times passing through and 001 looked fantastic! As well as 001, there was also the opportunity to photograph some of the class 508s, which were facing imminent withdrawal at the time and indeed at the time of writing have all been withdrawn and scrapped with 508136, one of the units photographed on the day, being withdrawn just a few days later.

On 2nd December the units passing through Birkenhead North were:

New Brighton line: 508131, 507030, 508120, 507004
West Kirkby: 507018, 507001, 777018, 508104, 508136

Thanks to the failure of a class 777 operating on a Chester service on the Mersey Loop, there was chaos in Central Liverpool, with delays and early turn backs on some services to get back to time. Unfortunately I received a notification on my phone whilst in Birkenhead that there was an amber weather warning for snow in Cumbria declared so I took the decision to call it a day around 3.30 after final photo of 507001 and head back up the road alot earlier than planned. It was lucky I did as heavy snow around the M6 between Tebay and Shap almost led to me being stranded, lucky I had left when I did as 30 minutes later and I'd have never made it home to Lanarkshire! Luckily I did though!

Bannockburn Station Road 25.11.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 20 Jan 2024 23:22:48 GMT

Scotrail Inter7city liveried HST power cars 43035 and 43147 top and tail a set of matching mark 3s past Bannockburn Station Road with 1H17 13.33 Edinburgh Waverley - Inverness service
British Railways Green liveried D213 (40013) 'Andania', a late replacement for a poorly 60007 'Sir Nigel Gresley' passes Bannockburn Station Road with 1Z51 12.57 Dunfermilne City - Edinburgh Waverley Steam Dreams Forth Bridge Lunchtime
Scotrail Saltire liveried 385023+385038 pass Bannockburn Station Road with 2N43 13.49 Glasgow Queen Street - Alloa service
Former Cross Country HST Power car 43285 and Former LNER Power Car 43257 top and tail the Network Rail PLPR Test Train northwards past Bannockburn Station Road with 1Q77 13.35 Mossend - Inverness Millburn working

40013 at Culross 25.11.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 20 Jan 2024 23:18:23 GMT

Viewed from Culross Pier, British Railways Green liveried D213 (40013) 'Andania', a late replacement for a poorly 60007 'Sir Nigel Gresley' heads along the shoreline of the River Forth with 1Z51 12.57 Dunfermilne City - Edinburgh Waverley Steam Dreams Forth Bridge Lunchtime Tour 25.11.23

Keighley & Worth Valley Railway 28.10.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 20 Jan 2024 23:12:50 GMT

On 28th October, I went to the Multiple Unit Gala at the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway to get some photos of the newly repainted class 101 DMU and 143625 making its one and only outing at the railway. Also out and about was the West Yorkshire PTE liveried class 144011 and railbus M79964

Saltcoats Seawall 21.10.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 20 Jan 2024 22:54:56 GMT

Scotrail Saltire liveried 380001+380104 accelerate out of Saltcoats and along the seawall with 2T16 14.07 Largs - Glasgow Central service and 380004+380112 head along the seawall on approach to Saltcoats station with 2T15 13.45 Glasgow Central - Largs services

156495 & 156503 at Girvan 19.10.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 20 Jan 2024 22:50:09 GMT

Following the Ayr Station Hotel Fire in September 2023, Scotrail Class 156s 156495 & 156503 were trapped south of the station without access northwards towards Ayr station. Both units are seen awaiting their next duties at Girvan Station on 19th October 2023

313212 at Eastleigh 13.10.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 20 Jan 2024 22:43:00 GMT

Five months after withdrawal and after a scrapping process that began in July, one Southern liveried class 313 vehicle remains: 62604 from 313212. It is seen awaiting its fate at Eastleigh Arlington works on 13.10.23.

69008 at Eastleigh 13.10.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 20 Jan 2024 22:40:39 GMT

GBRF liveried 69008 passes through Eastleigh with 4Y19 Mountfield Sidings - Southampton West Docks 13.10.23

50007 and 50049 at Bournemouth 11.10.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 20 Jan 2024 22:23:35 GMT

GBRF's 50049 & 50007 with 4 barrier coaches and recently refurbished and reduced to 4 carriages Class 458/4 458425 sandwiched inbetween, passes through Bournemouth with 5X72 Wembley Receptions 1-7 - Bournemouth T&RSMD ECS move 11.10.23

458407+458417 at Bournemouth 11.10.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 20 Jan 2024 22:19:22 GMT

Newly refurbished and reduced from 5 to 4 cars, class 458/4s 458407+458417 pass through Bournemouth with 5Q91 Basingstoke - Bournemouth T&RSMD ECS working 11.10.23

153376 at Eastleigh 10.10.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 20 Jan 2024 22:12:44 GMT

Arriva Blue liveried Network Rail Inspection Train 153376 is seen in the yard at Eastleigh 10.10.23

Clapham Junction 10.10.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 20 Jan 2024 22:10:06 GMT

With London's skyline in the background, a selection of units including a South Western Railways 458, a 444 and 450 are seen around Clapham Junction 10.10.23

London Transport Museum Store 23.9.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 20 Jan 2024 22:00:31 GMT

On 23rd September, I visited the London Transport Museum Store at Acton Depot in London. Catching an early flight from Edinburgh to Gatwick, I then caught a class 377 from Gatwick to Clapham Junction then from Clapham Junction to Wimbledon. From Wimbledon I headed to Acton via the District Line to Earl's Court and then the Picadilly line to Acton Town.


Earl's Court Station	Earl's Court station signage	View from overbridge outside Acton Town

From Acton Town station, its a 2 minute walk to the museum and once inside it's packed to the rafters with items relating to the Underground and London Transport in General. There is a wide selections of Buses, Trams and Underground Trains onsite. The Underground stock was my main interest on the day with plenty of vintage trains and vehicles to see:


Waterloo & City Car 61	Standard Car	1972 Northern Line Stock	1967 Victoria Line Stock

Sleet Car	Standard Car	1938 Stock	L51 Engineering car in Pride Livery

It was a very interesting visit to the Museum. Once I'd been, I had a couple of hours spare before returning home, so I visited Northfields to photo some of the Picadilly 73 stock. Then it was off to Heathrow for a flight back to Edinburgh. More photos from the day at: https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p946354454

LSL Bubblecar 121022 at Rannoch 30.9.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 22:52:08 GMT

Making its debut following a major overhaul and interior refit, Locomotive Services Ltd's Carmine and Cream liveried Bubble Car 121022 (55022) 'Flora' approaches Rannoch with a private charter working as 2Z28 11.30 Mallaig - Rannoch 30.9.23 and is later seen departing with 2Z29 15.26 back to Arisaig.

Also included are photos of the stunning interior of the Bubble Car (I was invited on along with others on the platform for a look round)

The bubble car has been restored for use on private hires.

The Pilgrim Centurion Railtour 16.9.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 22:38:51 GMT

The Pathfinders 'Pilgrim Centurion' Railtour visited Scotland on 16th September 2023 with GBRF's 50007 & 50049 providing the traction.

Photo 1: 50007 & 50049 are seen passing through Kirknewton with Pathfinders Railtour 'The Pilgrim Centurion' working 1Z50 5:30 Swindon - Edinburgh Waverley

Photo 2: 50007 & 50049 are seen passing through Uddingston with the Pathfinders Railtour 'The Pilgrim Centurion' ECS working as 5Z51 13:22 Edinburgh Waverley - Polmadie

Photo 3: 50049 & 50007 are seen passing through Hartwood at slow speed following a local stopper with the Pathfinders Railtour 'The Pilgrim Centurion' ECS working as 5Z52 15:41 Polmadie - Edinburgh Waverley 16.9.23

Photo 4: 50049 & 50007 are seen passing through West Calder with the Pathfinders Railtour 'The Pilgrim Centurion' ECS working as 5Z52 15:41 Polmadie - Edinburgh Waverley

Midland Pullman 43047 & 43046 at Carstairs 9.9.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 03 Dec 2023 21:02:11 GMT

Locomotive Services Limited's Midland Pullman liveried HST set consisting of 43047 & 43046 and a matching set of mark 3s are seen at Float, south of Carstairs with 1Z43 5.46 Paignton - Fort William Day 1 of the 'West Highland Pullman' railtour 9.9.23

Bo'ness Steam Gala 2.9.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 03 Dec 2023 21:00:06 GMT

On 2nd September, the Bo'ness and Kinneil Railway held their annual Steam Gala. As well as the home fleet steam locos: Caledonian Railway class 439: 55189 (CR 419), Lord Roberts (No1) & National Coal Board No 19 Fife Area, visiting the railway was Lambton no 29 from the North Yorkshire Moors Railway.

	National Coal Board No 19 Fife Area in all over black livery shunts the demonstration freight from the Bay Platform
	No1 'Lord Roberts' reverses along the run round line as National Coal Board No 19 Fife Area prepares to shunt the demonstration freight from the main to the Bay Platform
	National Coal Board No 19 Fife Area in all over black livery is seen waiting in the yard near the steam shed
	Visiting loco from the NYMR, 1904 built Olive Green liveried Lambton no 29 is seen reversing onto the headshunt
	1899 built, Coltness Iron Co no 1 'Lord Roberts' heads the 15.45 service from Bo'ness - Manuel
	British Railways Black liveried Caledonian Railway 439 class 55189 (419) awaits it's next duty as visiting loco from the NYMR, Olive Green liveried Lambton no 29 heads towards to water coloumn to take on water
	Visiting loco from the NYMR, Olive Green liveried Lambton no 29 takes on water at the water coloumn at Bo'ness as Calendonian Railway 439 class 55189 (419) awaits it's next duty in the background
	Visiting loco from the NYMR, Olive Green liveried Lambton no 29 is seen hauling the 16.45 Bo'ness - Birkhill demonstration goods train along the foreshore at Bo'ness. A Ford Anglia is seen onboard the Lomac wagon.

70813 and 56105 Dead in tow at Falkirk Grahamston 25.8.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 21:48:56 GMT

70813 with 56105 dead in tow pass through Falkirk Grahamston with the late running (183 late) 6S36 Dalston - Grangemouth tankers 25.8.23

313121 at Leven 19.8.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 21:46:12 GMT

Network Rail liveried dual voltage 313121 'Pan up Pete' is seen stabled at it's new home for preservation at Fife Heritage Railway at Leven 19.8.23

313121 at Queensferry 16.8.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 21:38:57 GMT

Network Rail liveried 313121 is seen on the back of 3 low loaders parked up on the lay-by on the Northbound sliproad of the M90 at the Queensferry Crossing enroute to its new home at the Fife Heritage Railway in Leven 16.8.23

Rail Adventure HST Power Cars 43468+43480 at Drem and Prestonpans 14.8.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 21:34:35 GMT

Rail Adventure HST Power Cars 43468+43480 with 2 HST Stoneblowers in tow are seen waiting in the down loop at Drem and Prestonpans with 6Z44 Peterborough Eastfield Sig - Slateford Depot 14.8.23

43132 tnt 43130 at North Queensferry 7.8.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 21:29:25 GMT

Scotrail Inter7city liveried 43132 and 43130 top and tail mark 3 set HA01 through North Queensferry with 1B84 13.56 Aberdeen - Edinburgh Waverley 7.8.23

37884 and 318250 at Kilmarnock 31.7.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 21:24:17 GMT

Europhoenix liveried 37884 is seen pushing Scotrail Saltire liveried 318250 out of Kilmarnock with 5Q08 Yoker - Kilmarnock Bonnyton Depot 31.7.23

Isle of Wight Island Line 13.7.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 21:21:39 GMT

A selection of photos from my visit to the Isle of Wight on 13th July. More can be found at: https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p830529663

313209, 204, 211 and 205 at Eastleigh 14.7.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 26 Oct 2023 21:44:55 GMT

Awaiting their date with the scrapman, 313209, 204, 211 & 205 head lines of their sister units at Eastleigh Arlington 14.7.23

455865 at Clapham Junction 12.7.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 26 Oct 2023 21:34:59 GMT

South Western Railway's 455865 is seen on the rear of an unidentified 455 as it departs Clapham Junction depot with an unidentified ECS working 12.7.23

378205 at Clapham Junction 12.7.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 26 Oct 2023 21:30:34 GMT

Wearing an eyecatching overall wrap for Pride, a very colourful 378205 awaits departure from Clapham Junction with 2L21 10.23 service to Stratford 12.7.23

Scrap 313s at Eastleigh 11.7.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 26 Oct 2023 20:57:22 GMT

A selection of stored Class 313s awaiting scrapping at Eastleigh Arlington 313203, 204, 206, 207, 208, 209, 210, 212, 213, 215, 216, 217, 219 &220 on 11.7.23

142003 at Eastleigh 11.7.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 26 Oct 2023 20:42:44 GMT

Greater Manchester PTE orange liveried 142003 is seen outside Eastleigh Arlington works 11.7.23

313211+313205 at Eastleigh 11.7.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 26 Oct 2023 20:38:34 GMT

The end of the line for the Southern Class 313 fleet as 313211+313205, the final pair of class 313s to transfer from Hove to Eastleigh Works as 5Z03 for scrapping are seen arriving into Eastleigh for the final time. 11.7.23

Crich Tramway Village 4.7.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 09 Jul 2023 23:08:17 GMT

On 4th July after getting a very reasonable last minute deal on thetrainline from Motherwell - Whatstandwell return, I visited Crich Tramway Village!

Whatstandwell on the Nottingham - Matlock line is the station for Crich. It is 1 mile away from Crich, however it is a 30 minute walk up a very steep hill! I'd advise getting a taxi, however it is a 15 minute walk down hill on the return journey!

On arrival at Crich, I bought my ticket, which was £22 and gives you entry for a year. After leaving the ticket office, the path brings you out at the Bowes Lyon Bridge, where there is also a tram stop.

I decided to visit the museum building, which is close to the bridge and the Town End. There are many of the non running fleet in the museum ranging from horse trams to steam tram through to trams built or liveried in each of the decades up to the 1960s. A wander round and looking at the differing details of each of the different types of tram from the streamlined Balloon 712 and PCC tram, the reversed staircases of Lecister 76, to Blackpool's Conduit 4.

Directly opposite the Museum, is the depot fan complete with traverser. The sheds are open to allow you to wander up and down and have a look at each tram in the depot with the opportunity for some shots of the various trams at the front of the depot and if you're lucky, some of them may be out on the depot fan.

Next I visited the workshop viewing area, where the fantastic LCC1 'Bluebird' and Leeds 399 were under maintenance.

After this I spent the rest of the day riding up and down the line on board the 3 service trams out on the day: Glasgow 22, Sheffield 74 & London United Electric Tramways 159 or taking photos from different locations.

I had an absolutely fantastic day at Crich and would highly recommend a visit!

Wensleydale Railway visit 5.7.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 08 Jul 2023 23:03:24 GMT

The Wensleydale Railway is based in North Yorkshire with its main station and depot located in Leeming Bar near Northallerton and handily located for the A1(M) motorway and not far from the A66 at Scotch Corner. Currently as I write this, they are running a service from Leeming Bar to Leyburn on Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays with a shuttle service also running to Scruton from Leeming Bar on selected days. With the English school holidays being on throughout August, a service will also be running on Tuesdays. For more details on times and services visit their Website: https://wensleydale-railway.co.uk/running-days-2023/

The Wensleydale Railway's line runs to Redmire at the west end and to Northallerton West at the east end of the line, however the line is only operational between Scruton and Leyburn for passenger services at the moment.

I visited on 5th July, and on this day debranded Northern liveried Pacer 142060 was operating the service. Before boarding I had a look round the station and some of the collection of rolling stock, which includes vehicle 51353 from set 117301, which has been converted to a community hub, former Tyne and Wear Metro shunter TW4, BR Dutch liveried 37250, class 14 D9523 and Class 121 Bubble Car 121032.

To see more of the collection of Pacers and assorted 1st Generation DMUs, you need to catch the train! I caught the 11.30 service formed of 142060 and on leaving Leeming Bar, saw 142087, 142090 & 142018 as well as some of the 1st Gen DMUs and EWS liveried 44785. It was a nice run taking 42 minutes to Leyburn and passing 144020, 142028 & 142035 stored in a passing loop further up the line. At Leyburn, there is cafe facilities and a gift shop and with 25 minutes before the return journey, there is enough time to visit both. The return journey departed Leyburn around 12.30 and was soon back at Leeming Bar.

Once back, one of the volunteers let me have a look at LEV1, the railbus that became one of the pacer prototypes, which was located in their shed. He mentioned that Regional Railways liveried 143623 was up at Redmire, where filming was taking place for the new series of Vera, so I decided to drive up there and get some photos of the unit, which is looking superb!

I then drove back to Leeming Bar for some more photos, stopping off enroute at Leyburn for some photos of 142060, then headed back home. I would recommend Wensleydale Railway for a visit, the staff and volunteers are all friendly and welcoming and the ticket prices are good value for money.

Edinburgh Tramway Extension to Newhaven

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 01 Jul 2023 21:51:50 GMT

Having opened on 7th June, the extension of the Edinburgh Tramway appears to have been very popular both with passengers and enthusiasts.

Stretching 3 miles from York Place to Newhaven, there are 8 stops enroute. At York Place, the former single track and terminus platform has been removed and a new stop has been built at Picardy place complete with 2 platforms, in the middle of a large traffic island at the top of Leith Walk and opposite the Omni Centre.

The line continues down Leith Walk on a central reservation with island platform stops at McDonald Road (Opposite Harburn Hobbies) and Balfour Street (with a crossover installed). There is a double platformed stop at Foot of the Walk, which owing to the narrow nature of the street, takes up the full width of the street with the platforms doubling as the pavement.

From here the tramway moves onto Constitution Street, towards Leith Town Hall and the Burns Statue at The Shore Tram Stop. The Shore is located at the junction of Bernard Street with the tramway sharing the roadway with general road traffic for the full length of Constitution Street. The tramway continues on towards Ocean Way, continuing to share with road traffic on sections of it before taking a 90 degree turn onto Ocean Drive and into the island platform of Port of Leith tram stop.

Departing Port of Leith, the line continues along Leith Harbour sharing the roadway with general traffic and passing the Fingal floating 5 star hotel and restaurant and the Victoria Swing Bridge, before taking a 90 degree turn outside the Ocean Terminal Shopping Centre onto a central reservation for the remainder of the journey. Ocen Terminal tram stop features an island tram stop with crossover outside and it is opposite the Shopping Centre. It is possible visit the Royal Yacht Britannia or to catch the tour buses or normal service buses back up to the city centre at Ocean Terminal. From here the line takes a 90 degrees turn to the right onto Melrose Drive passing many harbourside warehouses and businesses as well as a flour mill. The line then reaches a scissors crossover which allows the trams to switch to a free platform at Newhaven. The line curves here into the 2 outer platforms of Newhaven. Beyond the platform, there is enough room for 2 trams to stable until needed.

Photo Locations

There are many nice locations for photographs of the tramway particularly on Ocean Way (between The Shore and Port of Leith) and Ocean Drive (between Port of Leith and Ocean Terminal), here are a few of the best spots for photos:


'The Shore' tram stop at Bernard Street with the Burns Statue to the left and the domed building behind.	Ocean Way near to Port of Leith looking towards The Shore tram stop in the distance.

90 degree curve from Ocean Way to Ocean Drive. Port of Leith tram stop is to the left out of shot.	Port of Leith tram stop looking eastwards

Ocean Drive with RFA Fort Victoria in the Docks in the rear of the image	Ocean Drive

Ocean Terminal	Leaving Ocean Terminal and heading onto Melrose Drive

Leaving Ocean Terminal and heading onto Melrose Drive	Passing Ocean Terminal Car Park

Melrose Drive with Ocean Terminal in the background	Melrose Drive with the Flour Mill in the background

Melrose Drive approaching Newhaven	The terminus at Newhaven

McGill's East revisited

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 22 Jun 2023 21:59:09 GMT

Since the last post about McGill's Scotland East back in January, there has been a massive change to the fleet with an influx of buses from their Scotland West franchise owing to a large influx of Yutong Electric buses out west. This has seen Mercedes Benz Mellor Stratas, Citaros, AD Enviro 200s, some AD Enviro 200MMCs move west with ex London enviro 400s also entering service. This has seen the near total withdrawal of the B7RLE Wright Urbans and the Scania Omnidekkas with very few remaining in service. Also the relivery of some buses has begun, with some Citaros and Streetlites treated to an updated version of the Midland Bluebird or Eastern Scottish livery.

The changes made include:

1 x Mercedes Benz Mellor Strata transferred east (0117)
The withdrawal of the 4x BMC Probus / Falcons (0300 - 0303)
49 out of 74 Wright Streetlite DF buses remaining in service, 2 of which are in the new livery (0405-0479)
2x Wright Streetlite SF (Numbered 0480-0481 and Transferred from Xplore Dundee)
6x Volvo Plaxton Profiles (Numbered 0600-0605, 3 remaining in service)
16x Scania Wright Solars (Numbered 1601-1616, all withdrawn from service)
3 out of 22 Scania Omnidekkas remaining in service (Numbered 1811, 1814 & 1818)
1 x Volvo Wright Renown (Numbered 2200, training bus)
10 x Volvo B7RLE Wright Eclipse 2 (Numbered 2230 - 2239, 6 in Midland Bluebird v 1 livery, 4 in McGill's livery, transferred from McGills West of Scotland)
2 our of 66x Volvo B7RLE Wright Eclipse Urbans remaining in service 2297 & 2303 (Numbered 2240 - 2346)
5 of 7x Volvo B7TL Wright Eclipse Gemini in service (2808-2811 & 2817) (Numbered 2807-2811, 2817-2818, transferred from Xplore Dundee)
1x Volvo B7TL Alexander ALX400 (Numbered 2844, withdrawn training bus)
2x Volvo B7TL Plaxton President (Numbered 2845-2846, both withdrawn)
12 our of 21x Volvo B7TL Wright Eclipse Gemini remain in service (Numbered 2847-2867)
4 x Volvo B9TL Wright Eclipse Gemini (Numbered 2900-2903)
9 x Citaro in service (3331, 3332, 3356-3358, 3360-3363)
17 out of 19x Alexander Dennis Enviro 200MMC (Numbered 4101-4108 (McGills livery) & 4111-4121(Xplore Dundee)), 4111 & 4118 withdrawn
9 x Wright Pulsar 2 withdrawn (Numbered 6001-6009)
26x Enviro 200 (All in McGills livery 8001-8008, 8013-8018, 8023-8026, 8038-8041, 8043-8044, 8048 )
1 of 6 x Alexander Dennis Enviro 200 in service (8055) (numbered 8050 - 8055)
11 of 20 x Alexander Dennis Enviro 300 in service (numbered 8475 - 8496 and transferred from Larbert / Bannockburn - Livingston)
12 x Alexander Dennis Enviro 400 (numbered 8924-8935 , Bright bus tours open toppers)
15 x Alexander Dennis Enviro 400MMC (numbered 8936-8951 all now based at Larbert / Bannockburn)
12 x Alexander Dennis Enviro 400 ( 8961-8974)
8 x mix of buses for Bright bus tours (numbered 9901-9908)

The images below show some of the new influx of buses and some of the new liveries to be seen in and around the East Scotland area.

A last ride on the Class 313s 2.5.23

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 25 May 2023 22:48:30 GMT

I decided to make the most of an extended weekend off and fly to Gatwick then on to Brighton for a final day out on the Class 313s on the Southern Coastway routes.

With the flight arriving early, I was soon on board a class 700 heading into Brighton and passing Lover's Walk, 313209, 313216, 313208 & 313201 were stabled outside the sheds, the latter pair having already been withdrawn with 201 out of hours and 208 with camshaft issues.

On arrival at Brighton, I discovered that the West Coastway services were disrupted due to a broken rail beyond Barnham with all services terminating at Barnham or Bognor Regis. 313205 was waiting to depart with a Bognor service so I managed to get a few photos of it. I then caught a service out to Hove, where I photographed 313203 & 313206 stabled in the sidings there, then caught the shuttle back to Brighton. I was left kicking myself as if I'd waited a further 30 mins, I would have seen 201& 208 move there with 203 & 206 returning to Lovers Walk.

After heading back to Brighton, I decided to stick to the East Coastway line to Seaford due to the disruption out west. East Coastway out to Seaford featured 3 class 313s in service: 313215, 313219 & 313220. I caught 313215 out to Bishopstone, which is a lovely station and location, photoing 313215 departing eastward to Seaford then when it returned, departing westward, with the classic shot looking westwards towards Newhaven. 313219 was next up the branch and I decided to head down the entrance ramp to the station to photo it approaching the station on the embankment. I caught 313219 on it's return journey and got off at Lewes for some lunch and to photo some of the passing units. I then got back on 313215 and headed to Moulsecoombe for some more photos, then caught 313219 back to Brighton, where I spent the final hour photoing more units before heading back to Gatwick for the flight back to Edinburgh.

The status of the class 313s at this point was:

Available for service: 313203, 204, 205, 206, 207, 209, 210, 211, 212, 213, 215, 216, 219 & 220

Withdrawn: 313201 & 313208

Stored at Eastleigh awaiting scrapping: 313202, 214, & 217

Saturday 20th May

I had booked to go back to Brighton on 20th May as it was initially supposed to be the final day in service for the class 313s, however due to strike action during the previous week and a ban on overtime working leading to a vastly reduced and curtailed timetable, the 313s were withdrawn a day early. Photos from the day of the 313s were limited to 313213 & 313219 stabled outside Lover's Walk and 313204, 205, 207, 209, 211, 215, 216 & 220 stabled in 2 lines of 4 at Hove.

More photos from Brighton and the Class 313s can be found at: https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p86303780

McGill's Scotland East

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 22 Jan 2023 00:45:10 GMT

One of the most interesting bus operators in Central Scotland at the moment is McGill Scotland East. McGill took over operation of the Former First Scotland East franchise in September 2022, inheriting 257 buses in the process. By purchasing the Scotland East Franchise, McGill extended their reach as they already own McGills Scotland West, which is mainly based in the Inverclyde and Renfrewshire and Xplore Dundee, which covers the Dundee City area.

Routes and Depots

McGill Scotland East is split into 2 areas: Midland Bluebird and Eastern Scottish, both reviving heritage names and heritage liveries. Midland Bluebird is based at 3 depots: Larbert, Bannockburn and Balfron with Eastern Scottish being based at Livingston.

Livingston depot covers routes in West Lothian and Edinburgh, heading to places such as Shotts (North Lanarkshire), Fauldhouse, Whitburn, Blackridge, Armadale, Bathgate, Linlithgow, Balerno, Queensferry, Kirkliston and Deans

Larbert depot mainly covers routes around the Falkirk area to destinations such as Maddiston, Dunnipace, Bo'ness, Larbert, Grangemouth, Fankerton, Hallglen, Langlees, Forth Valley Hospital, Camelon, Denny, Slamannan, Edinburgh and Glasgow (via Cumbernauld).

Balfron depot mainly covers routes between Stirling and Glasgow via Balfron and Kippen or via Aberfoyle and Milngavie.

Bannockburn depot mainly covers routes around the Stirling area to destinations such as Cambusbarron, Callander, Alloa, Clackmannan, Cowie, Stirling University, St Ninnians, Raploch and Glasgow via Cumbernauld.

The fleet

As mentioned before, McGill inherited 257 buses of various types from First, including the Bright Bus tours operation in Edinburgh. On taking over, McGills had to withdraw 120 of the inherited fleet as they were deemed unsuitable for service. Some of the fleet were returned to service after repairs, however a number of them were replaced by buses from the reserve and withdrawn fleets from the West of Scotland and Xplore Dundee operations.

The current fleet includes:

4x BMC ProBus / Falcons (Numbered 0300-0303, only 1 remaining in service)
74x Wright Streetlite DF (Numbered 0405-0479)
2x Wright Streetlite SF (Numbered 0480-0481 and Transferred from Xplore Dundee)
6x Volvo Plaxton Profiles (Numbered 0600-0605, 3 remaining in service)
16x Scania Wright Solars (Numbered 1601-1616, all withdrawn from service)
22x Scania Omnidekkas (Numbered 1800 - 1820 plus one that hasn't been renumbered, 9 remaining in service)
1 x Volvo Wright Renown (Numbered 2200, training bus)
6 x Volvo B7RLE Wright Eclipse 2 (Numbered 2234 - 2239, 4 in service in new Midland Bluebird livery, 2 still to enter service, transferred from McGills West of Scotland)
66x Volvo B7RLE Wright Eclipse (Numbered 2240 - 2346)
7x Volvo B7TL Wright Eclipse Gemini (Numbered 2807-2811, 2817-2818, transferred from Xplore Dundee)
1x Volvo B7TL Alexander ALX400 (Numbered 2844, withdrawn training bus)
2x Volvo B7TL Plaxton President (Numbered 2845-2846, both withdrawn)
21x Volvo B7TL Wright Eclipse Gemini (Numbered 2847-2867)
4 x Volvo B9TL Wright Eclipse Gemini (Numbered 2900-2903)
11x Alexander Dennis Enviro 200MMC (Numbered 4111-4121)
9 x Wright Pulsar 2 (Numbered 6001-6009, 3 in service, 6 still to enter service, being painted a mix of Midland Bluebird and Eastern Scottish liverys, transferred from McGill's West of Scotland)
6 x Alexander Dennis Enviro 200 (numbered 8050 - 8055)
20 x Alexander Dennis Enviro 300 (numbered 8475 - 8496)
12 x Alexander Dennis Enviro 400 (numbered 8924-8935 , Bright bus tours open toppers)
15 x Alexander Dennis Enviro 400MMC (numbered 8936-8951)
8 x mix of buses for Bright bus tours (numbered 9901-9908)

Liveries

With it being early days in the new franchise and with buses having to be transferred in from other areas, there are a real mix of liveries on the fleet at the moment including

First Barbie
First 2012
First Urban (Midland, West Lothian and plain)
2 toned blue
Midland Bluebird Retro
Midland Scottish Retro
Xplore Dundee Green (Streelite SFs, Enviro 200MMC and some ex Xplore Dundee Geminis)
Debranded National Express Dundee Red and White (some ex Xplore Dundee Geminis)
New Midland Bluebird Blue and Cream
New Eastern Scottish Green and Cream

There are also various buses with route branding on them.

With the many bus types and liveries, McGills Scotland East are an interesting company to follow and ride on at the moment! It is best to take the opportunity to do this just now before the inevitable newer, more uniform buses come along and more of the new livery is seen!

Some examples of the current liveries are shown below, more can be found at: https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p1057977495

Day out on the London Underground 12.10.22

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 08 Dec 2022 00:38:30 GMT

As part of my trip to the South Coast, I wanted to combine my trip to see / ride on a class 315 with a day out on the London Underground network, having not been on it since 2016.

Arriving at London Waterloo at 9.15am, my first port of call was to buy an all zones day ticket, before making my way down to the Waterloo and City station for the short journey to Bank on board the 92 stock. As there was already a train in the station, I didn't get the opportunity to photo one in the turnback siding and another in depot.

At Bank, I found my way via the many cavenous passageways and escalators to finally make it to the Central Line platforms, where I caught an Eastbound Epping service as far as Woodford. I'd wanted to catch the 1962 stock Central line Rail Adhesive Train (or RAT for short), however unfortunately it did not run. After spending some time photing the comings and goings of the 92 stock at Woodford, I caught another 1992 stock train up to Epping, where I walked down to the bottom end of the car park for a look at the former London Underground Shunting Loco L11, which was built by joining the cab ends from 1931 built standard stock cars 3080 and 3109 together. It is part of the Epping Museum, who are also restoring the former Epping signal cabin, which is located next to L11. More info about Epping Museum can be found at: https://www.eppingmuseum.com/home

Next I returned to Epping station but before I got on the train, I had a lovely roll and sausage from the van outside! I'd thoroughly reccomend it! I then got back on the train, and had planned on going to Holborn to change to the Picadilly Line, however on arrival at Stratford, our train was held due to a signalling issue further up the line, so I got off there for some air and spotted a pair of class 315s working an ECS movement. I caught a class 345 Elizabeth line train to Liverpool Street and resumed my Central line journey from there to Holborn. There I changed onto the Picadilly line and some 1973 stock for the short 3 stop journey to Piccadilly Circus.

My impressions of the 92 stock were that they were rather tired inside, with worn moquette, grafitti all over the interiors and generally in need of a deep clean and a refurb. The 73 stock in comparison was in excellent condition, very clean looking and had real character.

At Picadilly Circus, I changed over to the Bakerloo line to sample some 72 stock. Heading westbound, I travelled out to Queen's Park, where the Bakerloo line goes from deep tube up to above ground and runs alongside the Overground lines out to Watford Junction as far as Harrow and Wealdstone and the WCML.

Queens Park is a decent place to catch the 72 stock, with its overall roof, the steep incline out of the tunnel at the East End and the uniqueness of the main lines and turnback sidings actually passing through and doubling as part of the depot! I spent about 45 minutes here photoing the 1972 stock, which although it looks quite shabby and in need of a repaint and overhaul, like most older stock it has alot of character both inside and out (a blog post about the Bakerloo 72 stock will be coming soon).

After I left Queen's Park, I headed back via 72 stock to Waterloo, where I changed from the Bakerloo to the Jubilee line. I then headed east on the 1996 stock to Stratford, where after a few photos I headed off to catch the peak class 315 working at Shenfield. After riding on the 315s I headed back to Stratford, where after more photos, I caught a Central line train to Bank, then changed for the Waterloo and City line back to Waterloo for the train back to my hotel at Eastleigh.

Isle of Wight revisited 13.10.22

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 04 Dec 2022 23:43:27 GMT

As part of my trip to the South Coast in October, I decided to return to the Isle of Wight so on Thursday 13th October, I made my way from my hotel in Eastleigh by train to Portsmouth and Southsea, where due to a slight delay on my train, I'd unfortunately missed the bus to the Hoverport by 2 minutes. After a very quick taxi ride to the Hoverport at Southsea, I joined the queue for the crossing over to the island.

The journey by Hovercraft over the Solent to Ryde was very swift and comfortable, reaching Ryde in 7 minutes and luckily, Loganair had a 30% off voucher code when booking flight tickets so the journey was a good deal cheaper than normal. On arrival at Ryde, I made my way to Ryde Esplanade station to catch the Island Line train out to the IOW steam railway. Unfortunately due to a bridge strike, the trains were cancelled for at least an hour, however there was a replacement mini bus running.

I took the mini bus up to Ryde St Johns and visited the Bus Museum. The bus museum was interesting to see with plenty of different types of bus and plenty of historical displays showing the history of Southern Vectis on the island and is less than 5 minutes walk from Ryde St Johns and is on some of the bus routes.

After I had visited the museum, I walked back to Ryde St Johns and by this time, they were getting ready to resume the train service, with 484001 arriving from the Shankin direction, 002 was stabled in platform 3, 004 and 005 were stabled in the yard and 003 was in the maintenance sheds. 001 was then reversed back out of platform 1, crossed over and entered platform 2 where the service was resumed heading towards Shanklin. I got off at Smallbrook Junction and crossed over to the IOW Steam Railway. Smallbrook Junction is a small halt that is only accessible by rail and as such is only open with the steam railway is open. It only has basic facilities but that does include a waiting room, so with around 30 minutes to wait on the steam train coming, I sat and read my Kindle so the time passed quite fast!

All too soon, British Railways Black liveried Ivatt 2MT 41298 arrived with a rake of beautifully restored Southern 4 wheeler compartment stock. The interior of the carriages was of an excellent quality with the period notices and adverts really adding to the experience as did the very comfy deep sprung seating in the compartment. It is a lovely scenic journey through the Wight countryside up to Wooton with the train passing through Havenstreet non stop heading up the line. After a 10 minute turn around at Wooton, the train returned eastwards to Havenstreet, the main hub of the railway.

Having a bit more time to spend at Havenstreet this time (only had 10 -15 minutes last time), spent some time looking round the shop, the carriage workshops where there were a couple of 4 wheeler coaches in for restoration, then up to Train Story, where I spent an hour wandering round taking photos. Of particular interest to me were the old Ryde Pier trams and Island line liveried 483007, which I had a good look around! I then went back outside to watch British Railways Green with wasp stripe ends liveried D2059 'Edward' shunting Southern liveried 'O2' class W24 'Calbourne' into a different siding in the yard. I then went over to the cafe at the other side of the line to have some lunch. At this point the sun came out and despite it being October, it was actually really warm so I sat out in the sun while I waited on the train back to Havenstreet.

Once at Havenstreet, again having travelled back there onboard 41298, I boarded 484001 and headed up to Shanklin, then on the next working back to Ryde Esplanade. I then walked along the Pier to photo 484001 heading back towards the Esplanade then walked round to the footbridge to photo 484002 arriving with the peak time working from Shanklin, then walking round to the tunnel mouth to catch 002 departing again.

I then decided to catch a bus to see a bit more of the island so I caught the service 3 bus out as far as Ventnor, which was definately worthwhile for the absolutely stunning views of the coastline south of Shanklin! Unfortunately due to timing, I had to get off one bus and catch another straight back but this time I got off at Brading and walked back to the station to photo it and to catch the cross over of the 2 units there. I caught 001 out to the Pier Head for some final photos there before it closes for refurbishment, then back to Esplanade. Finally in the darkness, I caught some photos of 002 at Esplande station from the footbridge as I made my way back for the 7pm hovercraft back to Southsea, then the Hoverbus back to Portsmouth Harbour for my return journey back to the hotel in Eastleigh!

Class 315s in London 12.10.22

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 02 Dec 2022 00:44:59 GMT

As part of my trip to the South Coast during the October Holidays, I decided to spend the day in London. Most of the trip was spent exploring the Underground, (more about this in a future blog post), however I also took the advantage of the opportunity to sample a ride on a class 315 for the first and probably the last time.

The class 315 is the newest of the PEP family, having been brought into service in 1980. Being powered by the OHLE, the 315 is essentially a four car version of the much missed 1979 build class 314 which ran on the Argyle lines and laterly the Cathcart Circle, Newton and Neilston lines. With a seating capacity of 309 (plus 7 tip up seats), the 315 is formed of 2 outer DMSO vehicles, containing the motors and drivers cabs, with a PTSO, containing the Pantograph and TSO (trailer) in the centre. In their heyday, they could be formed up into 12 car formation, but now they are formed into 8 car formation from 2 sets. Originally 61 sets were built, however now only 6 remain (315837, 315838, 315847, 315853, 315856 and 315857) with the rest having been scrapped.

With the full opening of the Elizabeth Line having now happened and the 315s not being compatible with the signalling or platform doors, their days are numbered. At the time of my visit they were combined to a couple of peak time diagrams between Shenfield and Liverpool Street. Since my visit their route has been further cut back to Gidea Park - Liverpool Street with only 2 morning and evening peak diagrams.

Interestingly, it was announced today (1st December 2022) that 315856 has been purchased for preservation by the Class 315 Preservation Society and will be moving to the Llanelli and Mynydd Mawr Railway in Wales, where it will be restored to original livery, original interior spec and will be converted to be able to carry passengers on preserved lines with the unit being loco hauled.

Trip report

Following an unexpected delay at Stratford as the Central Line 92 stock train I was travelling on was delayed due to a signalling issue around 12.15 ish, I decided to get off and get some fresh air. I'm glad I did, as 315847+315856 passed through the next platform with 5C91 the ECS working from Aldersbrook up CHS to London Liverpool Street, which I luckily managed to get a photo of.

Later in the afternoon, I made my way up to Shenfield onboard an Elizabeth Line class 345 to catch the 15.38 class 315 hauled working to Liverpool Street. As 315837+315857 arrived into the platform, I was struck by how clean and well cared for that both units were and also the fact they had modern LED head and tail lights as well as the electronic destination screen. On stepping onboard the rear carriage of 315857 that opinion was confirmed as not only were they spotless inside but they also looked bright and modern, especially with the LED lighting, CCTV, passenger operated doors and Passenger Information System. Despite it retaining the low back seating, that was standard on the class 314, it did not give the impression of being a 42 year old unit with only weeks left before withdrawal and probable scrapping.

The journey was smooth with both units showing great accelleration and performed well, keeping to time the whole way. The sounds of the motors brought back memories of many journeys onboard the class 314s. At Liverpool Street, after a few quick photos, I decided to get back on again for a ride on board back to Stratford.

The ride back to Stratford was swift, with both sets managing to keep up with an Anglia liveried 745 that left Liverpool Street around the same time as us for most of the journey! Unfortunately due to time constraints as my train back to Eastleigh was at 6pm and I'd still to find my way back to Waterloo via an extremely packed Central Line train and connection via an equally busy Waterloo and City line, I had to leave the train at Stratford.

I was extremely impressed by the Class 315s and it will be sad to see them go, especially considering their excellent condition, compared to the Southern Class 313 and Merseyrail 507 & 508s which are clearly being run down with withdrawal and replacement in the next year / 2 years on the cards for them. Having now travelled on all the PEP fleets, I'd definately say that the class 315 is the best of the lot!

Fleet list of the remaining units

Number	Livery	Formation	Status	Photo
315837	TfL White with blue solebars and doors	64533+71317+71425+64534	In Service
315838	TfL White with blue solebars and doors	64535+71318+71426+64536	In Service
315847	TfL White with blue solebars and doors	64553+71327+71435+64554	In Service
315853	TfL White with blue solebars and doors	64565+71333+71441+64566	In Service
315856	TfL White with blue solebars and doors	64571+71336+71444+64572	In Service
315857	TfL White with blue solebars and doors	64573+71337+71445+64574	In Service

Class 313 Days out 11.10 and 14.10.22

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 01 Dec 2022 00:18:56 GMT

The Class 313s are rumoured for withdrawal during 2023 so I decided that I had to make sure I sampled them and photoed as many as possible! As part of a week long trip to the South Coast, I enjoyed a couple of days travelling on some 313s

The Class 313 is part of the PEP family of units and were built in 1976 / 77 as dual voltage stock. The remaining examples in passenger service are now 3rd rail only and have had their pantograph removed. 19 sets (313201 - 313217, 313219-313220) of the once 64 strong fleet remain, with 17 of them being in passenger service with 313214 and 313217 having already been withdrawn from service.

313221 remains in sporadic use as a dual voltage test train for Network Rail. The class 313s are now one of the oldest main line passenger trains left on the network with only the 1972 Bakerloo line stock and 1973 Piccadilly line stock on the London Underground older.

The Class 313s currently operate on the following services:

Brighton - Portsmouth & Southsea / Portsmouth Harbour
Littlehampton - Portsmouth & Southsea / Portsmouth Harbour
Bognor Regis - Barnham Shuttle
Bognor Regis - Littlehampton
Brighton - Hove Shuttle
Brighton - Seaford
Football specials in the Brighton area

Trip report

11th October

Arriving from Eastleigh by 377 on the 11th October, I photoed 313208, which was working on the Hove Shuttle. I then went over to the far end of the station to catch 313204 out to Lewes.

It was very clear from seeing 313204 that the class 313s are in their final months of service, with the exterior condition of the train being poor, with missing, worn out and peeling external vynals and the interior looking very tired and not the cleanest, however, despite this 313204 performed well on the 15 minute journey out to Lewes.

Lewes was a lovely, well kept station, with a nice view at the east end looking towards the old signal box, which gave a nice shot in full sunshine. I spent 90 minutes here and in that time managed to catch the other pair of 313s on the Seaford circuit, 313207 and 313215. As well as the 313s, there was 377s, 387s, 700s, a stone working from Newhaven featuring 59001 and the RHTT top and tailed with 73107 and 73201.

I then headed back into Brighton onboard 313215. After a walk down to Churchill Square for some bus photography, I headed back to the station, where I had time for some more photography while I waited on my train. As well as 313208 shuttling between Brighton and Hove, 313216 had also arrived and was switched off in Platform 2, whilst in the sidings at Lover's Walk, 313203+313205 were coupled up and awaiting use later that night on a football shuttle service. Shortly before 4pm, 313209 arrived from Portsmouth and would form the 4pm train back to Portsmouth and Southsea, which I caught. As I waited for my train back to the hotel in Eastleigh, 313211 arrived from Littlehampton, then soon departed, heading back there.

13th October

After a day out at the Isle of Wight, I returned to Portsmouth and Southsea for the train back to Eastleigh to return to the hotel. As I had time to kill, I caught 313213, which was working on the 19.57 service to Littlehampton to Fratton, where I got off and caught my own train back to Eastleigh.

14th October

I caught a 377 from Eastleigh to Barnham, where I got off and waited for the shuttle to Bognor Regis. 313213 duly arrived from Bognor to operate the return journey, however before getting on the shuttle, I managed to catch a photo of 313212 arriving from Brighton, heading to Portsmouth and Southsea and 313201 'Big Blue' heading to Littlehampton. I then caught the shuttle to Bognor, where I had a wander about then caught 313201 to Littlehampton.

Of all the 313s that I travelled on, 313201, complete with modified BR Blue/Grey retro livery was in by far the best interior and exterior condition of all the 313s that I travelled on, the rest being pretty much run down and tired looking, which is quite understandable given that they will all be withdrawn pretty soon.

At Littlehampton, I caught a pair of 377s to Hove and changed over to 313202 on the Hove Shuttle into Brighton. The sidings at Brighton were reasonably busy with no fewer than 3 x class 313s stabled there, 313211, 313207 and 313220. Unfortunately, I was on a very tight schedule so I didn't have time to catch any of the Seaford workings so I caught the next working back out of Brighton, which was the 2pm service to Portsmouth Harbour with 313215 as the unit of choice and was my final PEP for this trip.

Over the course of this trip and my previous trip down that way in July, I managed to catch / photo 16 of the 20 remaining class in the twilight of their working lives, whether or not they are still in service on my next trip down that way is anyone's guess.

Current Fleet

Number	Livery	Formation	Status	Photo
313201	BR Blue / Grey	62529+71213+62593	In Service
313202	Southern Dark Green, light green, white and grey	62530+71214+62594	In Service
313203	Southern Dark Green, light green, white and grey	62531+71215+62595	In Service
313204	Southern Dark Green, light green, white and grey	62532+71216+62596	In Service
313205	Southern Dark Green, light green, white and grey	62533+71217+62597	In Service
313206	Southern Dark Green, light green, white and grey	62534+71218+62598	In Service
313207	Southern Dark Green, light green, white and grey	62535+71219+62599	In Service
313208	Southern Dark Green, light green, white and grey	62536+71220+62600	In Service
313209	Southern Dark Green, light green, white and grey	62537+71221+62601	In Service
313210	Southern Dark Green, light green, white and grey	62538+71222+62602	In Service
313211	Southern Dark Green, light green, white and grey	62539+71223+62603	In Service
313212	Southern Dark Green, light green, white and grey	62540+71224+62604	In Service
313213	Southern Dark Green, light green, white and grey	62541+71225+62605	In Service
313214	Southern Dark Green, light green, white and grey	62542+71226+62606	Withdrawn
313215	Southern Dark Green, light green, white and grey	62543+71227+62607	In Service
313216	Southern Dark Green, light green, white and grey	62544+71228+62608	In Service
313217	Southern Dark Green, light green, white and grey	62545+71229+62609	Withdrawn
313219	Southern Dark Green, light green, white and grey	62547+71231+62611	In Service
313220	Southern Dark Green, light green, white and grey	62548+71232+62612	In Service
313221	Network Rail Yellow	62549+71233+62613	In Service

New advert livery for Subway Cars 132 + 204+ 104 10.9.22

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 15 Sep 2022 22:00:20 GMT

Glasgow Subway's latest vynal wrap sees a 3 car set consisting of Metro Cammell Power Car 132, Barclay Trailer 204 and Metro Cammell Power Car 104 outshopped in a new design advertising SPT's commitment to achieving Net Zero.

the three car set are seen paused at St Enoch working diagram 11 on the Inner Circle on 10.9.22

Whitrope Heritage Centre 3.9.22

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 03 Sep 2022 22:58:55 GMT

Had a lovely visit to the Whitrope Heritage Centre in the Scottish Borders today.

Can honestly say that of all the heritage railways that I've been to, Whitrope are one of the friendliest and most welcoming of them all!

Whitrope is a short railway of around 1/2 - 3/4 miles in length and has a fleet containing 2 Pacers: 142019 in Northern livery (which isn't currently in use) and 142020 in Tyne and Wear PTE livery and is the main unit on the line at present. There is also Experimental Pacer RB004, Class 26040, which is undergoing restoration and 2 small shunters FC Hibbert 'Planet' 4WDM 'Pluto' 3777, which usually offers breakvan rides on the line and Ruston & Hornsby 48DS 411319, which is currently stored.

Would definately reccomend a visit!

More photos at: https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p347160578

614209 Demonstration run at Bo'ness 2.9.22

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 02 Sep 2022 22:19:00 GMT

Arcola Energy's Scottish Hydrogen Train, 614209 (former Scotrail Class 314 PEP unit 314209) was out today at Bo'ness operating demonstration runs for some invited guests during the day, between Bo'ness and Kinneil Halt. 614209 was run both on battery and on hydrogen mode on different runs with the mile long run out in each direction giving the invited guests the chance to sample both tractions from this bi-mode unit.

It was great to finally see 209 out on the tracks and good to note that the distinctive compressor sounds remain from 209's days as a class 314 emu as does the sounds of the motors when accelerating in battery mode

I photoed 614209 at Bo'ness station (from the footbridge), Bo'ness foreshore and the area around Kinneil Halt, here are some of my efforts:

Swift Express Freight's 321334 at Holytown 26.8.22

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 26 Aug 2022 22:41:47 GMT

Returning from only its 2nd visit to Scotland, Swift Express Freight's 321334, which has been converted to carry up to 12 tonnes of parcels, approaches Holytown with 5Z84 Mossend - Doncaster ECS working 26.8.22

https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p86324693/e3fc6e4eb

Visit to Isle of Wight 26.7.22

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 19 Aug 2022 23:39:05 GMT

I made my first ever trip to the Isle of Wight on 26th July. My day started with the 40 minute trip from my hotel at Eastleigh by train into Portsmouth Harbour, where I joined a long queue waiting for the Catamaran across to Ryde. I got a good spot up on the top deck to view the Harbour and the coastline of Portsmouth and Southsea on the short 20 minute crossing.

On arrival at Ryde I headed into the Pier Head station where 484004 was waiting to form the 10.45 service to Shanklin. 484004 had just replaced 484002, which had failed on the previous service. It was a really smooth journey and despite the number of people who got off the ferry, I wouldn't have said it was packed.

The interior of 484004 was bright, modern looking, spacious and airy. I travelled to Lake, one stop short of the terminus, where I got off the train.

My reason for getting off one stop short of the terminus was that I was wanting to go and get some photos of 483004 at it's new home at Holliers Park in Arreton. The bus stop was a 5 minute walk from Lake station out on the main Ryde - Ventnor Road. From here I caught service 8, which runs half hourly to Amazon World. The journey took about 20 minutes and once off the bus was a 5 minute walk, turning left at the crossroads and walking about 1/4 mile. In Holliers Park, there is the House of Chilli, a craft centre and the Bus Stop Cafe, which is located in a converted bus.

483004 is currently in a fenced off section of former gravel car park, however the owner of the cafe kindly gave me permission to go in and have a look round and take some photos of the exterior. 483004 is looking excellent in its coat of London Transport Red with white roof. The visible side of the train has been fully painted, however the side that isn't visible is still mostly in the grey primer. The staff who are working on 483004 are really making an excellent job in restoring 483004, which is destined to become a cafe in the future. Before I left, I had a nice lunch at the Bus Stop Cafe, which I'd definately recommend and it cost less than £10.

I headed back towards the Island Line on bus service 8, however after mistakingly thinking that the service stopped at Sandown train station, where as it actually stopped on the front, I had a 15 minute walk up to the station, which meant that I'd just missed the train to Smallbrook Junction by 5 minutes and had almost an hours wait on the next one. Whilst I was waiting, 484003 passed through heading to Shankin on a driver training run and then returned a short time later heading in the direction of Ryde. As it was roasting by this point, I crossed over and decided to catch 484004 up to Shanklin, then from Shankin down to Smallbrook Junction.

At Smallbrook Junction, I got off and transferred over to the Isle of Wight Steam Railway. After a 10 minute wait, Hunslet Austerity 0-6-0 ST WD198 'Royal Engineer' arrived with a trainload of vintage Southern carriages for the journey to Wooton.

On the outbound journey, the train does not stop at Havenstreet so it is a straight end-to-end journey. After running round at Wooton, 198 led the train back to Havenstreet for a 10 minute stopover awaiting the passage of the other train on the line led by LMS Ivatt Class 2 41298.

Unfortunately due to missing the previous Island Line train and 198 being the final train of the day to Smallbrook Junction, I literally had 10 minutes to look round at Havenstreet, which included a very quick sprint up to 'Train Story' for a few shots of 483007. I just made it back to the platform in time for the train back to Smallbrook Junction.

By the time I reached there, the half hourly peak service had started, so I caught 484003, which was operating as the extra unit between Shanklin and Ryde Esplanade as far as Ryde St Johns, where I got a couple of photos of 484001 and 484002 stabled in the yard and 484003 on it's return journey to Shanklin.

I then caught 484004 from Ryde St Johns to Ryde Esplanade, where I got the classic shot of 004 heading along the pier. I then had a wander round the town before photoing the hovercrafts arriving, some buses and the 484003 arriving at Ryde Esplanade, then departing again via the tunnel. After grabbing a quick bite to eat, I walked along the Pier, catching some photos of 484004 heading to the Pier Head. I then ran up to the Pier Head for the Catamaran back to Portsmouth then back to the hotel.

Photos from my trip can be found at https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p37224282

My History of the Island Line Blog can be found via the following links:

Island Line: A History, Part 2: Class 483s and 484, 1990 - to date

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 19 Aug 2022 00:09:10 GMT

Replacement of Standard Stock

British Rail originally started looking at replacing the Standard stock with the 1938 on the Isle of Wight back in the late 1970s, however they initially rejected the idea of using the 38 stock as the under floor mounted equipment would be vulnerable to waves, flooding and the salt air on Ryde Pier. However by 1988 when it became clear that the Standard stock would no longer be economically viable after 1990 and the offer was there to buy 38 stock, BR took up the offer. Initially they decided to buy 44 cars to allow trains to be made up of 4 cars consisting of a motor, two trailers and another motor. However, as Ryde St Johns depot was only capable of holding 2 cars in their maintenance sheds per road at a time and with storage space at a premium and BR being reluctant to spend money on expanding the depot facilities, it was decided to go with 2 car trains featuring two motor cars (A at the Ryde end and D at the Shanklin end). Electrical and braking equipment carried on the trailers being relocated to the motors.

Initially BR had planned a minimal refurbishment as they'd planned on the 38 stock being a stopgap that would be withdrawn and replaced in 1995 with 59/62 stock, which was due to be replaced on London Underground at that time, however BR carried out a far more extensive overhaul than expected and this meant a far longer service life was achieved in the end.

Initially 8x2 car trains were to be created and refurbishments and overhauls began in 1988 at Eastleigh and involved the conversion from London Underground's 4 rail operation to 3 rail, the fitting of flourescent lighting, allowing for Conductor / guard operation of the doors, fitting of passenger door controls, fitting of a PA system, reupholstering of seating and improvements to the interior decoration. On the exterior, Network South East livery would be applied.

Delivery and Unveiling

The units were classified as the class 483s on TOPS and the first test run of one of the 2 car units was on 30th June 1989, between Eastleigh and Winchester. On 4th June 483001 was loaded in 2 parts onto low loaders at Fratton and taken to Gunship Wharf in Portsmouth for transfer onto the car ferry. 001 was then taken by road to the yard at Sandown where both halves were unloaded and coupled together and on 6th July 1989, 001 was hauled to Ryde St Johns depot by a train of standard stock and later that evening made its first test run on the island.

On 13th July, 483001 was unveiled to the public on the shuttle platform at Ryde Pier Head, where a short ceremony took place before the train headed off to Brading with invited guests on board with a stop off at the site of the future Smallbrook Junction station to unveil a sign hearalding the future extension of the IOW Steam railway to Smallbrook Junction. 001 spent the remainder of the week working on the Pier shuttle and over the following weeks spent time on testing and driver training over the full line before being passed for passenger service.

It would be September before the next arrivals took place with 002 arriving on 26th September and 003 on the 27th. On 1st October 001 and 002 ran as a pair for test purposes with 001, 002 and 003 in that order running as a 6 car to see if it was possible to do so. 6 car running very rarely happened though with the exception of rescuing a failed train. 002 and 003 both entered service on 7th October 1989, joining 001 and the remaining standard cars in service.

The next class 483 to arrive on the island was 483007 on 12th March 1990. 007 was closely followed by 004 on 14th March and 005 on the 15th March. With the arrival of the class 483s, work was also going on to improve the depot facilities at Ryde St Johns with a raised pit road on one track and a full length pit on the other installed / improved and a carriage cleaning platform added in the depot yard. The new facilities were formally opened on 20th March 1990 by the Chairman of the British Rail Board, Sir Robert Reid.

During May 1990, the line was closed for 3 days to allow it to be reballasted and realigned slightly by use of a track machine to try and improve the ride qualities of the 483's which had been fine on the mainland but was decidedly bouncy on the island! 483004 debuted in service on 1st May 1990, with 005 and 007 debuting on 11th and 18th May 1990 respectively. 006 and 008 were delivered on 20th and 21st June, debuting in service on 29th June (008) and 13th July (006). Faults on cars 123 and 224 on sets 003 and 004 resulted in a hybrid unit 003 being formed from vehicles 223 and 124 from June 1990 - October 1991, when both units reverted to their correct formations.

On 20th July 1991, Smallbrook Junction became part of the Island Line when the extension of the steam railway opened to Smallbrook. The wooden halt acting as an interchange station is only open when the steam trains are running. 1991 also saw the end of regular running of the Pier Shuttle, with this being limited to only running ad hoc as and when required (and staff were available) in the following years.

Additional unit

It was decided to introduce an additional set for service from the original 8 planned, so 483009 was refurbished and sent over to IOW arriving on 9th April 1992 and entering service on 18th June 1992. As well as 009, an additional unit nominally numbered 483010 was sent across on 8th April 1992, however it had been stripped to a shell and was painted entirely in dark blue. Both cars were to be kept in case the body shells were required in the event of an accident to be refurbished to replace damaged vehicles. In 1993, the service was mostly cut to 2 trains per hour, however with the earlier singling of the track from Brading to Sandown, this caused the rather unpopular 20/40 minute split timetable. The full 20 minute timetable was restored at really busy times, with 1 train an hour throughout the winter.

Hybrids and Withdrawals

Heavy rain caused the flooding of Ryde St John's depot in early January 1994, meaning a temporary formation being made up from vehicles 129 (from 009) and 224 (from 004), this hybrid ran until 8th February 1994. On 10th February 1994, 483005 collided with the buffer stops at Ryde Pier Head, causing damage to the cab on vehicle 125. 483003 was out of service with defects, so the decision was taken to reform 003 with 123 from 003 and 225 from 005, with 125 and 223 becoming set 005 and being withdrawn, the first set to leave service.

Little over a year later in May 1995, 001 and 003 were reformed, with 121 and 225 becoming 001 and 123+221 became 483003 and was withdrawn from service. The number of servicable trains was reduced to 6 in 1996 with a further withdrawal and the final permanent reformation of a class 483 unit. 483001 was reformed with 121 and 222 (from 483002) and 483002 was reformed with 122 and 225 (from 001) with 001 being withdrawn from service. It was decided that 6 units would be enough to provide a service and have spares going forward.

In 1997 the Pier shuttle made a semi permanent return during the season, but only as and when there was enough staff / stock to cover it. The pier shuttle would continue to run on and off but on very rare occasions until the early 00s when the shuttle track was mothballed. In the early hours of March 1st 1998, the bodies of withdrawn cars 121, 125, 222 and 223 as well as the body shells from the nominally numbered but not used 483010 were lifted from the tracks and dumped in the car park at Ryde St John's depot awaiting scrapping 121, 125, 222 and 223 were scrapped on 24th April 2000, 483010 was scrapped by June 2005 . Vehicles 123 and 221 survived on track as a store for spare parts and as a possible spare unit if required but was scrapped in the mid - late 00s.

An interesting move occured at Christmas 1999 with a trio of class 483s working to Ryde Pier Head to get them away from Ryde St John's depot, which was flooded following heavy rain.

Dinsoaur Livery arrives

During 2000, a new livery was forthcoming for the veteran class 483 fleet in the form of the rather bright but eyecatching Dinosaur livery! 483006 was first to receive the livery, being unveiled to the public and the press on 21st March 2000. 004 and 009 were repainted into Dinosaur livery around the same time with 008 and 002 following suit in the following months. The five units were named: 'Raptor' (002), T-Rex (004), Terry (006), Iggy (008) and Bronty (009). The repaint was part of a £1 million electrical and mechanical overhaul of the units. The sixth unit (007), was the final unit to remain in NSE livery, being withdrawn for repaint on 12th May 2000.

Severe Floods and Major Repairs

007 had been repainted in London Transport livery and was nearing completion of it's electrical and mechanical overhaul when disaster struck. A severe flood on 9th/10th October flooded the depot and caused various degrees of damage to 002, 004, 006 and 007, with 007 receiving the worst damage of them all, indeed it was thought that the damage was so severe that the unit would have had to have been scrapped. 008 and 009 escaped damage and following track repairs to replace washed away ballast around Smallbrook Junction, were able to keep the service going. 004 received the least amount of damage and was able to return to service on 13th October. 006 returned to service on 13th December and 002 on 20th June 2001, both units requiring complete motor replacements.

007 took alot longer with many of its underfloor electrical components at the Ryde end having to be completely replaced. This was delayed by a major overhaul to 006 being required and the parts being diverted to it. A second serious flood caused more damage then when 007 was moved out into the yard to allow others into the shed for maintenance, it was attacked by Graffitti 'artists'. By the end of 2002, the damaged components were refitted to 007, the unit was repainted and finished off in authentic London Transport style branding and numerals, with 007's original LT numbers being displayed on the bodysides. Following a relaunch back into service on 24th March 2003, 007 resumed normal passenger duties on 27th March 2003. A second unit, 483009 was repainted into LT livery but minus the LT branding in October 2003, to allow a matching set to run when in 4 car formation.

New Franchise - Retro livery

483002 was stored out of use in the yard at Ryde St Johns from sometime in 2004. In 2007, came a new franchise owner in the form of Stagecoach, who decided to repaint the entire fleet in the heritage London Transport red livery. The final by this time rather tired looking Dinosaur liveried train, 483006 being repainted in Winter 2008 / 09. Even the withdrawn 483002 was treated to the new livery!

Final years of the class 483

In 2016, 483009 was withdrawn from passenger service, being demoted to use as the Ryde depot shunter, with 007 being withdrawn for a 2 1/2 year long overhaul in 2017. This would leave 004, 006 and 008 to operate the service. By this time, services were no longer being operated in 4 car formation. The fleet was further reduced when 004 was withdrawn in 2019 and was used to provide spare parts to keep 006 and 008 going.

On 13th September 2019, South Western Railway announced that due to a 'safety issue' that only one unit was able to run, meaning that it was only possible to run an hourly service. The hourly service remained for 5 weeks, when a 2 car service was able to resume. 3 days into the hourly service commencing, South Western Railway announced that five ex District Line 'D' Stock trains in 2 car formation (the class 484s) would be replacing the class 483s. Meanwhile issues with the class 483s continued into November with several days of disruption and reduced timetables.

The last year

It was announced that the final day of operation for the Class 483s would be Sunday 3rd January 2021 as the line needed to close to allow for upgrade works prior to the class 484s entering service. For most of the final year of the class 483s, Covid 19 led to an hourly service with only one train being used, equaling the burden between sets 006 and 008 for the majority of the year, however for a spell in November 2020 there were no trains available for service at all. 483008 was withdrawn from service on 4th December 2020 and it was expected that 006 would soldier on for the last month alone, however 483007's protracted overhaul was completed in mid December allowing the burden to be shared. On 10th November, the first class 484, 484001 arrived on the island and having been offloaded at Sandown, was driven slowly under it's own power to Ryde St Johns Depot. 484001 was seen out on occasional test runs during December.

On 3rd January 2021, the final day of service for the class 483s, 007 started the day with the hourly service and was replaced at lunchtime by 006, which finished the day and brought down the curtain on 31 years of service for the class 483. The final 6 units are all still in existance in various states of repair: 483002 is currently stored in the yard of Railway Support Services in Wishaw (England), 483004 is currently being converted to an on site cafe at Holliers Park, Arreton on the Isle of Wight, 483006 and 483008 are currently preserved by the London Transport Traction Group at the Llanelli and Mynydd Mawr Railway in Wales and will hopefully both be runners again one day, 483007 is currently on display at the 'Train Story' shed on the Isle of Wight Railway and it is hoped to be a runner again in the future. 483009 is in 2 locations with 129 having been restored by a private buyer at the East Somerset Railway and 229 remaining stored in the yard of Reid Freight in Longton.

Line upgrade and introduction of the class 484

After 483006 returned to depot for the last time and the power was switched off, work quickly commenced on the upgrade of the line with the platforms at all stations needing to be raised in line with the increased line of the 'new' former sub surface stock which were taller than the former deep tube stock that they replaced. Track replacement at some parts of the line was also needed as was work to reinstate the disused 2nd platform at Brading with a passing loop being built. The work was met with delays and with late delivery of the trains and software issues with the trains, the line did not reopen until 1st November 2021, some 8 months after it was due to reopen. 484001-484004 were available for service from reopening with 484005 not being delivered until February 2022 and still not having been handed over to South Western Railway. Trains currently run hourly from Ryde Pier Head to Shanklin, with a second unit entering sevice in the morning and afternoon peaks and operating between Ryde Esplanade and Shankin.

**Class 483 Fleet List**
Fleet Number	Original LT Numbers	Original IOW Formation	Vehicle Swaps (permanent)	Final IOW formation	Final / Current Livery	Name	Withdrawn	Status	Notes	Photo
483001	10184+11184	121+221	225 from 003 and 221 to 003 May 1995 222 from 002 and 225 to 002 June 1996	121+222	NSE	N/A	1996	Scrapped	Scrapped 2000	Photo from Wikimedia Commons:
483002	10221+11221	122+222	222 to 001 and 225 from 001 June 1996	122+225	LT Red with Yellow Cab ends	Raptor	2004	In Storage	Currently stored at Railway Support Services in Wishaw (England)	Photo from Wikimedia Commons:
483003	10116+11116	123+223	225 from 005 and 223 to 005 Feb 1994 221 from 001 and 225 to 001 May 1995	123+221	NSE	N/A	1995	Scrapped	Scrapped mid 00s
483004	10205+11205	124+224	N/A	124+224	LT Red	T-Rex (Removed)	2019	On Display	being converted to an on site cafe at Holliers Park, Arreton on the Isle of Wight
483005	10142+11142	125+225	225 to 003 and 223 from 003 Feb 1994	125+223	NSE	N/A	1994	Scrapped	Scrapped 2000
483006	10297+11297	126+226	N/A	126+226	LT Red	Raptor (Removed)	2021	Preserved	preserved by the London Transport Traction Group at the Llanelli and Mynydd Mawr Railway	Photo from Wikimedia Commons:
483007	10291+11291	127+227	N/A	127+227	LT Red with Yellow cab ends and Island Line branding	Jess Harper	2021	Preserved	on display at the 'Train Story' shed on the Isle of Wight Railway
483008	10255+11255	128+228	N/A	128+228	LT Red with Yellow cab ends	Bronti (Removed)	2020	Preserved	preserved by the London Transport Traction Group at the Llanelli and Mynydd Mawr Railway	Photo from Wikimedia Commons:
483009	10229+11229	129+229	N/A	129+229	LT Red / LT Red with yellow cab end	Iggy (Removed)	2016	Preserved / In Storage	in 2 locations 129 restored by a private buyer at the East Somerset Railway and 229 stored in the yard of Reid Freight in Longton	Photo from Wikimedia Commons:
483010	10139+11172	130+230	N/A	130+230	All over Blue	N/A	N/A	Scrapped	Scrapped 2005

**Class 484 Fleet List**
Fleet Number	Original LT Numbers	Current Numbers	Livery	Status	Photo
484001	7086+7011	131+231	South Western Railway	In Service
484002	7068+7002	132+232	South Western Railway	In Service
484003	7051+7083	133+233	South Western Railway	In Service
484004	7074+7111	134+234	South Western Railway	In Service
484005	7124+7093	135+235	South Western Railway	Undergoing Testing

Photos from Wikimedia commons:

001: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:483_001_at_St_John%27s_Road,_1989_-_geograph.org.uk_-_790855.jpg
002: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:483002_483007_Ryde_Electric_Depot.JPG
006: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Island_Line_train_-_geograph.org.uk_-_836245.jpg
008: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:483008_Shanklin.jpg
009: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:484001_and_483009_at_Ryde_Traincare.jpg
Remainder are my own photgraphs, more of which can be found at: https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p37224282

Island Line: Isle of Wight A History Part 1 - Standard Stock 1967 - 1991

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 15 Aug 2022 21:42:42 GMT

Having visited the Isle of Wight on 26th July, I decided I would write a blog post about my visit, however I wanted to explain a bit of the history of the Island Line first before I write about my visit. The history will be over 2 posts, with this post being mainly about the Standard tube stock and the line from 1967 onwards till 1990/91 and the second part will be about the 1938 stock and the current ex District Line stock, with my trip report being in a third post.

Please note: the photo on this page is from Wikimedia Commons and is of a 3 Tis + 4 Vec (class 486+485) 7 car formation working on the Pier Head - Esplanade Shuttle in 1984. The original photo can be found at: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:BR_Class_485_train_on_Ryde_Pier_IoW.jpg

Introduction

The Isle of Wight Railway history stretches back as far as 1862 with the building of a line from Cowes to Newport. Ryde St Johns Road - Shanklin followed in 1864 with a later extension from Shanklin - Ventnor following in 1866. Smallbrook Junction - Newport in 1875 and Ryde St Johns Road - Ryde Pier Head in 1880 also followed. Other branches from Merstone - Ventnor West, Freshwater - Newport, Sandown - Newport and Brading - Bembridge ensured that by 1900, the Isle of Wight was served by 55 1/2 miles of railways.

By 1956 low patronage of many of the branch lines, particularly off season led to closure of the lines from Cowes to Newport, Merstone - Ventnor West, Sandown - Newport, Freshwater - Newport and Brading - Bembridge leaving only the Ryde Pier Head - Ventnor and Newport lines open. Into the 1960s and the Beeching Report recommended the full closure of the remaining lines on the island other than the short but busy stretch between Ryde Pier Head and Ryde St John's Road. A local hard fought campaign for the retention of the Ryde - Ventnor line eventually managed to save the 8 1/2 mile line from Ryde - Shanklin, with the closure of the Shanklin - Ventnor stretch and the Smallbrook Junction - Newport branch of the line in 1966.

Rationalisation and Introduction of the Standard Stock

With the line saved, British Railways announced a modernisation and track rationalisation programme for the 8 1/2 mile stretch of line so next came the challenge of replacing the elderly Adams Class 02 steam locos (with an average age of 74) and wooden bodied, non corridor, 4 wheeled Southern Railways rolling stock with their unique loading gauge. The rolling stock was narrower and shorter that of the trains on the mainland, to allow them to pass under the bridges on the line and the Ryde Tunnel. The option chosen was to approach London Underground to buy some of their recently withdrawn tube stock. It was the right profile for the tunnel and the bridges so would be a suitable option! By chance, London Underground was withdrawing some of it's pre 1938 stock (built between 1923 and 1934) so by 1965 and with the approval of BR to begin a programme of electrification of the Ryde to Shanklin stretch, 46 pre 1938 stock vehicles were purchased.

This was soon reduced to 43 cars to save money, with 19 Driving Motors (numbered S1S-S11S, S13S, S15S, S17S, S19S-S23S and S25S), 6 control trailers (numbered S26S, S28S, S30S, S32S, S34S, S36S), 4 ex control trailers (Numbered S27S, S29S, S31S, S33S) and 14 trailers (numbered S41S-S49S and S92S-S96S) purchased. Initially they were marshalled into 6x 4 cars ('4 VEC' or class 485 numbered 041-046) and 6x3 cars ('3TIS' Class 486 031-036) with one spare motor (S10S). The formation was as follows: 4 car: Motor - Trailer - Trailer - Motor 3 car: Control Trailer - Trailer - Motor. The initial plan was for 2 x 4 car sets to be used for winter traffic and as many as 6 x 7 car (4&3 car combined) on Summer Saturdays. Each set had an 'A' motor (or control trailer) at the Ryde Pier Head end and a 'D' motor at the Shanklin end as A and D motors had different equipment underneath them, it was not possible to have 2 A or D cars as the Driving Motors in the one set.

4 Vec and 3 Tis original formations
3TIS	Control Trailer (A)	Trailer	Driving Motor(D)
031	26	47	1
032	28	92	3
033	30	93	5
034	32	94	7
035	34	95	9
036	36	96	11
4VEC	Driving Motor(A)	Trailer	Trailer	Driving Motor(D)
041	20	27	41	13
042	22	29	42	15
043	2	31	43	19
044	4	33	44	21
045	6	48	45	23
046	8	49	46	25
Spare	10

The steam era on the Isle of Wight ended on 31st December 1966 as work to complete the electrification and cut the four platform tracks at the Pier head down to two continued whilst platforms at the other stations were lowered to allow the pre 38 standard stock to use them. 11 weeks after the steam era finished, the electric era began on Monday 20th March 1967 with trains operated by 4 VEC 041 and 3 TIS 031 (with the spare Motor car S10S attached to make it up to 4 cars). The Sandown school special was operated by a 7 car set made up of 032 and 044.

Early years of the Tube stock services

By Autumn 1967, a shunting accident caused damage to Motor Car S15S which led to the car being scrapped in 1969 and a replacement was sought in the form of another car that had been withdrawn by London Underground. It was repainted at Stewarts Lane and transferred by ferry over to the Isle of Wight, arriving during 1971. In 1969, the Pier tramway, which ran on a seperate pier alongside the line closed and was replaced by a 7 car set shuttling between the Pier Head and Esplanade stations before running ECS to Ryde St Johns. As a 7 car train was required for the shuttle, the timetable was reduced south of the Esplanade to 4 trains per hour, which meant that the up platform at Shanklin was rarely used in service and by 1971 the platform buildings were demolished and the subway between platforms was filled in.

By 1973 the scissors crossing for access to Pier Head Station was worn out and in need of replacement also the Pier Head Signal Box which was its self in need of replacement. Rather than replace it with a new crossover, plain track was fitted to both tracks and a trailing crossover south of Esplanade station on the ramp to the tunnel was installed, rendering the Pier Head signal box redundant at the same time and allowing its closure and demolition. This led to the southbound track becoming a dedicated bi directional shuttle track for the pier shuttle and removed dead mileage of having to go to St Johns to reverse. The main service used the former northbound track, which also became bi directional as the same time.

Also during 1973, the number of trains available for use decreased following a shunting accident between 4Vec 045 and 3Tis 035, which resulted in the withdrawal and scrapping of 3 vehicles (Driving Motor S23S and Trailers S45S and S48S from 045) and the reformation of the remaining four vehicles into a new formation of 4Vec 045. The fleet was further reduced during 1975 when S25S, the Shanklin end driving Motor from 4VEC 046 was severely damaged and with no spare motor vehicle suitable for working on the Shanklin end available, 046 was disbanded with the remaining vehicles being kept as spares.

By 1979, the service had reduced to 3 trains per hour during the summer and this allowed for further rationalisation at Shanklin with the removal of the headshunt (remains of the former line to Ventnor) beyond the station and the track in the up platform. This also meant that only 1 train could be south of Sandown at a time.

Rundown and Replacement

The pool of available vehicles was further reduced with the disbanding of set 033 in 1982. 033's driving motor replaced that of set 043 with vehicle S30, 033's control trailer being removed from the track at St Johns for use as a store, while S19 from 043 was moved to Sandown to the PW yard there also as a stores vehicle.

Attention started to turn to the replacement of the Standard Stock, with consideration being given to the transfer and use of the Merseyrail class 503s, which were about to be withdrawn and replaced by class 508s and the other option of 1938 stock from London Underground, which was about to be partially withdrawn from the Underground also being considered and initially rejected due to the electrical equipment being located under the floor and this was considered a risk especially with the line travelling along the pier. Some 7 years later, the 1938 stock would come to the Island Line and would replace the Standard stock.

With the replacement of the Standard stock having been rejected, the remaining fleet were treated to an £80,000 interior and exterior refresh, with an interior repaint, new lino and new moquette fitted in the interior and BR Blue / Grey livery painted on the exterior. A further four vehicles were withdrawn in 1985 (Driving motors S13 and S21, Control Trailer S36 and Trailer 96) leaving 29 vehicles for service, these being reformed into 5 x 5 car units (5 Vec) and 2 x 2 car units (2 TIS) and from January 1987, the remaining vehicles began to be repainted into Network South East livery. Also in 1987, the first new station on the line in many decades was opened in the form of the single platformed station at Lake, between Sandown and Shankin, which opened on 11th May 1987. Lake station could only handle a maximum of 5 coach lengths of standard stock, which effectively put an end to the use of 7 car trains.

In August 1988, it was confirmed that 'new' trains were on the way to the Island in the form of then 48 year old 1940 built '38 stock from London Underground, with 8 x 2 carriage trains expected to be delivered and at that point were expected to be in service by May 1989. Network South East were reportedly spending £900,000 on a full refurbishment of the 'new' trains.

Over the weekend of 29th-30th October 1988, the track between Brading and Sandown was reduced to single track, this had the added effect of making the signal boxes at Brading and Sandown redundant, with all signalling concentrated on the one remaining box at Ryde St Johns. Brading signal box became a small museum in later years whilst Sandown box was demolished a year later in 1989.

The singling of the track from Brading (which was reduced to one platform, with the former island platform on the down side becoming redunant) through to just outside of Sandown station was fine for the then 20 minute service in operation using 3 trains, however when the service was further reduced to 2 trains per hour, the timetable became a lop sided affair with a 20/40 minute split.

The first class 483, 483001 was delivered during 1989 and made its offical debut on 15th July 1989 taking invited guests from the Pier Head to Sandown with a stop off at Smallbrook Junction to reveal a sign announcing the extension of the Isle of Wight Steam Railway from Havenstreet through to Smallbrook Junction, where a new halt would be built linking the 2 lines. 483001 would spend time during the summer working on the Esplanade - Pier Head shuttle. Over the course of 1989, the remaining Standard stock reverted to 4 car formations, eventually being reduced to 17 vehicles. By August 1990, there were sufficient class 483s in service for the Standard stock to be reduced to 7 vehicles in service, a 4 car set made up of 2, 26, 49 and 7 and a 3 car set made up of 28, 31 and 5. However by the following month only the 3 car set remained available for service, mainly for de-icing purposes, but also occasionally in service, with the last official recorded passenger service use being on 12th January 1991, with the final de-icing run taking place on 17th January 1991, though unofficially, the train carried passengers from the Esplanade to Pier Head to connect with a catamaran service to Portsmouth.

Most of the cars once withdrawn, were scrapped either on the island or the mainland, however 5 of them were returned to London Transport as part of a Vintage Train project with Motor cars S2S and S7S and Trailers S49S, S27S and S44S chosen. S27S and S44S were repainted into London Transport colours at Ryde St Johns however, the project never really took off and some of the cars remain stored or have been scrapped.

Island Line Standard Stock Fleet List
Number	Type	LT Number	In Service (IOW)	Withdrawn	Disposal
1	'D' Driving Motor	3703	20.3.67	6.6.90	Scrapped 7.1.93
2	'A' Driving Motor	3706	20.3.67	7.9.90	LT Heritage Train Project
3	'D' Driving Motor	3251	20.3.67	1989	Scrapped 4.10.90
4	'A' Driving Motor	3702	20.3.67	28.9.89	Scrapped 4.10.90
5	'D' Driving Motor	3185	20.5.67	13.5.91	Scrapped 23.4.94
6	'A' Driving Motor	3084	15.5.67	1.2.90	Scrapped 1991
7	'D' Driving Motor	3209	26.4.67	7.9.90	LT Heritage Train Project
8	'A' Driving Motor	3074	20.3.67	6.6.90	Scrapped 8.1.93
9	'D' Driving Motor	3223	26.4.67	3.10.89	Scrapped 1991
10	'A' Driving Motor	3696	20.3.67	6.6.90	Scrapped 5.1.93
11	'D' Driving Motor	3705	22.3.67	18.1.90	Scarpped 15.1.93
13	'D' Driving Motor	3141	1967	03.85	Scrapped 1987
15 (i)	'D' Driving Motor	3253	20.3.67	7.10.67	Scrapped 10.5.69
15 (ii)	'D' Driving Motor	3273	1971	11.4.88	Scrapped 8.5.89
19	'D' Driving Motor	3045	20.5.67	12.82	Scrapped 21.4.89
20	'A' Driving Motor	3308	1967	11.4.88	Scrapped 8.5.89
21	'D' Driving Motor	3041	20.3.67	3.85	Scrapped 6.87
22	'A' Driving Motor	3010	20.3.67	14.11.86	Scrapped 16.5.89
23	'D' Driving Motor	3315	15.5.67	10.9.73	Scrapped 4.5.74
25	'D' Driving Motor	3313	22.3.67	8.9.75	Scrapped 10.82
26	'A' Control Trailer	5294	20.3.67	7.9.90	Scrapped 18.4.94
27	Ex Control Trailer	5279	1967	18.1.90	LT Heritage Train Project
28	'A' Control Trailer	5304	20.3.67	13.5.91	Scrapped 14.4.94
29	Ex Control Trailer	5293	20.3.67	25.9.89	Scrapped 16.10.90
30	'A' Control Trailer	5312	20.5.67	12.82	Scrapped 7.87
31	Ex Control Trailer	5283	20.5.67	13.5.91	Scrapped 16.4.94
32	'A' Control Trailer	5290	26.4.67	4.9.89	Scrapped 15.10.90
33	Ex Control Trailer	5291	22.3.67	20.9.89	Scrapped 13.10.90
34	'A' Control Trailer	5302	26.4.67	6.6.90	Scrapped 20.10.90
36	'A' Control Trailer	5350	22.3.67	3.85	Scrapped 6.87
41	Trailer	7286	1967	12.9.86	Scrapped 8.5.89
42	Trailer	7280	20.3.67	27.11.86	Scrapped 16.5.89
43	Trailer	7275	20.5.67	30.9.88	Scrapped 25.10.90
44	Trailer	7281	20.3.67	3.2.90	LT Heritage Train Project
45	Trailer	7293	15.5.67	10.9.73	Scrapped 4.5.74
46	Trailer	7283	22.3.67	7.9.90	Scrapped 16.5.89
47	Trailer	7279	20.3.67	11.87	Scrapped 25.10.90
48	Trailer	7298	15.5.67	10.9.73	Scrapped 5.4.74
49	Trailer	7296	22.3.67	7.9.90	LT Heritage Train Project
92	Trailer	7285	20.3.67	4.10.88	Scrapped 14.10.90
93	Trailer	7282	20.5.67	18.1.90	Scrapped 20.10.90
94	Trailer	7287	26.4.67	3.10.89	Scrapped 17.10.90
95	Trailer	7292	26.4.67	5.3.90	Scrapped 23.10.90
96	Trailer	7290	22.3.67	3.85	Scrapped 6.87

Volks Electric Railway 25.7.22

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 13 Aug 2022 09:28:47 GMT

I visited the Volks Electric Railway for the very first time on Monday 25th July. This short 1 mile line has many years of interesting history and is the oldest remaining electric railway in the world.

I will describe my visit later in the blog but first some of the history of the line:

The Founder

Magnus Volk, the son of a German Clockmaker was born in Brighton on 19th October 1851, he was known as an inventor and pioneer in the Brighton area with some of his projects including inventing a fire alarm system, having the first electrically lit house in Brighton, an early attempt at telecommunications with a neighbouring house and having a contract to electrically light Brighton's Royal Pavilion.

Demonstration Line

His successful experimentations with electricity led to his next, most successful and enduring project: the Volk's Electric Railway! After gaining permission from Brighton Corporation for a 1/4 mile long 2 foot gauge line running from the Palace Pier to the Chain Pier, work quickly progressed and before long, the line was ready! The line was powered by a 2 horse power gas engine, which drove a Siemens D5 50 volt DC Generator. The original car, built by William Pollard in 1883, seated 10 passengers and resembled a coal wagon with drivers platforms, awning over the passenger area as well as curtains for the side. The 1 1/2 horse power motor allowed for a top speed of 6 mph. Magnus Volk unveiled this creation to a very interested public at 12 noon on 6th August 1883.

Early years

With the initial line being a success, Volk applied for permission to extend the line Westwards to the town boundary, unfortunately permission wasn't granted, however he did get permission to extend the line eastwards to the Banjo Groyne and rented out the 'Arch' at Paston Place, which was to become the VER Headquarters (remains so to this day) and the line's workshops. A line was built across the promenade to reach the Arch Workshops, which also housed the line's new upgraded power generator.

Over winter 1883/84 the line was relayed to the wider gauge of 2 ft 8 1/2 inches and the new stretch required some structures to be built in the form of timber trestles to bridge the gaps in the shingle and the section at the Chain Pier made on a gradient to allow the line to pass underneath the pier Initally the track was of the 2 rail variety with one rail being the live feed and the other was the return, however this proved unreliable especially in stormy conditions and the system was switched to run off the third rail in 1886. A 2 platform station was opened at the Banjo Groyne with a halt opening halfway along the line, where a passing loop was also built. Palace Pier station was also a 2 platform station. The line now had a total length of 1400 yards.

The original Pollard built car was unable to be converted to the new wider gauge so it was scrapped and replaced by two new cars (numbered 1 & 2). The new cars had a central passenger saloon with seating for 18 passengers on long bench seats with 12 passengers able to be seated outside on the open platforms. Similar to most trams of the time, the passenger saloon was accessed from the centre of the open platforms, which also featured the driver's controls.

The new extended line opened on 4th April 1884 and only Car 1 was in use at this time as Car 2 did not arrive till Summer 1885. With the installation of the 3rd rail in 1886, the line was also raised and placed onto a wooden viaduct. With the arrival of Car 2, the service level was increased to a car every 5 minutes. The line grew in popularity with it more cars with bigger capacity were required so in 1892, Cars 3 and 4 were built by the VER and initially entered service as open sided cars seating 40 people, however it was soon realised that the cars were unsuitable for winter operation as their canvas blinds were of no real use against the harsh winter weather and they were converted to semi-open trams that winter, with a further refurbishment in 1901 bringing them to the same shape / style that they are in today. A further car was built in 1896, car 5, which was built by the VER to a similar style as that of car 2, seating 30 passengers but with one difference, the window panes were detatchable, making suitable as a summer and a winter car where required.

The Daddy Long Legs

Magnus Volks wanted to extend the line eastwards towards Rottingdean, however a steep climb to the cliff top or the possibility of building a viaduct over unstable ground ruled this out, so ever being the inventor, he came up with an ingenious invention, 'The Daddy Long Legs'. The Daddy Long Legs was basically a cross between a tram and a boat with large legs reaching the seabed where rails were installed! There was an overhead wire installed with trolley pole giving the tram element. The rails were laid from Paston Place to Rottingdean through the water but reasonably close to the shore. Opening in 1896, the Daddy Long Legs proved popular, however the experiment almost ended in disaster as a massive storm shortly after opening caused serious damage including the vehicle ending up on its side. Volks percivered and repairs were completed, allowing the line to reopen in 1897.

Things wouldn't run smoothly for long as damage to the trackbed closed the line for 2 months in 1900, followed by the news that the line would have to be diverted deeper into the sea to make room for new sea defences between Paston Place and Black Rock essentially ended this unique railway, however the end of the Daddy Long Legs had good effects on the future of the Volks Electric Railway .....

Extension

Following the demise of the Daddy Long Legs, the Volks Electric Railway was extended further eastwards to Black Rock in 1901, thus allowing the creation of an enduring feature of the line, 'The Tunnel'. The Tunnel was a part of the original car sheds but converted to a through track so you were actually passing through the sheds! Heading eastward from the sheds at Paston Place, the line headed onto a steel viaduct at the Banjo Groyne then along wooden viaducts along the beach to a new 2 platform terminus at Black Rock. Volk intended on trying to extend to Rottendean, but there wasn't the funds to extend further. The extension to Black Rock required further cars, with Volk estimating that 7 cars would be required to operate the service so the railway built an additional cars numbered 6,7 and 8, giving an extra car for extra flexibility / cover for maintenance. 6,7 & 8 were all 40 seater Semi Open cars and had a similar look to cars 3 &4.

In 1926, a further two cars built by the VER joined the fleet in the form of open cars 9 and 10, both of which had seating for 40 passengers.

Cut Backs

The development of Maderia Drive in 1930, meant that the line was cut back at the west end from Palace Pier to opposite the Aquarium, with the station being renamed 'Aquarium' and being built with a 2 track layout. Volk decided at a winter car was needed and with the original Car 5 needing a rebuild, it was decided to scrap it and built a new one. In a complete change from the traditional wooden built cars, the new number 5, which had it's body built by G Kelsey Coachbuilders of Hove, had its bodywork completely fabricated from steel, with a wooden roof and wooden floor. No 5 had no outside passenger accomodation, all were seated indoors, in 2 long bench seats along the body sides, covered in blue leather and seating 24 passengers. The bodysides had 3 large sliding windows and the outside of the car was painted in a rather striking sky blue and primrose yellow colour scheme.

The line was also cut back at the East end in 1937 to allow the building of a new open air swimming pool, however this gave the opportunity a modern Art Deco style replacement station, which was officially opened by Magnus Volk and the Deputy Mayor on 7th May 1937. Unfortunately, just 13 days after Black Rock station was opened, Magnus Volk died aged 85, with his son, Herman taking over.

Corporation take over

In 1938, Brighton Corporation took control of the VER, initially leasing the line and operation back to Herman Volk, however, they assumed complete control on 1st April 1940. Unfortunately by this time Britain was at War and under the serious threat of Nazi invasion. By July 1940, the railway had closed for the duration, with the cars being transfered to Lewes Road tram / bus depot for storage and the stations at Aquarium and Black Rock being demolished. Later in the war, the depot was required for other purposes and the cars were moved out into secure open storage under the arches at Maderia Drive, with the outdoor storage causing irrepairable damage to cars 1, 2 and 5 which had to be scrapped.

Reopening

After the war, the line needed some serious work to get it operational again, Black Rock station was rebuilt again in the same art deco style as pre war, whilst a former tram shelter became the new station building at Aquarium. The full track was relaid as was the third rail. Replacement cars were sought for the scrapped cars and these came in the shape of 2 ex Southend Pier rail trailers, which seated 40 people and were converted to motor vehicles. They were fitted with ex milk float motors and became the fastest cars in the fleet!

A renumbering of the fleet occured to fill up the numbers left vacant by the scrapped cars with no 10 becoming no 1, no 9 becoming no 2 and no 8 becoming no 5 with the ex Southend cars becoming 8 & 9.

The line reopened on 15th May 1948 and from Winter 1954 became seasonal only.

In 1964, a successful experiment with the coupling of 2 cars together was successful and all cars were converted to allow them to be coupled, meaning less staff and less individual cars could be used, ultimately saving money and allowing for track rationalisation at both termini with only one platform and track required.

Moving on towards the 1990s and the 1948 built station at Black Rock was demolished and a new station was incorporated into the building of a new pump house built next to the station for a storm drain project.

New Millennium

Into the 2000s and the ex Southend cars were withdrawn as surplus and moved on with no 8 going back to Southend and being displayed in a glass box at the pier museum and no 9 going to the South Downs Heritage Centre. Cars 1, 2 and 5 then reverted back to their pre 1948 numbers of 10, 9 and 8.

After receiving Heritage Lottery funding in 2015, work was started on a major upgrade of the facilities on the line, which was badly needed as the car sheds had been condemned. The carsheds were completely flattened and rebuilt, with the Tunnel being retained through the car shed! Meanwhile the station building at Aquarium was also demolished and rebuilt, complete with a small visitor centre, ticket office and takeaway cafe built in. The car fleet also received some work with major restoration / rebuilt works being carried out on cars 4, 6 and 10. With car 3 also in the midst of a rebuild, the future of the VER is looking good!

Fleet List

Fleet List
Original Fleet Number	Fleet Number (1948-2000)	Current Fleet Number	Car Type	Year Built	Seating Capacity	Built By	Current Status	Notes	Photo
1 (I)	N/A	N/A	Open	1883	10	William Pollard	scrapped	Original car from the original demonstration line, could not be regauged from 2ft - 2ft 8 1/2 inches, scrapped 1884
1(II)	N/A	N/A	Semi-Open	1884	30	Unknown	scrapped	suffered the effects of outside storage for a long period during wartime, was too far gone for repair and scrapped in 1948	Photo Courtesy of the VERA
2	N/A	N/A	Semi-Open	1885	30	Unknown	scrapped	suffered the effects of outside storage for a long period during wartime, was too far gone for repair and scrapped in 1948	Photo Courtesy of the VERA
3	3	3	Semi-Open	1892	40	VER	undergoing restoration	Currently stripped awaiting restoration	Photo Courtesy of the VERA
4	4	4	Semi-Open	1892	40	VER	in service	received a major restoration between 2016-2018
5 (I)	N/A	N/A	Semi-Open	1896	30	VER	scrapped	Was in need of a major rebuild in late 1920s, was scrapped instead and replaced by 2nd no 5	Photo Courtesy of the VERA
5 (II)	N/A	N/A	Closed	1930	24	G Kelsey / VER	scrapped	Winter car, only car in fleet to have fully enclosed passenger saloons. Suffered the effects of outside storage for a long period during wartime, was too far gone for repair and scrapped in 1948	Photo courtesy of the VERA
6	6	6	Semi-Open	1901	40	VER	in servce	Received a major restoration 2016-2018, works as a pair with Car 10
7	7	7	Semi-Open	1901	40	VER	in service	Works as a pair with car 8
8 (I)	5	8	Semi-Open	1901	40	VER	in service	Was numbered 5 between 1948 and 2000, works as a pair with car 7
8 (II)	8	N/A	Open	1898	40	Falcon Works	preserved	Operational on VER from 1948 - late 1990s, now a static exhibit at Southend Pier Tramway	Photo courtesy of the VERA
9 (I)	2	9	Open	1926	40	VER	in service	Was numbered 2 between 1948 and 2000, works as a single car only
9 (II)	9	N/A	Open	1898	40	Falcon Works	preserved	Operational on VER from 1948 - late 1990s, now a static exhibit at South Downs Heritage Centre	Photo courtesy of the VERA
10	1	10	Open	1926	40	VER	in service	Was numbered 1 between 1948 and 2000, works as a pair with car 6

Trip Report

I visited the VER on 25th July 2022 whilst on a daytrip to Brighton. Having only intended to visit for a very short time, I actually ended up spending longer than I expected on the railway (about 3 hours!).

Having never been in Brighton before, I decided to catch the City Sightseeing bus round to get my bearings, it was an interesting experience, especially losing my baseball cap, which blew off on the top deck and was squashed by a passing car!

I arrived at the Aquarium station, which is a couple of minutes walk from the Palace Pier and the City Sightseeing bus stop and bought my ticket then had a look round the visitor centre at the interesting displays and artifacts from the history of the line while I waited for the train to arrive. I didn't have long to wait as the trains run every 15 minutes as 1901 built Semi Open Cars 8 + 7 soon arrived and I boarded the open section of car 8, which would be the rear portion of the train for the mile long journey to Black Rock. We soon departed at a leisurely pace heading to Halfway, where we would await the arrival of the other train in service, made up of 1926 built open car 10 and 1901 semi open car 6 to allow the drivers to swap tokens for each stretch of single line. We continued our journey, passing through the tunnel, where car 4 and some permanent way vehicles were visible on the right hand side of the shed. All too soon we reached the terminus at Black Rock, where we all had to leave the train and reboard it although the driver was kind enough to let me take some photos of the train before I left the platform.

I then joined the queue to reboard and this time I sat in the open section of car 7. On arrival at Halfway, I got off to take some photographs of the trains before heading to the workshop gallery to view the depot. Unfortunately the viewing gallery was closed, however I managed to photograph 1926 built Open Car 9 and a pw trailer, which were stabled in the left hand side of the depot from the station platform. Also out on the lineside at Halfway were some old wheels on axles and an old wooden underframe, which I assume was from Car 3 as it is currently undergoing an overhaul.

After taking some more photographs from different locations around Halfway station, I caught Open Car 10+Semi Open Car 6 back to Aquarium, and I decided to take some more photos around that area, when the heavens opened and there was a heavy shower! After getting a few photographs, I made my way back into Brighton to catch the tour bus.

I'd like to thank the Volk's Electric Railway Association for allowing me to use some of their archive photographs in this post. My photos from the trip can be found at: https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p588123192

I would definatley recommend a visit, the price of £5.60 for adults and £3.50 return for children is worth the money, the cars are all well kept and the staff are extremely friendly and helpful and will answer any questions that you have! To find out more about the Volk's Electric Railway (VER) and the Volk's Electric Railway Association (VERA), please visit their websites: https://volksrailway.org.uk/ VER: VERA: http://volkselectricrailway.co.uk/

Blackpool Jubilee Heritage Tram Parade 2.6.22

(Scottish Trains Website) — Wed, 08 Jun 2022 19:56:35 GMT

On Thursday 2nd June, I headed down to Blackpool for the day to see the Jubilee Heritage Tram Parade.

I arrived in Blackpool around 11.30am and it was already very busy and my usual car park of choice at Pleasure Beach was already full, however I managed to get parked outside the Solaris Centre at Harrowside. I walked up the prom to Manchester Square and round to Rigby Road depot where the trams for the parade were beginning to be shunted round and sorted into order before heading out to the Prom and down to Pleasure Beach for the parade.

The first tram out was red and cream liveried Boat car 227, which was to lead the parade, it was stabled on Hopton road, whilst Balloon 723 was shunted down to the far end of the depot fan and 717 was shunted onto the Electrical compound track to release Boat 600 to move off depot to be stabled on Hopton Road behind Boat 600. Next out was Brush Car 631, which was moved out onto Hopton Road and parked up behind 227 and 600. The fourth tram to leave depot was a nice surprise in 90s Green and Cream liveried Ex Towing Railcoach 680, which was making its first appearance since March 2020 (pre lockdown).

After the trams were checked over by their crews, 227 and 600 departed Hopton Road, turned on to Lytham Road and onto the prom. After being reversed at Foxhall, they made their way to Pleasure Beach for the parade. Once 227 and 600 were clear of Lytham Road, 631 and 680 followed suit.

Next the Frigate 'HMS Blackpool' 736 was brought out on to Hopton Road to reverse onto Blundell Street where it stabled alongside the Fitting Shop wall. Balloon 723, freshly out the Paint Shop in the modernised balloon version of the 90s Green and Cream with black window surrounds, was then shunted out onto Hopton Road and then shunted back into one of the depot roads to release Fisherman's Friend trawler 737. 737 was also shunted out onto Hopton Road and reversed onto Blundell Street in front of 736. 80s Green and Cream liveried Centenary car 648 was then brought out and headed straight to the prom to take up position 5 in the parade. 648 was followed by the Western Train (733+734), which came out with the carriage leading so that it was facing the correct way once it changed ends at Foxhall.

Once the Western Train was clear of Hopton Road, the trawler (737) was turned on the triangle so it was heading out in reverse, with 736 completing the same move with both trams then departing towards the prom. One final shunt move saw Balloon 717 moved off the electrical compound track and onto Hopton Road before being moved further back the depot fan to release Bolton 66. Balloon 717 would then be the next tram to depart towards the prom followed by Balloon 723, Balloon 700 and Millenium Balloon 707.

I then walked down to Pleasure Beach where the loop was choc-a-block with heritage trams, passengers, sightseers and enthusiasts! After a few photos on the loop, I took up position near the entrance to the loop and photoed the parade, which featured 13 trams. These were:

Boat 227
Boat 600
Brush Car 631
Ex Towing Railcoach 680
Centenary 648
The Western Train (733+734)
Fisherman's Friend Trawler (737)
Frigate 'HMS Blackpool' (736)
Bolton 66
Balloon 717
Balloon 723
Balloon 700
Millennium Balloon 707

Once the parade departed, I walked up towards Manchester Square to see the trams returning, with all bar Boat 227, Boat 600, Bolton 66 and Balloon 717 returning to depot. Rather than running straight in, The Western Train ran to Pleasure Beach and back to Foxhall where it reversed in.

Boat 227, Boat 600, Bolton 66 and Balloon 717 operated a Heritage service between Pleasure Beach and Bispham between 4pm and 7pm, however Boat 600 failed at Bispham and was replaced by Balloon 723. After 7pm, the Western Train operated two evening tours between Pleasure Beach and Little Bispham to round off an excellent day.

Well done to everyone at Blackpool Transport, Heritage Tram Tours and Tramtown for organising such an excellent event!

More photos from the day can be found at: https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p50243848

Blackpool Tramway Heritage Weekend and Depot tour 30.4.22

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 02 May 2022 18:27:02 GMT

Over the Bank Holiday weekend of 30th April - 2nd May, Blackpool Heritage Tram Tours held a Vintage Weekend with Heritage trams running along the prom every 15 minutes and hourly to Fleetwood. As well as the trams, there was vintage bus rides to Fleetwood and to Lytham St Annes!

I visited on Saturday 30th April and after a reasonably quiet journey down the M74, M6 and M55, I arrived at Blackpool and parked up at Pleasure Beach at 9.30am, in the reasonably warm sunshine! I walked from Pleasure Beach up to Manchester Square then round to Rigby Road depot to see the heritage trams coming off depot and going into service.

Heritage trams in Service were Route A: 631, B: Boat 600 (in place of the advertised Boat 227), C: Illuminated Frigate 736, D: Centenary 648, E: Balloon 715 and F: Bolton 66. Also out was Balloon 717 on a private hire.

At 10.30am I joined the first of two Tramtown tours of the day and as it was a good deal drier and sunnier than my last time on the tour in February when it snowed! The tour began outside in the yard where after the safety briefing, we walked along the side of the workshops past the depot fan and round to the Paint Shop.

In the paint shop was Balloon 723, which has been stripped of it's Christmas vynals and had the 80s livery that was underneath the vynals sanded down ready for a repaint into an as yet undisclosed livery. It was interesting to hear that the trams are still hand painted using brushes rather than being spray painted as the brushed on paint gives a thicker coat that lasts longer in the harsh salt and sand ladened environment of Blackpool. We also heard how there is now only one painter, who deals with all the heritage tram fleet as well as touching up bus panels as well, the painter does a fantastic job with some stunning paint jobs on display on the heritage fleet!

The tour then moved into the Body Shop where Brush Car 634 in its new Terror Tram advert was stabled awaiting attention prior to a potential entry into service later this year, also there were the bodies of Lytham 31 and Glasgow 1016, both of which are future major restoration projects. It was interesting to hear how both trams came to be snapped up by Heritage Tram Tours and the future plans for both trams. One current major restoration project on the tramway is that of Balloon 704. 704 has been stripped to its basic framework awaiting the fitting of a new underframe as it's current one is life expired and drooping at the ends. Once some repair work has been done on the current body frame, 704's frame will be transferred onto a new underframe that we will see in the next part of the tour, the fitting shop.

In the fitting shop, we see the large array of blacksmiths tools and the forge that alot of spare parts are made in. Due to the age of the fleet, parts are not available off the shelf so have to be made. One item that has been made recently from scratch is a complete replacement underframe, which will go under Balloon 704. The underframe for 704 which was built by one engineer working from a set of plans initially drawn up 90 years ago and found in the heritage archives. Again, this highlights the 'can do' attitude of the staff and volunteers at Heritage Tram Tours, Tram Town and Blackpool Transport.

Also in the Fitting Shop was Standard 143. Standard 143 was transferred to the Fylde Transport Trust in 2003 to restore from a fire damaged works tram back to its original condition as a 1924 built Standard Car. As it was discovered that there was an issue with one of 143s motors following restoration, the motors from Standard 147 have been transferred to 143 to allow the tram to enter service hopefully by the summer and 147 will also be back in service once the repaired motors have returned from the company who are repairing them.

Another feature of the Fitting shop that we got to see was the gas ring that is used to remove old tyres from the tram wheels and for the fitting of new tyres.

We then crossed over to the main depot building, where it is safe to say that the roof is in a sorry state and full of holes. Part of the reason for Tramtown being set up and the tours running is to help to raise some of the money required to replace the roof and to allow the tram fleet to be in a far more protected environment which will protect the heritage fleet from the elements. Future plans also include the current engineering facilities in the workshops being moved over into the main depot as well as the building being used as a visitor centre for the tramway, however not of the 'stuffed and mounted' variety where every tram in it becomes a non runner. Tramtown want the trams to be running out on the prom and also eventually to bring visitors to Tramtown by tram!

One thing you'll notice when you visit Tramtown is that there are always improvements from your last visit! In the space of 2 months, some new viewpoints have opened up within the sheds allowing you to get closer to and photograph more of the fleet, various parts of the depot have received a new coat of paint including the track numbers having been repainted on the ground on the depot fan. Last time we got to sit onboard Bolton 66, this time we got to sit on board Coronation 660 and found out some of the interesting history of the fleet of 25 Coronation trams that were meant to revolutionise the tramway in the 1950s but had a short working life and were mostly scrapped by the 1970s.

We were then taken to the first of the new viewing areas opened up where we heard some of the history of the illuminated fleet in front of the long stored Hovertram 735. The viewing area also gave the chance for a close look at Brush cars 625 and 632 as well as Twin Car trailers 681 and T2.

The next new viewing area gave a view of Princess Alice - Open topped Balloon 706, which is awaiting a new underframe and the long stored 'Tramnik 1' the Rocket tram 732. The final stop of the visit was to the Electrical Compound to see the Western Train and a visit to the shop, where I purchased a TramTown planter for my garden!

Before I left Tram Town, I asked our helpful guide if I could get a couple of photos of Balloons 700 and 703 and Railcoach 279, which is nearing completion of its restoration back to a series 2 EE Railcoach.

I would definately recommend a visit to TramTown for not just enthusiasts, but anyone who is interested in history! Tramtown run tours of the depot every Saturday and Monday both as a depot tour (approx. 1 hr 30 mins) or as a family tour (approx. 45 mins). Available dates and times can be found on their website: https://blackpoolheritage.com/guided-depot-tours/

After the tour, I made my way back to the prom and caught Centenary tram 648 to Pleasure Beach (to put my new planter in the car!). I then caught Bolton 66 to Bispham, where I got off to take some photos! Next I caught Balloon 715 to Little Bispham and back before switching to Boat 600 for a rather breezy run to Thornton Gate and back to Bispham! I then caught Centenary 648 to Little Bispham then back down to Pleasure Beach, where I took some more photos then headed home!

More Photos from my trip can be found at: https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p820301502

New Glasgow Subway Train on the M74 24.4.22

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 24 Apr 2022 23:00:45 GMT

Today as I was driving along the M74 and passing Hamilton Services (Northbound only services between Junction 6 Hamilton / Motherwell and Junction 5 Raith Interchange) I happened to notice one half of one of one of the new Glasgow Subway Trains on the back of a low loader in the lorry park so decided to visit the services to investigate!

It so happened that the other half of the same set was also parked up at the far end of the lorry park! The as yet unidentified set number was enroute to Broomloan Depot from Altenrheim in Switzerland and was being held at Hamilton Services until later in the day when the remainder of the route into Glasgow was a bit quieter with less traffic.

Glasgow Subway have ordered 17 Stadler built 4 car Metro trains to replace the 32 1970s built Metro Cammell Motor Cars and 8 1992 built Barclay trailers which are currently used on the system. The new trains are made up of 2 longer outer cars with 2 shorter centre cars and should be roughly the size of the trains they are replacing, with the added advantages of being fully accessible and each vehicle being interconnected, which is not the case just now. Once fully in service, these trains will eventually operate in Driverless mode, with the stations being adapted to have platform screen doors, where the screen doors line up with the train doors and open and close at the same time as the train doors.

Sheffield Supertram 12.4.22

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 18 Apr 2022 20:50:43 GMT

The Sheffield Supertram network is a series of three tram and one experimental Tram-Train line in the city of Sheffield, with the Tram-Train line also service the town of Rotherham.

The Supertram network opened in stages between 1994 and 1995 as follows:

21.3.94: Meadowhall - Fitzalan Square
22.8.94: Spring Lane - Fitzalan Square
5.12.94: Spring Lane - Gleadless Townend
18.2.95: Fitzalan Square - Cathedral
27.2.95: Cathedral - Shalesmoor
27.3.95: Gleadless Townend - Halfway
3.4.95: Gleadless Townend - Herdings Park
23.10.95:Shalesmoor - Middlewood / Malin Bridge

An additional extension in the form of a Tram-Train line, where the Tram-Train operated as a normal tram from Cathedral to Meadowhall South / Tinsley opened in 2018. Just past this stop, there is a junction which takes the tramway onto the Heavy rail network, and after a quick stop to change from Tramway control to Network Rail signalling, the TramTrain travels along the heavy rail line, with stops at Rotherham Central, where the stop is configured with tram train platforms and heavy rail platforms next to each other, before the line continues onwards to Rotherham Parkgate. If and when the heavy rail line to and through Rotherham is electrified, the built in switching equipment to allow the trams to change from the tramway's 750 volt power to the 25Kv Network Rail OHLE will come into use.

The services are formed with three colour coded routes and the Tram-Train serving the city centre, suburbs, shopping centres and park and rides with 50 tram stops around the city.

The 4 routes are:

The Purple Route: Cathedral - Herdings Park (hourly)
The Blue Route: Malin Bridge - Halfway (12 minutes)
The Yellow Route: Middlewood - Meadowhall Interchange (12 minutes)
Tram-Train Route (TT): Catherdral - Rotherham Parkgate (half hourly)

The routes themselves featured a mixture of on street running, seperate reservations and running on former / or alongside current heavy rail lines and all meet in the City Centre with all services serving the main stops of Cathedral, Castle Square and Fitzalan Square. Some impressive structures were built to carry the tramway over roads and existing railways with the bridge over Commercial Street and Park Square roundabout being particularly stunning. Just south of that bridge is also an impressive triangular junction allowing trams from the city centre / Malin Bridge / Middlewood to head left to Meadowhall / Rotherham Parkgate or right to Herdings Park / Halfway. The third end is rarely used and is mostly used for depot runs or diversions. Nunnery Depot, where the full fleet is maintained, can be found on the Yellow Route.

The Trams

The tram fleet is made up of two types of tram, these are the Duewags, consisting of 25 trams (numbered 101-125) and the Class 399 Stadler Citylink tram-trains (made up of 7 tram-trains numbered 399201-399207).

Siemens Duewags:

Built in 1992, the Siemens Duewag fleet have been the mainstay of the three all tram lines since the system opened. Each tram contains three articulated sections with two driving ends and a central section. The doors are found in the driving ends with 40% of each tram being low floor and step free access. Each tram holds 86 seated passengers with up to 155 standing passengers also accomodated.

Each tram has a maximum speed of 50mph and with every axle powered, can manage the gradients, some as steep as 10% across the network with ease.

Each tram underwent an overhaul between 2006 and 2009 with the majority being painted in the standard red, yellow and blue Stagecoach livery, with some exceptions.

Unfortunately due to not having the relevant Network Rail safety systems and crashworthiness, the Duewags cannot be used on the Tram-Train route between Meadowhall South / Tinsley and Rotherham Parkgate.

Number	Livery	Status	Notes
101	Stagecoach Standard	In service
102	Stagecoach Standard	In service	Following an accident in 1995, 102 was reformed with a driving end from 111
103	Stagecoach Standard	In service
104	Stagecoach Standard	In service
105	Stagecoach Standard	Accident Repairs	Currently at Kilmarnock Bonnyton works for accident repairs
106	Stagecoach Standard	In service
107	Stagecoach Standard	In service
108	Stagecoach Standard	In service
109	Stagecoach Standard	In service
110	Stagecoach Standard	In service
111	Advert for Prettylittlething.com	In service	Following an accident in 1995, 111 was reformed with a driving end from 102
112	Advert for Stagecoach Supertram: on track for a greener future	In service
113	Stagecoach Standard	In service
114	Stagecoach Standard	In service
115	Stagecoach Standard	In service
116	Advert for XPO Logistics	In service
117	Stagecoach Standard	In service
118	Advert for Prettylittlething.com	In service	Following a collision in 2015, 118 was reformed with a driving end from 120.
119	Stagecoach Standard	In service
120	Sheffield Corporation Blue and Cream	In service	Following a collision in 2015, 120 was reformed with a driving end from 118.
121	Stagecoach Standard	In service
122	Stagecoach Standard	In service
123	Stagecoach Standard with 21st Anniversary Window vynals	In service
124	Stagecoach Standard	In service
125	Stagecoach Standard	In service

Stadler Citylink Tram-Trains:

Built in 2015, the Stadler Citylink Tram-Trains have two main uses, numbers 399201-204 are allocated to operate on the Tram-Train service between Cathedral and Rotherham Parkgate , with numbers 399205-207 being used as Tram only and can operate on the Blue, Purple or Yellow routes to provide additional capacity.

Due to 201-204's wheels being profiled for heavy rail and 205-207's wheels being profiled for tram track, 201-204 are confined to the Tram-Train route and 205-207 are confined to tram routes.

The TramTrains consist of three sections and are fully low floor. They hold 96 seated and 150 standing passengers and have a maximum speed of 60mph.

Number	Livery	Status	Notes
399201	Stagecoach Standard	In service	Tram-Train line use only
399202	Stagecoach Standard	In service	Tram-Train line use only. Named 'Theo' 399202 reformed with part of 399204 following a collision with a road vehicle on a level crossing.
399203	Stagecoach Standard	In service	Tram-Train line use only
399204	Stagecoach Standard	In service	Tram-Train line use only. 399204 reformed with part of 399202 following a collision with a road vehicle on a level crossing.
399205	Stagecoach Standard	In service	Tram line use only
399206	Stagecoach Standard	In service	Tram line use only. Initally used on Tram-train route, wheels reprofiled to tram profile 2020.
399207	Stagecoach Standard	In service	Tram line use only

My trip:

I only had just over 3 hours to spend in Sheffield on the 12th on my first ever trip to the area so had to make the most of it. I met up with @JamesTGlossop from Twitter, who showed me round! Firstly from Sheffield Station, we bought Day Tickets from the onboard conductor for the excellent price of £4.60 and headed into Sheffield onboard 108 on a Blue Route service towards Cathedral.

After a short time photoing here, we caught Tram 122 on a yellow route service to Meadowhall South / Tinsley, where we caught 399201 to Rotherham Parkgate then back to Meadowhall South/Tinsley. We then walked round to Meadowhall Interchange and caught 120 on a Yellow service as far as Netherthorpe Road.

After a few photos there, we caught 106 on a blue route service to Park Grange Croft, then 112 to Granville Road, where we got off and walked back to Sheffield station taking a few photos on the way!

On the day of my visit, trams on the Blue Route were terminating at Beighton / Drake House Lane due to overhead line issues.

Trams Seen:

Tram-Train 399201, 399203

Yellow Route: 122, 103, 101, 120, 102, 113

Blue Route: 115, 108, 112, 111, 117, 106, 123

Purple Route: 124

Not In Service (0): 109

On depot: 116, 119, 121

I'd definately recommend a visit to Sheffield for the trams and the Tram-Trains and hope to go back there sometime soon! For photos from my trip, either click on the links in the fleet lists above or visit my gallery at: https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p1025895743

47614 + 47593 at Carluke 27.2.22

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 01 Mar 2022 19:53:29 GMT

BR Blue liveried 47614 and BR Large Logo liveried 47593 'Galloway Princess' are seen heading south through Carluke with 0Z42 Mossend - Carlisle High Wapping Sidings light engine move 27.2.22

82136 and 87002 at Carluke 27.2.22

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 01 Mar 2022 19:47:14 GMT

Looking fantastic in Intercity livery, DVT 82136 is seen at the head of 1Z42 Inverness - London Euston 'The Clansman' railtour as it passes through Carluke. 87002 is powering the train from the rear 27.2.22

https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p372662983/e1066f23a

Looking fantastic in Intercity livery, 87002 is seen powering from the rear of 1Z42 Inverness - London Euston 'The Clansman' railtour as it passes through Carluke. DVT 82136 is leading the set at the front 27.2.22

47593+47614 at Greenfaulds 26.2.22

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 01 Mar 2022 19:38:18 GMT

BR Large Logo liveried 47593 'Galloway Princess' and BR Blue liveried 47614 and a set of Intercity Mark 3's pass through Greenfaulds with 1Z59 London Euston - Inverness 'The Clansman' railtour 26.2.22

Blackpool Heritage Gold Day and Depot Tour 19.2.22

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 22 Feb 2022 22:37:31 GMT

The weekend of 19th and 20th February saw Blackpool Heritage Tram Tours first 'Gold Weekend' of 2022. The weekend was due to start of Friday 18th with an evening tour onboard the Western Train, however the tail end of Storm Eunice put paid to that and an additional tour operated on Saturday 19th instead.

The Gold Weekend saw the use of 6 heritage trams on a series of workings from Pleasure Beach to Little Bispham, Thornton Gate or Fisherman's Walk in Fleetwood. Due to gas pipe works in Fleetwood, both the service and heritage trams could not reach Fleetwood Ferry so terminated at Fisherman's walk instead. There was also the chance for a twice daily run by heritage bus to Fleetwood and back on both the Saturday and Sunday and twice daily tours of Rigby Road Depot.

The initial allocation for the Heritage Fleet on the Saturday was Diagram A: Balloon 717, Diagram B: Brush Car 631, Diagram C: Millennium Balloon 718, Diagram D Boat 600, Diagram E: Bolton 66 and Diagram F: Centenary 648. This was to be Centenary 648's first run in service since pre pandemic in early 2020. Due to the poor weather, Boat 600 and Bolton 66 were removed from the roster and replaced by the more suitable enclosed Brush Car 621 and Balloon 715.

I arrived in Blackpool around 10.15am to torrential rain. By the time I got parked at Pleasure Beach and made my way to Rigby Road depot, the rain had turned to rather large flakes of snow and spotted enroute were Brush Car 621 and Balloon 717! I was booked on to the 11am tour at Rigby Road and luckily we were allowed in early to take shelter in the main tram shed!

The tour began with a trip to the Fitting Shop, which incidentally was the warmest building on the tour! In the Fitting Shop was Standard 143, which had been getting attention to it's motors and was being prepared a potential return to service at Easter!

We were also shown the Blacksmith's forge and some of the tools used. Due to the uniqueness of the heritage fleet and the lack of spares, many of the replacement parts are home made in Rigby Road depot, an example of homemade parts was also layed out in the fitting shop in the form of a brand new underframe for Balloon 704, which was built by only one person!

Balloon 704 has been stripped to a shell for a heritage restoration back to 1950's style. It was good to hear that a second new underframe was also in the pipeline, this one being for open top Balloon 706, which is currently withdrawn.

We also saw the gas burner that is used for the removal / fitting of tyres to the wheels. Also seen in the Fitting shop was a couple of refurbished truck frames from a Centenary car.

Next we were taken into the Paint Shop, it was interesting to hear that all the buses and trams are still hand painted, being worked on at the time was a single and a double deck Palladium bus as well as the replica tank tram. The replica tank tram was a project by some local colleges to replicate a vehicle that would have been created from the body or around the frame of a disused tram on many systems across the country during World War 1 to raise money to buy tanks. There was also an interesting array of art work and posters on the wall.

After the Paint Shop we moved next door and visited the body shop where the body and frames of Lytham 43 and Glasgow 1016 are stored along with a large scale model of Standard car 40, which was used as part of a display back in 1985 for the Centenary year.

In the Body Shop, Work was well underway on the bodyframe being carried out on Balloon 704, which as mentioned above had been stripped to a shell for restoration to commence. Once its new underframe is complete, the old underframe will be rolled out from underneath it and scrapped, whilst the new frame is rolled underneath the body frame and work can commence on the restoration. Also in the body shop was Brush Car 634, which was repainted into Terror Tram advert during 2021, complete with skulls on the end, a recreation of an advert carried by the tram in the late 1990s. 634 was awaiting the fitting of a trolley tower and pantograph, to allow it to re-enter service for the first time since 2004.

One of the main reasons the tours are taking place is to help to raise funds to repair the roof of the main tram shed, which is in a terrible state with holes and leaks everywhere and that's where we headed next! We were firstly taken into the Electrical compound, which being the driest part of the main depot is used to store the boat cars and some others that are awaiting attention. Boats 600, 227 (602) and 230 (604) along with Centenary 642, Standard 147 and Millennium Balloon 707 were seen in there. We were then taken along the rear of the main sheds, where we saw some of the withdrawn trams such as Balloon 726, Coronation 304, Balloon 720, Brush car 290, Twin Cars 676+686 and 272+T2. We were then taken into Bolton 66 for a heat! At this point the main tour was over, though I would like to thank Paul, who took me round to the far side of the sheds to photo the hovertram, Balloon 708, Brush 625 and 632.

I then headed back to the prom and by this time, the snow had halted and had began melting. It was a strange sight seeing Brush Cars 621 and 631 with their fronts covered in snow! I caught Brush Car 631 up to Bispham for a few shots of the trams in the snow, then caught 718 down to North Pier. On reaching North Pier, Balloon 711 had appeared in the loop and was being used as the shop tram and the sun had came out! After getting a few photos at North Pier, I walked back along the prom in the wall to wall sunshine, taking photos of the t rams on the way. I reached Pleasure Beach at 3.20 and was hoping to catch a couple of photos of 648, however the tram had suffered from a loss of power fault and by the time it was repaired, it was over 20 minutes late in reaching Pleasure Beach. 648 was returned to depot and Balloon 711 took over the remainder of 648's duties. It was at this point it was time for me to head back home.

Overall, it was an enjoyable day, I'd thoroughly reccomend the depot tour though you will need to be quick to book as they are fully booked up for months! More photos from the day can be found at: https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p490848536

My entire collection of Blackpool Tram photos from 2003 to today can be found at: https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/f595940839

303 and 314 journey log from 2000-2001

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 06 Feb 2022 22:48:35 GMT

I was clearing out my Portable Hard Drive and came across a list of some of my journeys of class 303s and 314s from 2000 and 2001. It's not a complete record as it only features the days that I actually remembered to keep a note! It does however give a snapshot of what was operating on both the Argyle and Cathcart Circle lines in the final years of 303 operation.

Class 303s in service during this period were: 303001, 003, 004, 006, 008, 009, 010 (till Dec 2000), 011, 012, 013, 014, 015, 016, 019, 020, 021, 023, 025 (till Sep/Oct 2000), 027, 032, 033, 034, 037, 043, 045, 047, 054, 056, 058 (till Sep 2000), 065, 070, 077, 079, 080, 083, 085, 087, 088, 090, 091.

29th August 2000:

7.44 Lanark - Garscadden Express: 303070+303034
8.50 Glasgow Central - Neilston: 314208
12.13 Mount Florida - Glasgow Central: 314205
12.38 Dalmuir - Motherwell: 303045

30th August 2000:

7.44 Lanark - Garscadden Express: 303025+303021
8.50 Glasgow Central - Neilston: 314203
16.13 Mount Florida - Glasgow Central: 314210+314206
16.44 Dalmuir - Lanark: 303085

1st September 2000:

8.02 Carstairs - Garscadden Express: 303033
8.50 Glasgow Central - Neilston: 314205
12.13 Mount Florida - Glasgow Central: 303008
12.38 Dalmuir - Motherwell: 303083

4th September 2000:

7.44 Lanark - Garscadden Express: 303006+303065
8.50 Glasgow Central - Neilston: 314207
12.13 Mount Florida - Glasgow Central: 314206
12.38 Dalmuir - Motherwell: 303019

5th September 2000:

7.44 Lanark - Garscadden Express: 303077+303054
8.50 Glasgow Central - Neilston: 314216
12.13 Mount Florida - Glasgow Central: 314206
12.38 Dalmuir - Motherwell: 303087

6th September 2000:

7.44 Lanark - Garscadden Express: 303016+303043
8.50 Glasgow Central - Neilston: 314205
12.13 Mount Florida - Glasgow Central: 314207
12.38 Dalmuir - Motherwell: 303001

7th September 2000:

8.02 Lanark - Garscadden Express: 303021
8.50 Glasgow Central - Neilston: 314213
16.13 Mount Florida - Glasgow Central: 303014+303077
16.44 Dalmuir - Lanark: 303020+303088

8th September 2000:

7.44 Lanark - Garscadden Express: 303025+303012
8.50 Glasgow Central - Neilston: 314216
12.13 Mount Florida - Glasgow Central: 314213
12.38 Dalmuir - Motherwell: 303001

11th September 2000:

7.44 Lanark - Garscadden Express: 303020+303013
8.50 Glasgow Central - Neilston: 314214
12.13 Mount Florida - Glasgow Central: 314214
12.38 Dalmuir - Motherwell: 303033

13th September 2000:

8.02 Carstairs - Garscadden Express: 303013
8.50 Glasgow Central - Neilston: 314202
12.13 Mount Florida - Glasgow Central: 314212
12.38 Dalmuir - Motherwell: 303087

14th September 2000:

7.44 Lanark - Garscadden Express: 303006+303045
8.50 Glasgow Central - Neilston: 314205
12.13 Mount Florida - Glasgow Central: 314204
12.38 Dalmuir - Motherwell: 303004

8th September 2000:

7.44 Lanark - Garscadden Express: 303025+303012
8.50 Glasgow Central - Neilston: 314216
12.13 Mount Florida - Glasgow Central: 314213
12.38 Dalmuir - Motherwell: 303001

5th December 2000:

7.44 Lanark - Garscadden Express: 303025+303083
8.50 Glasgow Central - Neilston: 314206
12.13 Mount Florida - Glasgow Central: 314206
12.38 Dalmuir - Motherwell: 303047

6th December 2000:

8.02 Lanark - Garscadden Express: 303083
8.50 Glasgow Central - Neilston: 314213
12.13 Mount Florida - Glasgow Central: 314213
12.38 Dalmuir - Motherwell: 303043

7th December 2000:

7.44 Lanark - Garscadden Express: 303085+303032
8.50 Glasgow Central - Neilston: 314206
12.13 Mount Florida - Glasgow Central: 314206
12.38 Dalmuir - Motherwell: 303014

8th December 2000:

8.02 Carstairs - Garscadden Express: 303001
8.50 Glasgow Central - Neilston: 314206
12.13 Mount Florida - Glasgow Central: 314206
12.38 Dalmuir - Motherwell: 303014

11th December 2000:

8.02 Carstairs - Garscadden Express: 303003
8.50 Glasgow Central - Neilston: 314206
12.13 Mount Florida - Glasgow Central: 314206
12.38 Dalmuir - Motherwell: 303009

12th December 2000:

8.02 Carstairs - Garscadden Express: 303003
8.50 Glasgow Central - Neilston: 314213
12.13 Mount Florida - Glasgow Central: 314214
12.38 Dalmuir - Motherwell: 303016

13th December 2000:

8.02 Carstairs - Garscadden Express: 303008
8.50 Glasgow Central - Neilston: 314204
12.13 Mount Florida - Glasgow Central: 314208
12.38 Dalmuir - Motherwell: 303033

15th January 2001:

7.50 Motherwell - Dalmuir: 303070+303088
8.50 Glasgow Central - Neilston: 314209
12.13 Mount Florida - Glasgow Central: 314212
12.38 Dalmuir - Motherwell: 303023

23rd January 2001:

7.50 Motherwell - Dalmuir: 303088+303077
8.50 Glasgow Central - Neilston: 303021
12.13 Mount Florida - Glasgow Central: 303027
12.38 Dalmuir - Motherwell: 303047

30th January 2001:

7.44 Lanark - Garscadden express: 303003
8.50 Glasgow Central - Neilston: 314209
12.13 Mount Florida - Glasgow Central: 314212
12.38 Dalmuir - Motherwell: 303085

7th February 2001:

7.44 Lanark - Garscadden express: 303083+303033
8.50 Glasgow Central - Neilston: 314216
12.13 Mount Florida - Glasgow Central: 314203
12.38 Dalmuir - Motherwell: 303088

13th February 2001:

7.44 Lanark - Garscadden express: 303020+303043
8.50 Glasgow Central - Neilston: 314209
15.50 Mount Florida - Glasgow Central: 318258
16.44 Dalmuir - Lanark: 303045

19th February 2001:

7.44 Lanark - Garscadden express: 303013+303012
8.50 Glasgow Central - Neilston: 314204
12.13 Mount Florida - Glasgow Central: 314204
12.38 Dalmuir - Motherwell: 303020

20th February 2001:

7.44 Lanark - Garscadden express: 303014+303034
8.50 Glasgow Central - Neilston: 314205
12.13 Mount Florida - Glasgow Central: 314204
12.38 Dalmuir - Motherwell: 303037

25th February 2001:

7.44 Lanark - Garscadden express: 303037+303027
8.50 Glasgow Central - Neilston: 314201
16.13 Mount Florida - Glasgow Central: 303011
16.38 Dalmuir - Motherwell: 303085
16.44 Dalmuir - Lanark: 303009+303019

6th March 2001:

7.44 Lanark - Garscadden express: 303014+303090
8.50 Glasgow Central - Neilston: 314204
12.13 Mount Florida - Glasgow Central: 314209
12.38 Dalmuir - Motherwell: 303047

7th March 2001:

7.44 Lanark - Garscadden express: 303070+303090
8.50 Glasgow Central - Neilston: 314204
16.13 Mount Florida - Glasgow Central: 314206+314213
16.44 Dalmuir - Lanark: 303008

8th March 2001:

7.44 Lanark - Garscadden express: 303090+303011
8.50 Glasgow Central - Neilston: 303004
12.13 Mount Florida - Glasgow Central: 314214
12.38 Dalmuir - Motherwell: 303011

19th March 2001:

7.44 Lanark - Garscadden express: 303023
8.50 Glasgow Central - Neilston: 314213
16.13 Mount Florida - Glasgow Central: 314209
16.38 Dalmuir - Motherwell: 303085
16.44 Dalmuir - Lanark: 303088+303011

87002 at Carlisle 14.1.22

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 15 Jan 2022 23:10:56 GMT

Locomotive Services Limited's Intercity Swallow liveried 87002 'Royal Sovereign' along with matching set of Mark 3s and DVT 82136 visited Carlisle on 14th January.

They worked as 5Z50 from Crewe and as 5Z51 back to Crewe mid afternoon as ECS workings as test runs and route learning prior to working on tour duty to Glasgow Central on Thursday 26th January. 87002, the coaching stock and DVT 82136, looked fantastic in their heritage livery and a massive well done goes to all those who restored the vehicles back to this livery.

303032 at Bo'ness 29.12.21

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 03 Jan 2022 17:21:51 GMT

303032 is one of the original set of 35 class 303s (Then known as class AM3) built in 1959 by Pressed Steel of Elderslie for the electrification of the North Clyde lines, a subsequent order of 56 sets raised in 1960 took the number of units up to 91. 303032 wore a succession of liveries starting with Caledonian Blue, then BR Blue and Grey then Strathclyde Transport 'Red' and Black livery from the 1980's through till withdrawal, receiving it's final repaint in the mid 1990's. 032 would operate on the North Clyde lines, Argyle Lines, Cathcart Circle and Clyde Coast lines over 42 years until withdrawal around June / July 2002.

After withdrawal, 303032 was taken to Immingham along with a number of sets that were going for scrapping. 303032 was the lucky one however as it was going for asbestos removal prior to preservation at Bo'ness. Unfortunately 303032's original Motor Coach (the centre coach) 61512 was damaged at Immingham and was scrapped, however 61512 was substituted for Carmine and Cream liveried 61503 from set 303023, which was there for scrapping. Both driving trailers (75597 and 75632) are 303032s originals. 303032 was returned to Bo'ness by low loader from Immingham for preservation in April 2003.

303032 is still occasionally hauled up and down the line at Boness by a Class 26, 27 or 37 working in blue star mode. A ride on the set during the diesel galas brings back memories including the sound of the door closing alarm, the hiss of the air brakes and the driver having to get out and force a set of doors closed before the set will move! 303032 is still in the same coat of paint as it was when it arrived at Boness with the trailers in Orange and Black Strathclyde Transport livery and the motor coach in the SPT Carmine and Cream livery. 303032 hasn't been used for many years and has been on display in the display shed. It was extracted from the shed and placed in the display siding for the Diesel Gala at Bo'ness on 29th December 2021.

Bo'ness Diesel Gala 29.12.21

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 03 Jan 2022 16:31:07 GMT

The Bo'ness Diesel Gala took place on Wednesday 29th December. The gala featured the home fleet with BR Large logo liveried 37403 making its debut at Bo'ness following its time on hire to DRS, BR Blue liveried 37703 making its last appearance on loan from DRS, 47643 in its Scotrail Intercity livery and 27001 in BR Blue livery.

The visiting locomotive was supplied by GBRF and was 66773 'Pride of GB Railfreight' with Pride rainbow branding.

On display was DRS liveried 20302+20305, which will shortly be leaving Bo'ness as well as Hydrogen Multiple Unit 614209 and former Blue Train: 303032, which was making it's first appearance out in the open for around 6 years.

It was torrential rain for most of the morning, which made photography difficult (and meant having to take most photographs on my phone instead of the camera), however the highlight was seeing 303032 out on display and having a look round the interior and seeing 37403+37703 double heading the 12.30 working.

Wartime livery repaint for Balloon 700 28.12.21

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 03 Jan 2022 00:17:06 GMT

After 10 years in Blackpool Transport's 'Flexity' Purple and White livery, Balloon 700 has been repainted back into the Wartime Green and Cream livery that it carried during the 2nd World War and into the 1950's then again following a major overhaul in 1997 till it was sidelined for the addition of the door pods to make it compatable with the Flexity platforms in 2010.

700 was initially due to make it's debut run back in Green and Cream at the Anniversary Weekend in September, however was sidelined with a door fault. On 28th December 2021, 700 was used for the FTS Christmas tour along with Atlantean bus 334 (which did a run along the long abandoned former street routes on Lytham Road and the former Marton summer extension terminus on Station Road opposite South Pier.

Balloon 700 then took over and ran first to Starr Gate, then north to Fleetwood before returning to Rigby Road. Millennium Balloon 707 was then used for the third part of the tour, which consisted of an evening tour of the illuminations.

The repainting of Balloon 700 means now that only two of the 'B' fleet Balloons now retain the purple and white livery: 711 and 719.

The current status of the B Fleet is as follows:

Number	Type	Livery	Current Status
700	Balloon (original shape with twin destination screens)	Wartime Green and Cream	Operational
707	Millennium Balloon	Millennium Green and Cream	Operational
709	Millennium Balloon	Sea Life Centre All over advert	Stored since 2013
711	Balloon (refurbished 1990's)	Flexity Purple and White	In paint shop
713	Balloon (refurbished 2005)	Hounds Hill Centre all over advert	Operational
718	Millennium Balloon	Millennium Green and Cream	Operational
719	Balloon (refurbished 1997)	Flexity Purple and White	Currently unavailable
720	Balloon (refurbished 2011)	Walls Ice Cream all over advert	Stored since 2011
724	Millennium Balloon	Lyndene Hotel all over advert	Stored since 2013

Some shots of 700

The Magical Express Tour Tram (Blackpool Balloon 723) 18.12.21

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 19 Dec 2021 00:17:55 GMT

A very quick stop off at Blackpool this afternoon allowed me the chance to grab a couple of photographs of Blackpool's most recent Heritage Fleet tram to receive an all over advert!

Balloon 723 has been branded as the 'The Magical Express Tour' tram and has been revynaled on the outside with mainly black vynal with a white strip along the base of the tram. Along the white base and onto the black are various characters including people ice skating, snowmen and Christmas Trees. On the panel on either side where the stair case is located, there is an image of a full moon with Santa on his sleigh being hauled by his reindeers passing it. On the between deck panelling, there are slogans for 'I love BP (Blackpool)', 'Christmas by the sea' and 'The Magical Express Tour'. The destination blinds have been vynaled over and also feature the text:'The Magical Express Tour'. The 'Christmas by the sea' event is taking place at the Tower Headland from 19th November until 3rd January. The event has the 'Star Flyer' ride, an Ice Rink and Christmas Market set up on the Tower headland. 723 is operating tours, which are running from North Pier / Tower heritage stop to Pleasure Beach (non stop) and return with it only being possible to board at the North Pier / Tower stop. See further info and times at: https://blackpoolheritage.com/tours/the-magical-express-tour/

723 is one of Blackpool's iconic Balloon tram fleet and is a regular performer on Blackpool's heritage tram tours and Illuminations tours. Having received a major refurbishment in the 1990's, which involved the removal of it's curved end upper deck windows, curved roof windows and swing over seats, 723 received many other modifications including the fitting of flourescent lighting, high intensity headlights and heating, making it ideal for winter use. 723 was regularly seen in use either on the Fleetwood or Cleveleys services or even on specials until withdrawal in 2011 prior to the completion of the tramway upgrade and introduction of the Flexities in 2012. 723 was not chosen for conversion to one of the 'fat door' 'B' fleet balloons due to it having remedial repairs done to its underframe rather than the full replacement carried out on subsequent refurbishments / overhauls and would join the heritage fleet, first as the 'scruffy surprise' in 2015 when it was used during the Anniversary event, having been stripped of its advertising vynals revealing a rather scruffy coat of 80's green and cream underneath. After a repaint with a fresh coat of 80's green and cream in 2016, 723 became a permanent member of the heritage fleet.

The photos below show Balloon 723 in it's 'Magical Express Tour' livery at Pleasure Beach on 18.12.21

Also seen were Flexity 2 trams 006, 001, 003 and 017 also at Pleasure Beach and at Rigby Road Depot OMO 8, Centenary 645, Brush Railcoach 632, Balloon 717, Millennium Balloon 707 and Coronation 663 which were all prominent at the front of the depot.

DRS Liveried 20302+20305 at Bo'ness 26.11.21

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 28 Nov 2021 22:04:53 GMT

I was late in leaving work on Friday (3pm is late for a Friday!) which meant I didn't have time to go very far before darkness fell so I decided to head home via Bo'ness. I was wanting to have a look to see if any of 614209 (former 314209), was visible next to the fence at the rear (it was). As I was approaching the rear of the yard, I noticed that one of the DRS class 20s was visible near the TMD, so I headed there and found that the gates were open and 20302 and 20305 were sitting out on the track in the car park / public footpath with 26038 'Tom Clift' within the gates. The reason they were shunted out there was that one of the steam locos, NCB No 1 'Lord Roberts', was being driven up and down the yard multiple times either on test or on driver training.

Both in original DRS 'Compass' Livery, 20302 and 20305 have been at Bo'ness since 17th July 2020, when they arrived as part of a convoy with 37038, 37424 and 37403, however both of the class haven't run since.

DMSO 64600 from 614209 (ex 314209) was parked up next to the fence at the end of the main line headshunt. Work is still under way on the conversion of the unit from an EMU to a unit powered by Hydrogen, with Arcola Energy carrying out the work.

A class 230, a class 614 and a class 799: COP 26, Glasgow Oct&Nov 2021

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 20 Nov 2021 20:03:11 GMT

During the COP 26 Climate Summit, the eyes of the world were on Glasgow and it was seen as a chance to show off some advances in some more eco friendly advances in rail technology such as hydrogen and battery power to a wider audience, including Royalty and heads of Government.

Visiting Glasgow was Viva Rail's battery powered three car ex District line D Stock: 230001 and Porterbrook Rail's bi mode multiple unit 799201, whilst at Bo'ness Arcola Rail's former class 314, now 614209 and converted to Hydrogen power was also on display.

230001

Viva Rail's class 230: 230001 (vehicles 300001 / 300201 / 300101) was developed from ex London Underground District line D78 stock (LU vehicles 7058 / 17128 / 7511), originally as a DEMU, but now as a battery unit with a range of up to 100km, with the batteries able to be recharged in 10 minutes!

The Grey, purple and black with Vivarail “Clean Energy/Fast Charge” slogans liveried 230001 arrived at Polmadie by low loader on 24th October and began test and press runs between Glasgow Central and Barrhead / Kilmarnock from 27th October to 29th October. The unit did manage a trip further afield with a trip from Polmadie - Inverkeithing Yard on Friday 29th October and a return trip over the Forth Bridge back to Polmadie, which doubled as a Press run, following a naming ceremony, where 230001 was named 'Viva Venturer'. On weekdays during the COP 26 conference, 230001 would make the short journey into Central Station from Polmadie and would operate between Glasgow and Barrhead either 2 or 3 times per afternoon. During the course of the conference, both Prince Charles and Prime Minister, Boris Johnson were amongst the visiting dignatories to have a look on board.

230001 at Glasgow Central	Vivarail's battery powered Class 230 three car 'D' train 230001, which was converted from former London Underground 'D78' stock, is seen arriving at Glasgow Central with 5Z09 ECS working from Barrhead. 230001 is in Glasgow to demo different forms of renewable power sources during the COP 26 conference 29.10.21
230001 at Glasgow Central	Vivarail's battery powered Class 230 three car 'D' train 230001, which was converted from former London Underground 'D78' stock, is seen at Glasgow Central having arrived with 5Z09 ECS working from Barrhead. 29.10.21
380110 and 230001 at Glasgow Central	380110 is seen at Platform 12 in Glasgow Central awaiting it's next departure as Vivarail's battery powered protoype unit 230001 is seen having arrived with 5Z09 ECS working from Barrhead 29.10.21
230001 at Glasgow Central	Vivarail's battery powered Class 230 three car 'D' train 230001, which was converted from former London Underground 'D78' stock, is awaiting departure from at Glasgow Central with 5Z07 ECS working to Polmadie. 29.10.21
230001 departing Glasgow Central	Vivarail's battery powered Class 230 three car 'D' train 230001, which was converted from former London Underground 'D78' stock, is seen on the complex track layout outside Glasgow Central with 5Z07 ECS working to Polmadie. 29.10.21
230001 at Dalmeny	Vivarail's battery powered Class 230 three car 'D' train 230001 'Viva Venturer', which was converted from former London Underground 'D78' stock, is seen arriving at Dalmeny having just crossed the Forth Rail Bridge with 5Z12 Inverkeithing yard to Polmadie working. 30.10.21
230001 at Dalmeny	Vivarail's battery powered Class 230 three car 'D' train 230001 'Viva Venturer', which was converted from former London Underground 'D78' stock, is seen pausing at Dalmeny with 5Z12 Inverkeithing yard to Polmadie working. 30.10.21

799201

799201 is the second of two tri-mode multiple units adapted from class 319 EMUs (799001 was adapted from 319001 and 799201 was adapted from 319382). The existing 25KV overhead line and 750V Third rail equipment has been retained with both units featuring a full carriage sized hydrogen fuel cell. Porterbrook hope to eventually be able to make the fuel cell to fit in the underframe of the units.

The adaptation of 319001 into 799001 began in 2018 and the unit was unveiled on 20 June 2019. The project became known as 'Hydroflex' and 799001 made its first mainline appearance on testing in September 2020, reaching 50 mph through Warwickshire.

The project evolved and a second unit was required so 319382 became 799201 for showcasing at COP 26. 799201 features a Green livery with COP26 branding and earth vynals around the cab sides. One of 799201's Driving Trailers contains the hydrogen cells, while vehicle 71980 was fitted out with a boardroom styled interior for the COP26 Summit.

799201, consisting of vehicles 77975, 63094, 71980 and 77976 was hauled from Long Marston, where it is based to Mossend on 3rd November 2021 by 57312 and made it's debut run on 4th November, traveling from Mossend to Glasgow Central and travelling 2-3 journeys non stop around the Cathcart Circle (via the outer track) before returning to Mossend, 799201 ran on electric power for the duration of the summit. 799201 made daily runs on weekdays up to 11th November, with the unit returning south on 12th November. Over the course of the conference, both Prince Charles and Prime Minister, Boris Johnson were amongst the many visiting dignatories to have a look on board.

799201 at Maxwell Park	Porterbrook Rail's HydroFLEX prototype unit 799201 is seen passing through Maxwell Park on the Cathcart Circle with 2Z02 13.50 Glasgow Central - Glasgow Central via the Cathcart Circle. 799201 is in Glasgow to demonstrate Hydrogen powered technology 5.11.21
799201 at Maxwell Park	Porterbrook Rail's HydroFLEX prototype unit 799201 is seen having passed through Maxwell Park on the Cathcart Circle with 2Z02 13.50 Glasgow Central - Glasgow Central via the Cathcart Circle. 5.11.21
799201 at Whifflet	Porterbrook Rail's HydroFLEX prototype unit 799201 is seen pausing at Whifflet with 5Z01 14.39 Glasgow Central - Whifflet. 5.11.21
799201 at Whifflet	Porterbrook Rail's HydroFLEX prototype unit 799201 departs Whifflet with 5Z01 14.39 Glasgow Central - Whifflet. 5.11.21

614209

The third and final unit, 614209 (vehicles 64599, 71458 and 64600), was still being worked on at Bo'ness during COP 26, however a series of visits was set up by Arcola Energy to showcase the progress made on the former class 314 unit during its conversion from an EMU to hydrogen power.

314209 was withdrawn from service on Friday 13th December, a day before the final withdrawal of the class 314 fleet, having worked on evening peak Neilston services with 314210 and was probably the unit which was in the best condition compared to the then remaining 314 fleet. Despite the scrapping of the other units, 314209 remained stored at Yoker for almost, until it was transferred under it's own power from Yoker to Shields depot on 16th December 2020 for onward transport by low loader to Bo'ness over 17th and 18th December 2020.

Work started on the conversion of the 314 to Hydrogen power in January 2021 and has involved the removal of most of the original electrical equipment from the 314 either for refurbishment or for replacement. New equipment fitted has included AC motors (314209's original motors were DC), a new system of batteries to allow it to run off battery power if required and hydrogen tanks fitted below the underframe. The interior of the unit is also being refurbished with the old seating having been removed and replaced with Pendolino style seating and new flooring. The original wall panels and lighting has been maintained. The Pantograph trailer has been completed, however work is still ongoing on the DMSO vehicles.

314209 became 614209 in October 2021 and has been outshopped in Scotrail Saltire Blue with 'Scottish Hydrogen Train project' branding. The aim is for 614209, to move under its own power around the yard at Bo’ness in March 2022 and and over the full length of the 5 1/2 mile long line in May 2022. 614209 was on static display at Bo'ness station during COP 26.

314209 at Gourock	314209 seen at Gourock having arrived with 1G05 11.55 Glasgow Central - Gourock 6.4.18
314209 at Yoker	Seen from the Kelso St overbridge, the final remaining fully intact Class 314, 314209, is seen stabled in a siding at Yoker Depot 24.7.20
314209 at Bo'ness	Vehicle 64600 from 314209 is seen being delivered by low loader to Bo'ness, where conversion to hydrogen power will begin 18.12.20
71458 at Bo'ness	Pantograph trailer 71458 from the newly renumbered 614209 the former class 314209 at Bo'ness 29.10.21
614209 at Bo'ness	DMSO Vehicle 64600 with Pantograph trailer 71458 behind from Arcola Energy's new hydrogen train, 614209 (formerly 314209) are seen at Bo'ness on display for visitors at COP 26 4.11.21 (photo taken through the fence from a public footpath)

Scottish Power / COP 26 advert on Glasgow Subway stock 16.10.21 & 22.10.21

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 21 Oct 2021 23:21:59 GMT

A full set of Glasgow Subway vehicles formed of Metro Cammell Power Car 125, Barclay Trailer 201 and Metro Power Power Car 118 have been reliveried into an all over advert for Scottish Power and COP 26.

The advert features the slogans 'Join us on a faster journey to a greener future' and 'On track to help Scotland reach net zero by 2045'. The logos for Scottish Power and COP 26 also feature on the body sides.

The train, with 125 leading, was running on the Outer Circle on route 2 on 16th October 2021. Photos taken at St Enoch and Buchanan St. On 22nd October, the set were seen working route 15 on the Inner Circle, again 125 was leading.

125 front view
125 rear view
201 view
118 view

Glasgow Subway visit 3.10.21 and 8.10.21

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 11 Oct 2021 00:16:56 GMT

The Glasgow Subway is the third oldest underground Metro railway system in the world, behind London and Budapest. Opening in 1896, the Subway was first cable hauled before switching to electric traction from 1935, using the original rolling stock. Following a major refurbishment from 1977-1980, the current configuration of stations and the current Metro Cammell power cars entered service.

Today's system consists of the inner circle and outer circle serving 15 stations over their 6 1/2 mile route and it is possible to travel around a complete loop of the system in 25 minutes. The stations are a mix of the more traditional narrow island platforms at most stations (Kelvinhall, Kelvinbridge, St Georges Cross, Cowcaddens, Bridge Street, West Street, Shields Road, Kinning Park and Cessnock), with the busier stations of Buchanan St, Ibrox and Hillhead having a combination of side platform and centre platform while St Enoch, Govan and Partick have a pair of side platforms to ease congestion.

The service levels vary from every 4 minutes at peak times (6 trains per circle), every 6 minutes (4/5 trains per circle) or every 8 minutes (3 trains per circle).

The services are operated by trains of the unique 4ft gauge 1978 built Metro Cammell power cars and 1992 Hunslet built trailer cars. The cars are usually run in three car formation, although 2 car is also possible if short of stock. Formations are usually as follows:

Power Car / Trailer / Power Car
Power Car / Power Car (acting as trailer) / Power Car
Power Car / Power Car

There are currently 32 Power Cars in service and 8 trailers, mostly in SPT Orange, Grey and White livery, however there are 2 special liveries, these being on Number 101, which carries a retro Glasgow District Subway Maroon and Cream livery and 130, which carries a special grey livery to celebrate the 120th Anniversary of the Subway in 2016. The only car you won't see is 122 as it was scrapped in 2017 to provide spare parts to keep the others in service.

With the introduction to service of 17 new Stadler trains expected during 2022, it is a case of catch the Metro Cammell and Barclay cars while you can.

Having recently started reading the excellent 'Circles under the Clyde' book, which gives a fascinating history, particularly of the original pre 1977 system and the rolling stock, I was inspired to visit for the first time since 2014 and take photos of the system for the first time!

On both occasions the 6 minute service was in operation using 4 trains per circle, though on my second trip, this was ramping up towards the 4 minute service with 6 trains per circle. As well as having a ride round both the Outer and Inner circles, I stopped off at various stations including St Enoch, Buchanan Street, Govan, Bridge Street and Cowcaddens to take photographs. I would recommend a visit to this small, clean and well kept system.

I have added a fleet list below, which has details of the current Metro Cammell and Hunslet vehicles. Any of the vehicles that I have photographed, I have linked them to the relevant number on the fleet list below:

Number	Vehicle Type	Built by	Entered Service	Current Livery	Status	Notes
101	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	Retro Glasgow District Subway Company Maroon and Cream livery	In Service
102	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	In Service
103	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	In Service	First vehicle to be delivered to upgraded Subway and first to run under it's own power.
104	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	In Service
105	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	In Service
106	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	In Service
107	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	In Service
108	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	In Service
109	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	In Service
110	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	In Service
111	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	In Service
112	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	In Service
113	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	In Service
114	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	In Service
115	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	In Service
116	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	In Service
117	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	In Service
118	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	Scottish Power / COP 26 advert	In Service
119	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	In Service
120	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	In Service
121	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	In Service
122	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	N/A	Scrapped	Withdrawn 2015 and scrapped circa 2017 to provide spare parts for other vehicles
123	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	In Service
124	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	In Service
125	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	Scottish Power / COP 26 advert	In Service
126	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	In Service
127	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	In Service
128	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	In Service
129	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	In Service
130	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	Glasgow Subway 1896-2016 120 years All over Grey livery with orange doors	In Service
131	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	In Service
132	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	In Service	Used for the Inaugaration of the new system by the Queen 1.11.79
133	Motor Car	Metro Cammell	1980	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	In Service	Used for the Inaugaration of the new system by the Queen 1.11.79
201	Trailer Car	Hunslet	1992	Scottish Power / COP 26 advert	In Service
202	Trailer Car	Hunslet	1992	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	In Service
203	Trailer Car	Hunslet	1992	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	In Service
204	Trailer Car	Hunslet	1992	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	In Service
205	Trailer Car	Hunslet	1992	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	In Service
206	Trailer Car	Hunslet	1992	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	In Service
207	Trailer Car	Hunslet	1992	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	In Service
208	Trailer Car	Hunslet	1992	SPT Orange, Grey and White livery	In Service

Merseyrail trip 11.9.21

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 03 Oct 2021 22:37:25 GMT

I made my 3rd trip of the year to the Merseyside area to catch some more of the 507 and 508 fleet before they are replaced by the class 777. I'd planned the trip to co-inside with one of the new class 777 fleet being put on display at Birkenhead North.

As I drove down to Merseyside and expected the roads into Liverpool to be busier with it being the weekend, I parked at Maghull North park and ride, this was less than 1 mile off Junction 3 of the M58 and had ample parking. It is on the Ormskirk and just a 20 minute journey into Liverpool Central.

At Maghull North, I caught 507025 into Moorfields and changed to the deep level platform for the Wirral services. The deep level line is a one way circular line under the city centre with both ends meeting at James St (runs James Street, Moorfields, Liverpool Central, Lime Street, James Street). At Moorfields deep level platform, I caught 508141+508114, which was on an Elsmere Port service to Hamilton Square, here I changed to a New Kirby service led by 507032 to Birkenhead North. After a look round 777010, I caught 508120 to New Brighton.

Travelling to New Brighton, I saw 2 of the Welsh line class 230s, however as the train windows were too dirty, they were hard to photograph. At New Brighton the train arrived into Platform 2. The station its self had a 1930's style canopy which ran around half way up the curved platform. At either side of the lines into the island platform, there was storage sidings, (2 to the left of platform 1 and 1 to the right of platform 2) where four units, 507012+508130 on the left and 507020+507011 on the right. I think that extra units not required are stored here at the weekend. I caught 508104 back to Birkenhead and after another quick look round 777010, I caught 507018 on a New Kirby service back to Moorfields.

I then caught 507001 to Kirkdale for a few photos of the 777s and 507006 which were stabled there. 507006, which was accident damaged following a derailment and collision with a bridge back in March, would be taken away for scrap only a few days later. I then caught 507019+507021 to Maghull North. Rather than head straight home, I drove to Ainsdale, which is only 20 minutes drive from Maghull and photoed a few units there before catching 507030+507002 to Southport, where I photoed a pair of 769s and also 507003 and an unidentified unit in the sidings. After catching 507002+507030 back to Ainsdale, I headed home.

Merseyrail Class 777 on public display 11.9.21

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 18 Sep 2021 22:42:18 GMT

On 9th and 11th September, Merseyrail put one of their brand new class 777 trains on public display on the rarely used Platform 1 at Birkenhead North on Merseyrail's Wirral Line.

A healthy number of people went along to view unit 777010, the first of the inital class of 53 units to be accepted for use on the network. The most unique feature of the class is the fitting of sliding steps which allows for wheelchairs users to board without a ramp being needed. Also on the cab ends there is LED lighting in the form of a letter 'M' which light up white or red depending on the direction of travel.

The interior of the units looked bright, airy and spacious with the sections between the bogies lower than the remainder. The units have Wi-fi and USB and electrical sockets. There are bike racks and space for more passengers than carried on the current fleet, however these are more likely to be standing passengers. The corridor connections between each vehicle are almost the full width of the coach, making it more like the interior of a tram.

Overall, I likes the look of the units and look forward to sampling one in service!

A week on the West Highland line 26.7 - 30.7.21

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 03 Aug 2021 22:52:45 GMT

I was on holiday up at Arrochar on the West Highland Line for a week. Arrochar is a lovely part of the country with some stunning views around Loch Long and a massive array of wildlife to see as well. The train service its self is spread out with a train every couple of hours and mainly features Class 156s with the new class 153 'Active Carriages' added on to some of the Oban workings. Adding interest to the timetable is the morning/ evening sleeper and the North Blyth - Fort William Alcan tanks working. There is also the occasional ECS working of Mark 1 stock to / from Fort William / Carnforth for Jacobite workings as well as occasional steam loco moves again for the Jacobite.

West Highland Line workings around Arrochar and Tarbet 26.7.21-30.7.21

Monday (from 2pm)

Loco / Unit Numbers	Headcode	Working	Coaches	Time	Notes
156477+156492+156446	1Y44	10.10 Mallaig and Oban - Glasgow Queen St	6	14.08	156446 joined at Crianlarich from Oban
156474+153377	1Y26	14.41 Oban - Glasgow Queen Street	3	16.27
37668+37669 tnt 62005	5Z61	12.18 Fort William Junction - Carnforth	8	17.18	97 late in passing
153305+156457	1Y29	16.36 Glasgow Queen Street - Oban	3	17.48
156477+156492	1Y27	18.23 Glasgow Queen Street - Oban and Mallaig	4	19.37	156477 splits at Crianlarich to Oban
156453+156450+156458	1Y48	16.01 Mallaig - Glasgow Queen Street	6	20.06	156458 joins at Crianlarich from Oban
156457	1Y32	20.39 Oban - Glasgow Queen Street	2	22.18
66740+73967	1B01	19.50 Fort William - London Euston Sleeper		22.46

Tuesday
156446	1Y31	5.20 Glasgow Queen Street - Oban	2	6.32
66740+73967	1Y11	21.18 London Euston - Fort William		7.04
156477+153305	1Y20	5.21 Oban - Glasgow Queen Street	3	7.12
156450+156453+156445	1Y21	8.23 Glasgow Queen Street - Oban / Mallaig	6	9.38	156450 split at Crianlarich for Oban
156492	1Y42	6.03 Mallaig - Glasgow Queen Street	2	10.06
156446	1Y22	8.57 Oban - Glasgow Queen Street	2	10.43
153305+156477	1Y25	10.34 Glasgow Queen Street - Oban	3	12
156499+156492	1Y23	12.23 Glasgow Queen Street - Oban / Mallaig	4	13.4	156499 split at Crianlarich for Oban
156500+156474+156450	1Y44	10.10 Mallaig and Oban - Glasgow Queen St	6	14.08	156450 joined at Crianlarich from Oban
66741	6S45	North Blyth - Fort William Alcans		16.06
156477+153305	1Y26	14.41 Oban - Glasgow Queen Street	3	16.27
153377+156457	1Y29	16.36 Glasgow Queen Street - Oban	3	17.48
156500+156474	1Y27	18.23 Glasgow Queen Street - Oban and Mallaig	4	19.37	156500 splits at Crianlarich to Oban
156453+156445+156450	1Y48	16.01 Mallaig - Glasgow Queen Street	6	20.06	156450 joins at Crianlarich from Oban
156457	1Y32	20.39 Oban - Glasgow Queen Street	2	22.18
66740+73967	1B01	19.50 Fort William - London Euston Sleeper		22.46

Wednesday
156457	1Y31	5.20 Glasgow Queen Street - Oban	2	6.32	actual arrival 8.15
66740+73967	1Y11	21.18 London Euston - Fort William		7.04	actual arrival 8.29
156500+153377	1Y20	5.21 Oban - Glasgow Queen Street	3	7.12
156453+156450	1Y21	8.23 Glasgow Queen Street - Oban / Mallaig	4	9.38	156450 split at Crianlarich. Oban portion cancelled
156474	1Y42	6.03 Mallaig - Glasgow Queen Street	2	10.06
156450	1Y22	8.57 Oban - Glasgow Queen Street	2	10.43	Started at Crianlarich
153377+156500	1Y25	10.34 Glasgow Queen Street - Oban	3	12
66741	6S45	North Blyth - Fort William Alcans		12.3
156477+156450+156474	1Y23	12.23 Glasgow Queen Street - Oban / Mallaig	6	13.4	156477 split at Crianlarich for Oban
156492+156499+156457	1Y44	10.10 Mallaig and Oban - Glasgow Queen St	6	14.08	156457 joined at Crianlarich from Oban
156500+153377	1Y26	14.41 Oban - Glasgow Queen Street	3	16.27
153305+156476	1Y29	16.36 Glasgow Queen Street - Oban	3	17.48
156499+156492	1Y27	18.23 Glasgow Queen Street - Oban and Mallaig	4	19.37	156499 splits at Crianlarich to Oban
156450+156477	1Y48	16.01 Mallaig - Glasgow Queen Street	4	20.06	156477 joins at Crianlarich from Oban
156476	1Y32	20.39 Oban - Glasgow Queen Street	2	22.18
66740+73967	1B01	19.50 Fort William - London Euston Sleeper		22.46

Thursday
156457	1Y31	5.20 Glasgow Queen Street - Oban	2	6.32
66740+73967	1Y11	21.18 London Euston - Fort William		7.04
156499+153305	1Y20	5.21 Oban - Glasgow Queen Street	3	7.12
156477+156458+156453	1Y21	8.23 Glasgow Queen Street - Oban / Mallaig	6	9.38	156477 split at Crianlarich for Oban
156492	1Y42	6.03 Mallaig - Glasgow Queen Street	2	10.06
156457	1Y22	8.57 Oban - Glasgow Queen Street	2	10.43
153305+156499	1Y25	10.34 Glasgow Queen Street - Oban	3	12
156457+156492+156500	1Y23	12.23 Glasgow Queen Street - Oban / Mallaig	6	13.4	156457 split at Crianlarich for Oban
156450+156474+156477	1Y44	10.10 Mallaig and Oban - Glasgow Queen St	6	14.08	156477 joined at Crianlarich from Oban
66741	6S45	North Blyth - Fort William Alcans		16.25
156499+153305	1Y26	14.41 Oban - Glasgow Queen Street	3	16.27
153377+156445	1Y29	16.36 Glasgow Queen Street - Oban	3	17.48
156450+156474	1Y27	18.23 Glasgow Queen Street - Oban and Mallaig	4	19.37	156450 splits at Crianlarich to Oban
156458+156453+156457	1Y48	16.01 Mallaig - Glasgow Queen Street	4	20.06	156457 joins at Crianlarich from Oban
156445	1Y32	20.39 Oban - Glasgow Queen Street	2	22.18
66740+73967	1B01	19.50 Fort William - London Euston Sleeper		22.46

Friday till 12pm
156447	1Y31	5.20 Glasgow Queen Street - Oban	2	6.32
66740+73967	1Y11	21.18 London Euston - Fort William		7.04
156450+153377	1Y20	5.21 Oban - Glasgow Queen Street	3	7.12
156456+156478+156453	1Y21	8.23 Glasgow Queen Street - Oban / Mallaig	6	9.38	156456 split at Crianlarich for Oban
156474	1Y42	6.03 Mallaig - Glasgow Queen Street	2	10.06
156477	1Y22	8.57 Oban - Glasgow Queen Street	2	10.43
153377+156450	1Y25	10.34 Glasgow Queen Street - Oban	3	12

Staycation express debut run 15.7.21

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 03 Aug 2021 21:59:47 GMT

Making it's debut run for Locomotive services Ltd, 43059 top and tailed with 43058 depart Carlisle with 1Z81 to Settle. This was a VIP preview run for the 'Staycation express' which starts running from Monday 19th July. 15.7.21

Merseyrail Day out 28.6.21 and 19.7.21

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 13 Jul 2021 23:42:55 GMT

I had a day trip down to Southport and Ormskirk on 28th June to sample some of the class 507's and 508's before they are withdrawn. With the expected entry into service for the 777's being soon (the 777's have just begun test runs / driver training), the days are numbered for the 41/42 year old PEP units. With test running of the 777s having begun and having found out about 2 trailers from a pair of 508/2s being visible at Birkenhead, I decided to return and travel across to Birkenhead and then back over towards Southport via Kirkdale to catch more 507s and 508s as well as some 777s both on depot and 777010 out on a test / training run.

The Class 507 / 508

The Class 507 and Class 508 units are part of the PEP family of units which were built in the late 1970's and run off the third rail at 750v DC only as opposed to the Class 313 which is/was dual voltage and Class 314 and 315 which was/are powered from the overhead line. The units are very similar to the much missed class 314s that we were so used to seeing on the Cathcart Circle as you'll no doubt have guessed!

The exterior of both the 507/508 is broadly similar to the rest of the PEP family, the main differences in comparison to some of the other classes are:

The cab ends have newer style of lighting clusters, which also includes LED lighting
The bogies on the DMSO vehicles have collector shoes for 3rd rail operation
The central Trailer vehicle has a different window layout from the 314 and 315, which have an additional small window below the pantograph well.
The 507 has a different type of compressor, possibly an older style from the class 508

The interior has been completely modernised with high backed seating, new ceilings and lighting, public information displays, CCTV and modernised entrance vestibules.

Built in 1978-80, the class 507 units have spent their entire lives on the Merseyrail network and mostly remain intact, with 32 units out of the original 33 built still in existance and 31 of the fleet remain in service today.

507022 was withdrawn following a collision with 507004 in 1991, with vehicle 64388 from 022 replacing one of the Driving motor vehicles in 507004 and vehicle 64426 being converted from DC to AC operation and assuming the identity of 64588 and replacing the same vehicle in set 314203, which was destroyed in the Newton train crash in 1991.

More recently in March 2021, 507006 was written off after it overran the buffers and derailed at Kirkby. As the units are fast nearing the end of their operational lives, repairs won't be forthcoming and the unit will most likely be heading for scrap soon.

The 508 was built between 1979-80 and of the original 43 built, 25 are still in use with Merseyrail. The 508 is identical to the 507, and initially worked in the Southern region before heading to Merseyside. The 508 was 4 car variation of the class 507, however before moving to Merseyside one of the TSO vehicles from each set (numbers 71526-71568) were removed and reused to increase the newly delivered class 455 up to 4 car sets, making the class 508 identical to the 507. To make it easier to identify the two classes, 508001-508043 were renumbered to 508101-508143.

Following a reduction in capacity, on services during the 1990's, 12 class 508's were sent southwards to work on some Connex South Eastern services out of Gillingham Depot. 508101, 105, 106, 107, 109, 113, 116, 119, 121, 129, 132 and 133 became 508201-212 and remained in service until 2006. Of this batch, vehicles 64664 and 64707 from 508207 have found further use as barrier vehicles for Arlington Fleet Services, vehicles 64649 from 508201 and 64712 from 508209 as training vehicles for Emergency Services Training Centre in Birkenhead and 508212 is used at Fire Services Training College at Moreton-in-Marsh, the remainder of the sets were scrapped around 2013. 508118 was scrapped after an arson attack at Birkenhead depot during the 2000's.

A further 3 class 508s would transfer to Silverlink and find work on the Watford DC lines, assisting the Class 313s. 508102, 508135 and 508142 became 508301-303 and were scrapped in 2013.

This left 27 units with Merseyrail, however the decision was taken to withdraw and scrap 508110 and 508134 in 2020 rather than overhaul them, this left 25 units are still in service with Merseyrail.

Livery

The current livery carried by the 507 and 508 fleet is the 'Good Communications' livery, which is a half yellow background and half brushed metal background, with 6 different designs applied with each set having one yellow side and one brushed metal side.The passenger doors are white on the yellow sides and yellow on the brushed metal sides. There is Merseyrail 'M' branding on each of the passenger doors, as well as on the cab fronts. The livery is applied as a vinyl skin.

The exception to these liveries are 507002 which carries all over adverts for Liverpool John Moore University, with a white base for the advert and 508111, which carries 'The Beatles Story' all over advert with a blue base.

Routes

The 507 and 508 can be found on the following routes:

Southport - Hunts Cross
Ormskirk - Liverpool Central
Kirkby - Liverpool Central
Liverpool Lime Street - New Brighton
Liverpool Lime Street - West Kirby
Liverpool Lime Street - Ellesmere Port
Liverpool Lime Street - Chester

Depots are found at Kirkdale and Birkenhead.

Fleet List

Class 507

Fleet Number	Name	Formation	Livery	Notes
507001		64367 71342 64405	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey
507002		64368 71343 64406	Merseyrail White with Liverpool Hope University branding
507003		64369 71344 64407	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey
507004	Bob Paisley	64388 71345 64408	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey	vehicle 64388 from set 507022 replaced 64370 in 1991 following collision damage
507005		64371 71346 64409	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey
507006		64372 71347 64410	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey	Withdrawn following collision with buffers at Kirkby March 2021
507007		64373 71348 64411	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey
507008	Harold Wilson	64374 71349 64412	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey
507009	Dixie Dean	64375 71350 64413	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey
507010		64376 71351 64414	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey
507011		64377 71352 64415	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey
507012		64378 71353 64416	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey
507013		64379 71354 64417	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey
507014		64380 71355 64418	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey
507015		64381 71356 64419	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey
507016	Merseyrail - celebrating the first ten years 2003-2013	64382 71357 64420	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey
507017		64383 71358 64421	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey
507018		64384 71359 64422	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey
507019		64385 71360 64423	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey
507020	John Peel	64386 71361 64424	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey
507021	Red Rum	64387 71362 64425	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey
507022		64388 71363 64426		Disbanded 1991 following collision with 507004. Vehicle 64388 replaced 64370 in 507004, 71363 scrapped and 64426 converted to AC power and replaced 64588 in set 314203 with Scotrail was withdrawn and scrapped in 2019.
507023	Operations Inspector Stuart Mason	64389 71364 64427	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey
507024		64390 71365 64428	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey
507025		64391 71366 64429	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey
507026	Councillor George Howard	64392 71367 64430	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey
507027		64393 71368 64431	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey
507028		64394 71369 64432	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey
507029		64395 71370 64433	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey
507030		64396 71371 64434	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey
507031		64397 71372 64435	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey
507032		64398 71373 64436	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey
507033	Councillor Jack Spriggs	64399 71374 64437	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey

Class 508

Fleet Number (Original)	New Fleet number	Original 4th vehicle	Name	Formation	Livery	Status	Notes
508101	508201	71526		64649 71483 64692	Yellow with white doors	Scrapped	Vehicle 64649 still in existance at Emergency Services Training Centre in Birkenhead
508102	508301	71527		64650 71484 64693		Scrapped
508103	N/A	71528		64651 71485 64694	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey	in service
508104	N/A	71529		64652 71486 64695	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey	in service
508105	508202	71530		64653 71487 64696		Scrapped
508106	508203	71531		64654 71488 64697		Scrapped
508107	508204	71532		64655 71489 64698		Scrapped
508108	N/A	71533		64656 71490 64699	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey	in service
508109	508205	71534		64657 71491 64700		Scrapped
508110	N/A	71535		64658 71492 64701		Scrapped
508111	N/A	71536	The Beatles	64659 71493 64702	The Beatles Story blue Advertising Livery	in service
508112	N/A	71537		64660 71494 64703	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey	in service
508113	508206	71538		64661 71495 64704		Scrapped
508114	N/A	71539		64662 71496 64705	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey	in service
508115	N/A	71540		64663 71497 64706	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey	in service
508116	508207	71541		64664 71498 64707	Green	Departmental	64664 and 64707 have been converted to barrier vehicles and are used by Arlington Fleet Services. 64664 named Liwet and 64707 named Laberzerin
508117	N/A	71542		64665 71499 64708	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey	in service
508118	N/A	71543		64666 71500 64709		Scrapped	Scrapped following a fire in 2007
508119	508208	71544		64667 71501 64710		Scrapped
508120	N/A	71545		64668 71502 64711	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey	in service
508121	508209	71546		64669 71503 64712	Yellow with white doors	Scrapped	Vehicle 64712 still in existance at Emergency Services Training Centre in Birkenhead
508122	N/A	71547		64670 71504 64713	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey	in service
508123	N/A	71548	William Roscoe	64671 71505 64714	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey	in service
508124	N/A	71549		64672 71506 64715	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey	in service
508125	N/A	71550		64673 71507 64716	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey	in service
508126	N/A	71551		64674 71508 64717	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey	in service
508127	N/A	71552		64675 71509 64718	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey	in service
508128	N/A	71553		64676 71510 64719	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey	in service
508129	508210	71554		64677 71515 64720		Scrapped
508130	N/A	71556		64678 71512 64721	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey	in service
508131	N/A	71557		64679 71513 64722	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey	in service
508132	508211	71558		64680 71514 64723		Scrapped
508133	508212	71559		64681 71511 64724	Connex yellow & white	Scrapped	At Fire Services College, Moreton in Marsh
508134	N/A	71560		64682 71516 64725		Scrapped	Scrapped 2020
508135	508302	71561		64683 71517 64726		Scrapped
508136	N/A	71562	Wilfred Owen MC	64684 71518 64727	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey	in service
508137	N/A	71563		64685 71519 64728	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey	in service
508138	N/A	71564		64686 71520 64729	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey	in service
508139	N/A	71565		64687 71521 64730	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey	in service
508140	N/A	71566		64688 71522 64731	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey	in service
508141	N/A	71567		64689 71523 64732	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey	in service
508142	508303	71568		64690 71524 64733		Scrapped
508143	N/A	71569		64691 71525 64734	Merseyrail Yellow and Grey	in service

Photo Locations

Before heading to Merseyside and Southport, I read and looked at the photographs in Martyn Hilbert's excellent book 'Merseyrail Electrics' I decided to try out a few of the locations and stations seen in the book.

Southport Area

Southport		Wearing an advertising livery for Liverpool Hope University, 507002 is waiting to lead 508127 out of Southport with 2U24 13.27 service to Hunts Cross 28.6.21
Birkdale		Merseyrail liveried 507024+'The Beatles Story' advert liveried 508111 departs Birkdale with 2S19 12.16 Hunts Cross - Southport service 28.6.21
Hillside Station Bridge		Merseyrail liveried 507023+508122 depart Hillside with 2S17 11.36 Hunts Cross - Southport service 28.6.21
Hillside		507012+507008 depart Hillside with 2U21 12.27 Southport - Hunts Cross service 28.6.21
Ainsdale		Merseyrail liveried 508114+507019 depart Ainsdale with 2S16 11.16 Hunts Cross - Southport service 28.6.21
Ainsdale Station Footbridge		507027+507001 approach Ainsdale with 2U20 12.07 Southport - Hunts Cross service 28.6.21
Ainsdale Station Footbridge		Old v New at Ainsdale as 507002 depart with 508128 heading north with 2S29 15.36 Hunts Cross - Southport service, while 777010 approaches with 5U06 16.22 Southport - Sandhills training run 19.7.21
Ainsdale Station Level Crossing		507027+507001 pause at Ainsdale with 2U20 12.07 Southport - Hunts Cross service 28.6.21

Ormskirk

Ormskirk is about 8 miles and a 20 minute drive from Southport. Ormskirk looks like quite a nice market town and has a one platformed station split in 2, with the northern portion being for the hourly DMU to Preston and the southern portion being the 3rd rail Merseyrail platform. The platform is ample for a 3 car unit but is very tight for a 6 car, making photoing impossible from the southern end of the platform or the road bridge when a 6 car unit is in the platform.

Station Platform		Merseyrail liveried 508103 awaits departure from Ormskirk with 2G45 14.08 service to Liverpool Central 28.6.21
Station Platform		Merseyrail liveried 508124 awaits departure from Ormskirk with 2G46 14.28 service to Liverpool Central 28.6.21
Road Bridge		Merseyrail liveried 508103 awaits departure from Ormskirk with 2G45 14.08 service to Liverpool Central 28.6.21

Kirkdale and Kirkdale TMD

From Bridge		Accident damaged 507006 is seen at Kirkdale TMD awaiting scrapping. 19.7.21
Station		508103 arrives with 2O21 13.00 Liverpool Central - Ormskirk while 508130 pauses at Kirkdale with 2G82 12.58 Kirkby - Liverpool Central service 19.7.21
View to North of Station		508103 departs Kirkdale with 2O21 13.00 Liverpool Central - Ormskirk 19.7.21
View of TMD		777001,002, 012, 004 and 006 are seen stabled at Kirkdale TMD 19.7.21

Birkenhead North and TMD

Roadbridge to North of Station		TfW liveried 230008 is seen stabled in the yard at Birkenhead North TMD 19.7.21
Platform 3		507020 pauses at Birkenhead North with 2N18 11.36 New Brighton - New Brighton via Central Liverpool service while 507014 awaits departure with 2W18 11.59 West Kirby - West Kirby via Central Liverpool 19.7.21
From Footbridge looking north		507029 prepares to depart Birkenhead North with 2W17 11.38 West Kirby - West Kirby via Central Liverpool 21.7.21
From footbridge looking south		508139 pauses at Birkenhead North with 2W19 12.19 West Kirby - West Kirby via Central Liverpool service 19.7.21

Emergency Services Training Centre

From Public Road

Heavily vandalised All over yellow with white doors liveried vehicle 64649 from 508201 and 64712 from 508209 are seen at the Emergency Services Training Centre in Birkenhead 19.7.21 (Photo taken from a public road)

Midland Pullman HST at Kilmarnock 26.6.21

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 04 Jul 2021 21:44:36 GMT

Midland Pullman liveried 43046 'Jeff Drury 1930 - 1999' top and tailed with 43055 and 9 matching Mark 3's arrive at Kilmarnock with 1Z43 Ayr - York LSL Charter 26.6.21
Midland Pullman liveried 43046 'Jeff Drury 1930 - 1999' top and tailed with 43055 and 9 matching Mark 3's arrive at Kilmarnock with 1Z43 Ayr - York LSL Charter 26.6.21
Midland Pullman liveried 43046 'Jeff Drury 1930 - 1999' top and tailed with 43055 and 9 matching Mark 3's pause at Kilmarnock with 1Z43 Ayr - York LSL Charter 26.6.21
Midland Pullman liveried 43046 'Jeff Drury 1930 - 1999' top and tailed with 43055 and 9 matching Mark 3's depart Kilmarnock with 1Z43 Ayr - York LSL Charter 26.6.21

Flying Scotsman at Dalmeny 25.6.21

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 04 Jul 2021 21:36:25 GMT

British Railways Green liveried LNER A3 class 60103 'Flying Scotsman' passes through Dalmeny with 1Z76 Dunfermilne Town - Edinburgh Waverley 'Steam Dreams' Forth Circle Railtour 25.6.21

Pride liveried 334006 at Blackridge 21.6.21

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 04 Jul 2021 21:33:29 GMT

Scotrail Saltire liveried 334006 with one of it's DMS vehicles wearing Pride livery and Scotrail Saltire liveried 334040 approach Blackridge with 2M32 16.23 Milngavie - Edinburgh Waverley service 21.6.21

Scotrail Class 153's at Dalmuir 20.6.21

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 04 Jul 2021 21:29:12 GMT

Some of the newest additions to the Scotrail fleet, 'Active travel carriage' 153380, 153377 and 153373 featuring vynals depicting many landmarks found on the West Highland Line. 153380 is seen on the rear of a 5 car formation made up of 153373, 153377 and led by 156462 at Dalmuir working 3T91 14.35 Oban - Glasgow Queen Street test working. 20.6.21

Progress at Uddingston 18.6.21

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 04 Jul 2021 21:13:25 GMT

Pride liveried Avanti West Coast Pendolino 390119 'Progress' is seen passing Uddingston with 1M15 14.34 Glasgow Central - London Euston service 18.6.21
Pride liveried Avanti West Coast Pendolino 390119 'Progress' is seen passing Uddingston with 1M15 14.34 Glasgow Central - London Euston service 18.6.21

BR Green 37521+37667 at Carluke 12.6.21

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 04 Jul 2021 21:07:48 GMT

British Railways Green liveried 37521+37667 pass through Carluke with 1Z18 Oban - Crewe 'The Haggis Peaks and Tractors' Railtour 12.6.21

44871 at Carstairs 12.6.21

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 04 Jul 2021 21:02:34 GMT

Black 5 no 44871 and support coach are seen waiting out time in the Down Goods Loop at Carstairs with 5Z72 Carlisle - Fort William 12.6.21

314209 at Bo'ness 11.6.21

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 04 Jul 2021 20:59:18 GMT

Vehicle 71458 (PTSO) from 314209 is seen stabled in the yard at Bo'ness (photo taken from public path) 12.6.21
DMSO 64599 and PTSO 71458 from 314209 are seen in the yard at Bo'ness (photo taken from public footpath) 11.6.21
DMSO 64599 and PTSO 71458 from 314209 are seen in the yard at Bo'ness (photo taken from public footpath) 11.6.21

66771 at Carluke 5.6.21

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 04 Jul 2021 20:52:02 GMT

GBRF liveried 66771 'Amanda' is seen approaching Carluke with 6E05 Mossend - Hunslet Tilcon GBRF coal hoppers 5.6.21

37099 at Newton 31.5.21

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 04 Jul 2021 20:30:20 GMT

Colas liveried 37099 'Merl Evans 1947-2016' reverses at Newton with 3Q62 Falkland Yard - Kings Park Network rail test train. DBSO 9714 is on the other end of the train 31.5.21

ex LNER power cars on the NMT 24.5.21

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 04 Jul 2021 20:26:14 GMT

Wearing LNER livery with Network Rail decals, 43299 and 43290 top and tail the Network Rail New Measurement Train northbound through Prestonpans with 1Q24 Heaton - Newcastle via Glasgow Queen Street working 24.5.21
Wearing LNER livery with Network Rail decals, 43299 and 43290 top and tail the Network Rail New Measurement Train northbound through Prestonpans with 1Q24 Heaton - Newcastle via Glasgow Queen Street working 24.5.21
Wearing LNER livery with Network Rail decals, 43290 and 43299 top and tail the Network Rail New Measurement Train eastbound through Polmont with 1Q24 Heaton - Newcastle via Glasgow Queen Street working 24.5.21
Wearing LNER livery with Network Rail decals, 43290 and 43299 top and tail the Network Rail New Measurement Train eastbound through Polmont with 1Q24 Heaton - Newcastle via Glasgow Queen Street working 24.5.21 Slideshow

37219 tnt 37116 at Cartland 18.5.21

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 03 Jul 2021 22:26:46 GMT

Colas liveried 37219 and 37116 top and tail the Network Rail PLPR Test train through Cartland with 1Q80 Mossend - Mossend via Carstairs working 18.5.21

37703 at Bo'ness 14.5.21

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 03 Jul 2021 22:24:00 GMT

BR Blue liveried 37703 heads along the foreshore at Bo'ness having collected 5x Mark 1's from Manuel. The Mark 1's were being returned from Carnforth having been fitted with toilet retention tanks/ 14.5.21

47802+37516 at Polmont 14.5.21

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 03 Jul 2021 22:21:49 GMT

47802 with 37516 dead in tow (having failed enroute and being rescued by 47802) and five Mark 1's approaches Polmont with 5Z37 Carnforth - Bo'ness Exchange Siding ECS working 14.5.21

Evening Star at Carstairs 6.5.21

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 03 Jul 2021 22:17:09 GMT

GBRF's BR Green liveried 66779 'Evening Star' is seen departing the Up Goods Loop at Carstairs with 4M01 Mossend - Carlisle Yard Cement working 6.5.21

57312 at Dalmeny 4.5.21

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 03 Jul 2021 22:12:59 GMT

Rail Operations Group's 57312 with barrier coaches 6340 & 6330 pass through Dalmeny with 5M57 Dundee - Derby RTC working 4.5.21

66705 at Carstairs 20.4.21

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 03 Jul 2021 22:06:51 GMT

GBRF liveried 66705 'Golden Jubilee' waits in the Down Goods Loop at Carstairs with a mixture of Chiltern and Anglia Mark 3's in tow whilst working 5S59 Long Marston - Mossend ECS working 20.4.21. The Mark 3's will be taken in two rakes to EG Steele's yard in Hamilton the following day

Progress at Carstairs 12.4.21

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 03 Jul 2021 22:01:55 GMT

Pride Liveried 390119 'Progress' accelerates away from Carstairs South Junction with 9M86 14.53 Edinburgh Waverley - London Euston service 12.4.21

'Chinook' at Carluke 6.4.21

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 03 Jul 2021 21:58:45 GMT

GBRF's 66723 'Chinook' passes through Carluke with 4M01 Mossend - Carlisle 'Castle Cement' working 6.4.21

'Progress' at Carluke 5.4.21

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 03 Jul 2021 21:54:54 GMT

Pride Liveried 390119 'Progress' passes through Carluke with 1M12 11.33 Glasgow Central - London Euston 5.4.21

Sunny Cartland 3.4.21

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 03 Jul 2021 21:42:34 GMT

A sunny afternoon at Cartland 3.4.21

Scotrail Saltire liveried 385012+385033 pass through Cartland with 2B81 14.22 Lanark - Glasgow Central service 3.4.21
Avanti West Coast liveried 390148 passes through Cartland with 1S52 09.25 London Euston - Glasgow Central service 3.4.21
DRS liveried 68002 + 68005 pass through Cartland with 4S43 Daventry - Mossend container working 3.4.21
Scotrail Saltire liveried 385005+385025 pass through Cartland with 2B85 15.24 Lanark - Glasgow Central service 3.4.21
397008 passes through Cartland with 5D92 Carstairs to Glasgow Central training run 3.4.21

Carluke Containers 1.4.21

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 03 Jul 2021 21:31:40 GMT

Freightliner Orange liveried 90044 + Freightliner Green liveried 90043 pass through Carluke with 4L89 Coatbridge F.L.T - Felixstowe North F.L.T. containers 1.4.21

Hartwood 31.3.21

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 03 Jul 2021 21:25:22 GMT

My first time out taking photographs since 2nd January saw me catch a passenger and a freight working:

66039 passes through Hartwood with 4E99 Grangemouth - Tees Dock Containers 31.3.21
Scotrail Saltire liveried 385020 pauses at Hartwood with 2Y49 16.26 Edinburgh Waverley - Glasgow Central 31.3.21

66's at Carluke 2.1.21

(Scottish Trains Website) — Wed, 27 Jan 2021 23:10:50 GMT

66114	DB Schenker liveried 66114 passes through Carluke with 4M30 Grangemouth - Daventry containers 2.1.21
66421+66738	DRS liveried 66421 + GBRF liveried 66738 pass through Carluke with 6K53 Cathcart East Junction - Carlisle Yard engineering working 2.1.21

Cartland snow 29.12.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Wed, 27 Jan 2021 23:06:02 GMT

390011	Avanti West Coast liveried 390011 passes Cartland (between Carluke and Lanark Junction) with 1M13 12.40 Glasgow Central - London Euston service 29.12.20
385025+385038	Scotrail Saltire liveried 385025+385038 are seen passing Cartland (between Carluke and Lanark Junction) with 5B76 ECS working from Glasgow Central - Lanark 29.12.20
66765	GBRF liveried 66765 passes Cartland (between Carluke and Lanark Junction) with 6K34 Cowlairs East Junction - Carlisle Yard engineering working 29.12.20
385044	Scotrail Saltire liveried 385044 passes Cartland with 2B77 13.19 Lanark - Glasgow Central service 29.12.20
88005	DRS 'Compass' liveried 88005 passes Cartland (between Lanark Junction and Carluke) with 4S43 Daventry - Mossend Container working 29.12.20

88005 at Carluke 28.12.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Wed, 27 Jan 2021 22:55:56 GMT

DRS liveried 88005 is seen from the Bushelhead Road bridge outside Carluke with 4S43 Daventry - Mossend container working 28.12.20 https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p289014899/ef42b5659

66006 at Carstairs 23.12.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Wed, 27 Jan 2021 22:53:28 GMT

EWS liveried 66006 approaches Carstairs South Junction with 6S50 Carlisle Yard - Millerhill departmental working 23.12.20 https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p289014899/ef4022917

Intercity liveried 90002 at Carluke and Cartland 12.12.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Wed, 27 Jan 2021 22:51:26 GMT

90002	Intercity liveried 90002 with matching Mark 3's and DVT pass through Cartland with 1Z90 London Euston - Glasgow Central Locomotive Services Limited Royal Scot tour 12.12.20
90002	In a scene that could easily be from the late 1980's / early-mid 90's Intercity liveried DVT 82139 is seen leading a set of Mark 3's with 90002 pushing on the rear through Carluke with 1Z91 Glasgow Central - Carlisle Locomotive Services Limited's Royal Scot railtour 12.12.20
90002	In a scene that could easily be from the late 1980's / early-mid 90's Intercity liveried 90002 is seen pushing a set of Mark 3's with 82136 leading as they pass through Carluke with 1Z91 Glasgow Central - Carlisle Locomotive Services Limited's Royal Scot railtour 12.12.20

66102 at Carluke 14.11.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Wed, 27 Jan 2021 22:41:54 GMT

EWS liveried 66102 is seen approaching Carluke with 4M30 Grangemouth - Daventry container working 14.11.20 https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p175132471/ef182db78

67012 at Holytown 14.11.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Wed, 27 Jan 2021 22:39:34 GMT

An extremely dirty Debranded Wrexham and Shropshire liveried 67012 top and tailed with an equally manky EWS liveried 67020 pass through Holytown with 3S93 Stirling - Slateford RHTT working 14.11.20 https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p175132471/ef182db81

Edinburgh Trams 13.11.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Wed, 27 Jan 2021 22:37:08 GMT

257	The latest Edinburgh tram to receive a new advert livery is 257, which is seen arriving at Ingliston Park and Ride on an Airport - York Place service wearing an advert from the Ray Harryhausen 'Titan of Cinema' exhibition at the National Galleries of Scotland 13.11.20
257	The latest Edinburgh tram to receive a new advert livery is 257, which is seen arriving at Ingliston Park and Ride on an Airport - York Place service wearing an advert from the Ray Harryhausen 'Titan of Cinema' exhibition at the National Galleries of Scotland 13.11.20
257	The latest Edinburgh tram to receive a new advert livery is 257, which is seen arriving at Ingliston Park and Ride on an Airport - York Place service wearing an advert from the Ray Harryhausen 'Titan of Cinema' exhibition at the National Galleries of Scotland 13.11.20
257	The latest Edinburgh tram to receive a new advert livery is 257, which is seen arriving at Ingliston Park and Ride on an Airport - York Place service wearing an advert from the Ray Harryhausen 'Titan of Cinema' exhibition at the National Galleries of Scotland 13.11.20
257	The latest Edinburgh tram to receive a new advert livery is 257, which is seen arriving at Ingliston Park and Ride on a York Place - Airport service wearing an advert from the Ray Harryhausen 'Titan of Cinema' exhibition at the National Galleries of Scotland 13.11.20
272	Edinburgh's CAF Urbos 272, wearing an advert for John Lewis, pauses at Ingliston Park and Ride with a service from Airport - York Place 13.11.20

Greenfaulds sunset 6.11.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Wed, 27 Jan 2021 22:23:19 GMT

385103	With the sunset in the background, 385103 arrives at Greenfaulds with 2J50 16.25 Glasgow Central - Edinburgh Waverley via Cumbernauld service 6.11.20
385106	385106 is seen arriving at Greenfaulds with 2J97 16.03 Edinburgh Waverley - Glasgow Queen Street via Cumbernauld service 6.11.20
320414	320414 pauses at Greenfaulds with 2C06 15.40 Milngavie - Cumbernauld service 6.11.20
385032	385032 pauses at Cumbernauld with 2J52 16.55 service from Glasgow Central - Edinburgh Waverley 6.11.20

Edinburgh Tram 277 at Edinburgh Park Central 6.11.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 25 Jan 2021 23:17:19 GMT

With construction work underway for a new office block in the background, Edinburgh's CAF Urbos 3 no 277 departs Edinburgh Park Central with a York Place - Airport service 6.11.20 https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p668072304/ef0fff116

37219 tnt 37116 at Carstairs 3.11.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 25 Jan 2021 23:14:10 GMT

37219 top and tailed with 37116 are seen Carstairs with 1Q80 Mossend - Mossend via Carstairs Network Rail PLPR service 3.11.20 https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p175132471/ef0cc3e0f

334014 at Partick 3.11.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 25 Jan 2021 23:10:45 GMT

334014 is seen having departed Partick and heading towards Charing Cross with 2V52 13.26 Dunbarton Central - Springburn service 3.11.20 https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p175132471/ef0cc3e22

320418+320303 near Partick 3.11.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 25 Jan 2021 23:07:11 GMT

Scotrail Saltire liveried 320418+320303 approach Partick with 2E55 13.16 service from Airdrie - Balloch 3.11.20 https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p175132471/ef0cc3e10

43181 tnt 43015 at Dalmeny 30.10.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 25 Jan 2021 23:00:02 GMT

Wearing masks on the cab end to promote the wearing of face masks on all Stations and services, HST powercars 43181 and 43015 (without mask) top and tail a set of Mark 3's as they approach Dalmeny with 1B32 13.12 Montrose - Edinburgh Waverley service 30.10.20 https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p337211789/ef089a423

Weymss Bay 16.10.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 25 Jan 2021 22:56:10 GMT

385007	Scotrail Saltire liveried 385007 prepares to depart from Wemyss Bay with 1W24 14.57 service to Glasgow Central 16.10.20
385007	Scotrail Saltire liveried 385007 prepares to depart from Wemyss Bay with 1W24 14.57 service to Glasgow Central 16.10.20
Wemyss Bay	The interior of the stunning 1903 built Wemyss Bay station 16.10.20
Wemyss Bay	The interior of the stunning 1903 built Wemyss Bay station 16.10.20
Wemyss Bay	The platform canopy of the stunning 1903 built Wemyss Bay station 16.10.20

156508 at Stranraer 13.10.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 25 Jan 2021 22:46:24 GMT

Scotrail Saltire liveried 156508 departs Stranraer with 1A67 13.04 service to Kilmarnock 13.10.20 https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p337211789/eef4a4431

British Railways Green class 37's at Carluke 27.9.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 24 Jan 2021 00:04:22 GMT

British Railways Green liveried D6817 (37521)+D6851 (37667) approach Carluke with 1Z44 Perth - North Road Locomotive Services Limited private charter 27.9.20

Locomotive Services Limited at Carstairs 25.9.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 24 Jan 2021 00:02:04 GMT

D6817+D6851	British Railways Green liveried D6817 (37521)+D6851 (37667) approach Carstairs with 0Z39 Carlisle High Wapping sidings - Mossend light engine move 25.9.20
D6817+D6851	British Railways Green liveried D6817 (37521)+D6851 (37667) pause on the Down Main Line at Carstairs with 0Z39 Carlisle High Wapping sidings - Mossend light engine move 25.9.20
90001	Locomotive services Limited's Intercity liveried 90001 approaches Carstairs with 1Z40 London Euston - Mossend private charter 25.9.20
90001	A close up of Intercity liveried 90001 'Royal Scot' 25.9.20
90001	Locomotive services Limited's Intercity liveried 90001 approaches Carstairs with 1Z40 London Euston - Mossend private charter 25.9.20	https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p704210871/eee1e6f79

A couple of hours at Prestonpans 22.9.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 23 Jan 2021 23:49:47 GMT

385045+385021	Scotrail Saltire liveried 385045+385021 pause at Prestonpans with 2Y09 10.30 North Berwick - Edinburgh Waverley 22.9.20
66164	66164 is seen approaching Prestonpans with Prestonpans with 4E96 Mossend - Tees Dock container working 22.9.20
385004+385039	Scotrail Saltire liveried 385004+385039 arrive at Prestonpans with 2Y10 10.42 Edinburgh Waverley - North Berwick 22.9.20
801220	LNER Azuma 801220 approaches Prestonpans with 1E12 11.01 Edinburgh Waverley - London Kings Cross 22.9.20
380111	380111 rushes through Prestonpans with 2D86 11.02 Dunbar - Edinburgh Waverley service 22.9.20
802205	TPE Class 802 802205 approaches Prestonpans with 5M11 Craigentinny - Newcastle ECS move 22.9.20
56302	Colas liveried 56302 6S31 Doncaster - Millerhill engineers working 22.9.20
801228	LNER Azuma 801228 passes through Prestonpans 1S06 7.30 London Kings Cross - Edinburgh Waverley service 22.9.20
43143+43142	Scotrail powercars 43143+43142 approach Prestonpans with a Haymarket - Doncaster Power car move 22.9.20

66747 at Holytown 21.9.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Wed, 20 Jan 2021 23:15:09 GMT

GBRF's Newell and Wright liveried 66747 'Made in Sheffield' passes through Holytown with 6S05 Arcow Quarry - Mossend PD Stirling stone working 21.9.20 https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p704210871/eeddc4dfe

44871 at Carstairs 21.9.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Wed, 20 Jan 2021 23:12:59 GMT

Black 5 no 44871 is seen waiting in the Down Goods Loop at Carstairs with 5Z46 Carnforth - Fort William working 21.9.20 https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p704210871/eeddc4a26

67020 tnt 67012 at Holytown 18.9.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Wed, 20 Jan 2021 23:09:11 GMT

EWS liveried 67020 top and tailed with debranded Wrexham and Shropshire liveried 67012 pass through Holytown with 3S93 Shettleston Loop - Slateford RHTT working 18.9.20 https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p704210871/eedaf3e61

47712 tnt 40145 at Appleby 12.9.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Wed, 20 Jan 2021 23:05:41 GMT

47712 tnt 40145	Scotrail liveried 47712 top and tailed with BR blue liveried 40145 arrive into Appleby on the final day of the 'Staycation Express' working 1Z43 12.18 Skipton - Appleby 12.9.20
40145	BR blue liveried 40145 is seen on the rear of the 'Staycation Express' at Appleby 12.9.20
D6817, D8107 and 40145	British Railways liveried D6817 (37667) and D8107 (20107) are seen in Appleby North sidings, 20107 is being shunted up to couple onto 37667. BR Blue liveried 40145 is waiting to leave with the next 'Staycation Express' 12.9.20
40145 tnt 47712	BR Blue liveried 40145 top and tailed with Scotrail liveried 47712 'Lady Diana Spencer' passes Kirkby Stephen with the final day of the 'Staycation Express' 1Z44 14.38 Appleby - Skipton passenger working 12.9.20
40145 tnt 47712	BR Blue liveried 40145 top and tailed with Scotrail liveried 47712 'Lady Diana Spencer' passes Kirkby Stephen with the final day of the 'Staycation Express' 1Z44 14.38 Appleby - Skipton passenger working 12.9.20

Tornado at Kirtlebridge 12.9.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Wed, 20 Jan 2021 22:44:17 GMT

A1 Peppercorn class 60163 'Tornado' passes Kirtlebridge with 1Z62 12.11 Carlisle - Edinburgh Waverley 'The Queen of Scots' tour 12.9.20 https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p704210871/eed51ae9c

37421 and Caroline at 11.9.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 17 Jan 2021 23:00:12 GMT

37421+Caroline	Former Southern General Manager's Inspection Saloon 975025 'Caroline' is seen being pushed through Gartcosh by Colas liveried 37421 with 5Z22 Fort William Yard - Mossend 11.9.20
37421+Caroline	Former Southern General Manager's Inspection Saloon 975025 'Caroline' is seen being pushed through Gartcosh by Colas liveried 37421 with 5Z22 Fort William Yard - Mossend 11.9.20

66302 at Coatbridge Central 9.9.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 17 Jan 2021 22:53:48 GMT

DRS liveried 66302 passes through Coatbridge Central with 4D47 66302 Inverness - Mossend Containers 9.9.20

Carstairs Freight 8.9.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 17 Jan 2021 22:50:20 GMT

325001+325005	Royal Mail EMU's 325001+325005 approach Carstairs with 1M03 Shieldmuir - Warrington working 8.9.20
66746	Royal Scotsman liveried 66746 approaches Carstairs with 6K73 Polmont - Carlisle Yard engineering move 8.9.20
66069	66069 approaches Carstairs with 6O15 Mossend - Dagenham empty car transporters 8.9.20
320414	320314 departs Carstairs with 5C05 18.11 ECS move to Yoker 8.9.20
88005	DRS liveried 88005 waits in the Down Goods Loop at Carstairs with the early running 4S44 Daventry - Mossend container working 8.9.20
88005	DRS liveried 88005 waits in the Down Goods Loop at Carstairs with the early running 4S44 Daventry - Mossend container working 8.9.20
90007+90042	Debranded Anglia liveried 90007+Freightliner liveried 90042 pass through Carstairs with 4M11 Coatbridge Freightliner - Crewe Basford Hall 8.9.20

66773 at Carluke 5.9.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 17 Jan 2021 22:34:06 GMT

GBRF liveried 66773 'Pride of GB Railfreight' with Rainbow coloured GBRF lettering, passes through Carluke with 4M01 Mossend - Carlisle Yard Cement working 5.9.20

37423 tnt 37402 at Greenfaulds 5.9.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 17 Jan 2021 22:31:33 GMT

37423 tnt 37402	DRS liveried 37423 top and tailed with BR Large Logo liveried 37402 approach Greenfaulds with 1Q77 Mossend - Inverness Milburn Network Rail PLPR test train 5.9.20
37423 tnt 37402	DRS liveried 37423 top and tailed with BR Large Logo liveried 37402 approach Greenfaulds with 1Q77 Mossend - Inverness Milburn Network Rail PLPR test train 5.9.20

PD Ports 66109 at Coatbridge Central 4.9.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 17 Jan 2021 22:23:14 GMT

PD Ports liveried 66109 passes through Coatbridge Central with 4E99 Grangemouth - Tees Dock Containers 4.9.20

90045+90049 at Coatbridge Central 4.9.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 17 Jan 2021 22:18:42 GMT

90045+90049 pass Coatbridge Central with 0M11 Mossend - Coatbridge Freightliner depot light engine move 4.9.20

390119 in Pride livery 2.9.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 17 Jan 2021 22:12:56 GMT

390119	Pride liveried Avanti West Coast Pendolino 390119 is seen approaching Carstairs with 1S69 13.10 London Euston - Glasgow Central service 2.9.20
390119	Pride liveried Avanti West Coast Pendolino 390119 is seen approaching Carstairs with 1S69 13.10 London Euston - Glasgow Central service 2.9.20
390119	Pride liveried Avanti West Coast Pendolino 390119 is seen approaching Carstairs with 1S69 13.10 London Euston - Glasgow Central service 2.9.20

ex Anglia branded class 90's at Whifflet 1.9.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 17 Jan 2021 16:59:32 GMT

Following the replacement of the class 90's and mark 3 sets by class 745 and class 755 FLIRT units in East Anglia, a number of their redundant class 90's moved to Frieghtliner to replace some of the elderly class 86 locomotives on their intermodal container train workings. The class 90's are no stranger to the Lanarkshire / Glasgow area however as they were often seen in this area when they were with the BR Intercity and later the Virgin West Coast franchise and often worked on the Glasgow - London WCML workings.

Here are two of the class 90's 90010+90006 on one of their early working for Freightliner passing through Whifflet

90010+90006	Debranded Anglia liveried 90010+90006 pass through Whifflet with 0L89 Mossend - Coatbridge Freightliner light engine move 1.9.20
90010+90006	Debranded Anglia liveried 90010+90006 pass through Whifflet with 0L89 Mossend - Coatbridge Freightliner light engine move 1.9.20

EVR Warcrop 22.8.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 17 Jan 2021 00:08:29 GMT

4CEP 2315	4CEP 2315 (61798+70357+70229+61799) in faded South West Trains livery is seen stabled at Warcrop on the Eden Valley Railway (photo taken from a public path) 22.8.20
4CEP 2315	4CEP 2315 (61798+70357+70229+61799) in faded South West Trains livery is seen stabled at Warcrop on the Eden Valley Railway (photo taken from a public path) 22.8.20
4CEP 2315	4CEP 2315 (61798+70357+70229+61799) in faded South West Trains livery is seen stabled at Warcrop on the Eden Valley Railway. Sister unit 2311 (61804+70607+70539+61805) is seen behind (photo taken from a public path) 22.8.20
37042	EWS liveried 37042 is seen stabled at Warcrop. 22.8.20

Scotrail liveried 47712 at Appleby and Kirby Stephen 22.8.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 16 Jan 2021 23:57:02 GMT

47712 tnt D6817	Scotrail liveried 47712 'Lady Diana Spencer' top and tailed with BR Green liveried D6817 (37521) arrives into Appleby with 1Z43 12.18 Skipton - Appleby Locomotive Services Limited passenger working 22.8.20
47712 tnt D6817	Scotrail liveried 47712 'Lady Diana Spencer' is seen at the front of 5Z44 Appleby - Appleby ECS working 22.8.20
47712 tnt D6817	Scotrail liveried 47712 'Lady Diana Spencer' top and tailed with BR Green liveried D6817 (37521) depart Appleby with 5Z44 Appleby - Appleby ECS working 22.8.20
D6817 tnt 47712	BR Green liveried D6817 (37521) top and tailed with Scotrail liveried 47712 'Lady Diana Spencer' passes Kirkby Stephen with 1Z44 14.38 Appleby - Skipton Locomotive Services Limited passenger working 22.8.20
D6817 tnt 47712	BR Green liveried D6817 (37521) top and tailed with Scotrail liveried 47712 'Lady Diana Spencer' passes Kirkby Stephen with 1Z44 14.38 Appleby - Skipton Locomotive Services Limited passenger working 22.8.20

56103 and railvac at Carstairs 10.8.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 16 Jan 2021 23:37:04 GMT

56103	DC Rail Freight liveried 56103 is seen hauling the RAUK3 RailVac from one of the sidings at Carstairs Civil Engineers sidings before running round to haul the RailVac as 6X56 to Carlisle 10.8.20
56103	DC Rail Freight liveried 56103 is seen hauling the RAUK3 RailVac from one of the sidings at Carstairs Civil Engineers sidings before running round to haul the RailVac as 6X56 to Carlisle 10.8.20
RAUK-3	RAUK-3 Railvac at Carstairs 10.8.20
56103	As part of the move to collect the RailVac from Carstairs Civil Engineers sidings, 56103 is seen passing through Carstairs station as it runs round the RailVac 10.8.20
56103	DC Rail Freight liveried 56103 is seen at the entry point to Carstairs Civil Engineers sidings with RailVac RAUK-3 before they reverse back into the Up Passing Loop prior to heading south as 6X56 to Carlisle 10.8.20

Class 153's at Kilmarnock 4.8.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 16 Jan 2021 23:18:53 GMT

153373	Having recently arrived, GWR Green liveried 153373 + 153380 are seen stabled in the yard at Kilmarnock Bonnyton awaiting refurbishment for use with Scotrail alongside class 156's on the West Highland Line 4.8.20
153380	Having recently arrived, GWR Green liveried 153373 + 153380 are seen stabled in the yard at Kilmarnock Bonnyton awaiting refurbishment for use with Scotrail alongside class 156's on the West Highland Line 4.8.20 (photo taken through the fence)

Torrential Rain at Lenzie 4.8.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 16 Jan 2021 23:12:55 GMT

43032+43134	Scotrail 7 cities liveried 43032 and 43134 top and tail a set of Mark 3's through a very wet Lenzie with 1A67 13.39 Glasgow Queen Street - Aberdeen service 4.8.20
43032+43134	Scotrail 7 cities liveried 43032 and 43134 top and tail a set of Mark 3's through a very wet Lenzie with 1A67 13.39 Glasgow Queen Street - Aberdeen service 4.8.20
385006+385002	In the pouring rain, Scotrail Saltire liveried 385006+385002 arrive at Lenzie with 2N46 13.13 Alloa - Glasgow Queen Street service 4.8.20
385006+385002	In the pouring rain, Scotrail Saltire liveried 385006+385002 arrive at Lenzie with 2N46 13.13 Alloa - Glasgow Queen Street service 4.8.20

Convoy at Crawford 4.8.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 16 Jan 2021 17:34:14 GMT

A southbound convoy of 37038+37424+57311 and DBSO 9710 approach Crawford with 5Z37 Bo'ness Ground frame - Carlisle Kingmoor 4.8.20 https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p817242251/eeb4b5162

Arrochar and Tarbet Sightings 1.8-3.8.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 16 Jan 2021 17:31:20 GMT

A weekend away by the side of Loch Long just south of Arrochar and Tarbet on the West Highland Line and a great view of the passing trains saw a few interesting sightings!

156493+156499	Scotrail liveried 156493+156499 approach Arrochar and Tarbet with 1Y22 8.57 Oban - Glasgow Queen Street service 1.8.20
156493+156499	Scotrail liveried 156493+156499 pause at Arrochar and Tarbet with 1Y22 8.57 Oban - Glasgow Queen Street service 1.8.20
156445+156457	Scotrail Saltire liveried 156445+156457 heads along the hillside on the shore of Loch Long having departed Arrochar and Tarbet with 1Y44 11.40 Fort William and Oban - Glasgow Queen Street service 1.8.20
47245	West Coast liveried 47245 heads along the hillside above Loch Long on the approach to Arrochar and Tarbert with 0Z47 Mossend - Fort William Yard light engine move 1.8.20
156499	Scotrail Saltire liveried 156499 heads along the hillside above Loch Long shortly after departing Arrochar and Tarbet with 1Y26 16.11 Oban - Glasgow Queen Street service 2.8.20
73968+73969	Caledonian Sleeper 73968+73969 double head the northbound Caledonian Sleeper along the hillside above Loch Long on the approach to Arrochar and Tarbert with 1Y11 4.46 Edinburgh Waverley - Fort William service 3.8.20

Pair of Colas tank workings 30.7.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 16 Jan 2021 17:09:18 GMT

An interesting spell at Greenfaulds on 30.7.20 saw two Colas class 70's on two seperate tank workings:

70803

Colas liveried 70803 passes through a drizzly Greenfaulds with 6S36 Dalston - Grangemouth oil tankers 30.7.20

https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p960637260/eeb0879d8

70813

Colas liveried 70813 approaches Greenfaulds with an early running 6S48 Workington Docks - Aberdeen Waterloo slurry tanks 30.7.20

https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p960637260/eeb0879dc

One liveried 66587 at Whifflet 30.7.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 16 Jan 2021 16:55:55 GMT

ONE pink and white liveried Freightliner class 66: 66587 'As one we can' is seen passing through Whifflet with 0Z95 Inverness - Mossend light engine move 30.7.20 https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p960637260/eeb0879da

43129 tnt 43145 at Dalmeny 25.7.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 26 Jul 2020 23:07:15 GMT

Wearing masks on the cab ends to promote the wearing of face masks on all Stations and services, HST powercars 43129 and 43145 top and tail Mark 3 set HA25 as they approach Dalmeny with 1B32 13.12 Aberdeen - Edinburgh Waverley service 25.7.20
Wearing masks on the cab ends to promote the wearing of face masks on all Stations and services, HST powercars 43129 and 43145 top and tail Mark 3 set HA25 as they approach Dalmeny with 1B32 13.12 Aberdeen - Edinburgh Waverley service 25.7.20

314209 at Yoker 24.7.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 26 Jul 2020 23:02:43 GMT

Seen from the Kelso St overbridge, the final remaining fully intact Class 314, 314209, is seen stabled in a siding at Yoker Depot

314209 is expected to be converted to operate from Hydrogen cells as a test bed for the future. 24.7.20

Unidentified 153 at Kilmarnock Bonnyton 24.7.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 26 Jul 2020 22:53:48 GMT

As work progresses with it's overhaul prior to use with Scotrail, an unidentified Class 153 is seen stabled in the yard at Kilmarnock Bonnyton depot 24.7.20

37521 tnt 47563 at Appleby 23.7.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 26 Jul 2020 22:51:51 GMT

BR Green liveried D6817 (37521) top and tailed with BR large logo liveried 47593 (47790) arrives into Appleby with 1Z43 12.18 Skipton - Appleby Locomotive Services Limited passenger working 23.7.20
BR large logo liveried 47593 (47790) is seen on the rear of 5Z44 Appleby - Appleby ECS working as it departs from Appleby. BR Green liveried D6817 (37521) is leading 23.7.20
BR large logo liveried 47593 (47790) is seen leading 5Z44 Appleby - Appleby ECS working into Appleby. BR Green liveried D6817 (37521) is leading 23.7.20

Pacers at Whitrope 23.7.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 26 Jul 2020 22:46:33 GMT

BR experimental railbus RB004 seen at the Waverley Route Heritage Association railway at Whitrope 23.7.20
Vehicle number 55560 from Pacer 142019 is seen stabled at the Waverley Route Heritage Association railway at Whitrope. A partially repainted 142020 is seen behind it. 23.7.20
A partially repainted 142020 is seen stabled at the Waverley Route Heritage Association railway at Whitrope. 23.7.20
BR Blue liveried 26040 (D6340) is seen at the Waverley Route Heritage Association railway at Whitrope. 23.7.20

DRS Convoy at Carstairs, Polmont and Manuel 17.4.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 19 Jul 2020 23:04:24 GMT

	A DRS convoy consisting of 37038+20302+20305+37424+37403 approaches Carstairs with 0Z20 Carlisle Kingmoor - Bo'ness light engine working
	A DRS convoy consisting of 37038+20302+20305+37424+37403 passes through Polmont with 0Z20 Carlisle Kingmoor - Bo'ness light engine working
	A DRS convoy consisting of 37038+20302+20305+37424+37403 passes through Polmont with 0Z20 Carlisle Kingmoor - Bo'ness light engine working
	A DRS convoy of 37403+37424+20305+20302+37038 are seen at Manuel before heading down to Bo'ness
	A DRS convoy consisting of 37038+20302+20305+37424+37403 wait at Manuel before heading down the line to Bo'ness

Scotrail HST's at Dalmeny 16.7.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 19 Jul 2020 22:57:49 GMT

	Scotrail liveried 43141 top and tailed with 43031 pass through Dalmeny with 1B32 13.12 Aberdeen - Edinburgh Waverley
	Scotrail liveried 43141 top and tailed with 43031 pass through Dalmeny with 1B32 13.12 Aberdeen - Edinburgh Waverley
	43026 top and tailed with 43035 pass through Dalmeny with 1A78 15.30 Edinburgh Waverley - Aberdeen service
	43026 top and tailed with 43035 pass through Dalmeny with 1A78 15.30 Edinburgh Waverley - Aberdeen service

37419 tnt 37402 at Lanark

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 19 Jul 2020 22:48:00 GMT

	Intercity liveried 37419 'Carl Haviland' top and tailed with BR Large Logo liveried 37402 'Stephen Middlemore' arrive at Lanark with 1Q80 Mossend - Mossend Network Rail PLPR test train 14.7.20
	BR Large Logo liveried 37402 'Stephen Middlemore' top and tailed with Intercity liveried 37419 'Carl Haviland' await departure from Lanark with 1Q80 Mossend - Mossend Network Rail PLPR test train

66623 and 334017 at Kilmarnock 14.7.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 19 Jul 2020 22:38:17 GMT

Wearing the new Freightliner livery, 66623 pauses at Kilmarnock with newly repaired class 334 no:334017 in tow along with 5 coal hoppers for brake force, whilst working 5Q34 Kilmarnock Bonnyton Depot - Sheilds EMU move 14.7.20

37402 tnt 37419 at Carstairs 10.7.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 19 Jul 2020 22:35:41 GMT

BR Large Logo liveried 37402 'Stephen Middlemore' top and tailed with Intercity liveried 37419 'Carl Haviland' approach Carstairs with 5Z75 Derby - Mossend Network Rail PLPR test train 10.7.20

47501 at Cumbernauld 8.7.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 19 Jul 2020 22:31:49 GMT

BR 2 toned Green liveried 47501 (D1944) 'Craftsman' approaches Cumbernauld with 0Z47 Inverness Motorrail Siding - Carlisle High Wapping siding light engine working

66718 and LNER Mark 3's 8.7.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 19 Jul 2020 22:30:04 GMT

	Metronet liveried 66718 'Sir Peter Hendy CBE' is seen hauling barrier vehicle 6394, debranded LNER liveried Mark 3's 42205 and 42210 and barrier vehicle 6393 through Kirknewton with 5Z43 Craignetinny - Bo'ness Ground Frame ECS movement
	Metronet liveried 66718 'Sir Peter Hendy CBE' is seen hauling barrier vehicle 6394, debranded LNER liveried Mark 3's 42205 and 42210 and barrier vehicle 6393 through Polmont with 5Z43 Craignetinny - Bo'ness Ground Frame ECS movement
	Metronet liveried 66718 'Sir Peter Hendy CBE' pushes barrier vehicle 6394, debranded LNER liveried 42205 and 42210 and barrier vehicle 6393 onto the Bo'ness and Kinneil Railway at Manuel
	37703 is seen shunting a Mark 1 and debranded LNER liveried Mark 3's 42205 and 42210 at Manuel
	37703 is seen shunting a Mark 1 and debranded LNER liveried Mark 3's 42205 and 42210 at Manuel 8.7.20

Holytown, Whifflet and Greenfaulds 7.7.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 19 Jul 2020 22:21:26 GMT

	BR 2 toned Green liveried 47501 (D1944) 'Craftsman' passes through Holytown with 0Z47 Carlisle High Wapping siding - Inverness Motorrail Siding light engine working
	Freightliner liveried 90043+90016 4S50 Crewe Basford Hall - Coatbridge Freightliner Terminal containers
	66433 passes through Whifflet with an unidentified light engine working
	Freightliner liveried 66623 heads north through Whifflet with an unidentified light engine working 7.7.20
	56302 passes through Greenfaulds with 6N47 Prestwick Airport - Grangemouth aviation tanks

Edinburgh Tram 262 at Ingliston Park and Ride 3.7.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 19 Jul 2020 22:11:09 GMT

With new vynal mask promoting mandatory wearing of face masks on board the trams, CAF Urbos 3 262 pauses at Ingliston Park and Ride with an Airport - York Place service 3.7.20

66777 at Holytown 3.7.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 18 Jul 2020 23:52:51 GMT

Seen passing through a wet and miserable Holytown, 66777 'Annette' heads west with 0S01 Tyne Dock - Mossend light engine move 3.7.20

Kirknewton 2.7.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 18 Jul 2020 23:50:49 GMT

A visit to Kirknewton for the first time:

	380106 pauses at Kirknewton with 2Y66 14.19 Glasgow Central - Edinburgh Waverley via Shotts service 2.7.20
	EWS liveried 66098 with DB branding passes through Kirknewton with 6S50 Carlisle Yard - Millerhill Departmental working 2.7.20
	385023+385040 pause at Kirknewton with 2Y67 15.26 Edinburgh Waverley - Glasgow Central via Shotts 2.7.20
	385023+385040 depart Kirknewton with 2Y67 15.26 Edinburgh Waverley - Glasgow Central via Shotts 2.7.20

57003+57011 at Manuel 2.7.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 18 Jul 2020 23:41:51 GMT

Having arrived at Manuel on the Bo'ness & Kinneil Railway from Carlisle, DRS liveried 57003+57011 with DBSO 9710 in tow, depart from Manuel heading to Bo'ness 2.7.20

An hour at Hartwood 1.7.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 18 Jul 2020 23:38:01 GMT

Heading home from work on 1st July 2020, I decided to pop into Hartwood for an hour to catch a couple of freight workings:

	Royal Scotsman liveried 66743 passes through Hartwood with 6E45 Fort William - North Blyth Alcans
	BR Blue with yellow ends liveried 37610 passes through Hartwood with 0F85 Slateford Depot - Falkland Yard route learning working 1.7.20
	Colas liveried 70805 passes through Hartwood with 6B34 Viewpark - Oxwellmains cement working

37610 on Route Learning duties at Holytown and Blantyre 30.6.20

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 18 Jul 2020 23:29:22 GMT

My first trip out to catch any workings since the start of lockdown coincided with BR Blue with yellow ends liveried 37610 out route learning duties. 37610 was seen as it passed through both Holytown and Blantyre with 0F85 Slateford Depot - Slateford Depot route learner on 30th June 2020.


37610 at Holytown	37610 at Blantyre

Class 126 at Bo'ness 28.12.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 30 Dec 2019 23:49:45 GMT

Making a rare appearance in service BR Green liveried Swindon built Class 126 (made up of vehicles 51017, 51043 and 59404) head along the foreshore at Bo'ness with the 12.45 service to Birkhill 28.12.19

LNER Farewell Staff Tour 28.12.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 30 Dec 2019 23:47:56 GMT

The stunning looking LNER HST set painted into original Intercity livery, is seen at Edinburgh Waverley for it's farewell staff charter to mark the end of use of the HST sets by LNER. 43112 (43312) is seen leading 43006 (43206) as they wait for departure with 1Z25 15.16 Fife Circle LNER staff tour 28.12.19

LNER HST Farewell at Edinburgh Waverley 19.12.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 20 Dec 2019 23:09:08 GMT

Beautifully repainted into original Intercity livery for it's farewell tour following the withdrawal of the LNER HST sets, 43112 (43312) and 43006 (43206) with a full rake of BR Blue and Grey Mark 3's are seen at Edinburgh Waverley where they awaits departure with 5Z47 ECS working to Craigentinny 19.12.19

Class 314 Farewell Tour 18.12.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 20 Dec 2019 22:59:13 GMT

314202 and 314205 operated the farewell tour around the area on Wednesday 18th December. Starting from Glasgow Central, the units headed out to Ayr, then returned back to Glasgow Central before heading to Carstairs and Cumbernauld. After returning to Glasgow Central via a reversal at Motherwell, both units headed out to Helensburgh Central and then returned to Glasgow Central low level where the tour ended. The units then headed off back to Shields before an impending trip to Yoker to await their final journey for scrapping.

Final Day of Service for the Class 314's 14.12.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 15 Dec 2019 09:15:13 GMT

Saturday 14th December was the final day in service for the class 314 initially saw only 314210 out in service (on xx.42 Paisley Canal workings) after 314216 failed with a faulty headlight prior to entering service, however it was soon repaired and entered service from the 12.12 service to Paisley Canal and worked all afternoon. Both units worked until the 17.05 (314210) and the 17.35 (314216) services from Paisley Canal. On their return to Glasgow Central, both units were coupled together and headed back to Corkerhill for the final time.

At Corkerhill, they were coupled to 314209, which had operated it's last service the previous day, and the three units made their way to Yoker depot, where they will be stored until they are taken away to be scrapped. 314202 and 314205 were moved to Shields Depot, where 314214 has also been in situ since it failed in service on 30th November. It is expected that 2 of those 3 units will operate the farewell tour around the area on Wednesday 18th December.

At present the situation is that of the 16 class 314's, 8 are stored and 8 are scrapped. There will be a farewell tour on Wednesday 18th December featuring any three units from 314202 / 314205 or 314214. See https://www.scotrail.co.uk/about-scotrail/news/so-long-farewell-scotrail%E2%80%99s-class-314-goodbye for more details.

The photo shows: On it's final day of service, SPT Carmine and Cream liveried 314210 preparing to depart Paisley Canal with 2D24 12.05 service to Glasgow Central.

Class 314 Farewell Tour announced

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 12 Dec 2019 22:51:56 GMT

As a final send-off, ScotRail is putting on a special farewell tour around Strathclyde after the trains retire from passenger service.

The last Class 314 will make its farewell journey on Wednesday, 18 December, on routes around Strathclyde that haven’t seen the trains for a number of years, and on routes that have never seen them.

ScotRail is opening the tours to the public, and in exchange for travel on the final voyage, the train operator is asking for donations to its charity partner, MND Scotland.

Three journeys will depart from Glasgow Central over the course of the day at:

1010 Glasgow Central – Ayr return (limited customer capacity).
1230 Glasgow Central – Glasgow Central via Motherwell / Carstairs / Cumbernauld.
1610 Glasgow Central – Helensburgh return.

314205 at Newton 7.12.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 08 Dec 2019 00:09:29 GMT

With possibly as little a time as a week left of operation for the Class 314's, six of the class are still seeing use in service. It is still possible to catch 314202 / 205 / 209 / 210 / 214 and 216 in service.

If their use in service ends on Saturday 14th (the day before the timetable changes), it is likely that Saturday 7th was the last time that a 314 will have run from Glasgow Central - Newton via Mount Florida, with 314205 doing the honours.

Sunday 8th will be their last Sunday in service with one unit (probably 314205) due in service working a diagram alternating between Glasgow Central - Newton and Neilston although it is likely that this will be upped to a 6 car set with the League Cup final taking place at Hampden. There is also a chance that a couple of 314's may end up out on Glasgow Central - Mount Florida extras.

Monday 9th - Friday 13th should see the 314's on their usual weekday workings both on peak workings on the Neilston line and the daytime off peak workings on the Cathcart Circle and Newton via Maxwell Park workings with 5 units seeing use daily.

Saturday 14th would see the 314's work for the final time on the Paisley Canal line. It is now a case of photo and ride on them while you still can.

With only a few days of it's 40 year long working life remaining, SPT Carmine and Cream liveried 314205 awaits it's departure from a wet and windy Newton station with 2P23 17.49 service to Glasgow Central 7.12.19

Last Day for Virgin Trains Franchise 7.12.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 07 Dec 2019 23:47:43 GMT

On the final day of the Virgin Trains Franchise, debranded Pendolino 390008 heads south through Uddingston with 1M14 13.40 Glasgow Central - London Euston service 7.12.19
On the final day of the Virgin Trains Franchise, debranded Pendolino 390010 heads north through Uddingston with 1S48 9.30 London Euston - Glasgow Central service 7.12.19

318257 at Newton 22.11.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 24 Nov 2019 00:05:20 GMT

Scotrail Saltire liveried 318257 awaits departure from Newton with 2P19 16.49 service to Glasgow Central 22.11.19

Class 314's 22.11.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 24 Nov 2019 00:03:28 GMT

	With only a few weeks of service remaining, an increasingly tired looking Carmine and Cream liveried 314205 arrives at Newton with 2M78 13.45 service from Glasgow Central 22.11.19
	SPT Carmine and Cream liveried 314205 seen at Glasgow Central, having arrived with 2M79 14.19 service from Newton 22.11.19
	new v old at Glasgow Central as brand new class 385019 awaits its next duty while 40 year old 314209 departs with 5O24 the 15.08 ECS working to Crosshill. This view will become history shortly as the class 314's are withdrawn in December 2019. 22.11.19
	With only weeks left in service, Scotrail Saltire liveried 314209 departs Glasgow Central with 5O24 the 15.08 ECS working to Crosshill. At Crosshill it will work 2O24 15.20 service to Glasgow Central via the Outer circle 22.11.19
	SPT Carmine and Cream liveried 314205 departs Pollokshaws East with 2I23 Cathcart Inner Circle service 22.11.19
	Scotrail Saltire liveried 314209 arrives into Pollokshaws East with 2O24 15.20 Crosshill - Glasgow Central service 22.11.19
	318257 and 314209 await their next duties at Glasgow Central. Once the 314's are withdrawn, the class 318 will be the oldest class of EMU operating on the Scotrail network. 22.11.19
	SPT Carmine and Cream liveried 314205 arrives at Glasgow Central with 2I23 15.15 Cathcart Inner Circle service 22.11.19
	SPT Carmine and Cream liveried 314210 arrives into Glasgow Central with 2M83 15.19 service from Newton 22.11.19
	SPT Carmine and Cream liveried 314205 departs Glasgow Central with 2O26 15.51 Cathcart Outer Circle service 22.11.19
	318257 and 314209 await their next duties at Glasgow Central. Once the 314's are withdrawn, the class 318 will be the oldest class of EMU operating on the Scotrail network. 22.11.19

314214 at Newton 9.11.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 11 Nov 2019 22:39:03 GMT

Scotrail Saltire liveried 314214 awaits departure from Newton with 2M91 17.19 service to Glasgow Central via Maxwell Park 9.11.19

314202 at Newton 9.11.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 11 Nov 2019 22:37:25 GMT

With a full moon in the background, SPT Carmine and Cream liveried 314202 prepares to depart from Newton with 2P19 16.49 service to Glasgow Central via Queens Park 9.11.19

Class 314's 2.11.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 03 Nov 2019 23:14:45 GMT

With only a few weeks remaining until the class 314's are withdrawn for good, seven of the original fleet of 16 of the class remain in service (314202 / 203 / 205 / 209 / 210 / 214 / 216), albeit in a much reduced role than they were previously used to.

Five of the class continue to see use on weekdays, with three on a Saturday and one on a Sunday.

I was in Glasgow for a couple of hours on 2nd November and there was 2 class 314's in service, both on the Paisley Canal service.

314216 was operating the xx.12 service and 314205 on the xx.42 service.

A swap of units occurred and 314216 found its self on the 11.25 service to Gourock with 380016 ending up on the Paisley Canal services.

At Shields - 314203 was seen towards the east of the depot with it's pantograph up while 314210 was stabled at the west end near the sheds with it's pantograph down (presumably for maintenance).

At Corkerhill - 314214, 314202 and 314209 were stabled awaiting their next duties.

37409 at Greenfaulds 2.11.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 03 Nov 2019 22:46:15 GMT

DRS liveried 37218 top and tailed with BR Large Logo liveried 37409 approach Greenfaulds with 1Q77 Mossend - Inverness Network Rail PLPR test train 2.11.19

70801 at Paisley Gilmour Street 2.11.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 03 Nov 2019 22:44:08 GMT

Colas liveried 70801 approaches Paisley Gilmour Street with 6B38 Aberdeen - Irvine Caledonian Paper slurry tanks 2.11.19

43002 at Shildon 20.10.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 25 Oct 2019 21:50:15 GMT

Being prepared for departure, ROG's 47815 waits as the National Rail Museum's 08911 is uncoupled from 43002 and Barrier Coach 6338 and Class 43 HST Power car 43002 are coupled onto 47815 20.10.19

60026 at Newcastle 16.10.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 25 Oct 2019 21:46:49 GMT

Wearing the new GBRF livery, 60026 and it's train snake their way out of Newcastle with 6N22 14.10 Tyne Coal Terminal - Lynemouth Power Station working 16.10.19

Early Evening Class 314's 14.10.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 25 Oct 2019 21:43:27 GMT

	4 of the 7 class 314's remaining in service retain the now obsolete SPT Carmine and Cream. One of them, 314205 pauses at Patterton with 2N08 19.05 Glasgow Central - Neilston service 14.10.19
	The final pair of Class 314's to receive the Scotrail Saltire livery - 314209+314214 pause under the platform lights at Patterton with 2N09 19.28 Neilston - Glasgow Central 14.10.19
	A scene that will soon become history when the class 314's are finally withdrawn in a few months time. SPT Carmine and Cream liveried 314205 pauses at Patterton with 2N13 19.58 Neilston - Glasgow Central service 14.10.19

Blackpool trams 134th anniversary weekend 29-30th September

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 13 Oct 2019 08:36:26 GMT

The Blackpool tramway anniversary weekend is one of the highlights for tramway enthusiasts. Over the course of the weekend, every heritage tram that can run will run at some point.

This year was no different!

Friday 27th September

I arrived in Blackpool to torrential rain, which fortunately eased around 3pm. The 2 car heritage tram service was in operation and due to the weather, Brush car 631 and Balloon 723 were used on the service. 631 was on diagram A and 723 was on diagram B (Diagram B operated the 14.40 and 16.40 extended services to Cabin.

Standard 143 was supposed to be working a tour for the Fylde Tramway Society during Friday evening, however it had developed a motor fault, which unfortunately left the tram out of service on what was supposed to be it's debut weekend. Bolton 66 substituted for 143. The tour was eventful as Bolton 66 had an overheated axle and had to be left at Fleetwood Ferry, while it was repaired. The tour participants were transported to Manchester Square on board Flexity 014, where they disembarked and headed over to Rigby Road to continue the tour onboard Centenary 648.

Balloon 715 was seen out on the Ghost Tram tour to Fleetwood and Balloon 717 operated the Fish and Chips special to Fleetwood while Western Train 733+734, HMS Blackpool 736 and Balloon 701 were seen out on Illuminations Tours.

Saturday 28th September

Saturday started bright and sunny. The first day of the anniversary weekend saw plenty of trams out: Bolton 66 had been repaired following the issue the night before and returned to service. Standard 147, Boat 227, Brush Car 631, Centenary 648, Ex Towing Railcoach 680, Balloons 701, 715, 717 and 723. Balloon 713 operated on the depot shuttle service between Rigby Road and Starr Gate. 631 and 680 operated an hourly service between Fleetwood and Starr Gate.

Millennium Balloon 718 was used as the shop tram at North Pier, whilst the superbly restored Standard 143 was on display at North Pier beside 718. At Rigby Road Twin Car 675+685, Brush Car 634 and Boat 230 were on display along the fitting shop wall. All 3 trams are awaiting rewiring before re-entering service. On the depot fan, All over red liveried Centenary 645, Wynsor world of shoes and orange liveried 761 and Plum and Cream liveried OMO 8 were displayed.

In the afternoon, the heavens opened and 227 was quickly dispatched back to depot. Balloon 701 worked the final heritage service of the day from Bispham to Manchester Square.

Into the evening and the Western Train 733+734, HMS Blackpool 736 and Balloons 701, 717 and 723 operated on the illumination tours, 733+734 and 736 operated at least 3 tours each.

Sunday 29th September

Sunday began with more torrential rain, which lasted until 2pm. The tram allocation changed due to the weather. The morning saw Brush Cars 621 and 631, Centenary 648, Balloons 713, 715, 717 and 723 and Illuminated trams 736 and 737 in service. Balloon 711 worked the depot shuttle, while 715 and 723 worked an hourly service between Starr Gate and Fleetwood. Once again Millennium Balloon 718 was used as the shop tram at North Pier, whilst the superbly restored Standard 143 was on display beside 718.

Open topped Balloon 706 'Princess Alice' and stored Balloon 704, which is still wearing it's Eclipse livery that it received in 2000 were on display along the fitting shop wall. Both trams are awaiting new underframes. On the depot fan was Twin Cars 675+685, 676+686, T2+272 and twin car motor 671.

I went on the 11am depot tour. The tour, led by Bryan Lyndop, the Head of Heritage at Blackpool Transport began in the Electrical Compound where Boat 230 and Brush Car 634 were stabled. Both trams are expected to be rewired to allow them to return to service in the next few years. The first tram to be rewired will be Twin Car 675+685. Work has already commenced on removing the old wiring from this tram. Next we were taken into the rear part of the main running shed where we viewed some of the withdrawn or stored trams. Visible were Balloon 726, Boat 600 (which was near the back of the depot to stay dry!), Coronation 304, Balloon 701 and Millennium Balloons 709 and 724.

We were then taken across to the fitting shop, which although empty of trams, had a wide array of parts visible such as motors and seating. The steelwork for the new underframe that will be built for the major restoration of Balloon 704 was also visible. The Body Shop featured the body shells for future restorations Lytham 43 and Glasgow 1016. There was also the framework for a project from a local college for a replica of the 'tank tram', which used to travel around the system during the first world war. There wasn't any trams in the paint shop, however Standard 143 was expected to return there soon to have it's new paintwork varnished.

As our tour slightly over ran and the shuttle tram to take us all to Starr Gate depot for the second part of the tour had left with out us, we got the chance to take some photos of some more of the withdrawn trams from the front of the depot. It was possible to see trams such as Balloon 720, Brush Car 632, Balloon 708 and the Roadliner tram from Preston. After a bus had been scrambled to take us to Starr Gate, we were soon on our way.

At Starr Gate, we saw the stabling sheds, where Flexity 004 was the spare tram and was receiving repairs to a minor fault. In the engineering side of the depot, Flexities 007, 010, 011 and 018 were receiving maintenance. Soon the tour was over and out on the tramway, the weather was beginning to improve and Standard 147, Ex Towing Railcoach 680, Balloon 701 and 733+734 came out into service to join the trams already out.

Into the evening and the weather had improved dramatically! The Western Train 733+734, HMS Blackpool 736 and Balloon 717 were joined in service by Boats 600 and 227 on Illuminations tours. Both boats were fully loaded on both trips made through the lights.

Over the course of the weekend, almost all of the active heritage fleet made an appearance either in service or on display or as a shop tram. The only trams in the active fleet not to see any use were Centenary 642, Millennium Balloon 707 and B Fleet Balloons 700 and 719.

All the Flexities were seen out over the weekend except for 007. 014 returned to service after a number of months out of service.

My Gallery of photos from the Weekend can be found at: https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p117643997

153377 at Kilmarnock Bonnyton 13.9.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 13 Sep 2019 23:12:18 GMT

GWR liveried 153377 seen at Kilmarnock Bonnyton awaiting refurbishment prior to entering service with Scotrail. These units will be paired with class 156's on the West Highland Line, allowing more seating and bike storage.13.9.19 (Photo taken through the fence from a public road)

153305 at Kilmarnock Bonnyton 13.9.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 13 Sep 2019 23:09:43 GMT

All over White with Grey doors liveried 153305 seen at Kilmarnock Bonnyton awaiting refurbishment prior to entering service with Scotrail. These units will be paired with class 156's on the West Highland Line, allowing more seating and bike storage.13.9.19 (Photo taken through the fence from a public road)

317504 at Kilmarnock Bonnyton 13.9.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 13 Sep 2019 23:07:50 GMT

Greater Anglia liveried 317504 seen at Kilmarnock Bonnyton Depot, where it is receiving PRM modifications 13.9.19 (Photo taken through fence from public road)

37419 tnt 37405 at Lanark 10.9.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 10 Sep 2019 20:27:20 GMT

Intercity liveried 37419 top and tailed with DRS liveried 37405 awaits departure from Lanark with 1Q80 Mossend - Mossend via Lanark and Helensburgh Central Network Rail PLPR Test Train 10.9.19

Class 314's in the evening 7.9.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 07 Sep 2019 22:06:52 GMT

As the darkness descends, SPT liveried 314210 awaits departure from Newton with 2P22 20.49 Newton - Glasgow Central via Queens Park 7.9.19

Class 314's 24.8.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 24 Aug 2019 22:55:28 GMT

It was Carmine and Cream day as 3 of the 7 remaining servicable Class 314's saw use on Saturday 24th August, all of them in SPT Carmine and Cream livery.

Only 3 diagrams are operated by 314's on a Saturday, 2 on Paisley Canal services and one entering service at 15.20 and working the xx.20 workings to Newton via Queens Park for the remainder of the day.

314205 worked on the xx.12 departures from Glasgow Central to Paisley canal
314210 worked on the xx.42 departures from Glasgow Central to Paisley canal
314216 worked the xx.20 departures from Glasgow Central to Newton via Queens Park from 15.20 onwards.

I had a run out to Paisley Canal and back on 314210 in the morning and noted the following:

314203 was stabled at the east end of shields with its pantograph down, this could potentially mean that 314203 has been withdrawn.
314202 was parked next to 314203 but had its pantograph up. 202's pantograph looked new.
314216, 209 and 214 were stabled at Corkerhill. 314209 and 314214 were coupled together, 216 would later enter service.

The photo shows 314205, waiting under the stunning glazed roof of Glasgow Central before departing with 2D37 15.12 service to Paisley Canal.

314207 heads south for scrap 22.8.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 22 Aug 2019 21:47:37 GMT

On 22nd August, 314207 became the 6th class 314 to head to Wales for scrapping. 314207 had been withdrawn from service after working the 20.24 Gourock - Glasgow Central service on 18th May. 207 had initially been withdrawn on 21st September 2018 and transferred to Yoker for storage, however after the class 385's had to be withdrawn temporarily at the end of September 2018, 207 however, had a reprieve and was quickly returned to service. Once the 385's returned to service, 207 remained in service with 204 being withdrawn instead.

The scrapping of 314207 will leave 10 of the original 16 strong class still in existance, however further scrapping moves are expected soon with 314208 and 215 to make their final journeys soon as well.

The current situation with the 314's is as follows:

In Service: 314202 / 203 / 205 / 209 / 210 / 214 / 216

Stored: 314204 (Eastleigh) / 208 (Yoker) / 215 (Yoker)

Scrapped: 314201 / 206 / 207 / 211 / 212 / 213

The photo shows Scotrail Saltire liveried 314208 awaiting departure from Glasgow Central with 2D27 12.42 service to Paisley Canal while SPT Carmine and Cream liveried 314207 will depart with 2M74 12.45 to Newton via Maxwell Park 1.3.19

314211 at Carlisle 15.8.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 17 Aug 2019 08:43:01 GMT

Scotrail Saltire liveried 314211 is seen being hauled out of Carlisle on part one of it's final journey to the scrapyard at Newport Docks. Europhoenix Rail Operations Group liveried 37884 'Cepheus', is hauling the set. The working is 5Q78 Yoker - Crewe South Yard. 15.8.19

314211 heads south for scrapping 15.8.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 15 Aug 2019 22:37:57 GMT

On 15th August, 314211 became the 5th member of the fleet to make it's final journey south for scrapping. 37884 collected 211 from Yoker and hauled it on the first part of it's final journey, heading to Crewe South Yard. It is expected to make the 2nd and final part of the journey from Crewe South Yard to Newport Docks on 16th August.

The photo shows Europhoenix Rail Operations Group liveried 37884 'Cepheus', hauling Scotrail Saltire liveried 314211 on part one of it's final journey to the scrapyard, pauses at Carlisle whilst working 5Q78 Yoker - Crewe South Yard ECS empty stock move. 15.8.19

37884 at Carstairs 14.8.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Wed, 14 Aug 2019 22:56:19 GMT

Europhoenix Rail Operations Group liveried 37884 'Cepheus' waits at Carstairs with 0S10 Crewe South Yard - Mossend Holding Sidings light engine move 14.8.19

debranded 350403 at Carstairs 14.8.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Wed, 14 Aug 2019 22:54:13 GMT

Debranded Transpennine Express unit 350403 heads north through Carstairs with an unidentified working from Manchester Airport - Glasgow Central 14.8.19

37218 tnt 37259 at Holytown 8.8.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 11 Aug 2019 22:56:52 GMT

DRS liveried 37218 and 37259 top and tail the Network Rail PLPR Test train through Holytown whilst working 1Q75 Mossend - Mossend via Lanark 8.8.19

68007 at Hartwood 6.8.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 06 Aug 2019 18:56:22 GMT

Scotrail Saltire liveried 68007 'Valiant' passes through Hartwood with a mixed rake of Saltire and DRS liveried Mark 2's while working 5L69 Motherwell - Edinburgh Waverley Fife Circle ECS move 6.8.19

PD Ports liveried 66109 at Greenfaulds 5.8.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 05 Aug 2019 22:12:05 GMT

PD ports all over blue liveried 66109 'Teesport Express' passes through Greenfaulds with 4E99 Grangemouth - Tees Dock Intermodal working 5.8.19

Class 314 update 4.8.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 04 Aug 2019 22:20:00 GMT

Since the May timetable, class 314 usage on a Sunday has decreased to only 1 diagram. The diagram uses a pair of 314's working in multiple and rotating between the Newton via Maxwell Park and the Neilston service.

The Sunday diagram is as follows:

Glasgow Central - Neilston	Neilston - Glasgow Central	Glasgow Central - Newton (Via Maxwell Park)	Newton - Glasgow Central (via Maxwell park)
8.55	9.48	10.36	11.09
11.53	12.48	13.36	14.09
14.53	15.48	16.36	17.09
17.53	18.48	19.36	20.09
20.53	21.48	22.36	23.09

Weekdays, 5 diagrams work using 5 units, with 3 units (a single and a double) working to Gourock early morning with the remainder of the workings mostly concentrating on peak time Neilston workings and daytime off peak workings on the Cathcart Circle and Newton via Maxwell park services. Only 1 diagram remains out post 20.00 and works on Neilston services.

Saturdays use 3 units, 2 working all day on Paisley Canal services and a third coming out to work on Glasgow Central - Newton via Queens Park services from 15.20 onwards.

Units still in service are Carmine and Cream sets 314202, 314205, 314210 and 314216 with Saltire liveried 314203, 314209 and 314214 also still in use. 314207, 314208, 314211 and 314215 are all stored at Yoker with no further use expected.

The main photo shows 314214 + 314202 arriving into Newton with 2M76 13.36 service from Glasgow Central via Maxwell Park on 4.8.19

EMT powercars at Dalmeny 24.7.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Wed, 24 Jul 2019 22:00:57 GMT

On hire to LNER, East Midlands Trains powercars 43061 and 43075 top and tail their rake of LNER liveried Mark 3's through Dalmeny with 1E25 14.52 Aberdeen - London Kings Cross service

47643 at Bo'ness 24.7.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Wed, 24 Jul 2019 21:58:34 GMT

Due to the Steam locomotives at Bo'ness being unavailable on 24th July, fans of diesel traction had an excellent treat, with BR Scotrail Intercity liveried 47643 operating the timetabled passenger services on the line from Bo'ness to Manuel on this day.

47643, which in recent months has been treated to a repaint, looked fantastic as it worked in the sunshine.

The photograph shows BR Scotrail Intercity liveried 47643 running round it's train at Manuel to form the 14.50 departure to Bo'ness

Farewell to 91108 22.7.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Wed, 24 Jul 2019 21:51:46 GMT

On 22nd July, LNER's 91108 made it's final journeys as part of the LNER 91 fleet. 91108 was to go off lease and due an exam, reckoned to cost somewhere in the region of £50,000 and with the 91's due for replacement by the new Azuma fleet, the decision was taken to withdraw the loco to provide spare parts for the remainder of the fleet. Unfortunately this will likely also lead to the eventual scrapping of 91108.

The photo shows after 30 years of service and 7.5 million miles on the clock, 91108 heading south through Prestonpans with 1S23 16.30 Edinburgh Waverley - London Kings Cross service on it's final day in service before withdrawal.

Refurbished Scotrail HST at Lenzie 18.7.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 21 Jul 2019 21:14:15 GMT

Scotrail Inter7City liveried power cars 43036 and 43163 top and tail 4 refurbished Scotrail liveried Mark 3's as they pass through Lenzie with 1A77 Glasgow Queen Street - Aberdeen service

Dalmeny HST's 15.7.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 16 Jul 2019 21:29:37 GMT

Scotrail Inter7city liveried 43021 and 43026 top and tail 4 GWR liveried Mark 3's through Dalmeny with 1B32 13.12 Aberdeen - Edinburgh Waverley service.

Scotrail Inter7city liveried power cars 43130 and 43032 top and tail a set of ex First Great Western Mark 3's as they pass through Dalmeny with 1B35 13.57 Aberdeen - Edinburgh Waverley service

66789 at Kilmarnock 12.7.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 12 Jul 2019 20:09:36 GMT

One of GBRF's celebrity locos, 66789 'British Rail 1948-1997' in British Rail Large Logo livery passes through Kilmarnock with 4S03 Doncaster Decoy - Killoch Collery 12.7.19

385008+385034 at Prestonpans 8.7.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 12 Jul 2019 20:07:15 GMT

385008+385034 depart Prestonpans with 2Y05 14.28 North Berwick - Edinburgh Waverley service 8.7.19

91119 at Prestonpans 10.7.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 12 Jul 2019 20:05:04 GMT

Intercity liveried 91119 seen on the rear of the 1E18 14.00 Edinburgh Waverley - London Kings Cross service. DVT 82203 was leading. This service only ran as far as York due to a problem with the Overhead Line further south 10.7.19

800109 at Prestonpans 8.7.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 12 Jul 2019 20:02:04 GMT

During week beginning 8th July, one of LNER's new class 800 Azuma trains has been seen out on Driver Training between Newcastle and Edinburgh Waverley.

The 9 coach set, has the look of the German ICE sets and the smart livery of Red and White really suits the sets, however how long they remain in pristine condition, especially the large areas of white, is anyones guess!

They are expected to begin to enter service between Kings Cross and Edinburgh next month, although they have already started to see service on the Leeds and Skipton lines.

The down side to their introduction and the eventual introduction of the class 801 sets will be the withdrawal of the LNER HST and Class 91 sets.

The photo shows LNER Azuma 800109 passing through Prestonpans with 5Q44 14.48 Edinburgh Waverley - Newcastle driver training run.

397004+397003 at Carstairs 25.6.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 25 Jun 2019 22:18:54 GMT

On their first visit to Scotland, First TransPennine Express liveried CAF Civity class 397004+397003 pass through Carstairs with 3Q54 12.06 Glasgow Central - Crewe training run.

New Measurement Train at Carstairs 25.6.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 25 Jun 2019 22:13:33 GMT

Network Rail New Measurement Train 'Flying Banana' 43062 top and tailed with 43014 passes Carstairs with 1Q26 Derby RTC - Edinburgh Waverley via Glasgow Central

Edinburgh Trams 22.6.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 25 Jun 2019 22:07:35 GMT

I had my first visit to the Edinburgh Trams since September, here are my photos from the area around Edinburgh Park Central:

CAF Urbos 3 no 275 in EE 5G all over advert approaches Edinburgh Park Central with an Airport - York Place service
CAF Urbos 3 no's 275 and 257 pass each other at Edinburgh Park Central
CAF Urbos 3 no 260 in CR Smith Glasow - Peterhead all over advert approaches Edinburgh Park Central with an Airport - York Place service
CAF Urbos 3 no 271 in Parabola all over advert approaches Edinburgh Park Central with a York Place - Airport service
CAF Urbos 3 no 276 in Parabola all over advert departs Edinburgh Park Central with an Airport - York Place service
CAF Urbos 3 no 274 in Parabola all over advert departs Edinburgh Park Central with a York Place - Airport
CAF Urbos 3 no 273 in Johhny Walker's #JointhePact anti drink driving all over advert approaches Edinburgh Park Central with an Airport - York Place service
CAF Urbos 3 no 265 in CR Smith 'Whoever fitted it we can fix it' all over advert departs Edinburgh Park Central with a York Place - Airport service
CAF Urbos 3 no 254 in Parabola all over advert approaches Edinburgh Park Central with an Airport - York Place service
CAF Urbos 3 no 255 in CR Smith 'From Leith tae Alloway' all over advert departs Edinburgh Park Central with a York Place - Airport service
CAF Urbos 3 no 267 in 5G by EE all over advert departs Edinburgh Park Central with a York Place - Airport service
CAF Urbos 3 no 251 in Edinburgh Live all over advert departs Edinburgh Park Central with a York Place - Airport service

An hour at Prestonpans 22.6.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 24 Jun 2019 21:47:08 GMT

I visited Prestonpans on 22nd June for the first time this year. Here are my sightings:

380102 departs Prestonpans with 2Y01 12.22 North Berwick - Edinburgh Waverley service
LNER liveried 43309 top and tailed with 43308 pass through Prestonpans with 1E15 9.52 Aberdeen - London Kings Cross service
LNER liveried 91117 top and tailed with DVT 82215 pass through Prestonpans with the late running 1S07 8.00 London Kings Cross - Edinburgh Waverley service
EWS liveried 90035 and Mark 1's pass through Prestonpans with 5Z91 Berwick upon Tweed - Craigentinny railtour ECS
385018+385003 approach Prestonpans with 2Y02 12.43 Edinburgh Waverley - North Berwick
385017 pauses at Prestonpans with 2Y21 12.50 North Berwick - Edinburgh Waverley service
DVT 82227 leads with 91115 on the rear approach Prestonpans with 1E16 13.00 Edinburgh Waverley - London Kings Cross service
Crosscountry liveried 220032 heads north from Prestonpans with 1S35 6.12 Bristol Temple Meads - Glasgow Central
LNER liveried 91128 top and tailed with DVT 82217 pass through Prestonpans with the late running 1S08 8.30 London Kings Cross - Edinburgh Waverley service
Battle of Britain liveried 91110 top and tailed with DVT 82206 pass through Prestonpans with the late running 1S09 9.00 London Kings Cross - Edinburgh Waverley service
380011 pauses at Prestonpans with 2Y24 13.12 Edinburgh Waverley - North Berwick service
66739 passes through Prestonpans with 6S45 North Blyth - Fort William Alcan tanks

Patterton 314's 18.6.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 18 Jun 2019 22:01:55 GMT

I visited Patterton this evening to catch a couple of the class 314 early evening workings.

First up was 314214 arriving with 2N08 19.05 Glasgow Central - Neilston service. This unit working this particular diagram is now the only one to see a full days service (mainly works on Cathcart Circle and Newton services during the day before switching to Neilston services in the evening). The other remaining Class 314 diagrams either finish after the evening peak or are only out during the morning / evening peaks.

The other working that was seen with class 314 operation was Scotrail liveried 314214 and SPT Carmine and Cream liveried 314202 arriving with 2N09 19.28 Neilston - Glasgow Central service.

26024 at Bo'ness 16.6.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 17 Jun 2019 21:56:45 GMT

Awaiting it's turn for restoration, 26024 in it's faded BR Blue livery, and 37261, also awaiting restoration are seen at Bo'ness TMD with BR Blue liveried 20020 16.6.19

311103 at Summerlee 15.6.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 15 Jun 2019 22:16:21 GMT

I had a quick look at 311103 today when visiting Summerlee.

The 311s and a number of unrefurbished 303s were withdrawn in 1990 when the class 320s entered service on the Balloch, Helensburgh- Airdrie/ Drumgelloch Line. Most of the 311's were scrapped, however two sets, 311103 and 311104 survived and found a new use as Sandite units (renumbered 936103 and 935104), and saw further use until 2001.

311104 was scrapped at Immingham in 2002 whilst 311103 was preserved, finding its way to Summerlee Heritage Park in Coatbridge, where it was repainted into a coat of BR Blue. However in 2006 when the park was being refurbished, the set was moved from its prominent position in front of the main building to an area round at the back at the furthest point away from the entrance. Driving trailer 76414 was sold to VSOE who wanted the Bogies for one of their pullman carriages, whilst the remainder of the vehicle was scrapped. The 2 remaining vehicles had their windows covered with corrugated cladding to protect their windows from vandalism. Both vehicles remain in the same location today looking forlorn.

1017 at Summerlee 15.6.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 15 Jun 2019 22:05:52 GMT

A quick visit to Summerlee this afternoon saw Glasgow 1017 out in service on the museum's tramway.

Glasgow 1017 has a long and fascinating history, she was built in 1904 by the British and Electric Car Company by the Paisley and District Tramways as number 17. The tram was originally a double decked open top unvestibuled tram. When the Paisley system was bought over by Glasgow Corporation Tramways, 17 became 1017 and still operated in it's original form for a time.

1017 was cut down to a single deck tram and fitted with a short trolley tower and enclosed driver's platforms around 1930 and found it's way onto the Clydebank - Duntocher route (later service 20), which required single deck trams due to a low railway bridge on the route. After the route closed in 1949, 1017 found a new role as the Motor School (Driver Training) car and paint shop shunter at Coplawhill depot, where it served until 1960 in this role.

On withdrawal, the body of 1017 found a new use as a hut and meeting room for the STMS in a garden in Cambuslang. In the 1990's 1017 found it's way to Summerlee, where it was restored to 1930's condition and entered service on the 1/2 mile long tramway in 2002.

The tram still sees regular use along with Lanarkshire 53 and Dusseldorf 392. They should be joined in the future by Glasgow Coronation 1245.

67012 at Holytown 14.6.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 15 Jun 2019 22:00:43 GMT

Debranded Wrexham and Shropshire 2 tone grey livered 67012 passes through Holytown with an unidentified Tyne Yard - Mossend working 14.6.19

Class 37's galore! 15.6.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 15 Jun 2019 21:56:59 GMT

It was class 37's galore in the Lanarkshire area on 15th June with no fewer than 5 different class 37's seen in the space of 3 hours!

First to be seen was DRS Liveried 37059 top and tailed with 37038 passing through Greenfaulds with 1Q77, the Mossend - Inverness Network Rail PLPR Test Train.
Next was West Coast Liveried 37685 'Loch Arkaig' seen passing through Gartcosh in the sunshine with 5Z38 Fort William - Carnforth ECS working
Finally was BR Blue liveried 37402 and newly repainted into Intercity livery, 37419 seen passing through Bowling and Carluke with 1Z86 Fort William - Crewe 'Three Peaks Challenge' railtour


37059 at Greenfaulds	37038 at Greenfaulds	37685 at Gartcosh

37402+419 at Bowling	37402+419 at Carluke

Neilston 314's 8.6.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 09 Jun 2019 21:55:16 GMT

On 8th June, Scotrail Saltire liveried 314209+ and SPT Carmine and Cream liveried 314205 worked one of the 3 Neilston Diagrams in place of the usual class 380. I decided to head out to Neilston for the first time to take a few photos.

314209+314205 arrived with 2N34 11.35 service from Glasgow Central
314209+314205 then headed to the turnback siding working 5N03 Neilston - Neilston
314205+314209 arrived back in to form the 2N03 12.28 service to Glasgow Central

70802 on Prestwick Tanks 7.6.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 09 Jun 2019 21:23:38 GMT

A working that is usually operated by a class 56 is seen with a 70 at the helm as Colas liveried 70802 approaches Greenfaulds with 6N47 Prestwick Airport - Grangemouth Aviation Fuel tanks 7.6.19

Carluke Engineers 1.6.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 03 Jun 2019 22:19:38 GMT

2 Engineering workings in 6 minutes at Carluke


GBRF liveried 66739 and a train of ballast wagons passes through Carluke with 6K12 Mossend - Beattock engineering working 1.6.19	EWS liveried 66069 and DB red liveried 66085 pass through Carluke with 6Kxx Mossend - Beattock engineering working 1.6.19

EWS liveried 66069 and DB red liveried 66085 pass through Carluke with 6Kxx Mossend - Beattock engineering working 1.6.19

More Cathcart Circle 314's 31.5.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 02 Jun 2019 23:41:11 GMT

Another quick visit to Glasgow on 31st May allowed me to photo and ride some of the few remaining class 314's in service. Only 3 of the fleet were out when I visited, these were 314202, 205 and 214.

As I got into Central station, 314214 was waiting to work 5O24. 5O24 is an ECS working that heads to Crosshill at 15.08. From here it acts as an unadvertised school train, picking up pupils from Holyrood Secondary School. At 15.20 the service works as 2O24 15.20 service to Glasgow Central via the Outer Circle.

314202 departed with 2I23 15.15 Cathcart Inner circle service. This service is normally formed as a 6 car with the unit from 5O24 on Mondays at Tuesdays or if the schools are on holiday. These 2 units would otherwise join to work the 15.51 Outer Circle service.

I caught 314202 to Pollokshaws East, where I managed to photograph both it and 314214. I then caught 314205, which was working 2M83 15.19 Newton - Glasgow Central back to Pollokshields West, where I changed over to catch 385018 2M86 15.45 service from Glasgow Central - Newton.


314202 awaits departure from Glasgow Central with 2I23 Cathcart Inner Circle service 31.5.19	Scotrail liveried 314214 departs Glasgow Central with 5O24 15.08 ECS working to Crosshill. At Crosshill, it would form 2O24 back to Glasgow Central via the Outer Circle 31.5.19	debranded SPT liveried 314202 pauses at Pollokshaws East with 2I23 Cathcart Inner Circle service 31.5.19	In it's final few months of service, Scotrail liveried 314214 pauses at Pollokshaws East with 2O24 15.20 Crosshill - Glasgow Central school service 31.5.19

In it's final few months of service, Scotrail liveried 314214 pauses at Pollokshaws East with 2O24 15.20 Crosshill - Glasgow Central school service 31.5.19	SPT Carmine and Cream liveried 314205 pauses at Pollokshields West with 2M83 Newton - Glasgow Central via Maxwell Park service 31.5.19	SPT Carmine and Cream liveried 314205 pauses at Pollokshields West with 2M83 Newton - Glasgow Central via Maxwell Park service 31.5.19	385018 seen having arrived at Newton with 2M86 15.45 from Glasgow Central service 31.5.19

Patterton 314's 29.5.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 30 May 2019 22:02:10 GMT

I visited Patterton again to catch some of the peak time class 314's in operation.

First up was 314205 arriving with 2N08 19.05 Glasgow Central - Neilston service. This unit working this particular diagram is now the only one to see a full days service as the other remaining diagrams either finish after the evening peak or are only out during the morning / evening peaks. Also noted was that 314205 had a non-multi restriction at one end.

The other working that was seen with class 314 operation was SPT Carmine and Cream liveried 314202 and Scotrail liveried 314214 arriving with 2N09 19.28 Neilston - Glasgow Central service.


SPT Carmine and Cream liveried 314205 pauses at Patterton with 2N08 19.05 Glasgow Central - Neilston service 29.5.19	SPT Carmine and Cream liveried 314202 and Scotrail liveried 314214 arrive into Patterton with 2N09 19.28 Neilston - Glasgow Central service 29.5.19	SPT Carmine and Cream liveried 314202 and Scotrail liveried 314214 depart Patterton with 2N09 19.28 Neilston - Glasgow Central service 29.5.19

37025+37402 at Shotts 27.5.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 28 May 2019 21:50:46 GMT

BR Large Logo liveried 37025 + 37402 pass through Shotts with North East Railtour's 1Z37 Newcastle - Oban tour 27.5.19

Cathcart Circle 314's 24.5.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 24 May 2019 22:45:38 GMT

A short trip into Glasgow this afternoon allowed for a couple of runs on the western side of the Cathcart circle by 314.

Catching the 15.15 Cathcart Inner Circle service, which was formed of Scotrail liveried 314209 and SPT Carmine and Cream liveried 314202, I headed out to Pollokshaws East. This was the first time I had actually got off a train at this station.

I got off here and a short time later, caught 314203 heading the opposite direction with the 15.19 service from Newton - Glasgow Central. I had been going to change at Maxwell Park and head out to Newton onboard a 385, however I decided to stay on board 314203 and return into Glasgow. One of the sets of wheels on the leading bogie of vehicle 64587 of 314203 has a wheel flat, which was really loud and noticible!

314214+216 also came out at the evening peak, to work a couple of Neilston services, however I was already on my way home by this point.


Scotrail liveried 314209 + SPT Carmine and Cream liveried 314202 await departure from Glasgow Central with 2I23 15.15 Cathcart Inner Circle service 24.5.19	SPT Carmine and Cream liveried 314202 on the rear of 314209 await departure from Glasgow Central with 2I23 15.15 Cathcart Inner Circle service 24.5.19	SPT Carmine and Cream liveried 314202 on the rear of Scotrail liveried 314209, await departure from Glasgow Central with 2I23 15.15 Cathcart Inner Circle service 24.5.19	the interior of vehicle 64599 from 314209 24.5.19

Scotrail liveried 314209 + SPT Carmine and Cream liveried 314202 pause at Pollokshaws East with 2I23 15.15 Cathcart Inner Circle service 24.5.19	Scotrail liveried 314209 + SPT Carmine and Cream liveried 314202 depart from Pollokshaws East with 2I23 15.15 Cathcart Inner Circle service 24.5.19	Scotrail Saltire liveried 314203 arrives at Pollokshaws East with 2M83 15.19 Newton - Glasgow Central via Maxwell Park service 24.5.19	Scotrail Saltire liveried 314203 seen at Glasgow Central having just arrived with 2M83 15.19 service from Newton via Maxwell Park service 24.5.19

Class 314's at Patterton 23.5.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 23 May 2019 22:33:43 GMT

I visited Patterton station on the Neilston line for the first time tonight to get some photos of the class 314's in action here, before they disappear for good.

The Neilston line seems to have the majority of the dwindling number of class 314 workings in the evening, with 8 return workings to and from Neilston covered by the class.

In the 30 minutes I was there:

314216+314205 worked the 2N09 19.28 Neilston - Glasgow Central service
314203 worked 2N13 19.58 Neilston - Glasgow Central


In their final few months of service, Debranded SPT Carmine and Cream liveried 314216+314205 pause at Patterton on the Neilston line with 2N09 19.28 Neilston - Glasgow Central service 23.5.19	314205 on the rear of 314216 depart Patterton on the Neilston line with 2N09 19.28 Neilston - Glasgow Central service 23.5.19	Scotrail liveried 314203 arrives at Patterton with 2N13 19.58 Neilston - Glasgow Central 23.5.19

Class 314 update 20.5.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 21 May 2019 23:43:55 GMT

Since the start of the new May 2019 timetable on 19th May, the number of class 314's required for service has shrunk. With around 60 class 385's now available for service and now beginning to operate on the Lanark and on one diagram on the Inverclyde route, class 318's and 320's have been freed up to operate on Gourock, Weymss Bay and Paisley Canal services that were previously worked by class 314's.

Prior to the timetable change, 314208 was withdrawn in late April, with 211 also being withdrawn on 1st May, with both units now at Yoker for storage. However after service ended on Saturday 18th May, 314207, 314210 and 314215 were also withdrawn from service. All 3 units are currently stored at Shields.

This leaves only 6 class 314's in service to work 5 diagrams, mainly on the Cathcart Circle and Newton via Maxwell park lines between the morning and evening peak times. In the morning and evening peak, there are also services to Neilston utilising 314's. There are also 3 early morning workings to / from Gourock worked by 314's. The remaining units in service are 314202, 314203, 314205, 314209, 314214 and 314216.

On Monday 20th May, I noted the following

314203+314205 were coupled together and stabled at Shields, most likely they will have worked morning and evening peak Cathcart Circle or Neilston services.

I arrived into Glasgow around 10.10am and 314214+314202 had been uncoupled with 314202 working the 10.15 Cathcart Outer Circle service and 314214 working the 10.45 service to Newton. 314216 worked the 10.51 Cathcart Inner Circle service.

I was in and around Glasgow till around 2.15pm and the units worked the following services departing Glasgow Central:

Working	Unit
10.15 Cathcart Inner Circle	314202
10.45 Newton Via Maxwell Park	314214
10.51 Cathcart Outer Circle	314202
11.15 Cathcart Inner Circle	314216
11.45 Newton Via Maxwell Park	314202
11.51 Cathcart Outer Circle	314216
12.15 Cathcart Inner Circle	314214
12.45 Newton Via Maxwell Park	314216
12.51 Cathcart Outer Circle	314214
13.15 Cathcart Inner Circle	314202
13.45 Newton Via Maxwell Park	314214
13.51 Cathcart Outer Circle	314202


The end gets closer for these near 40 year old workhorses as less are required now with more class 385's entering service. One of 6 remaining 314's in service, 314214 awaits departure from Glasgow Central with 2M90 10.45 service to Newton via Maxwell Park 20.5.19	With it's increasingly worn out paintwork, 314202, the final 314 to receive the SPT Carmine and Cream livery, awaits departure from Glasgow Central with 2M94 11.45 service to Newton 20.5.19	With it's increasingly worn out paintwork, 314202, the final 314 to receive the SPT Carmine and Cream livery, departs Langside with 2M94 11.45 service from Glasgow Central to Newton 20.5.19	One of 3 class 314's remaining in service that retain the SPT Carmine and Cream livery, 314216 approaches Langside with 2O34 11.51 Cathcart Outer Circle service 20.5.19

One of 3 class 314's remaining in service that retain the SPT Carmine and Cream livery, 314216 arrives at Langside with 2O34 11.51 Cathcart Outer Circle service 20.5.19	A scene that will be history in a matter of months as 40 year old veteran 314214 awaits departure from Glasgow Central with 2M78 13.45 to Newton while brand new 385029 waits to depart with 2B82 13.50 to Lanark 20.5.19	314214 awaits departure from Glasgow Central with 2M78 13.45 to Newton 20.5.19	314214 awaits departure from Newton with 2M79 14.19 service to Glasgow Central 20.5.19

37218 top and tailed with 37038 at Lanark 16.5.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 21 May 2019 22:51:15 GMT

DRS Liveried 37218 top and tailed with 37038 seen just after arrival at Lanark with 1Q75 Mossend - Mossend via Lanark Network Rail PLPR test train 16.5.19

LNER Thompson Class B1 61306 'Mayflower' on tour 15.5.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 21 May 2019 22:48:32 GMT

On 15th May, LNER Thompson Class B1 61306 'Mayflower' was in West Central Scotland working on the Steam Dreams 'Highlands and Islands' Day 7 railtour.

Looking resplendent in it's LNER Apple Green livery, Mayflower worked 1Z61 Fort William - Coatbridge Central. At Coatbridge Central, the passengers left the train to be taken by bus for dinner, Mayflower then worked ECS as 5Z62 Coatbridge Central - Holytown with a couple of hours layover in Mossend Yard before heading to Holytown to pick up it's passengers once more to work as 1Z62 Holytown - Penrith.

I saw Mayflower at 4 different locations: Gartcosh, Coatbridge Central, Whifflet and Carstairs. Here are my photos:


LNER Thompson Class B1 61306 'Mayflower' approaches Gartcosh with 1Z61 Fort William - Coatbridge Central Steam Dreams 'Highlands and Islands' Day 7 railtour	LNER Thompson Class B1 61306 'Mayflower' passes through Gartcosh with 1Z61 Fort William - Coatbridge Central Steam Dreams 'Highlands and Islands' Day 7 railtour 15.5.19	LNER Thompson Class B1 61306 'Mayflower' waits in the loop at Coatbridge Central with 1Z61 Fort William - Coatbridge Central Steam Dreams 'Highlands and Islands' Day 7 railtour	LNER Thompson Class B1 61306 'Mayflower' arrives at Coatbridge Central with 1Z61 Fort William - Coatbridge Central Steam Dreams 'Highlands and Islands' Day 7 railtour

LNER Thompson Class B1 61306 'Mayflower' arrives at Coatbridge Central with 1Z61 Fort William - Coatbridge Central Steam Dreams 'Highlands and Islands' Day 7 railtour	LNER Thompson Class B1 61306 'Mayflower' passes through Whifflet with 5Z62 Coatbridge Central - Holytown Steam Dreams 'Highlands and Islands' Day 7 railtour	37669 seen on the rear of 5Z62 Coatbridge Central - Holytown 15.5.19	LNER Thompson Class B1 61306 'Mayflower' passes through Carstairs with 1Z62 Holytown - Penrith Steam Dreams 'Highlands and Islands' Day 7 railtour 15.5.19

Day Out with Thomas at Bo'ness 11.5.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 21 May 2019 22:19:10 GMT

I took my 2 year old cousin along to the Day Out with Thomas at Bo'ness on 11th May. It was a good day out (my cousin had a ball!) and there was plenty to see.

In the Bay Platform was No. 6 'Percy' and No. 1 'Thomas' (Coltness Iron Works No.1 'Lord Roberts'), both locos remained here for the duration of our visit.

The service was operated by Caledonian Railway 439 class No 419 and National Coal Board Fife Area no 19 (both minus their Thomas faces), which operated the hourly service up to Birkhill (where there was a bouncy castle, catering van and tent with entertainer set up) and back.

Meanwhile at Bo'ness, N.C.B. no. 6 was seen shunting a demonstration goods train up and down the run round loop. The Museum was also open as was the display shed so there was plenty to see.


"Thomas the tank engine" aka No 1 'Lord Roberts' seen at the "Day Out with Thomas" event at Bo'ness 11.5.19	"Percy" seen at the "Day Out with Thomas" event at Bo'ness 11.5.19	Caledonian Railway 439 class no 419 and National Coal Board Fife Area no 19 run round their train at Brikhill to form the 11.00am 'Day Out with Thomas' special service to Bo'ness	National Coal Board Fife Area No 19 and Caledonian Railway 439 class no 419 prepare to double head the 11.00am 'Day Out with Thomas' special service from Birkhill - Bo'ness

Caledonian Railway 439 class no 419 and National Coal Board Fife Area no 19 approach Birkhill as they double head the 11.30am 'Day Out with Thomas' special service from Bo'ness - Birkhill	Caledonian Railway 439 class no 419 and National Coal Board Fife Area no 19 run round their train prior to double heading the 12.30pm 'Day Out with Thomas' special service from Bo'ness - Birkhill	N.C.B. No 6 works a demonstration freight run along the run round loop at Bo'ness Station	LNER D40 Class No 49 'Gordon Highlander' at Bo'ness

Glasgow Subway no 55 at Bo'ness	LMS Stanier 8F 45170 undergoing restoration work at Bo'ness	LNER J36 65243 on display at the Scottish Railway Museum, Bo'ness	LNER Gresley K4 61994, "The Great Marquess" is seen on display in the museum at Bo'ness

60009 'Union of South Africa' at Bo'ness 6.5.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 06 May 2019 22:13:00 GMT

On Monday 6th May (May Day Bank Holiday), the service at the Bo'ness and Kinneil Railway was in the hands of A4 class 60009 'Union of South Africa', which was top and tailed with Caledonian Railway 439 class no 419. 60009 was used as it was visiting the railway, having hauled the previous day's SRPS Railtour to Aberdeen.

Unfortunately I couldn't stay to have a journey onboard, however I managed to get a few photos of the 11.25 from Manuel - Bo'ness and the 12.10 from Bo'ness - Manuel.

Due to the number of passengers wanting to get on board, an extra Mark 1 was brought out from the yard by 27001 and attached to the train prior to departing from Bo'ness on the 12.10 service to Manuel.

	Caledonian Railway 439 class no 419 top and tailed with British Railways Green liveried A4 60009 'Union of South Africa' approach Kinneil Halt on the Bo'ness and Kinneil Railway with the 11.25 service from Manuel - Bo'ness
	British Railways Green liveried A4 60009 'Union of South Africa' seen on the rear of the 11.25 service from Manuel - Bo'ness as it approaches Kinneil Halt
	Caledonian Railway 439 class no 419 top and tailed with British Railways Green liveried A4 60009 'Union of South Africa' head along the foreshore on the approach to Bo'ness with the 11.25 service from Manuel - Bo'ness
	British Railways Green liveried A4 60009 'Union of South Africa' seen on the rear of the 11.25 service from Manuel - Bo'ness as it approaches Bo'ness
	British Railways Green liveried A4 60009 'Union of South Africa' seen at Bo'ness after arrival on the rear of the 11.25 service from Manuel - Bo'ness
	British Railways Green liveried A4 60009 'Union of South Africa' pulls forward out of Bo'ness station to allow an additional Mark 1 to be added to the train
	British Railways Green liveried A4 60009 'Union of South Africa' pulls forward out of Bo'ness station to allow an additional Mark 1 to be added to the train
	BR Blue liveried 27001 brings an additional Mark 1 from the yard to attach to the 12.10 service from Bo'ness - Manuel
	British Railways Green liveried A4 class 60009 ‘Union of South Africa’ waits to reverse onto the 12.10 service from Bo’ness to Manuel 6.5.19
	British Railways Green A4 class 60009 ‘Union of South Africa’ heads along the foreshore at Bo’ness with the 12.10 service to Manuel
	Caledonian Railways 439 class no 419 is seen o the rear of the 12.10 service from Bo’ness - Manuel
	Caledonian Railways 439 class no 419 seen on the rear of the 12.10 service from Bo’ness- Manuel

Gourock Growler Railtour 27.4.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 28 Apr 2019 21:45:57 GMT

The Branch Line Society operated a railtour from Crewe to Gourock and return on Saturday 27th April. The 'Gourock Growler' operated with DRS locomotives throughout and the SRPS railtour Mark 1's.

On Friday 26th, 66425 worked light engine from Carlisle Kingmoor - Bo'ness to collect the railtour set, heading south, the tour worked as 1Z85 and was worked as the 'Bo'ness Bonus' railtour to Crewe. The route taken to Crewe included heading to Edinburgh Waverley then via the Shotts Line to Holytown, then via Motherwell and the West Coast Main Line.

On to Saturday and the main event. The tour left Crewe led by 88007+88002 and was top and tailed with 68018 on the rear, however due to multiple working issues between the pair of 88's, 88007 was removed at Carlisle leaving 88002 to lead to Mossend Up Yard. The tour was running late, therefore missed out many of the loops that it was due to pass through on the way up the West Coast Main Line until it reached Carstairs, where it was held in the Down Passing Loop for 8 minutes to allow 390122 to pass it. It then proceeded to Mossend Up Yard, where it arrived 28 minutes late. It was here that there was a change of traction, with 88002 being removed and 37038+37218 being added for the trip out to Gourock.

37038+37218 with 68018 on the rear of the train then departed Mossend Up Yard 28 minutes late heading to Whifflet South Junction then on the rarely used single track to Sunnyside junction, where the tour headed along the North Clyde Line as far as Anniesland before taking the Maryhill line to Springburn. After Springburn, the tour headed back onto the North Clyde Line at Bellgrove before taking the City of Glasgow Union Line to Shields Junction. The tour then headed towards Paisley Gilmour Street, where it took the Inverclyde line out to Gourock.

After a break at Gourock, 68018 led for the journey back towards Glasgow where the tour stopped at Polmadie Clydesdale Loop. It then reversed with 37038 and 37218 leading once more, it headed back towards Paisley Gilmour Street where this time it headed along the Ayrshire line via Kilwinning then at Newton on Ayr junction it headed along the single track, which would join the GSW line near Mauchline and would continue south to Carlisle. At Carlisle, the 37's were removed and 88009 was added to the front for the remainder of the journey to Crewe.

On Sunday, the final day of the tour, 66305 brought the SPRS stock back north as 1Z66 Crewe - Polmont 'The Sunday Shed' tour. After it arrived at Polmont, 66305 returned the stock to Bo'ness before heading back to Carlisle Kingmoor Light Engine.


DRS liveried 66425 and the SPRS railtours Mark 1's approach Addiewell with 1Z65 Bo'ness - Crewe 'Bo'ness Bonus' Branch Line Society railtour 26.4.19	DRS Liveried 88002 top and tailed with 68018 waits in the Down Passenger Loop at Carstairs with 1Z85 Crewe - Mossend Up Yard, the first leg of the Branch Line Society's 'Gourock Growler' Railtour 27.4.19	DRS Liveried 37038+37218 top and tailed with 68018 pass through Hillington West with 1Z86 Mossend Up Yard - Gourock, the second leg of the Branch Line Society's 'Gourock Growler' Railtour 27.4.19

Class 385's used on Shotts Line 23-26.4.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 28 Apr 2019 20:42:17 GMT

With class 385's now starting to be used on the Glasgow Central - Edinburgh Waverley via Shotts line, the single diagram that has been converted to 385 operation so far has seen a different 385 on it each day on it's first week in service.

The following 385's have been used:

Day	Unit
Tuesday	385019
Wednesday	385031
Thursday	385021
Friday	385018

Interestingly, the 385 on the Shotts line has also went on to do some evening services on the Cathcart Circle starting with the 19.45 service to Newton.

The photo shows 385018 arriving at Hartwood with 2Y50 16.16 Scotrail service from Glasgow Central - Edinburgh Waverley on Friday 26th April.

First services by class 385's on the Shotts Line 23.4.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 23 Apr 2019 21:22:19 GMT

On 23rd April, the class 385's made their debut on the Glasgow Central - Edinburgh Waverley via Shotts Service. Initially only one of the diagrams is currently being operated by the 385, with 019 the chosen unit for the first day in service. Class 156's and 158's remain on the other diagrams for the time being.

It's expected that only the class 385/0's (3 car variation) will operate on this route.

The class 385 is expected to work the following services for the remainder of the week:

2Y60 0715 Glasgow Central to Edinburgh
1Y75 0858 Edinburgh to Glasgow Central
2Y52 1016 Glasgow Central to Edinburgh
1Y81 1157 Edinburgh to Glasgow Central
2Y44 1316 Glasgow Central to Edinburgh
1Y87 1457 Edinburgh to Glasgow Central
2Y50 1616 Glasgow Central to Edinburgh
2Y51 1755 Edinburgh to Glasgow Central

The photo shows 385019 working 2Y50 16.16 Glasgow Central - Edinburgh service on 23.4.19

Manchester Metrolink 8-11.4.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 19 Apr 2019 00:31:54 GMT

The Manchester Metrolink is the largest light rail network in the UK. The tram network currently boasts 120 Bombadier M5000 trams operating on 18 routes, with a further route and another 27 trams under construction.

The services are currently as follows:

Route	Headway	Notes
Altrincham - Bury	12 mins	operates till approx 8pm Mon - Saturday, uses double units
Altrincham - Piccadilly	12 mins
Bury - Piccadilly	12 mins
Ashton - Eccles	12 mins	operates via MediaCityUK Mon - Sat evenings and Sunday all day
Ashton - MediacityUK	12 mins	operates till approx 8pm Mon - Sat
East Didsbury - Rochdale	12 mins
East Didsbury - Shaw	12 mins	operates till approx 8pm Mon - Sat
Manchester Airport - Victoria	12 mins / 20 mins	20 min service operates 3-6am Mon - Sat and 3-7am on Sundays from Airport - Deansgate Castlefield.

Construction is well underway on a new route running from Crumpsall on the Bury route to the Trafford Centre. Crumpsall is having an additional platform added to the existing stop, while the new part of the route, which construction is well underway, leaves the current system at Pomona on the Eccles line and makes its way to the Trafford Centre with a combination of on street and off street running. The new route is expected to open next year with a standard 12 minute headway.

On my visit to Manchester from 8th - 11th April, I noted that the 8 routes ran with the following combinations of trams

Altrincham - Bury: Double M5000's
Altrincham - Piccadilly: Single M5000's Mon / Tues / Thurs and Doubles on Weds as Manchester United were playing Barcelona at Old Trafford.
Bury - Piccadilly: Double M5000's Mon / Tues / Thurs and singles on Weds as doubles operated on Altrincham route instead
Ashton - Eccles: single M5000's
Ashton - MediacityUK: Single M5000's
East Didsbury - Rochdale: mix of single M5000's and doubles
East Didsbury - Shaw: mix of single M5000's and doubles
Manchester Airport - Victoria: Single M5000's

The Altrincham and Bury routes appeared to use lower numbered trams with higher numbered trams mainly (but not always) appearing on the other routes.

Less all over advert liveries were noted this year compared to last, with Vodafone adverts being seen on trams 3017, 3047, 3093 and 3100 and 3075 advertising the Body Shop.

Photo spots

There are plenty of places to spot the trams, either running on street or off street:

St Peter's Square: One of the busiest stops on the system with trams from 7 out of 8 routes stopping here.
Manchester Central: 7 out of 8 routes pass here
Princess Street / Cross Street: East Didsbury - Shaw / Rochdale head along here
Mosley Street: Altrincham - Bury / Piccadilly, Manchester Airport - Victoria and Ashton - Eccles / MediaCityUK pass along here
Piccadilly Gardens: triangular junction with trams passing with most routes diverging for Piccadilly every couple of minutes
Victoria: recently modernised stop with 4 platforms on a 3 track layout. Airport services turn back here.
Deansgate - Castlefield: car park area good for photoing the trams on the sleeper track and coming off former railway bridge
Salford Quays: good for photoing trams heading along quayside.
Mediacityuk: 2 platform terminus, triangular junction with Eccles branch.

314208 withdrawn

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 18 Apr 2019 23:30:41 GMT

On 5th April, 314208 became the 6th class 314 to be withdrawn from service (really 8th if you include 207 and 210 which were reinstated).

The withdrawal of 314208 leaves 10 units available for service: 314202 / 203 / 205 / 207 / 209 / 210 / 211 / 214 / 215 and 216. This is likely to reduce further following the May timetable change, when it is expected that only 5 units will be required for service on a daily basis.

The photograph shows 314208 awaiting departure from Glasgow Central with 2D27 12.42 service to Paisley Canal on 1st March 2019.

Blackpool Trams 5.4 - 8.4.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 12 Apr 2019 22:57:44 GMT

Friday 5th April

I arrived in Blackpool around 6pm, too late to see the heritage trams in service. The 15 minute service was, as usual in the hands of the Flexity fleet. The timetable went down to every 30 minutes around 8pm.

Saturday 6th April

Blackpool was busy with numerous groups in the area for the Grand National weekend and the prom in particular was busy as there was a coach rally on. The Flexities operated their usual early season timetable of working every 15 minutes during the day and 30 minutes from 8pm onwards. The heritage timetable, however threw up the most interest with the service being doubled to work every 10 minutes from Pleasure Beach - North Pier (with occasional journeys to Cabin) using 4 trams instead of the usual 20 minute service using 2 trams.

With the sun being out albeit with a cold breeze, boat cars 600 and fresh from it's recent interior overhaul, 227, saw use alongside Standard 147 and Balloon 723. Engineering tram 754 was seen at Starr Gate Depot, being used to check the overhead line in the depot roads.

Sunday 7th April

After a cloudy start, by mid afternoon it was a gloriously sunny and warm day in Blackpool. With the coach rally on for the second day running, the enhanced heritage service ran again. The service was operated by Balloon 701, Standard 147 and Boats 600 and 227. Balloon 701 worked the first Cabin trip of the day.

Both boat cars seemed to be well loaded on both days. Engineering tram 754 was seen at North Pier, being used to check the overhead line.

Monday 8th April

The final day of my trip to Blackpool and the normal 20 minute heritage service was in operation, this time utilising Boat 227 and B fleet Balloon 700. 227 worked both morning trips to Cabin, while Balloon 700 operated the afternoon Cabin trips.

Over the course of the 4 days, 15 Flexity trams were used: 001, 002, 003, 004, 005, 006, 007, 008, 009, 010, 011, 013, 015, 016 and 017. 012, 014 and 018 weren't used during the 4 days.

Day	A	B	C	D
Saturday	147	723	227	600

Sunday	701	147	600	227

Monday	227	700

North Pier Extension

Work appears to have progressed well since my last visit, with all track on Talbot Road up as far as the current Wilko building complete. The new platform in Talbot Square for East bound workings is complete and the support poles for the overhead were being put up.

See https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p200048606 for the full gallery of photos from the weekend.

Overhauls for Balloons 704 and 706 at Blackpool

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 29 Mar 2019 00:27:47 GMT

Two excellent pieces of news have came from the Blackpool Tramway this week:

The first is that the major overhaul of the popular open top Balloon car 706 'Princess Alice' will begin later this year, the preliminary work has already begun with the fabrication of a new underframe for the tram now underway. 706 has been stored since the end of the 2015 season in need of an overhaul and the replacement of the underframe.

The Fylde Tramway Society have been fundraising with the target being the estimated £50,000 cost of the work to 706 and have so far raised £10,000, enough to make a start on the underframe. They are still looking for donations, which can be made at https://www.gofundme.com/039princess-alice039-706-appeal?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=fb_u_g&fbclid=IwAR1ELEFxv1OLYkvJ6-gZxKlH4xgBcOlxefhe7YVgHapJ2R3chmlvfFNHFHg

It is hoped that 706 should return to heritage service in 2021, the Fylde Tramway Society's 50th Anniversary.

The main photograph shows Balloon 706 departing Rigby Road depot on 23rd May 2015 (it's last year in service) to work on the Heritage service.

The other big piece of news is that as well as having the components to create the underframe for Balloon 706, there is a second underframe being created to allow a second Balloon to be restored, with work being undertaken simultaneously with 706.

Balloon 704, which was withdrawn at the end of the 2003 season in need of a major overhaul, will be restored to late 50's / early 60's condition and will be renumbered back to 241. Having 704 back in the heritage fleet should complement Balloon 717 as well as allowing a series 1 balloon to be returned to near original condition. It is expected that 704 will regain it's curved roof windows on the top deck and possibly even the thinly upholstered upper deck seating, which one graced the former open topped series 1 Balloons! An estimate or timescale on when 704/241 will return to service has not been announced as yet.

With both 704 and 706's returns being in the future, 2019 also holds plenty of interest for fans of the Blackpool Tramway.

It is expected that Millennium Balloon 707 will return to use during the year, having been stored since 2013. The flat fronted Balloon is being brought back into use as an additional high capacity tramcar for the illuminations, following Millennium Balloon 718 proving to already be popular in this role due to the large end windows on the top deck giving an excellent forward / rear view. 707 is to receive the Millennium Green / Cream / Grey and Black livery already carried by 718 and originally carried by 707 when it emerged from overhaul in this style in 1998.

August 28th will hopefully see Standard car 143 make it's long awaited return to service following a major rebuild. 143, was withdrawn from passenger service in 1957 before becoming Engineering car 3 / 753. It continued to find use in this role until 1990 when it's diesel engine caught fire, causing extensive damage to the tram. 143 was mostly overhauled by the LTT between 2008 and 2010, however Blackpool Transport and completing the overhaul, which will see 143 in a form, not currently represented by a Blackpool Standard in preservation: open end driving platforms and open balcony ends.

It is also expected that ex towing railcoach 679 will return to service in it's original form as Series 2 Railcoach 279 complete with pointed ends some time this year. The FTT group are currently hard at work on the tram.

47501 and 47593 at Carstairs 25.3.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 25 Mar 2019 23:31:52 GMT

British Railways two toned green D1944 (47501) 'Craftsman' top and tailed with BR Large Logo liveried 47593 'Galloway Princess' head south through Carstairs with 1Z64 Fort William - Milton Keynes 'The Statesman' Railtour 25.3.19

90048+90047 at Carluke 24.3.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 24 Mar 2019 22:17:08 GMT

In a scene that could easily be from the 1990's, Freightliner Grey liveried 90048 and 90047 head south through Carluke in a brief moment of sunshine with 4Z49 Coatbridge Freightliner Terminal - Crewe Basford Hall intermodal on 24th March 2019.

Hartwood station transformation

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 22 Mar 2019 23:37:33 GMT

With electrification coming to the Shotts Line, a number of changes have been made to Hartwood station in the past year.

Having visited in the past couple of days for the first time this year, the change in the station even since my last visit in October have been drastic.

Changes made have included:

Eastbound 2 aspect signal, which was at the end of the platform has been relocated through to the other side of the road bridge
Both platforms have been shortened
Both platforms have new shelters with the old ones having been removed
the old foot bridge, which was half way along the platform has gone
a new stair case on the westbound platform to the bridge giving access to the old Hartwood Hospital has been built and is now the route between the 2 platforms, the eastbound ramp from before the upgrade remains
tactile dots indicating the platform edge for partially sighted passengers installed on the Westbound platform


View of Station looking West March 2018	View of station looking East May 2018	View looking west from westbound platform March 2019	view looking East from West end of Wesbound platform

new stair case at west end of westbound platform	West end of eastbound platform looking east

Scotrail Class 365's withdrawn

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 22 Mar 2019 23:01:04 GMT

Week beginning 11th March saw the class 365 'Happy Trains' run their final services for Scotrail.

The 365's were on loan for a year due to the initial delays to the class 385's entering service and a shortage of stock as some of the DMU fleet going off lease.

10 of the 365's saw use for Scotrail, initially on the E&G line and laterally on the Edinburgh - Dunblane line, however there are now enough 385's available for service to allow the 365's to be stood down.

The 10 class 365's: 365509, 513, 517, 519, 521, 523, 525, 529, 533 and 537 are currently stored at Yoker, Shields and Eastfield until they are moved back south and returned to their leasing company.

The photo shows 365523 pausing at Linlithgow on its first driver training working for Scotrail with 2Z52 Glasgow Queen Street - Linlithgow UPL on 10th May 2018.

70812+56087 on Dalston Tanks 19.3.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 19 Mar 2019 23:03:29 GMT

Running double headed, Colas liveried 70812 and 56087 pass through Holytown with 6S36 Dalston - Grangemouth Oil takers 19.3.19

Possible further use for 314204?

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 17 Mar 2019 00:02:15 GMT

When 314204 was hauled to Glasgow Works on 13th March by 37884, it was expected that the set would be stripped for spares, then transported by low loader to Kingsbury for scrapping, however in a twist to this story, the unit was loaded onto 3 separate low loaders on 14th March and transported south with it's ultimate destination expected to be Eastleigh.

There are rumours that 314204 may see further use with London Overground until their new fleet of units are ready for use.

314206 was hauled by 37884 from Shields to Newport Docks on 14th March for scrapping. 314201 was also expected to be taken for scrapping at the same time, however it had developed air leaks and was unable to be moved so is still stored at Shields depot.

37884 hauls 314204 to Glasgow Works 13.3.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Wed, 13 Mar 2019 13:21:14 GMT

On 13th March, 314204 became the third class 314 to be taken to Glasgow Works to be stripped for spares before scrapping. It was hauled by 37884 on 5Q06 from Yoker to Glasgow Works via Glasgow Central Low Level, Bargeddie and Gartcosh.

This was 314204's first and last journey via Gartcosh and its final ever journey by rail. The class 314 disposals are set to continue this week with 37884 hauling 314201 and 314206 from Shields - Newport docks for scrapping on Thursday 14th March. Unfortunately the move is at night, leaving Shields at 22.14 so it won't be possible to photo it.

The photo shows Europhoenix liveried 37884 hauling Scotrail Saltire liveried 314204 on its final journey by rail as it passes through Gartcosh on 5Q06 Yoker - Glasgow Works.

Hartlepool - Inverness pipe train at Holytown 12.3.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 12 Mar 2019 22:44:08 GMT

On 12th March, 66099 was seen passing through Holytown with 6X88, Hartlepool - Inverness pipe train.

The pipes carried are for the Subsea 7 fabrication plant near Wick. After Holytown, the train would head into Mossend Yard, where it would be stabled until later in the day, when it would make the journey north up the Highland Main Line to Inverness. From Inverness, the train would then move to Georgemas Junction, where it would be unloaded.

A rear view of 6X88 showing the size of the pipes being carried

6 Nations Rugby Charter at Carstairs Part 2 11.3.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 12 Mar 2019 22:29:04 GMT

The return working of the Pathfinder Welsh 6 Nations Rugby fans Charter heading to Carmarthen from Motherwell ran on 11th March. 68016 was again used to haul the set, which was made up mainly of Blue / Grey Mark2's. Starting from Motherwell, where supporters staying in Glasgow were picked up, the charter worked south to Carstairs before diverting east over the Cobbinshaw line to Edinburgh Waverley.

At Edinburgh, it picked up its remaining passengers before returning along the Cobbinshaw line to Carstairs East Junction. As the charter was running early by this point, it was held here awaiting its correct time and for a southbound Pendilino from Glasgow to pass.

The charter then joined the West Coast Main Line and headed south. At Carlisle, 68016 was replaced by First Transpennine Express liveried 68019 for the remainder of the journey to Carmarthen.

For completeness, the table from the part 1 post, now containing the return working's loco allocation.

	Carmarthen - Carlisle	Carlisle - Motherwell	Motherwell - Carlisle	Carlisle - Carmerthen
2015	68005	68002	68002	68005
2017	68024	68004	68004	68024
2019	68001	68016	68016	68019

The Main photo shows 68016 waiting at Carstairs East Junction until its right time while working 1Z27, the return Pathfinder Welsh 6 Nations Rugby fans charter from Motherwell - Carmarthen. The smaller images below show the charter at Carstairs East Junction and on the approach to Float Bridge south of Carstairs. Click on the image to see a larger version.

Blackpool and Fleetwood 40 leaves Blackpool

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 11 Mar 2019 22:47:46 GMT

On 2nd March, Blackpool and Fleetwood Box Car 40 ran in Blackpool for the final time. It's loan spell in Blackpool is now over and on Monday 4th March, the tram was moved by low loader to Beamish, where the tram will enjoy a spell on loan before moving to the Crich Tramway Museum.

Built in 1914 by the United Electric Car Company in Preston, Box Car 40 was one of a batch of 4 additional trams built for all year round use on the tramroad thus giving the tramroad 15 enclosed trams. 40 was a mainstay on the Fleetwood to North Station service until 1928 when the Pantograph Cars were introduced to the service. 40 was renumbered to 114 in 1920 when the Tramroad was bought by Blackpool Corporation Transport.

After 1928, 114 found use on the promenade and occasionally on services on the Lytham Road route. 114 was withdrawn in October 1937 (probably around the same time as the Brush Cars came into service) and found a new life as works car 5 and was used as a mess room and to transfer workmen to the trackwork sites. The tram continued in this role until 1960 when it was restored in time for the 75th anniversary of the tramway and regained it's original number (40).

40 then left for Crich in 1963, later moving to Heaton Park tramway and finally returning to Blackpool for seasonal use on specials in 1995. 40 has remained almost continuously at Blackpool since them with the exception of a return to Crich to celebrate its centenary in 2014.

The photo shows Blackpool and Fleetwood 40 paused at Bispham with a heritage service to Pleasure Beach on 22nd September 2018.

Busy spell at Carluke 9.3.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 09 Mar 2019 23:53:55 GMT

I nipped up to Carluke for around 40 minutes this afternoon and saw no fewer than 4 freights!


DB red liveried 66192 approaches Carluke with 4M16 Grangemouth - Daventry intermodal 9.3.19	66302+427+432 head north through Carluke with 0Z66 Carlisle Kingmoor - Motherwell TMD light engine move 9.3.19

GBRF liveried 66723 'Chinook' passes through Carluke with the early running 4M01 Mossend - Clitheroe cement working 9.3.19	88002 passes through Carluke with 4S43 Daventry - Mossend Stobart Rail / Tesco containers 9.3.19

6 Nations Rugby Charter at Carstairs 8.3.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 08 Mar 2019 23:23:59 GMT

Biannually, there is a Pathfinder Railtour running from Carmarthen in Wales to Wishaw / Motherwell via Edinburgh Waverley in connection with the Scotland v Wales 6 nations rugby match at Murrayfield.

As has been the case since 2015, the tour has been hauled by a DRS Class 68.

The tour has been hauled by the following locomotives:

	Carmarthen - Carlisle	Carlisle - Motherwell	Motherwell - Carlisle	Carlisle - Carmerthen
2015	68005	68002	68002	68005
2017	68024	68004	68004	68024
2019	68001	68016	tbc	tbc

This morning, 68001 operated the tour from Carmarthen - Carlisle, with 68016 taking over at Carlisle for the rest of the trip north. I photographed the train at the Down Passing Loop at Carstairs with 1Z22 7.05 Carmarthen - Wishaw Pathfinder 6 Nations Welsh Rugby Supporters Charter.

314209 at Newton 8.3.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 08 Mar 2019 23:03:21 GMT

Scotrail Saltire liveried 314209 awaits departure from Newton with 2M75 13.19 to Glasgow Central via Maxwell Park

Class 314's 1.3.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 02 Mar 2019 00:11:45 GMT

314's seen between 12.00 and 13.15 today

Shields

314201, 314206, 314210

Glasgow Central

314209: 12.12 to Paisley Canal
314202: 12.15 Cathcart Inner Circle and 12.51 Cathcart Outer Circle
314211: 12.25 to Gourock
314208: 12.42 to Paisley Canal
314207: 12.45 to Newton via Maxwell Park
314216: 12.57 to Wemyss Bay
314205: 13.15 Cathcart Inner Circle


314211 arrives into Glasgow Central with 1G34 11.24 service from Gourock 1.3.19	314209 prepares to depart Glasgow Central with 2D25 12.12 service to Paisley Canal 1.3.19	314208 awaits departure from Glasgow Central with 2D27 12.42 service to Paisley Canal 1.3.19	Scotrail Saltire liveried 314208 awaits departure from Glasgow Central with 2D27 12.42 service to Paisley Canal while SPT Carmine and Cream liveried 314207 will depart with 2M74 12.45 to Newton via Maxwell Park 1.3.19

SPT Carmine and Cream liveried 314207 awaits departure from Glasgow Central with 2M74 12.45 to Newton via Maxwell Park 1.3.19	SPT Carmine and Cream liveried 314207 awaits departure from Newton with 2M75 13.19 to Glasgow Central via Maxwell Park 1.3.19

Class 314's 27.2.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 28 Feb 2019 00:24:34 GMT

314's seen between 11.30 and 1pm today:

Shields

314206,314201 and 314208

Glasgow Central

314214: 11.42 and 12.42 to Paisley Canal
314202: 11.45 Cathcart Outer Circle
314215: 11.51 Cathcart Outer Circle and 12.45 to Newton via Maxwell Park
314210: 11.55 to Gourock
314209: 12.12 to Paisley Canal
314205: 12.15 Cathcart Inner Circle and 12.51 Cathcart Outer Circle
314216: 12.25 to Gourock
314211: 12.57 to Weymss Bay


314210 awaits departure from Glasgow Central with 1G05 11.55 service to Gourock 27.2.19	Scotrail Saltire liveried 314214 awaits departure from Glasgow Central with 2D27 12.42 to Paisley Canal	314215 awaits departure from Newton with 2M75 13.19 service to Glasgow Central via Maxwell Park 27.2.19	314216 awaits departure from Glasgow Central with 1G61 12.25 service to Gourock 27.2.19

Rutherglen Permanent Way Depot 23.2.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 28 Feb 2019 00:19:37 GMT

Rutherglen Permanent Way depot is located north of Rutherglen station on the West Coast Main Line. Various different track machines, snow blowers and very occasionally, the odd locomotive can be seen here.

The PW depot is located near to where the tracks from Whifflet join and can be seen on the right hand side when heading into Glasgow.

When passing on the train on Saturday, I got a couple of photos of the various track machines stabled there.


Plasser & Theurer TJC60 Self-Propelled Heavy Duty Twin Jib Crane No DRP78217 is seen stabled at Rutherglen PW depot 23.2.19	Beilhack Self Propelled Rotary Snowblower ADB968501 seen at Rutherglen Permanent Way Depot 23.2.19	Plasser & Theurer GWS-75 mini tamper 908006-8 and a 2nd unidentified tamper seen at Rutherglen Permanent Way Depot 23.2.19

37059 top and tailed with 37218 at Carluke 21.2.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 21 Feb 2019 23:43:13 GMT

In recent months, the Network Rail PLPR test train has been operated by DRS class 37's instead of Colas.

On 21st February, the test train was seen out on the West Coast Main Line passing through a sunny Carluke station enroute to Lanark, where upon a quick stop off and change of ends, it would return north through Carluke again about an hour later. 37059 and 37218 were the locomotives used on today's train.

The photograph shows DRS liveried 37059 and 37218 top and tail the Network Rail PLPR Test train as it passes through Carluke whilst working 1Q75 Mossend - Mossend via Lanark 21.2.19

45231 "Sherwood Forrester" at Wishaw 18.2.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 18 Feb 2019 23:27:02 GMT

LMS Stanier Black 5 number 45231 "Sherwood Forrester" approaches Wishaw with 5Z45 Mossend - Crewe HS steam Loco and support coach move 18.2.19

Class 314's 18.2.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 18 Feb 2019 23:24:07 GMT

314's seen just before lunchtime at Glasgow Central today:

314202 - 11.12 to Paisley Canal
314207 - 11.15 Cathcart Inner and 11.51 Cathcart Outer Circle services
314208 - 11.42 to Paisley Canal
314214 - 11.45 to Newton via Maxwell Park
314210 - 11.55 to Gourock
314215 - 12.15 Cathcart Inner Circle


At Glasgow Central 314210 awaits departure with 1G05 11.55 to Gourock, 156432 will soon depart with 1A24 11.43 to Kilmarnock and 314214 will soon leave with 2M94 11.45 to Newton via Maxwell Park 18.2.19	314214, which was the final 314 to receive the Scotrail Saltire livery, awaits departure from Glasgow service with 2M94 11.45 service to Newton 18.2.19

314210's worn SPT Carmine and Cream livery shines in the sun as the unit awaits departure from Glasgow Central with 1G05 11.55 to Gourock 18.2.19	314214 awaits departure from Newton with 2M71 12.19 to Glasgow Central via Maxwell Park 18.2.19

Class 314's 16.2.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 17 Feb 2019 00:03:17 GMT

I saw the following 314's out today:

Glasgow Central
314207: 10.42 and 11.42 to Paisley Canal
314202: 10.55 to Gourock
314210: 10.57 to Weymss Bay
3142xx: 11.05 to Gourock (Didn't catch the number but was a Saltire set)
314214: 11.20 to Newton via Queens Park and 15.45 to Newton via Maxwell Park
314203: 15.20 to Newton


314202, the final class 314 to receive the SPT Carmine and Cream livery, arrives into Glasgow Central with 1G02 9.54 service from Gourock 16.2.19	Scotrail Saltire liveried 314203 awaits departure from Glasgow Central with 2P14 15.20 service to Newton via Queens Park and 314214 will work 2M86 15.45 to Newton via Maxwell Park 16.2.19	Debranded SPT Carmine and Cream liveried 314207 awaits departure from Glasgow Central with 2D19 10.42 service to Paisley Canal 16.2.19

314210 departs Paisley Gilmour Street with 1W33 10.57 service from Glasgow Central - Weymss Bay 16.2.19	314214 awaits departure from Glasgow Central with 2M86 15.45 to Newton via Maxwell Park	314202 approaches Paisley Gilmour Street with 1G03 10.55 Glasgow Central - Gourock service 16.2.19

Class 314's 15.2.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 15 Feb 2019 23:35:36 GMT

I was passing through Glasgow Central at lunchtime today and saw the following 314's in service:

314205 11.51 Cathcart Outer Circle
314214 11.55 Glasgow Central - Gourock
314216 12.12 Glasgow Central - Paisley Canal
314215 12.15 Cathcart Inner Circle 314211 12.25 Glasgow Central - Gourock
The 11.42 service to Paisley Canal and the 11.45 service to Newton were both SPT Carmine and Cream 314's, I didn't catch the numbers unfortunately.

The photo shows 314205 departing Queens Park with 2O34 11.51 Cathcart Outer Circle service.

314213 moves to Glasgow Works 12.2.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 12 Feb 2019 22:44:14 GMT

Today, 314213 became the 2nd class 314 to be taken to Glasgow Works to be stripped for spares before scrapping. The spare parts should help to keep the 11 units currently still in service working for the time being.

314213, one of 9 of the 16 strong fleet to retain the former SPT Carmine and Cream livery, was withdrawn initially on 21st September, before being reinstated in early October. 213 remained in service for only a couple of weeks before failing on 12th October and being transferred to Yoker for further storage.

On 12th February, 213 was collected by 37884 and hauled from Yoker to Glasgow Works via Glasgow Central Low Level, Carmyle and Gartcosh.

Unfortunately, I couldn't make it to catch a photo of today's working, however here is 314213 in happier times arriving at Newton with a service from Glasgow Central via Queens Park on 31.12.2012

Law Junction 5.2.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 07 Feb 2019 18:34:16 GMT

On 5th February, I tried a new photography location for me: Law Junction.

The photos were taken from the B7011 road bridge.

Looking South in the direction of Carluke, there is a view of the WCML as well as the up and down loops and former goods yard and sidings.

Looking North, there is a view of the junction where the WCML curves left to go through the western edge of Wishaw towards Motherwell, while the branch to Wishaw and Mossend curves off to the right.

The station which once existed here was located between the bridge and the junction. Unfortunately the station closed in the 1960's but there is a local campaign to get it reopened.

In the space of 5 minutes, 1 northbound and 1 southbound working passed through.

66102 with 325006 dead in tow passed heading north with a Craigentinny - Mossend working and 43062+43014 passed heading south with the New Measurement train. Click on the photos below for larger images.


66102 is seen hauling 325006 towards Law Junction with 634F Craigentinny - Mossend Royal Mail EMU move. This shot shows the loops and the former goods yard, which is on the right.		Network Rail New Measurement Train 'Flying Banana' 43062 top and tailed with 43014 passes Law Junction with 1Q26 Derby RTC - Edinburgh Waverley via Glasgow Central 5.2.19

68030 at Motherwell and Glasgow Central 31.1.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 31 Jan 2019 23:36:51 GMT

During this week, Transpennine Express have been doing route learning runs with some drivers from their Preston depot between Carlisle and Glasgow. Rather than use a 350 or 185 for the duty, they instead used 68030, which is in First Transpennine Express livery.

I saw 68030 'Black Douglas' at Motherwell and at Glasgow Central where it had just arrived on Platform 5 with 0S41 Carlisle - Glasgow Central.


Motherwell	Motherwell	Glasgow Central	Glasgow Central

Class 314's 31.1.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 31 Jan 2019 23:24:07 GMT

I was in Glasgow today around lunchtime and saw the following 314's

Shields Depot
314201, 314206, 314205. 205 was on the same track as 201 and 206 but had its pantograph up.

Glasgow Central
314216 xx.12 to Paisley Canal
314215 xx.42 to Paisley Canal
314203 11.45 to Newton via Maxwell Park
314208 11.55 to Gourock
314209 12.25 to Gourock
314210 12.45 to Newton via Maxwell Park
314214 12.51 to Cathcart Inner circle
314211 12.57 to Weymss Bay

Also over the past few days, 314212 has been moved south by low loader for scrapping.

Class 314 update 28.1.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 28 Jan 2019 15:18:22 GMT

Class 314's update

11 out of 16 class 314's remain available for service

Fleet Number	Formation			Notes
314201	64583	71450	64584	Withdrawn 28.12.18. Stored at Shields EMD
314202	64585	71451	64586	In Service
314203	64587	71452	64588	In Service
314204	64589	71453	64590	Withdrawn 3.11.18. Stored at Yoker
314205	64591	71454	64592	In Service
314206	64593	71455	64594	Withdrawn 23.11.18. Stored at Shields EMD
314207	64595	71456	64596	In Service was Withdrawn 21.9.18 then reinstated 2.10.18
314208	64597	71457	64598	In Service
314209	64599	71458	64600	In Service
314210	64601	71459	64602	In Service was withdrawn November 2018 reinstated Jan 2019
314211	64603	71460	64604	In Service
314212	64605	71461	64606	Withdrawn 21.9.18 - sent for scrapping at Glasgow Works 9.1.19
314213	64607	71462	64608	Withdrawn 21.9.18 - reinstated 2.10.18, withdrawn again 3.11.18 Stored at Yoker
314214	64609	71463	64610	In Service
314215	64611	71464	64612	In Service
314216	64613	71465	64614	In Service

Busy Scene at Haymarket 26.1.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 28 Jan 2019 14:55:19 GMT

A busy scene at Haymarket as 380014 has departed with 15.05 Edinburgh Waverley - Glasgow Queen Street via Cumbernauld, 385123+385010 arrive with 1R74 14.30 Queen Street - Waverley and 158736 arrives with 2K30 14.21 Glenrothes - Waverley. A unidentified 156 and HST set are also seen stabled at Haymarket depot. 26.1.19

Scotrail Inter7city HST

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 28 Jan 2019 14:50:06 GMT

Scotrail Inter7city branded 43168 and 43140 complete with a set of 4 debranded Great Western Railway green mark 3 coaches arrive into Haymarket with 1B32 13.12 Aberdeen - Edinburgh Waverley 26.1.19

314212 heading for scrap

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 28 Jan 2019 14:31:01 GMT

On 9th January, 314212 was moved to Glasgow Works to be stripped for spare parts and then scrapped.

314212, which has been in store at Yoker since withdrawal on 21st September, was the only 314 not reinstated to service when the 385's were temporarily withdrawn in October 2018. 314212 made it's final journey from Yoker to Glasgow works on 9th January when it travelled under its own power as far as Eastfield, where 37884 hauled it the final mile to Glasgow works.

314212 was the first 314 to receive Scotrail Saltire livery and interior refresh in 2011.

Class 314's 11.1.19

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 28 Jan 2019 14:02:37 GMT

I was passing through Glasgow at lunchtime on Friday 11th January and saw quite a few 314’s.

314201, 314206 and 314209 were stabled at shields, 201 was stabled next to the withdrawn 206. Both had their pantographs down.

At Glasgow central

314216 was on the 12.12 to Paisley canal and 314203 on the 12.42 service
314208 was on the 12.25 to Gourock
314215 was on the 12.19 service from Newton
314211 was on the 12.45 to Newton and 314214 on the 12.51 Cathcart outer circle service.

Class 314's 16.11.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 16 Nov 2018 21:20:49 GMT

I had a couple of hours to spare in Glasgow this afternoon and in that time, I spotted 11 of the 13 remaining class 314's in service.

Units seen in service were: 314201, 202, 205, 207, 208, 209, 211, 214, 215 and 216. 314209 and 314203 were waiting to work an ECS from Shields into Central as well meaning 11 units were in service.

Here are the services that I saw the 314's working on:

Unit	Headcode	Working
314207	2M78	13.45 Glasgow Central - Newton via Maxwell Park
	2M79	14.19 Newton - Glasgow Central via Maxwell Park
	2I23	15.15 Cathcart Inner Circle via Maxwell Park
	2O26	15.51 Cathcart Outer Circle via Queens Park
314214	5O24	15.07 Glasgow Central - Crosshill Via Queens Park
	2O24	15.20 Crosshill - Glasgow Central via Mount Florida
314202	2N20	15.06 Glasgow Central - Neilston
314216	2G45	15.05 Glasgow Central - Gourock
314205	2D39	15.42 Glasgow Central - Paisley Canal
314208	1G58	15.24 Gourock - Glasgow Central
314201	2I27	16.15 Cathcart Inner Circle via Maxwell Park
314211	2P18	16.20 Glasgow Central - Newton via Queens Park
314215	2N26	16.08 Glasgow Central - Neilston

Class 314's 7.11.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Wed, 07 Nov 2018 23:46:48 GMT

Glasgow Central and Newton Class 314 sightings 7.11.18

I was passing through Glasgow Central on my way to/from dinner in the city centre and spotted 9 of the remaining 13 class 314's in service. I also travelled into Central on 314214.

The reduction to 13 in service has happened as 314213 was withdrawn for the second time in recent months and 314204 has also been removed from service.

Both units were moved to Yoker depot sometime last weekend for storage alongside 314212 which was already there.

The units seen were: 314202, 203, 205, 207, 208, 210, 211, 214, 216. There was at least another Carmine and Cream 314 in service, which was running on the 17.12 service to Paisley Canal, unfortunately I didn't manage to catch the number as it was too dark to see it from 314214.

Unit	Headcode	Service
314214	2P18	16.20 Glasgow Central - Newton via Queens Park
	2P19	16.49 Newton - Glasgow Central via Queens Park
	2I31	17.23 Cathcart Inner Circle via Maxwell Park
314210+314205	1N32	17.18 Glasgow Central - Neilston
314203	2P24	17.31 Glasgow Central - Newton via Queens Park
314208+314207	2N36	17.37 Glasgow Central - Neilston
	5N03	19.28 Glasgow Central - Corkerhill CSMD
314216	2D47	17.42 Glasgow Central - Paisley Canal
314211	2O31	17.51 Cathcart Outer Circle via Queens Park
	2I15	19.15 Cathcart Inner Circle via Maxwell Park
314202	1W17	17.56 Glasgow Central - Weymss Bay

Glasgow Central decorated for Remembrance Day 7.11.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Wed, 07 Nov 2018 23:01:45 GMT

The forecourt of Glasgow Central has been decorated for Remembrance Day. Four large poppies can be seen hanging from the rafters, whilst a poppy Scotland shop is also seen behind the lounge.

The Station clock has also had it's bulb changed and is shining red. Inside the clock faces are silhouettes with the following: 'Lest we Forget', '1914-1918' a poppy and a soldier next to a cross.

Bo'ness Autumn Steam Gala 2.11.18-3.11.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 05 Nov 2018 21:41:19 GMT

The Bo'ness Autumn Steam Gala took place from 2nd - 4th November.

It was a fantastic weekend, featuring 5 steam locomotives:

Coltness Iron Works No.1 - 'Lord Roberts'
N.C.B. No.6
N.C.B Fife Area No.19
Caledonian Railway 439 class No.419
Caledonian Railway 812 class No.828 (on loan from the Strathspey Railway)

I visited for a short time on Friday afternoon and 419 and 828 were being prepared for their starring role on the Saturday and Sunday. No. 19 was working on the passenger service and No.1 arrived into Bo'ness with a short demonstration freight, which No. 6, which was acting as shunter for the weekend, shunted from the yard to the bay platform.

On to the Saturday and I was there for a couple of hours. 828 was in the bay platform with the 2 Caledonian Railway coaches. 419 was then coupled onto the front. A short time later, No.1 and No.19 top and tailed with the Mark 1 set arrived from Manuel. No.1 remained on the rear of the set while No.19 came off the train and 419, 828 and the 2 caledonian coaches coupled onto the front and worked the 12.09 to Manuel.

1, 828 and 419 returned to Bo'ness on the 12.38 from Manuel and 828 and 419 with the 2 caledonian coaches came off and returned to the bay platform. No.19 then returned to the front of the train and worked the next service out to Manuel with No.1 on the rear. 419 then headed to fill up with water next to the steam shed. Unfortunately I had to leave at that point but it was a fantastic event. 419, which was returning to service after 10 years looked superb and visiting loco 828 was also amazing. This was the first time both locomotives had worked together in preservation.

More photos from the weekend can be found at https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p326245263

Class 314's 20.10.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 20 Oct 2018 21:52:08 GMT

I was in Glasgow this morning and saw 15 of the 16 314's. The workings I saw them on were:

314203 on 10.20 and 13.20 services to Newton via Queens Park
314202+314204 on 10.35 Glasgow Central - Neilston
314216 10.55 Glasgow Central - Gourock
314210 10.57 Glasgow Central - Weymss Bay
314214+314215 11.05 Glasgow Central - Neilston
314206 11.12 Glasgow Central - Paisley Canal
314208 11.35 Glasgow Central - Neilston

314201 and 314209 were stabled at Corkerhill
314205, 314207, 314211 and 314213 were stabled at Shields

The only set I didn't see was 314212.

Class 314's in service 13.10.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 14 Oct 2018 21:14:12 GMT

I was heading into Glasgow for lunch, but decided to head in early to ride on and photograph some class 314's. Over the space of 3 hours, I managed to spot, photo or ride on 13 of the 16 members of the fleet.

Starting at Newton, I caught 314203, the only 314 that I had still to get a decent photograph on. 314203 of course is the unit with the unique driving trailer, 64588. 64588 is the second vehicle to carry this number as the original was destroyed in the Newton crash in 1991, when 314203 and 303037 collided just outside the station. Today's 64588 is actually vehicle 64426 from disbanded 3rd rail class 507022. It was converted to work from ac power and used to reform set 203. When it returned to service in the mid 1990's, 64588 was used as a test bed for a number of different types of seating, flooring, lighting diffusers and grab handles. It now carries the standard class 314 low backed seating.

314203 was working 2P15 9.49 Newton - Glasgow Central via Queens Park and ran to time until it reached Croftfoot, when one of the doors didn't close properly and the driver had to get out and close them. This also happened at Kings Park and Mount Florida. 314203 arrived at Glasgow Central 2 minutes late. 314203 then worked 2P18 10.20 Glasgow Central - Newton via Queens Park and also the 11.20 and 12.20 workings.

Enroute, 314207 was seen between Mount Florida and Cathcart with a Cathcart Outer Circle service and 314206+314216 passed at Pollockshields East with a Glasgow Central - Neilston service. The Neilston services were all worked by pairs of class 314's.

I then headed out to Paisley Gilmour Street, 314202 was just arriving into Central with a Neilston service as the service I was on departed. I noted 314213 and 314211 at Shields EMD, 314213 had it's pantograph down. At Gilmour Street, 314214 on 1G03 10.55 Glasgow Central - Gourock was the first of 2 314's seen there, with 314205 on 1W33 10.57 Glasgow Central - Weymss Bay next to arrive. I then headed back to Central, just in time to see 314206+314216 depart with 2N34 11.35 Glasgow Central - Neilston service.

A short time later 314207 arrived into platform 10 at Glasgow Central with 2M91 11.19 Newton - Glasgow Central service then shortly afterwards Saltire liveried 314209 arrives into platform 11 with 2D22 11.35 Paisley Canal - Glasgow Central service. They would depart with 207 working 2G63 12.05 service to Gourock and 209's next working was 2D25 12.12 service to Paisley Canal.

314202 next arrived coupled to 314201 and would form the 2N02 12.05 service from Glasgow Central - Neilston. I got on this working as far as Mount Florida, where I caught 314210+314204 on 2N01 11.58 Neilston - Glasgow Central. 204's rear vehicle was locked out of use. The double set departed Glasgow Central at 12.35 with 2N04 12.35 service to Neilston.

Heading home in the evening, 314203 was seen getting ready to depart Glasgow Central with 2W15 18.38 service to Weymss Bay, while 314207 was seen arriving with it's centre coach in darkness and locked out of use. The only 3 units I didn't see were 314208, 314212 and 314215.

Caledonian Railway 419 at Bo'ness 12.10.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 14 Oct 2018 19:22:13 GMT

The beautifully restored Caledonian 439 class number 419 is seen stabled outside the steam shed at Bo'ness in torrential rail on Friday 12th October.

The loco, which has just undergone a lengthy overhaul, is due to be relaunched into service at the Bo'ness steam gala, which is taking place from November 2nd - 4th November.

As well as 419 being in service, Caledonian Railway 812 class no 828 is visiting on loan from the Strathspey Railway for the weekend and should make a fine sight as it travels along the banks of the Forth.

An interesting fact about the 812 class that I didn't know about until recently is that they were the inspiration for 'Donald' and 'Douglas', the Scottish twin locomotives from Rev W Awdry's 'Railway Series' and it's TV adaptation 'Thomas the Tank Engine'!

314206 at Newton 6.10.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 07 Oct 2018 21:40:27 GMT

Debranded SPT Carmine and Cream liveried 314206 is seen at Newton prior to departure with the 2P23 11.49 service from Newton - Glasgow Central.

Following the recent withdrawal of the class 385's due to issues with their brakes, 314207 and 213, which had been withdrawn only 2 weeks ago, have been reinstated to service.

This is due to class 380's currently working on the Inverclyde lines being required to work on the Edinburgh - Glasgow line to cover for the class 385's.

230002 at Bo'ness 5.10.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 07 Oct 2018 21:22:54 GMT

Vivarail's Battery Electric Multiple Unit demonstrator unit 230002, which was constructed from former London Underground 'D' stock, is seen charging at Bo'ness. 230002 is at Bo'ness for testing and demonstration purposes.

Bo'ness are offering free rides on the unit on Wednesday 10th, Thursday 11th and Friday 12th October.

See https://www.bkrailway.co.uk/free-rides-on-vivarail-new-class-230-battery-train-at-boness-kinneil-railway/ for more details.

37407 and Caroline at Carstairs 5.10.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 07 Oct 2018 19:59:59 GMT

BR Large Logo liveried 37407 and observation coach 'Caroline' waits at Carstairs platform 1 with 5Z03 Edinburgh Waverley - Carlisle High Wapping sidings.

37407 led 'Caroline' into Carstairs from Edinburgh, then after approximately 5 minutes, Caroline led heading south to Carlisle.

East Coast Diversions at Crawford 29.9.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 07 Oct 2018 19:35:01 GMT

On Saturday 29th September, all LNER services were diverted via the Tyne Valley line from Newcastle - Carlisle and then the West Coast Main Line from Carlisle - Carstairs followed by the Cobbinshaw line from Carstairs - Edinburgh.

I managed to catch 2 diverted HST's passing Crawford, just south of Abington.


43310 top and tailed with 43300 head south through Crawford with the diverted 1E19 Edinburgh Waverley - Newcastle	43302 top and tailed with 43318 head north through Crawford with the diverted 1S11 London Kings Cross - Inverness

Also spotted was 390045 'Virgin Pride'

390045 'Virgin Pride' with rainbow branding on coaches A and K passes through Crawford with 1S58 London Euston - Glasgow Central

Ediburgh Tram's Gogar Depot Open Day 29.9.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 07 Oct 2018 19:13:21 GMT

I managed to get a ticket for the Edinburgh Trams depot open day on Saturday 29th September. The depot tour took in a visit to the main building, where we met the training staff, and did a quiz in groups! On the particular tour I was on, all 4 groups scored 2 points each, winning an Edinburgh Trams squishy stress toy! We then got to see the main operations room, where we saw the live map showing the position of the 12 trams in service and whether they were on time or not as well as finding out about the different roles of the team members who worked there. As there was live CCTV images on the screens in the room, we weren't allowed to photograph this particular area.

Next we were taken to the engineering sheds, where trams 260 and 268 were over the pits for maintenance, 258 was at the west end of the sheds. 258 was receiving repairs having been out of service since June when a bus collided with it, causing 2 sections to derail. We then saw tram 274, which was lifted up on jacks for maintenance. Finally in the shed, we got the chance to view tram 272's roof from the overhead gantry that ran the length of the tram, allowing a closer look at some of the circuit boxes and to see the pantograph close up.

We then went to the sanding shed, where tram 252 was waiting for us to take us round to the yard via the tram wash! Once at the yard, we got to take photos of the driving cabs on board tram 254 and ask one of the drivers some questions about the tram. We then got to see some of the engineering vehicles and some of the attachments for the Unimog.

The final part of the tour was to a small souvenir stand, where for a small donation to Edinburgh Tram's chosen charity, you could get some goodies to take away including: advertising posters, pens, the Edinburgh Trams annual, a cardboard model of a tram and a squishy tram. We also got to keep our special High-Vis vests that we wore on the way round the depot. Then it was then the end of the tour.

Thank you to the Edinburgh Trams staff for an excellent day!

More Photos from the event can be found at : https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p73287662

adverts for Blackpool Flexities 003 and 016

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 27 Sep 2018 22:28:17 GMT

In the past month, Blackpool Flexities 003 and 016 have received all over adverts for prettylittlething.com. The adverts consist of a pink basecoat with white unicorns all over the body, with prettylittlething.com displayed in black letters. Fortunately the windows have been kept clear of contravision.

Both trams have received identical adverts.

In the photo on the right, Flexity 016 is seen at Cabin on a Starr Gate - Fleetwood service on 24th September

Blackpool Trams Anniversary Spectacular weekend 21.9-24.9

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 27 Sep 2018 22:21:54 GMT

Friday 21st September

I arrived in a very windy Blackpool at 2pm and Brush Car 621 and Ex towing Railcoach 680 were working an afternoon Heritage service from 1.30-5.00pm between Pleasure Beach and North Pier / Cabin. The tramway was in chaos after 4.30pm due to an issue with the overhead line and high winds meaning the tramway was closed temporarily between Starr Gate and Manchester Square.

Into the evening and the Fireworks championship entry for the night had been cancelled due to the weather. The prom was quieter than a normal Illuminations Friday night, meaning only 2 trams out on illuminations tours. Frigate 736 and the Western Train 733+734 were used with Trawler 737 being used for the Ghost tram tour to Fleetwood and back.

Saturday 22nd September

Saturday was a lot calmer with a cool breeze and alot of cloud about. There was a number of heritage trams out on the enhanced heritage services during the day. 711 was stabled at North Pier for the day as the Shop tram. 719 was used on the depot shuttle between Rigby Road Depot and Starr Gate. 621 and 717 operated a heritage service between Starr Gate and Fleetwood, while 40, 147, 600, 631, 642, 701, 715, 718 and 723 operated heritage services and specials between Pleasure Beach and North Pier / Cabin / Bispham / Little Bispham / Cleveleys and Thornton Gate.

At Rigby Road, there was a display of trams along the fitting shop wall and on the depot fan in connection with the depot tours. Brush Car 634, Balloon 703 (still in Sunderland livery) and open top balloon 706 were on display along the fitting shop wall and Jubilee 761, Halle 902 and Engineering tram 754 on the depot fan.

On to the evening and there was 6 trams out on Illuminations tours. 733+734, 736, 147, 701, 718 and 723 saw use during the night with each tram doing 2 tours.

Sunday 23rd September

During the week before heading to Blackpool, the forecast for Sunday was for heavy rain all day, however it turned out to be a fine sunny day! Again there was plenty of trams out. 711 once again had the role of shop tram. 713 started as the depot shuttle tram, however it failed at Manchester Square on it's first trip and was towed back to depot. 719 replaced 713 for the remainder of it's duties. 701 and 715 operated between Starr Gate, with 40, 66, 600, 621, 642, 648, 680, 717, 718 and 737 operating the remainder of the specials and heritage services.

At Rigby Road, 634, OMO 8 and open top Balloon 706 were on display at the Fitting shop wall, while Jubilee 761, Brush 631 and Coronation 304 were on display on the depot fan. I went on the 11am tour of the depot and Balloon 703, Brush 634, Boat 230 (604) and Twin Car 675+685 were in the electrical compound. Standard 143 was in the Fitting shop, Birkenhead 20 in the Body shop along with the lower saloon of Lytham 43 and Glasgow 1016. Boat 227 (602) was in the paint shop and is due to return to service in a couple of weeks time. In the main depot, the City Tram (former Trampower 611), Brush 625, Balloons 708, 723 and 726, Millennium Balloons 707, 709 and 724, Hovertram 735, Rocket 732, The Western Train, the Frigate and Coronation 660 were visible. At Starr Gate, Flexities 005 and 011 were in the storage shed, while 007, 014 and 017 were in the maintenance shed.

On to the evening and 737 was out on a private hire, whilst 733+734 and 736 were joined by Balloons 700, 711 and 719 on illuminations tours, however the 3 balloons only did 1 tour each.

Monday 24th September

I was in Blackpool till 1pm and it was only Flexities out in service. Interestingly, Flexities 003 and 016 have received a pink all over advert for Prettylittlething.com.

Overall it was a fantastic weekend with plenty of trams to see. My full gallery of photos can be found at: https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p725771107

First class 314's withdrawn from service

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 27 Sep 2018 19:56:36 GMT

After service on 21st September, the first of the class 314's were withdrawn from service. Carmine and Cream examples: 314207 and 314213 were withdrawn along with Scotrail liveried 314212. This reduces the servicable fleet from 16 down to 13. All 3 withdrawn sets were moved to Yoker depot for storage until they are returned back to Angel Trains, their leasing company.

Lanarkshire 53 at Summerlee 15.9.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 15 Sep 2018 23:39:30 GMT

I have been visiting Summerlee on and off since I was around 5 years old and today was the first ever time that I have seen Lanarkshire open topped tram 53 in service! I have seen the tram in the sheds before but it was great seeing it out on the short tramway that runs within the museum! The tram really does look fantastic and is a credit to the volunteers who have restored it!

Class 314 workings 15.9.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 15 Sep 2018 23:28:11 GMT

The class 314's are in their final months of service as they will be withdrawn when sufficient class 385's are in service to allow them to be replaced. The is expected to be either later this year or into next year, so it is a case of ride them and photograph them while you can.

I've been in Glasgow at various times on Saturdays over the past 3 weeks but mainly in the morning and have noticed a pattern of workings during this time. I have shared my observations below for anyone who is looking to photo / ride on the units. Hopefully they are of some use!

Observations

Glasgow Central - Newton via Queens Park - worked by class 314, appears to be the same unit for most, if not all the day.
Glasgow Central - Neilston -worked by 314's possibly 3x 3 car and 1x6 car. I've seen the 6 car working on the 10.57 from Neilston and the 17.35 departure from Central - Neilston in past couple of weeks.
Glasgow Central - Paisley Canal - worked by 2 x 3 car 314's
Glasgow Central - Gourock - spotted 3 (possibly 4) class 314's on this working today, however there could have been more.

Newton via Maxwell Park - appears to be worked by class 318 or class 320 for most of the daytime, but could possibly be a 314 early morning
Cathcart Inner Circle - appears to be worked by a class 318 or 320 for most of the daytime, but could possibly be a 314 early morning
Cathcart Outer Circle - appears to be worked by a class 318 or 320 for most of the daytime, but could possibly be a 314 early morning

There appears to be interworking between the Newton via Maxwell Park and circle services e.g. some of the time a unit coming off a Newton service goes on to do either an Inner or outer circle (or inner then outer or vice versa).


Scotrail Saltire liveried 314209 prepares to depart Glasgow Central with 2D15 9.42 Glasgow Central - Paisley Canal 15.9.18	debranded SPT Carmine and Cream liveried 314202 arrives into Platform 12 at Glasgow Central with 2P19 Newton - Glasgow Central via Queens Park 15.9.18	debranded SPT Carmine and Cream liveried 314215 pauses at Paisley Gilmour Street with 2G75 10.05 Glasgow Central - Gourock 15.9.18	Scotrail Saltire liveried 314211 pauses at Paisley Gilmour Street with 1G02 9.54 Gourock - Glasgow Central 15.9.18

Scotrail liveried 314211 is seen at Glasgow Central having arrived with 1G02 9.54 service from Gourock, while 314208 prepares to leave with 2N28 10.35 to Neilston 15.9.18	Scotrail Saltire liveried 314212 awaits departure from Glasgow Central with 2N32 11.05 Glasgow Central - Neilston 15.9.18	debranded SPT Carmine and Cream liveried 314201 prepares to depart Glasgow Central with 2D21 11.12 service from Glasgow Central - Paisley Canal 15.9.18	debranded SPT Carmine and Cream liveried 314210 departs Glasgow Central with 2G69 11.06 service from Glasgow Central - Gourock 15.9.18

New advert for Edinburgh Tram 271 14.9.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 14 Sep 2018 20:45:33 GMT

For the 3rd time so far in 2018, Edinburgh Tram 271 has a new advert!

The new advert is for Parabola, the fourth Edinburgh Tram to carry an advert for this company. The 4 advert sections have a unique design on each of them for 'Edinburgh City Vision 2050'.

The tram re-entered service in this new livery on 10th September, having replaced the previous advert for Tiso which had only been applied in July!

37175 tnt 37607 at Greenfaulds 1.9.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 01 Sep 2018 23:14:44 GMT

Colas liveried 37175 top and tailed with debranded DRS blue liveried 37607 (on loan from Harry Needle) pass through Greenfaulds with 1Q77 Mossend - Inverness Network Rail PLPR test train. The photo showe 37607 on the rear of the train.

Carmine and Cream 314's 1.9.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 01 Sep 2018 23:09:15 GMT

The Class 314's are the only Scotrail units to retain the former SPT Carmine and Cream livery. 9 of the 16 strong fleet: (314201, 202, 205, 206, 207, 210, 213, 215 and 216) still carry the livery that was at one time carried by all the class 314's, 318's, 320's and 334's as well as a number of class 156's and 170's. The livery was also carried by 4 class 303's (303019, 021, 023 and 087) before their withdrawal in 2002.

The veteran units, which entered service in 1979 operate on the Cathcart Circle, Newton, Neilston, Paisley Canal, Gourock and Wymess Bay lines and are due for withdrawal in 2019 when it is expected that they will be replaced by the brand new class 385 units.

On Saturday 1st September, the Carmine and Cream examples were out in force with 314202, 205, 206, 207 and 210 spotted in and around Glasgow Central in a 20 minute spell.

I got a few photos of 314205 (as well as a journey onboard from Glasgow Central - Newton) and a few of 314207, which was waiting to depart with a service from Glasgow Central to Paisley Canal.


314207 at Glasgow Central with 2D25 12.12 Glasgow Central - Paisley Canal	314207 at Glasgow Central with 2D25 12.12 Glasgow Central - Paisley Canal	314s pass at Glasgow Central with 314207 departing with 2D25: the 12.12 service to Paisley Canal and 314205 arriving with 2P23 11.49 service from Newton	314205 arrives into Glasgow Central with 2P23 11.49 Newton - Glasgow Central

the interior of vehicle 64691 from 314205	314205 prepares to depart Newton with 2P03 12.49 Newton - Glasgow Central	314205 prepares to depart Newton with 2P03 12.49 Newton - Glasgow Central	A view from the footbridge as 314205 prepares to depart Newton with 2P03 12.49 Newton - Glasgow Central

Scotrail Driver Training HST at Larbert 31.8.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 01 Sep 2018 22:19:38 GMT

43003 top and tailed with 43148 arrive at Larbert with 3H02 Perth - Eastfield HST driver training run

66023 on Containers 31.8.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 01 Sep 2018 22:11:07 GMT

Shortly after 66528 passed through Camelon on 31.8.18, 66023 appeared on 4N30 Mossend - Grangemouth containers, unfortunately the sun disappeared behind a cloud and didn't reappear until a few minutes after 66023 passed!

Camelon Autoballasters 31.8.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 01 Sep 2018 22:04:03 GMT

I made a brief visit to Camelon on Friday 31st August to catch Freightliner liveried 66528 passing through heading north with a train load of Autoballasters going to Huntly from Mossend. There had been full sunshine just a minute before 66528 approached, however it disappeared behind a cloud before reappearing just as the train was passing through!

Glasgow 1017 at Summerlee 25.8.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 26 Aug 2018 22:42:02 GMT

I went to Summerlee for a quick wander round late yesterday afternoon, as I walked round, I saw Glasgow 1017 stabled just outside the depot.

he tram still sees regular use along with Lanarkshire 53 and Dusseldorf 392. They should be joined in the future by Glasgow Coronation 1245.

Gibb and Hogg Ltd steam loco at Summerlee 25.8.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 26 Aug 2018 18:46:20 GMT

Gibb and Hogg Ltd steam loco, built in 1898 and the only loco built by that company still in existence is seen in the museum at Summerlee. The loco spent most of it's working life at Longlea Collery in Midlothian before moving to Cordowan Collery in 1965. In 1967 the loco moved to Pittencreiff Park in Dunfermilne before moving to Summerlee in 1989.

43135 tnt 43036 at Bridge of Allan 24.8.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 26 Aug 2018 18:35:12 GMT

plain blue liveried 43135 top and tailed with Scotrail 7 cities liveried 43036 with 4 former First Great Western Mark 3's sandwiched in between pass through Bridge of Allan with 2W46 Dundee - Stirling training run 24.8.18

Centenary 642's new livery 19.8.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 26 Aug 2018 18:16:39 GMT

Sunday 19th August saw Centenary Car 642 make a return to service for the Blackpool Heritage Tram Tours after just over 2 years out of service. 642 had been sidelined awaiting repairs to a fault following one of the Gold weekends in 2016 (prior to the September Gold weekend as it didn't see any use then). The tram's paintwork had badly faded as it consisted of a yellow basecoat, which was applied in 2005 after it lost it's Mecca Bingo overall advert and had seen 6 years of constant exposure to the elements when in regular everyday service until 2011.

Prior to re-entering service 642 was fitted with retro style radiator grills, headlights and indicators, but retaining the basic shape of it's 1998 overhaul. The tram was repainted into a modern representation of it's 1995 Travelcard livery but advertising a number of different tickets for the Heritage service. The cab ends were repainted in the 1990's Green and Cream livery like the original did.

642 re-entered service working on Heritage route A between Pleasure Beach and Cabin / Bispham and Little Bispham

Blackpool Trams 17.8-19.8

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 21 Aug 2018 21:40:25 GMT

I was in Blackpool from 17th - 19th August. I arrived mid afternoon on the Friday and the promenade heritage service was in operation with Balloon 717 and Brush Car 621 operating between Pleasure Beach and North Pier. Standard 147 was due to be working on the service however, 621 was a late replacement working on route B (operating the 2 extended afternoon journeys to Cabin). Balloon 715 operated the evening ghost tour to Fleetwood and back.

During the first three weekends in August, the heritage trams were extended to operate from Pleasure Beach - Bispham or Little Bispham on a 20 minute frequency (30 minutes between 12 and 2pm) using 4 trams instead of the usual 2. On the Saturday, the service was operated by Blackpool and Fleetwood 40 (route A), Standard 147 (route B), Bolton 66 (route C) and Balloon 717 (route D).

Sunday saw the return to service of Centenary car 642, which was making it's passenger debut in an up to date recreation of the Travelcard advert that the tram carried in 1995. 642, which hadn't ran since 2016, had previously carried a faded yellow basecoat, which it had carried since 2005. 642 debuted on Route A, with Balloon 715 on route B, Brush Car 621 on route C and Blackpool and Fleetwood 40 on route D (instead of the advertised Standard 147).

	A	B	C	D	Ghost Tour
Friday	717	621			715
Saturday	40	147	66	717
Sunday	642	715	621	40

Manchester Metrolink 15.8 - 17.8

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 21 Aug 2018 20:41:31 GMT

A 3 day visit to Manchester allowed me the chance to sample the Manchester Metrolink! With 120 M5000 trams and a further 27 on order, Manchester Metrolink has the largest fleet of trams in the country.

Some of the best locations in the city centre include St Peter's Square, the Delta triangle at Picadilly Gardens and Victoria Station. These 3 spots will allow you to see everything that is running on a particular day.

The MediacityUK terminus area is another good spot with all the modern architecture around the area and Salford Quays on the Eccles line is also decent.

The rest of my photos from the visit can be found at https://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p1017512799

3047+3034	Vodafone advert (3047), fleet livery (3034)
3075	Vodafone advert
3069	Slaters Menswear advert
3039	Just Eat Advert
3100	Vodafone advert
3029+3035	Fleet Livery
3015+3022	Fleet livery (3015) + Spirit of Manchester Worker bee special livery (3022)
3085	Just Eat advert
3071	Pride Manchester Rainbow livery
3028	Pride Manchester Rainbow livery
3043+3017	Heart Radio advert 3043
3043+3017	Vodafone advert 3017

Edinburgh Tram 276's advert

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 11 Aug 2018 21:41:06 GMT

I returned to Edinburgh earlier in the week to try and get some photographs of Edinburgh tram 276 in it's Edinburgh Dungeon livery.

Luckily 276 was the very first tram that I saw that day!

The livery, the same on both sides of the tram, advertises their Braveheart's revenge show, which opened in June 2018.

Also of note, one of the panels on 257's #jointhepact advert has been changed on either side of the tram to show a person signing their name on a wall full of signatures.

70816 at Hartwood 10.8.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 10 Aug 2018 22:33:31 GMT

Colas liveried 70816 passes through Hartwood with 6B34 Viewpark - Oxwellmains cement working

66149 at Camelon

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 10 Aug 2018 22:30:16 GMT

DB red liveried 66149 approaches Camelon with 4N30 Mossend - Grangemouth Containers

56302 at Prestwick 9.8.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 10 Aug 2018 22:26:20 GMT

Over the past few weeks, Colas liveried 56302 has been working on the Grangemouth - Prestwick Airport and the 6N47 return Aviation fuel working. 56302 is seen at Greenfaulds working 6N47 on 9.8.18

37405 and Caroline at Coatbridge Central 9.8.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 10 Aug 2018 22:16:21 GMT

37405 and observation coach 'Caroline' approach Coatbridge Central with 2Z02 Perth - Carlisle via the Glasgow and South Western line

Edinburgh Trams Fleet List 5.8.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 05 Aug 2018 20:28:31 GMT

With the many different advert liveries featured on the Edinburgh Trams, here is a table showing the current advertising livery for each tram and previous adverts carried.

Number	Current Advert	Previous Adverts
251	CR Smith (From Cumbernauld to St Fillans)	#tramspotting
252	CR Smith (From Bannockburn to Dundee)
253	CR Smith (From the Royal Mile to Balintore)
254	Parabola “community and architectural exemplar”
255	CR Smith (Fae Leith tae Alloway)
256	CR Smith (Window, Door and Conservatory repair and restoration)
257	#jointhepact Johnnie Walker's Don't Drink and Drive campaign.
258	CR Smith (From Turnberry to Blair Drummond)
259	CR Smith (From Carrbridge to the Forth)
260	CR Smith (From Glasgow - Peterhead)
261	CR Smith (From Glen Nevis - North Queensferry)	Edinburgh's Hogmanay 2017 £3.20 return (Promoting return tickets to Scotland v Wales in Rugby 6 nations 2017) Trampede (Promoting the Royal Highland Show 2017) Edinburgh Festival 70 (Promoting Edinburgh Festival's 70th anniversary and travel by tram to it)
262	CR Smith. (From Dunblane - St Andrews)
263	CR Smith.(From Lossiemouth - Kinross)
264	Parabola and the Festival Fringe
265	CR Smith (Window, Door and Conservatory repair and restoration)
266	CR Smith. (From Falkirk to Musselburgh)
267	CR Smith. (From Largs - Dundee)
268	Parabola “community and architectural exemplar”
269	CR Smith (From Inverness to Edinburgh)
270	CR Smith (From Fraserburgh - Finneston)
271	Tiso	Qatar Airlines
272	CR Smith (From Troon - Edinburgh)
273	#jointhepact Johnnie Walker's Don't Drink and Drive campaign.
274	CR Smith (From Pitlochry - Meadowbank)
275	CR Smith (From Speyside to Aberdeen)
276	Edinburgh Dungeons	Edinburgh's Christmas 2017 and Hogmanay 2018 Royal Highland Show 2018
277	CR Smith. (From Lochmaben to Dunfermilne)

Edinburgh Trams update 4.8.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 04 Aug 2018 21:56:36 GMT

I haven't been to Edinburgh to photo the trams for a couple of months, however as there are a further 3 new adverts on the trams since I was last there, I thought I'd better go for a visit!

New adverts

276 has received an advert for the Edinburgh Dungeons. The advert has a mainly black base and is of the standard all over advert design. Unfortunately, the tram wasn't out in service today so didn't manage a photograph. This advert replaced the Royal Highland Show advert previously carried.

264 was the final tram to retain fleet livery and is now the third tram to receive an advert for Parabola, however this one is also advertising the Fringe Society and is due to wear this livery 12 months.

271 has received an advert for Tiso, this has replaced the all over advert for Qatar Airlines that it had carried since January.

During August, the trams are operating through out the night on Saturdays to allow easy travel home from the Festival. Also the trams are beginning to receive fleet numbers above the cab windscreens

Trams seen in service on 4.8.18:

251, 254, 256, 262, 263, 264, 266, 267, 268, 271, 272, 277


264	264 advert panels	264 advert panels

271	271 advert panel (all 4 the same)

37612 tnt 37421 at Lanark 2.8.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 02 Aug 2018 17:31:14 GMT

On hire to Colas from Harry Needle, debranded DRS blue 37612 top and tailed with 37421 are about to depart Lanark with 1Q75 Mossend - Mossend Network Rail PLPR test train 2.8.18

Scotrail Class 365 Fleet list

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 20 Jul 2018 22:47:11 GMT

With the E&G line going over to all electric unit working from 19th July, there is a greater requirement for class 365's to operate services. 8 of the 10 units delivered have now entered service, with 7 sets operating on 19th July and 8 operating on 20th July. There are 8 diagrams in operation on the E&G line Only 365513 and 365523 have still to operate in passenger service. Class 385's also begin operation on the line on 24th July with 380's also having commenced working on the Falkirk Grahamston services. Here is a fleet list containing the 10 365's that are in operation.

Unit Number	Vehicles				Notes
365509	65902	72257	72256	65943
365513	65906	72257	72264	65947
365517	65910	72273	72272	65951
365519	65912	72277	72276	65953
365521	65914	72281	72280	65955
365523	65916	72285	72284	65957	First unit to be delivered and used on driver training
365525	65918	72289	72288	65959
365529	65922	72297	72296	65963
365533	65926	72305	72304	65967	Last unit to be delivered
365537	65930	72313	72312	65971	named 'Daniel Edwards - Cambridge Driver 1974-2010'

All electric service on E&G line and EMU's to Falkirk Grahamston 19.7.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 19 Jul 2018 21:40:40 GMT

Thursday 19th July saw Electric units working for the first time between Glasgow Queen Street and Falkirk Grahamston. The electrification was recently completed from Cumbernauld up to Falkirk Grahamston and then on to the Edinburgh - Glasgow Line. 380013 and 380017 were the units working on the service on the first day.

Meanwhile on the Edinburgh Waverley - Glasgow Queen Street line, the service between the 2 cities was operated entirely by Electric units for the first time, with class 365 and 380's operating the workings.

Units operating were:

365519
365533
365509
365517+365529
365521+365537
380111
380107
380008+380116

Network Rail Measuring train at Polmont 16.7.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Wed, 18 Jul 2018 22:21:35 GMT

The network rail measuring train consisting of HST power cars 43013 top and tailed with 43062 accelerate through Polmont with the return leg of 1Q24 Heaton - Newcastle via Glasgow Queen Street 16.7.18


43013	43062

Caledonian Railway no419 at Bo'ness 11.7.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 13 Jul 2018 22:22:03 GMT

Nearing the end of a major overhaul, Caledonian Railway 439 class no 419 is seen being worked on outside the steam shed at Bo'ness 11.7.18

419 is due to be back in service at Bo'ness in time for the Autumn steam gala later in the year.

37668, 44871 and 37516 at Gartcosh 9.7.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 13 Jul 2018 22:11:42 GMT

37668 top and tailed with 37516 and Black 5 44871 and support coach sandwiched in between, pass through Gartcosh with 5Z37 Fort William - Carnforth 9.7.18

Blackpool Heritage Trams 1.7.18-7.7.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 09 Jul 2018 22:49:00 GMT

I was in Blackpool for a week long holiday from 1st - 7th July. The blue heritage service was in operation for the full week with 2 trams required to work the promenade service from Pleasure Beach to North Pier with 4 journeys per day extended to Cabin. The tram on Route A did the first 2 journeys to Cabin, while the route B tram did the final 2 journeys.

The weather was absolutely fantastic with blue sky and sunshine meaning that as boat 600 was the only open topped tram available for use during the week, it was used every day with either Standard 147(looking fantastic after it's repaint) or Bolton 66 working the other route.

Of the other open top trams: Boat 227(602) was still having work done to it's rewire and internal repaint, Boat 230 (604) is awaiting a rewire, Open topped Balloon 706 (Princess Alice) is out of service in need of a new underframe and an overhaul, Birkenhead 20 was still unavailable and Standard 143's overhaul (with open front ends) wont be complete until next year.

Balloon 717 was spotted reversing at Cabin on Thursday evening (5th) following a private hire.

On Friday (6th), the service was thrown into chaos when Boat 600 dewired at the Pleasure Beach, with the trolley wheel also coming off the pole. This meant that nothing could run south of Manchester Square for 2 hours while the overhead was repaired. 600's trolley wheel was refitted and the tram returned to service none the worse the wear.

All the flexity trams saw use at some point over the week, however it was good to see both 017 and 018 in service. Both are identical to 001-016 both externally and internally although the fresh paintwork on the new trams makes 001-016 look in need of a repaint, especially on the purple areas which look faded compared to that on 017 and 018.

A full gallery of photos from the week can be found at: http://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p548244318

Date	Route A	Route B	Private Hire
1.7	600	147
2.7	66	600
3.7	600	66
4.7	600	147
5.7	147	600	717
6.7	600	66
7.7	600	147

First Class 365's enter service with Scotrail 24.6.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 24 Jun 2018 20:24:07 GMT

The first pair of class 365's entered service on Saturday 23rd June with 365537+365517 operating on the 22.30 service from Glasgow Queen Street - Edinburgh Waverley returning with the 23.30 working back to Glasgow Queen Street.

On 24th June, 365537+365517 were back out on service again operating between Queen Street and Linlithgow as the line was closed beyond Linlithgow for engineering works. 365537 has kept it's name from it's time with Great Northern and is still called 'Daniel Edwards - Cambridge Driver 1974-2010'

8 units are currently based at Eastfield with the final 2 units due to arrive on Wednesday morning. Units currently in Scotland are: 365509, 365513, 365517, 365521, 365523, 365525, 365529 and 365537

92038 and 16 x Mark 5's at Carstairs 22.6.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 22 Jun 2018 20:38:25 GMT

Caledonian Sleeper liveried 92038 and 16 mark 5's pause at Carstairs with 5Z26 Polmadie - Carlisle Upperby Sleeper test run 22.6.18

82113 at Bo'ness 16.6.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 22 Jun 2018 20:35:32 GMT

During a shunting move, D2767 hauls DVT 82113 from the TMD at Bo'ness. 82113 is being converted by Artemis to a class 19 loco (19001) to trial an alternative hybrid traction system 16.6.18

37421 top and tailed with 37521 at Lanark 12.6.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 12 Jun 2018 20:15:30 GMT

37421 top and tailed with 37521 arrive into Lanark with 1Q80 Mossend - Mossend via Lanark Network Rail Test Train 12.6.18

37611 + 334017 + 37884 at Drumgelloch 11.6.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 12 Jun 2018 20:10:42 GMT

Europhoenix liveried 37611 top and tailed with 37884 with Scotrail's 334017 sandwiched in between pass through Drumgelloch with 5Q10 Bathgate LMD - Polmadie.

334017 was being taken to Polmadie for repairs following a collision with some cows 11.6.18

Adverts for Edinburgh Trams 265 and 268

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 08 Jun 2018 21:56:49 GMT

On 4th June, a further 2 Edinburgh trams entered service wearing adverts.

265 has became the 20th tram to carry a CR Smith advert, being the recipient of an identical advert to 256, which received its advert on 21st May. Both trams advertise CR Smith's door window and conservatory upgrade and repair service. One of the panels has 'FIX' in large red letters with the other section listing the items that they can fix. The advert appears to be the same on both sides.

268 became the 2nd tram to carry an advert for Parabola, who are developing a new “community and architectural exemplar” at Edinburgh Park. The advert is identical to the advert that 254 received last week except that the colours are inverted with a mainly green base with the text and patches in the pinky colour (they are the opposite way about on 254).

265 and 268 become the 25th and 26th trams to receive adverts, meaning that tram 264 is now the only Edinburgh tram not currently wearing an advert.

Trams seen on 8th June were: 261, 252, 260, 265, 268, 273, 276


265	265	265

268	268	268	268

37800 + 365509+365537 at Carstairs 6.6.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Wed, 06 Jun 2018 20:55:07 GMT

On 5th/6th June, Europhoenix liveried 37800 'Cassopeia' hauled Class 365's: 365509 and 365537 'Daniel Edwards - Cambridge Driver 1974-2010', north from Hornsey to Carlisle overnight dead in tow.

They continued their journey north working 5T06 Carlisle - Eastfield unit move. The units have recently came off lease with Great Northern and were heading to Glasgow Works to be prepared for service in the short - medium term on the Edinburgh to Glasgow line until there are sufficient class 385's available on completion of their windscreen modifications.

The arrival of the latest pair of 365's mean there are now 6 of the units in Scotland, these are: 365509, 513, 517, 523, 525 and 537 with a further 4 units still to be delivered.

37800 is seen at Carstairs with 5T06 Carlisle - Eastfield working on 6th June

A new advert for Edinburgh Tram 254

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 02 Jun 2018 23:43:46 GMT

Another week and yet another new advert livery on the Edinburgh Tramway! 254 has received an advert for Parabola, who are developing a new “community and architectural exemplar” at Edinburgh Park. The advert features a pinkish coloured base with dark green spots, which runs along the top of the tram and the whole of sections 3 and 5 on each side.

On one side, sections 3 and 5 contain the following text: "a new community and architectural exemplar at Edinburgh Park by Parabola" in small text near the top, then "Edinburgh Park" in large text and the website address "myedinburghpark.com" in small writing.

The other side also has the website address but has the following text in sections 3 and 5: "Edinburgh Park" in small text and in large text: "New Ground for Edinburgh".

254 is the 24th tram to receive an advert with only 264, 265 and 268 remaining in fleet livery. A further advert is expected soon as CR Smith have extended their advertising contract to cover 20 trams and 19 trams currently carry CR Smith adverts.

Trams seen in service on 2.6.18 were: 273, 252, 256, 261, 259, 276, 254, 266 and 274

37403 top and tailed with 37025 at Dalmeny 2.6.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 02 Jun 2018 16:16:55 GMT

During Friday 1st and Saturday 2nd June, the SRPS operated a 'Routes and Branches' tour, which took in a number of different lines and stations across Central Scotland including, the Neilston Branch, Hamilton Circle, Fife Circle, Larkhall, Cathcart Circle, Ayr, Largs, Helensburgh Central, North Berwick and Edinburgh Waverley.

The Friday night portion utilised Caledonian Sleeper's 86401 and 37025, which is currently on loan to GBRF. The Saturday portion used 37403, which is currently on loan to DRS and 37025.

I caught the Saturday tour passing through Dalmeny while working 1Z95 from Leith South - Mossend. 37403 was leading with 37025 on the rear.


37403	37025

Crosscountry diversions via Shotts 26.5.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 27 May 2018 07:44:52 GMT

With the Cobbinshaw line closed between Midcalder Junction and Carstairs East Junction for engineering works on 26th May, Crosscountry services between Glasgow Central and Edinburgh Waverley were diverted via the Shotts line instead.

I went to Hartwood to catch 2 of these workings, operated by Cross Country Super Voyagers 221125 and 221126.

221125 was operating the 1C80 19.00 Glasgow Central - Edinburgh service
221126 was operating the 1S45 Plymouth - Glasgow Central service

Also noted were

156501 operating the Scotrail express service 1Y96 Glasgow Central - Edinburgh Waverley.
158738 operating the Scotrail express service 1Y95 Edinburgh Waverley - Glasgow Central.


221125 passes through Hartwood with the diverted 1C80 Glasgow Central - Edinburgh service	156501 passes through Hartwood with 1Y96 Glasgow Central - Edinburgh Waverley	156738 passes through Hartwood with 1Y95 Edinburgh Waverley - Glasgow Central	221126 passing through Hartwood with the diverted 1S45 Plymouth - Glasgow Central service

New CR Smith advert for Edinburgh Tram 256 25.5.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 25 May 2018 20:23:11 GMT

During week beginning 21st May, a 19th Edinburgh Tram has emerged into service in an advert for CR Smith. Tram 256 is the recipient of the advert, which rather than having the From ...... To...... section that the other 18 CR Smith advert trams carry, the tram advertises their door window and conservatory upgrade and repair service. One of the panels has 'FIX' in large red letters with the other section listing the items that they can fix. The advert appears to be the same on both sides.

With the advert being applied to Tram 256, 23 of the fleet now carry adverts (19 wearing CR Smith adverts: 251, 252, 253, 255, 256, 258, 259, 260, 261, 262, 263, 266, 267, 269, 270, 272, 274, 275 and 277, 1 in Qatar Airways advert: 271, 2 in #jointhepact advert: 257 and 273 and 1 in an inhouse advert for the Royal Highland Show: 276) leaving only 4 of the fleet (254, 264, 265 and 268) in full fleet livery.

Also noted in service on 25.5.18 were 273, 256, 276, 264, 260, 261, 270.

365513 on Driver Training duties at Polmont and Croy 11.5.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 11 May 2018 18:29:53 GMT

Day 2 of Class 365's on Driver Training saw 365513 debut on runs between Glasgow Queen Street and Linlithgow UPL.

365513 is identical in every respect to 365523, which debuted yesterday.

365517 is still at Glasgow Works, whilst 365525 became the 4th unit to arrive in Scotland and unlike the others delivered so far, it was hauled north by 57303 rather than by road which the first 3 sets were.

A further 6 sets are due to be delivered in the coming weeks and are expected to be odd numbered sets from the 365/5 range. Entry to service is expected to take place by July.

365523 debuts on Driver Training 10.5.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 10 May 2018 21:50:06 GMT

Due to windscreen problems delaying the class 385's from entering service and a number of DMU's due to go off lease in the next few months, Scotrail have temporarily leased 10 class 365's, which have recently gone off lease with Great Northern.

They have kept their front that looks like a smiley face and have essentially kept the Great Northern livery but with doors changed from light to dark blue and Scotrail logos added to the bodysides. The first of three 365's already in Scotland saw its first use on Driver Training today (10th May).

365523 spent the day shuttling between Queen Street or Eastfield and Linlithgow Up Passenger Loop.

Today I caught 366523 on its first journey running from Queen Street - Linlithgow UPL on 2Z52.

Royal Highland Show advert for Edinburgh Tram 276 and 18th CR Smith advert applied

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 05 May 2018 23:12:49 GMT

Edinburgh Tram 276 is the latest tram to receive an advert livery. It has received an advert for the Royal Highland Show, which takes place in June, replacing the previous advert for Edinburgh's Christmas and Hogmanay, which the tram carried until recently (although the tram did have a spell out of service from January until recently).

The advert is different on both sides of the tram, with one side featuring a green base and advertising the Royal Highland Educational Trust, whilst the other side features Emily the sheep, who was the Blackface Sheep Champion 2017, and advertises Children under 15 traveling for free to the Royal Highland Show when accompanied by and adult.


276	276	276

276	276	276

The 18th and final CR Smith Advert has also recently been unveiled and is carried by tram 251 and this one features on it's advert section 'From Cumbernauld to St Fillans' with the Arria mermaid statue found next to the M80 at Cumbernauld and the Mirror man statue found in Loch Earn at St Fillans. This advert replaces the Tramspotting advert that had been carried since January 2017.

251

Trams seen in service on 4.5.18: 257, 254, 270, 259, 263, 266, 256, 276, 269, 251, 253, 261, 271

37685 tnt 47772 at Gartcosh

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 28 Apr 2018 20:31:38 GMT

37685 top and tailed with 47772 pass Gartcosh with 1Z48 Crewe - Eastfield Passenger Loop Branch Line Society 'Inverclyde First Aider' tour 28.4.18

Caledonian Sleeper 47727 at Shieldmuir 28.4.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 28 Apr 2018 20:28:24 GMT

Caledonian Sleeper Blue liveried 47727 is seen passing through Shieldmuir with 5B26 Edinburgh Waverley - Polmadie Caledonian Sleeper ECS working 28.4.18

Galatea at Carstairs 23.4.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 28 Apr 2018 20:25:24 GMT

LMS Jubilee 45699 'Galatea' is seen in Carstairs Up Loop taking on water whilst working 1Z70 Inverness - Oxenholme Lake District 'The Great Britain XI' railtour 23.4.18

Steam workings at Camelon and Dalmeny 21.4.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 28 Apr 2018 20:22:43 GMT

The SRPS Forth Circle tour operated with 45690 'Leander' on 21st April. I spotted it at both Camelon and Dalmeny.

45690 approaches Camelon with 1Z29 Linlithgow - Linlithgow via Burntisland and Stirling Forth Circle SRPS railtour 21.4.18

45690 approaches Dalmeny with 1Z30 Linlithgow - Linlithgow via Burntisland and Stirling Forth Circle SRPS railtour 21.4.18

73971 and Caledonian Sleeper Mark 5's at Gartcosh 11.4.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Wed, 11 Apr 2018 20:52:19 GMT

On 9th April, testing and training with Caledonian Sleeper class 73's and the new Mark 5 sleeper coaches that are due to enter service later this year began. The first run on 9th April was from Polmadie - Mossend and return. On 10th April, 73971 and four Mark 5's headed from Polmadie - Arrochar and Tarbet and back for the Mark 5's first run on the West Highland Line.

Onto today and 73971 worked 5Z73 from Polmadie - Garelochhead and back with Mark 5's 15001, 15302, 15301 and 15002. They had been supposed to have turned at Arrochar and Tarbet, however with the line closed north of Garelochhead due to a sink hole having opened up on or near the track at Glen Douglas, they turned back at Garelochhead with the 73 running round.

This training run is expected to continue to run for the remainder of the week.

The photographs show 73971 approaching Gartcosh with the 4 new Caledonian Sleeper Mark 5's in tow on 5Z73 Polmadie - Polmadie via Garelochhead test and training run.


73971	15001	15302

15301	15002	rear of 15002

Class 314's in Glasgow

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 06 Apr 2018 19:38:34 GMT

2018 could potentially be the final year in service for the class 314's in and around Glasgow (depending on whether the issues with the class 385's that are supposed to be replacing them are resolved). The 16 strong fleet have gave excellent service over the past almost 40 years. They initially worked on the Argyle line from 1979 until 1999, when they transferred over to the Cathcart Circle as well as some journeys on the Gourock and Wymess Bay services. Today all 16 units are still in service with 7 in the Saltire livery and the remainder (9) in the SPT Carmine and Cream livery.

SPT Carmine and Cream livery: 314201, 202, 205, 206, 207, 210, 213, 215 and 216

Scotrail Saltire livery: 314203, 204, 208, 209, 211, 212 and 214

I've had some journeys on them this week both on the Cathcart Circle and out to Gourock, they are listed below.

4.4.18 314212 on 10.20 Newton - Glasgow Central via Maxwell Park
4.4.18 314201 on 10.55 Glasgow Central - Gourock (as far as Paisley Gilmour Street)
6.4.18 314206 on 11.20 Newton - Glasgow Central via Maxwell Park
6.4.18 314209 on 11.55 Glasgow Central - Gourock
6.4.18 314209 on 12.54 Gourock - Glasgow Central
6.4.18 314206 on 13.45 Glasgow Central - Newton

	314212 arrives at Newton with a service from Glasgow Central 4.4.18
	The interior of 314212 4.4.18
	The interior of 314212 4.4.18
	SPT liveried 314201 prepares to depart Glasgow Central with a service to Gourock 4.4.18
	314203 is seen at Glasgow Central 6.4.18
	314209 seen at Gourock having arrived with 1G05 11.55 Glasgow Central - Gourock 6.4.18
	the centre trailer from 314209 (71458) seen at Gourock 6.4.18

Freight at Carstairs 6.4.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 06 Apr 2018 18:45:59 GMT

	37175 top and tailed with 37099 pass through Carstairs with 1Z18 Mossend - Derby Network Rail Test Train 6.4.18
	57303 waits in Carstairs Down Goods Loop with 0Z57 Carlisle Kingmoor - Glasgow Works light engine move 6.4.18
	68016 heads through Carstairs with 5K19 Edinburgh Waverley - Motherwell TMD Fife Circle ECS working, whilst 57303 waits in the down goods loop with 0Z57 Carlisle Kingmoor - Glasgow Works light engine move 6.4.18
	66078 passes through Carstairs with 4E99 Mossend - Tees Dock containers 6.4.18
	68006 arrives into Carstairs with 5L69 Motherwell TMD - Edinburgh Waverley Fife Circle ECS 6.4.18
	66738 passes through Carstairs with 6E45 Fort William - North Blyth Alcan tanks 6.4.18
	70809 passes through Carstairs with 6B34 Viewpark - Oxwellmains cement tanks 6.4.18
	66302+66433 pass through Carstairs with 0Z66 Motherwell TMD - Carlisle Kingmoor light engine working 6.4.18

Carstairs and Cartland Freight 5.4.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 06 Apr 2018 18:32:28 GMT

	66078 approaches Cartland with 4S99 Tees Dock - Mossend 5.4.18
	60026 approaches Carstairs with 6S36 Dalston - Grangemouth tanks 5.4.18
	66738 approaches Cartland with 6S45 North Blyth - Fort William Alcan tanks 5.4.18
	88006+88001 pass through Cartland with 4S43 Daventry - Gangemouth containers 5.4.18
	66431 approaches Carstairs South Junction with 6S50 Carlisle Yard - Millerhill departmental working 5.4.18
	66078 passes through Carstairs with 4E99 Mossend - Tees Dock Containers 5.4.18
	68006 passes through Carstairs with 5L69 Motherwell TMD - Edinburgh Waverley Fife Circle ECS working 5.4.18

Busy 40 minutes at Carstairs 4.4.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Wed, 04 Apr 2018 21:42:40 GMT

	66078 approaches a snowy Carstairs with 4E99 Mossend - Tees Dock containers 4.4.18
	68006 approaches Carstairs with the diverted 5L69 Motherwell TMD- Edinburgh Waverley Fife Circle ECS working 4.4.18
	66738 passes through Carstairs with the diverted 6E45 Fort William - North Blyth alcan tanks 4.4.18
	66305+66433 wait on the Down Goods loop at Carstairs with a light engine working from Carlisle Kingmoor - Motherwell TMD 4.4.18
	37099 top and tailed with 37175 pass through Carstairs with 1Z01 Derby - Mossend Network Rail Test Train 4.4.18

Carstairs Diversions and Dalmeny HST's 3.4.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Wed, 04 Apr 2018 21:34:18 GMT

Over this week, the Shotts line is closed for engineering works, meaning that the freight and the Fife Circle ECS workings that usually runs on that line is diverted via Wishaw, Carstairs and the Cobbinshaw line towards Edinburgh. Also on this day, I visited Dalmeny to catch some of the Scotrail HST sets out on Driver Training moves.

	68006 passes through Carstairs with 5K19 Edinburgh Waverley - Motherwell TMD Fife Circle ECS move. This working was diverted via Carstairs as the Shotts line is closed for engineering work 3.4.18
	National Coal Board Fife Area no 19 departs Bo'ness with a service to Manuel 3.4.18
	Scotrail Inter7city liveried 43148 seen stabled at Haymarket depot 3.4.18
	158710 departs Dalmeny with 2G11 Edinburgh Waverley - Cowdenbeath 3.4.18
	170394 waits to reverse in the down loop at Dalmeny 3.4.18
	170405 passes through Dalmeny with 1A75 Edinburgh Waverley - Inverurie 3.4.18
	158733 arrives at Dalmeny with 2G56 Cowdenbeath - Edinburgh Waverley 3.4.18
	170457 passes through Dalmeny with 1B52 Inverness - Edinburgh 3.4.18
	170430 passes Dalmeny with 1B24 Inverurie - Edinburgh Waverley 3.4.18
	43179 + 43126 pass through Dalmeny with 2W44 Dundee - Haymarket driver training run 3.4.18
	43145+43127 pass through Dalmeny with 0S44 Newcastle - Inverness power car move 3.4.18
	158782 departs Dalmeny 2K73 Edinburgh Waverley - Glenrothes with Thornton while 158720 arrives with 2G12 Glenrothes with Thornton - Edinburgh Waverley 3.4.18
	158740 arrives at Dalmeny with 2K70 Glenrothes with Thornton - Edinburgh Waverley 3.4.18
	43135+43033 head through Dalmeny with 2W24 Dundee - Haymarket training run 3.4.18
	66002 passes through Greenfaulds with 4N30 Mossend - Grangemouth containers 3.4.18
	334019 departs Greenfaulds with 2V52 Dumbarton Central - Cumbernauld 3.4.18
	156432 departs Greenfaulds with 2J70 Glasgow Queen Street - Falkirk Grahamston 3.4.18
	66070 passes through Greenfaulds with 6D84 Aberdeen Waterloo - Mossend bullet tanks 3.4.18
	68016 passes through Carstairs with 5L69 Motherwell TMD - Edinburgh Waverley Fife Circle ECS move. This working was diverted via Carstairs as the Shotts line is closed for engineering work 3.4.18

Arrochar and Tarbet 1.4.18/2.4.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Wed, 04 Apr 2018 20:52:03 GMT

	ex First Scotrail Barbie liveried 156496 and 156446 with Saltire liveried 156500 sandwiched in between arrive into Arrochar and Tarbet with 1Y24 Oban and Mallaig - Glasgow Queen Street 1.4.18
	Caledonian Sleeper liveried 73967 arrives into Arrochar and Tarbet with 1Y11 Edinburgh Waverley - Fort William Caledonian Sleeper service 2.4.18

Scotrail HST's and GWR IEP 29.3.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 29 Mar 2018 21:06:32 GMT

	158789 arrives at Dalmeny with 2G29 Edinburgh Waverley - Cowdenbeath 29.3.18
	158867 departs Dalmeny with 2K70 Glenrothes with Thornton - Edinbuurgh Waverley 29.3.18
	43126 tnt 43179 with ex FGW mark 3's head through Dalmeny with 2W24 Dundee - Haymarket Scotrail driver training run 29.3.18
	170395 leaves the Forth Rail Bridge and arrives into Dalmeny with 1A65 Dundee - Edinburgh Waverley 29.3.18
1 1	170453 on 1A65 Edinburgh Waverley - Aberdeen, passes 43033+43135 which has been looped while on 2W45 Haymarket - Dundee driver training run at Dalmeny 29.3.18
	43033+43135 passes through Dalmeny on 2W45 Haymarket - Dundee driver training run 29.3.18
	158729 arrives at Dalmeny with 2G57 Cowdenbeath - Edinburgh Waverley 29.3.18
	221xxx passes through Prestonpans with 1S39 Plymouth - Glasgow Central 29.3.18
	380109 arrives at Prestonpans 2Y06 Edinburgh Waverley - Dunbar 29.3.18
	91112 passes through Prestonpans with 1S12 London Kings Cross - Edinburgh Waverley 29.3.18
	GWR liveried 800004 approaches Prestonpans at speed with 5X71 Edinburgh Waverley - Doncaster Carr IEP depot 29.3.18

Jacobite ECS at Gartcosh 28.3.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Wed, 28 Mar 2018 19:44:17 GMT

Photo	Working
	318258 approaches Gartcosh with 2V39 Cumbernauld - Dumbarton Central 28.3.18
	156462 arrives at Gartcosh with 2J68 Falkirk Grahamston - Glasgow Queen Street 28.3.18
	37518 + Black 5's 44871 and 45157 pass through Gartcosh with 5Z60 Carnforth - Fort William Jacobite loco and Empty Stock move 28.3.18
	66162 passes through Greenfaulds with 4N30 Mossend - Grangemouth containers 28.3.18
	66738 passes through Gartcosh with 6E45 Fort William - North Blyth Alcan tanks 28.3.18
	158741 departs Gartcosh with 2J69 Falkirk Grahamston - Glasgow Queen Street 28.3.18
	68006 passes through Greenfaulds with 5G13 Motherwell TMD - Edinburgh Waverley Fife Circle ECS working 28.3.18
	158741 and 156462 pass each other at Greenfoot near Greenfaulds 28.3.18
	60095 waits in Greenfoot loop with the late running 6S36 Dalston - Grangemouth tanks 28.3.18

Test train and Driver Training at Carstairs 27.3.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 27 Mar 2018 20:20:56 GMT

An extremely busy 30 minutes at Carstairs today threw up a couple of interesting workings, mainly the Network Rail PLPR train and a DRS driver training run featuring top and tail 68's and a set of Mark 3 'Pretendilinos'

Colas liveried 67023 top and tailed with 67027 pass through Carstairs with 1Q18 Derby RTC-Edinburgh Network Rail PLPR test train 27.3.18

380106 waits at Carstairs with 1K81 Edinburgh Waverley - Ayr via Glasgow Central 27.3.18

68022 top and tailed with 68027 and 4x 'Pretendilino' Mark 3's approach platform 1 at Carstairs with 5Z68 Crewe C.S. - Carstairs driver training run 27.3.18

390011 passes through Carstairs with 1M13 Glasgow Central - London Euston 27.3.18

88001 approaches Carstairs with 4S43 Daventry - Mossend Containers 27.3.18

68027 top and tailed with 68022 and 4x 'Pretendilino' Mark 3's prepare to depart from platform 1 at Carstairs with 5Z69 Carstairs - Crewe C.S. driver training run 27.3.18

60076 passes through Hartwood with 6B34 Viewpark - Oxwellmains Cement 27.3.18

British Rail 2 toned green 47805+47501 south bound working 25.3.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 25 Mar 2018 15:28:51 GMT

On Friday, I caught the northbound working involving the pair of 2 tone green 47's heading to Kingussie, today I caught the southbound working at Carstairs and at Float Viaduct.

British Railways 2 toned Green liveried 47805 (D1935) and 47501 (D1944) are held at the signal on Platform 2 at Carstairs with 1Z56 Kingussie - Crewe railtour

British Railways 2 toned Green liveried 47805 (D1935) and 47501 (D1944) cross over the River Clyde south of Carstairs with 1Z56 Kingussie - Crewe railtour

WCML tours, freight and engineers 24.3.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 24 Mar 2018 18:06:16 GMT

	47826 tnt 57313 approaches Carstairs South Junction with 1Z43 Peterborough - Edinburgh Waverley 'The Settle and Carlisle Scotsman' railtour
	88004 passes through Thankerton with 4S43 Daventry - Mossend containers 24.3.18
	66416 approaches Cartland with 6K32 Cambuslang - Carlisle Yard engineering working 24.3.18
	66301 approaches Cartland with 6K31 Cambuslang - Millerhill engineering working 24.3.18
1	Scotrail liveried 68007+68006 head south through Holytown with 0Z45 Motherwell TMD - Crewe Gresty Bridge light engine working

British Railways 2 toned Green 47501+47805 at Carstairs 23.3.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 23 Mar 2018 23:07:29 GMT

Two toned green liveried 47501 (D1944) + 47805 (D1935) seen stabled in Carstairs Down Goods Loop with 1Z54 Crewe - Kingussie 23.3.18

Both locos looked to be in ex-works condition and the 2 toned green livery looked absolutely fantastic.

Camelon and Larbert 17.3.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 17 Mar 2018 21:51:58 GMT

Camelon

In the middle of a snow shower, 60021 approaches Camelon with 6S36 Dalston - Grangemouth tanks

170396 pauses at Camelon with 2P38 Dunblane - Edinburgh Waverley

66302 passes through Camelon with 4A13 Grangemouth - Aberdeen containers

156434 pauses at Camelon with 2J66 Glasgow Queen Street - Falkirk Grahamston

Larbert

170456 approaches Larbert with 2P86 Dunblane - Edinburgh Waverley

170427 prepares to depart Larbert with 2N51 Glasgow Queen Street - Dunblane

37099 top and tailed with 37421 pass through Larbert with 1Q77 Mossend - Inverness Network Rail test train

60076 at Hartwood 16.3.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 16 Mar 2018 18:46:16 GMT

Colas liveried 60076 passes through Hartwood with 6B34 Viewpark - Oxwellmains cement 16.3.18

Scotrail Intercity liveried 43036 and 43134 at Prestonpans 9.3.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 09 Mar 2018 23:52:40 GMT

Today, the second pair of Scotrail liveried Class 43's headed north to Craigentinny. The Dark Blue fronted locos with white sides containing some of the landmarks of the bigger cities from around Scotland passed through Prestonpans around 3.30pm this afternoon.

43033 and 43148 were the first pair up arriving last month, the latest pair, 43036 and 43134 are seen passing through Prestonpans with 0S04 Loughborough Brush - Craigentinny light engine move.

Glasgow Trams and Subway vehicles: Riverside Museum Glasgow 25.2.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 27 Feb 2018 23:26:08 GMT

I visited the Riverside Museum in Glasgow to see the Glasgow Trams and the old Subway vehicles that were on display.


Horse Tram 543 Built in 1894 by North Metropolitan Tramways, in London and seating 42 people, this open topped double decker was seen in the streets of Glasgow until the early 1900's. 543 was restored in 1962 to be at the head of the last tram procession through Glasgow in September 1962.	Room and Kitchen 672 Built in 1898, the Room and Kitchen trams were the first purpose built electric tramcar for Glasgow. 20 of this type of tram were built, however they weren't successful as passenger vehicles owing to the centre entrance. After 8 years in service, the Room and Kitchen cars were withdrawn. 672 survived as Mains Testing Car 3 and was restored to 1898 condition in 1962.	Standard 779 Built in 1900, Standard 799 enjoyed 60 years in passenger service, having been modernised over the years, these modifications were stripped back to leave the tram in 1908 condition in time for Glasgow's Last tram procession in 1962.	Standard 1088 Receiving the highest number in the standard car fleet, Standard 1088 was built in 1924 originally with open ends. 1088 represents the tramway of the 1930s

Single deck Pullman 1089 Built in 1926, 1089 also known as 'Baillie Burt's car' was intended to be used on interurban services, however it was found to be too slow in loading due to narrow doors. It later found its way on to service 20 from Clydebank - Duntocher until it closed in 1949 before spending the rest of its service life as a crush loaded Shipyard special operating out of Partick Depot.	Mark 1 Coronation 1173 The Coronation trams were some of the most luxourious trams ever built in Glasgow. Built in 1939, 1173 saw use on many routes across the system, lasting in service until 1962.	Curnarder 1392 A 1952 built Curnader tram, of which 100 were built between 1948-52. 1392 had a short service life of only 10 years.


Subway Car 4	Subway Trailer 39

Adverts for Edinburgh Trams 257 and 273 16.2.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 16 Feb 2018 20:09:36 GMT

The adverts keep on coming for Edinburgh's CAF Urbos 3 trams with 257 and 273 both receiving adverts in the past week for Johnnie Walker's (Diageo) Don't drink and drive campaign.

Both adverts are identical and are in the usual style of Edinburgh adverts with the full section 3 and 5 covered and the other sections having the area above the windows covered.

Both trams are expected to retain the adverts until the end of April. With 257 and 273 receiving their adverts, there is now only 5 of the fleet of 27 trams still in fleet livery: 254, 256, 264, 265 and 268.

In service today was: 252, 253, 255, 257, 258, 261, 264, 267, 273, 274, 275


257	257	257	257

273	273	273	273

First HST power cars in Scotrail Livery at Prestonpans 13.2.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 13 Feb 2018 22:17:01 GMT

Today, the first pair of Scotrail liveried Class 43's headed north to Craigentinny. The Dark Blue fronted locos with white sides containing some of the landmarks of the bigger cities from around Scotland passed through Prestonpans around 3.30pm this afternoon.

43033 and 43148 are seen passing through Prestonpans with 0S04 Loughborough Brush - Craigentinny light engine move.

Blackpool Heritage Trams 10.2.18-12.2.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 12 Feb 2018 22:27:40 GMT

I was in Blackpool for the February holiday weekend and the heritage tram service was in operation. The blue timetable, which operates between Pleasure Beach and North Pier with 4 journeys to Cabin.

On Saturday, the service began with Balloon 717 and Ex Towing Railcoach 680 (I think), it was swapped over for Brush Car 630 after 1 journey. 717 was on route A (first 2 workings to Cabin of the day) and 630 was on Route B (last 2 Cabin workings).

680 was later seen stabled in front of the electrical compound at Rigby Road depot. Centenary car 642 was also spotted on the depot fan complete with a pair of newly repainted trucks. Also prominent at the front of the depot was Balloon 711, complete with snowploughs.

It was heat free Sunday as it was absolutely freezing out on the Prom and both trams in service didn't have heaters! However this was more than made up for by Balloon 715 (route B) being one of the trams! The other was Brush Car 631(Route A) (which had its heaters removed when it had its swingover seats retrofitted). Balloon 717 was also out, however it was working a Private Hire, which took in Fleetwood and the Pleasure Beach.

Monday saw a return to heater fitted trams with Brush Car 630 on Route A and Balloon 717 operating on Route B. There was a depot shunt taking place with Brush Car 632 spending some time on the depot fan and Bolton 66 on Hopton Road. Over the weekend Flexities 001, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 12, 13, 14 and 15 were seen, however there was no sign of 6,7,11,16, 17 and 18.

Day	Route A	Route B	Private Hire
Sat	717	630
Sun	631	715	717
Mon	630	717

photographs from the weekend can be found at: http://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p890382945

New Caledonian Sleeper Mark 5's at Uddingston 9.2.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 09 Feb 2018 14:41:19 GMT

Freightliner's 66414 is seen with 4 new Mark 5 sleeper coaches in tow as well as some coal hoppers for brake force passing through Uddingston with 6X06 Tees Dock - Polmadie 9.2.18

more photos of Edinburgh Tram 271's advert 3.2.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 04 Feb 2018 20:08:55 GMT

Last Saturday, Edinburgh's CAF Urbos 3 tram 271 became the latest of the Edinburgh fleet to receive an external advert. This is the first time that 271 has received an external advert.

The advert is mainly maroon based and continues the tradition of the advert liveried tram of the advert being located along the top of the tram with sections 3 and 5 having full length adverts containing contravision.


271	271	271	271	271

Caledonian Sleeper ECS and more 27.1.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 27 Jan 2018 22:33:01 GMT

My Sightings from today

	320413 at Greenfaulds with 2V66 Dalmuir - Cumbernauld 27.1.18
	60047 passes through Greenfaulds with 6S36 Dalston - Grangemouth oil tankers 27.1.18
	73966 tnt 73968 pass through Greenfaulds with 5Z25 Aberdeen - Polmadie Sleeper ECS 27.1.18
	385104+385103 approach Prestonpans while working 2Z23 Dunbar - Edinburgh training run 27.1.18
	385103 on the rear of 385104 pass through Prestonpans while working 2Z23 Dunbar - Edinburgh training run whilst 380012 prepares to depart with 2Y26 Edinburgh Waverley - North Berwick 27.1.18
	380015 arrives into Prestonpans with 2Y05 North Berwick - Edinburgh Waverley 27.1.18
	156475 passes through Prestonpans with 5S00 Heaton - Glasgow Works 27.1.18

Advert for Edinburgh Tram 271 27.1.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 27 Jan 2018 22:20:59 GMT

Edinburgh's CAF Urbos 3 tram 271 is the latest of the Edinburgh fleet to receive an external advert. This will be the first time that 271 has received an external advert.

271 is advertising Qatar Airways and is the second company to advertise on the trams.

12 trams were in service today, these were 252, 253, 255, 257, 258, 264, 267, 271, 273, 274, 275 and 277. 253 261 (not in service today) and 273 have all recently returned to service following many months stored. The fleet are cycled in and out of service on a regular basis to allow the fleet to get equal usage.


271	271	271

37175 tnt 37219 at Lanark 23.1.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 23 Jan 2018 22:00:04 GMT

A quick visit to Lanark on my way home to see 37175 top and tailed with 37219 arrive into the station with 1Q80 Mossend - Mossend Network Rail Test Train. It would depart just a few minutes later, continuing on its journey.


37175	37219

Scotrail HST on Driver Training at Dalmeny 19.1.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 19 Jan 2018 19:41:22 GMT

Today saw Scotrail commence driver training between Dundee and Haymarket on the former First Great Western HST's that are beginning to transfer north.

Running today were 43179 and 43126, which had both been debranded and sandwiched in between were 3x Mark 3's. I caught pass through Dalmeny whilst working 2W24 Dundee - Haymarket training run. The HST's will be entering service with Scotrail later in the year.


43179	43126

50008 at Carstairs 15.1.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 16 Jan 2018 19:35:37 GMT

50008 with barrier vehicles and 3 ex first Great Western mark 3's approach Carstairs East Junction with 5Z50 Leicester - Craigentinny coaching stock move 15.1.18

43179 at Haymarket 12.1.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 13 Jan 2018 00:13:23 GMT

Seen from a passing tram this afternoon was debranded former First Great Western HST power car 43179 seen stabled at Haymarket Depot awaiting its entry to service with Scotrail later this year. There was another 43 on the other end, however I didn't manage to get a photo of it.

Edinburgh Tram 255 at St Andrews Square 12.1.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 13 Jan 2018 00:09:55 GMT

a quick trip into Edinburgh this afternoon by tram meant a quick stop off at St Andrews Square and here is CAF Urbos 3 no 255 rounding the curve from St Andrews Square into York Place.

Edinburgh Trams 6.1.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 06 Jan 2018 22:21:23 GMT

An hour at Edinburgh Park Central this afternoon allowed all 12 trams on todays 7 minute service to be viewed and photographed.

In service today were trams: 255, 274, 265, 267, 258, 277, 252, 270, 269, 275, 257 and 271 (9 in CR Smith adverts and 3 in fleet livery).

Figures released have indicated a 19% increase in passenger numbers during 2017 with 6.6 million passenger journeys, up 1 million on the previous year.

There are also trials underway to double the frequency during peak times.

Also noted today was that no 271 had stickers added to the windows next to 2nd and central sections indicating priority seating.


255	274	265	267

258	277	252	270

269	275	271	257

60047 at Greenfoot Loop and Greenfaulds 5.1.18

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 06 Jan 2018 19:37:47 GMT

My first sighting of 2018: 60047. I saw 60047 twice on this day. The first time was from the level crossing at Greenfoot loop, where 60047 is viewed with 6S36 Dalston - Grangemouth tanks. I then headed up to Greenfaulds, where I caught 047 passing through with the same working.

60047 at Greenfaulds

56105 passes through Carluke 30.12.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 31 Dec 2017 17:53:46 GMT

56105 passes through Carluke with 6Z56 Mossend - Carlisle Yard engineering working 30.12.17

Late Running Sleeper at Carstairs 29.12.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 29 Dec 2017 09:50:56 GMT

Normally the northbound Caledonian Sleeper service (1S26 from London Euston - Glasgow Central) arrives into Carstairs at 6.21am, however this morning it was running around 104 minutes late by the time it arrived at 8.19 this morning, not only meaning that it was almost daylight but also that I could see it for a change!

92010 brought the sleeper into platform 1 at Carstairs, where the train would be divided with the front portion continuing to Glasgow behind 92010 and the rear portion, heading to Edinburgh Waverley as 1B26 and hauled by 90042.


92010	90042

88001 at a Snowy Carstairs 28.12.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 28 Dec 2017 20:28:21 GMT

Float Viaduct just south of Carstairs is a nice location for photos at any time of the year, however, when it has been snowing, the scenery around there is stunning! Today I popped up to take a couple of photos of 88001 on 4S43 Daventry - Mossend containers. Here are my photos:


88001	88001	88001

Dusseldorf 392 and 311103 at Summerlee 23.12.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 23 Dec 2017 22:55:21 GMT

Summerlee Heritage Park in Coatbridge has Scotland's only working heritage tramline. The tramline is about 1/2 mile long and single tracked throughout. There have 4 trams:

Dusseldorf 392, which has a wheelchair lift and sees most use out of the fleet
Glasgow 1017, a small single decked ex Glasgow Standard car which was formerly a double decker before being reduced to a single decker to allow it to operate on a route with a low bridge.
Lanarkshire 53, an open topped double decker which used to run to Wishaw, Motherwell, Hamilton, Bellshill, Larkhall and Uddingston.
Glasgow 1245, a Glasgow Coronation double decker, currently being restored

The short line heads from the main entrance round to a replica coal mine and miners row. Also at the end of the line is former Blue Train 311103, which the motor coach and one of the driving trailers from the set is on display.

311103 at Summerlee

Test Train at Carstairs 23.12.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 23 Dec 2017 22:09:29 GMT

37116 top and tailed with 37057head south past Carstairs with a Mossend - Derby Test Train

Flexity 018 arrives in Blackpool 16.12.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 16 Dec 2017 21:13:57 GMT

The second of 2 additional Flexity trams ordered by Blackpool Transport has arrived in Blackpool. Flexity 018 arrived at Starr Gate on the back of a low loader on Friday 15th December. Both trams have been ordered in connection with the building of the new 630 metre long extension of the tramway from North Pier to North Station of which construction began during November. The new extension is due to open at Easter 2019.

66736 at Carstairs 8.12.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 08 Dec 2017 22:10:30 GMT

66736 is seen approaching Carstairs South Junction not long before the sun went down with 6S50 Carlisle Yard - Millerhill departmental working

Edinburgh Tram 269's CR Smith advert 2.12.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 03 Dec 2017 00:04:11 GMT

Tram 269 was outshopped in a CR Smith all over advert back in October, however it hasn't been out in service any time I have been to Edinburgh recently so I've never managed to get a photo! (The other tram, which I haven't seen for a while is 253)

However today, 269 was stabled on the track nearest the fence at Gogar Depot, so I managed to get a quick photo. As usual for the Edinburgh trams and the CR Smith advertising campaign, the adverts looks fantastic.

The tram carries the standard CR Smith advert with the phrase 'From Inverness to Edinburgh' and features the Flying Scotsman and an Edinburgh Tram on Princes Street.

There are 19 trams currently carrying advertising, these are:

251, 252, 253, 255, 258, 259, 260, 261, 262, 263, 266, 267, 269, 270, 272, 274, 275, 276, 277

This leaves 254, 256, 257, 264, 265, 268, 271 and 273 advert free at the moment.

'From Inverness to Edinburgh' panel on 269

Flexity 017 arrives in Blackpool

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 02 Dec 2017 23:40:42 GMT

The first of 2 additional Flexity trams ordered by Blackpool Transport has arrived in Blackpool. Flexity 017 arrived at Starr Gate on the back of a low loader on Friday 1st December with 018 due to follow early in the new year. Both trams have been ordered in connection with the building of the new 630 metre long extension of the tramway from North Pier to North Station of which construction began during November. The new extension is due to open at Easter 2019.

More photos of Edinburgh Tram 276's Christmas and Hogmanay advert 1.2.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 02 Dec 2017 23:33:41 GMT

As promised a couple of weeks ago, I managed to get a few more photos of tram 276's Edinburgh's Christmas and Hogmanay advert.

The advert promotes travel by tram into Edinburgh to the Edinburgh's Christmas events, which are taking place throughout December as well as travel to and from the Hogmanay celebrations on 31st December.

There will be free trams running from midnight - 5am roughly every 20 minutes between West End Princes Street and the Airport on 1st January to allow those attending the Hogmanay celebrations to make their return journeys.

If you are heading to Edinburgh to catch the tram, the Christmas advert is on the right hand side when leaving the Airport and the Hogmanay advert is on the left hand side of the tram. The artwork on the tram has been designed by local school children.

Here are a few photos of the tram at Ingliston Park and Ride on Friday 1st December.


Edinburgh's Christmas Panel on 276	Edinburgh's Christmas Panel on 276	Edinburgh's Hogmanay Panel on 276	Edinburgh's Hogmanay Panel on 276

Edinburgh's Hogmanay advert	Edinburgh's Hogmanay advert	Edinburgh's Christmas advert	Edinburgh's Christmas advert

Hogmanay adverts on Edinburgh Trams

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 24 Nov 2017 22:47:23 GMT

Adverts are starting to appear on Edinburgh Trams advertising their Free tram service running from Midnight - 5am between Princes Street - West End and Airport following the Hogmanay celebrations. The adverts are located underneath the cab sides.


257 with its Hogmanay advert	a close up of the advert on 260

Edinburgh's Christmas and Hogmanay advert for 276

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 18 Nov 2017 23:09:59 GMT

Edinburgh's CAF Urbos 3 tram number 276 has received it's first all over advert as is advertising Edinburgh's Christmas on one side of the tram and Edinburgh's Hogmanay on the other. The artwork on this tram has been designed by local school children.

The Christmas advert (which is on the right hand side of the tram coming from the Airport) features a black background with some snow flakes, fairies and city skyline along the top, with the all over advert panels featuring an octopus with 8 socks on, a teddy bear hugging a Christmas Tree and what looked like a lion wearing a Santa suit with 2 other characters nearby! The advert states 'Take the Tram to Edinburgh's Christmas and back again'

The Hogmanay advert (which is on the left hand side coming from the Airport) features a pink background with gloves and woolly hats on the top and one of the other sections features an ostrich and what looks like an owl wearing scarves and woolly hats! The advert states 'Take the Tram to Edinburgh's Hogmanay and back again'. Unfortunately as it was a rushed photo as the tram only stopped for a few seconds and the light wasn't great meaning I didn't manage to get the full side in focus, however I will try and get another shot of it if its out next weekend!

The trams will be running a free service from Midnight - 5am on 1st January, running every 20 minutes from West End Princes Street - Airport, to allow people attending Edinburgh's Hogmanay to get back home.


276's Edinburgh's Christmas Advert	276's Edinburgh's Hogamanay Advert

Holytown and Bo'ness 17.10.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 17 Oct 2017 19:45:17 GMT

My sightings from today

Holytown

68004 passes through Holytown with 5G02 Edinburgh Waverley - Motherwell TMD Fife Circle ECS move

66075 passes through Holytown with 6S58 Tees - Dalziel loaded steel

66221 passes through Holytown with 4S99 Tees - Mossend containers

Bo'ness

37067 at Bo'ness

303032 at Bo'ness

D2767 at Bo'ness

27001 at Bo'ness

37214 at Bo'ness

27001 and 82113 at Bo'ness

37261 at Bo'ness

Holytown

37605 passes through Holytown with 4Z20 Craignetinny - Motherwell TMD container flats

66430+66434 approach Holytown with 4S43 Daventry - Mossend containers

88010 passes through Holytown with 0Z48 Carlisle Kingmoor- Motherwell TMD light engine move

86604+86610 pass through Holytown with 4Z56 Preston - Coatbridge Freightliner terminal containers

RHTT unit 98905+98915 passes through Holytown with 3Z93 Slateford - Slatefort RHTT working

Lanarkshire Freight 16.10.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 16 Oct 2017 22:17:13 GMT

My sightings from today

Camelon

68006 passes through Camelon with 5K19 Edinburgh Waverley to Motherwell TMD ECS working

Greenfaulds

66176 passes through Greenfaulds with 6D84 Aberdeen Waterloo - Mossend Nacco Silver Bullet tanks

Holytown

66564 passes through Holytown with 4S53 Daventry - Mossend containers

66524 passes through Holytown with 0Z32 Millerhill - Mossend light engine move

88002+88009 pass through Holytown with 4S43 Daventry - Mossend containers

Carstairs

66565 approaches Carstairs with 6S50 Carlisle Yard - Millerhill engineering working

66221 approaches Carstairs with 4E99 Mossend - Tees Dock containers

66524 passes through Carstairs with 6Z32 Mossend - Carlisle Yard engineering working

37884 at Hartwood 14.10.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 14 Oct 2017 20:28:47 GMT

Europhoenix liveried 37884 passes through Hartwood with 0S07 Craigentinny - Shields TMD light engine move

Another new Edinburgh Tram advert 13.10.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 14 Oct 2017 20:24:41 GMT

One of the latest CR Smith advertising vynals, has been applied to tram 275. It features a Whisky distillery and a North Sea Oil Rig with the phrase From Speyside to Aberdeen.

The advert panel:

Class 50's at Carluke 7.10.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 07 Oct 2017 22:43:03 GMT

Today, there was a rare sight on the West Coast Mainline, with a pair of Class 50's operating on a railtour from London Euston - Glasgow Central and return. The class 50 (or 'Hoovers' to give them their nickname) was built between 1967 and 1968 and operated on the WCML between Glasgow and Crewe. On completion of the electrification of the WCML in in 1974, the 50's moved to South West England then services on the London - Exeter and London - Hereford services before being withdrawn in the late 80's / early 90's.

Today's working was the first time class 50's had been in Scotland since 50007 and 017 visited Bo'ness in 2015 for the Summer Diesel Gala. Unfortunately I had something else on and missed the northbound journey, but did manage to catch the southbound journey at Carluke.

The 50's operating on the railtour were:

BR Large Logo liveried 50049
BR Blue Liveried 50007

BR Large Logo liveried 50049 and BR Blue liveried 50007 pass through Carluke with 1Z52 Glasgow Central - London Euston Pathfinder 'The Caledonian' Railtour

More CR Smith adverts for Edinburgh Trams 30.9.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 30 Sep 2017 20:28:37 GMT

Adverts 11 and 15 of 18 of the CR Smith Advertising contract have now been applied to 5 members of the tram fleet. As before, the stunning graphics that have created for each advert features a pair of iconic Scottish locations.

The latest adverts in the series sees:

Fae Leith tae Alloway featuring featuring a domed building and a statue of Robert Burns. This advert is worn by 255.
From Bannockburn to Dundee featuring a statue of Robert the Bruce and a statue of Desperate Dan. The advert is worn by 252
From Turnberry to Blair Drummond featuring a bag of golf clubs and some meerkats on a mound. The advert is worn by 258.
From Lochmaben to Dunfermilne featuring a statue of Robert the Bruce and Dunfermilne Abbey. The advert is worn by 277.
There is also a 5th advert tram, number 253, however it was behind another tram and it's advert was only partially visible.


255	252	258	277

Brush Car 621 returns to service

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 29 Sep 2017 22:30:24 GMT

In November 2004, Brush Car 621 was mothballed along with most of her sister cars as part of a general reduction in the size of the fleet. After a period in store, 621 was purchased by the Fleetwood Heritage Transport Trust and moved into further storage at Kirkham Prison. 621 was then purchased by a group of enthusiasts and donated to Beamish Museum in Northumberland, arriving in 2014. Beamish had planned to restore the tram as 284 in the original 1930's style, however a change in policy left the tram surplus to requirements and 621 found its self heading home to Blackpool after the tram was donated back to the Blackpool Heritage Tramway Trust. 621 arrived back in Blackpool in December 2016.

With the 80th Anniversary of the Brush Cars being celebrated during 2017, 'Trams Magazine' sponsored the work required to return 621 back to service in time for the 132nd anniversary weekend. Fortunately 621 was still in reasonable condition despite 13 years out of service, however it did require a re panel and some electrical work, including the fitting of a transponder. The tram was repainted into the 1950's livery and made its debut back on the prom on 22nd September. 621 performed faultlessly all weekend.

621 looks absolutely fantastic and all credit goes to the workshop team at Blackpool Heritage Tram Tours for the excellent job they have done on 621.


621 Stored behind Boats 602 and 605 26th September 2010	621 in the electrical Compound 30.4.17	Old panels from 621 with part of it's old Hot Ice advert in the Fitting Shop 24.9.17	621 and 623 pass at Bispham 24.9.17

Blackpool Tramway 132nd Anniversary Weekend 22.9-25.9

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 28 Sep 2017 21:03:27 GMT

I visited Blackpool for September weekend, which just so happened to co-inside with the Blackpool Tramway's 132nd Anniversary weekend. Here is my report of the weekend:

Friday 22nd September:

The stars of the weekend were undoubtedly the Brush Cars as this year, the Brush Cars are celebrating their 80th anniversary of their entry to service.

A special service recreating the Cleveleys Flyers that this class of tram featured heavily on at various times of their lives operated on Friday afternoon and saw Brush Car 621 making its first appearance in service since 2004 after a recent overhaul and repaint into 1950's livery. Also featuring Wartime Green and Cream liveried 623, which is on loan from Heaton Park, 90's liveried and refurbished 630 on loan from Crich and 60's liveried 631, which is part of the heritage fleet.

The trams operated between 1.30 and 5.30pm between Pleasure Beach and Cleveleys on the following routes:

A - 621
B - 623
C - 630
D - 631

631 failed at Pleasure Beach with a controller fault before departure on its final journey of the day. 623 worked to Pleasure Beach and picked up 631's passengers and worked its journey.

Into the evening and out came the Illuminations tour trams. 733+734, 736, 737, 717 and 718 were out on tours operating 2 tours each. Trawler 737 was held at Bispham for a while on its 2nd tour of the night. After 20 minutes, the passengers left the tram while it reversed on the centre track and pulled onto the stop and reloaded, giving it's passengers the rare opportunity for a tour through the illuminations facing backwards!

Saturday 23rd September

Saturday was the first of the two 132nd Anniversary running days and display of rarely seen trams and depot tours. At Rigby Road depot, Balloon 701, Centenary 642 and recently returned Centenary 645 were lined up at the Fitting shop wall, whilst Brush Cars 632, 634, 631 and 627 were lined up on the depot fan. Balloon 711 was used as the shop tram at North Pier and Balloon 700 was used on the shuttle service running between Rigby Road Depot and Starr Gate Depot. Trams that were used on the heritage service during the day were: 66, 600, 621, 623, 630, 648, 680, 700, 711, 713, 715, 717, 723 and 737. 737 replaced 717, which returned to depot around 11am, presumably with a fault as 717 wasn't back out in service again over the weekend. Around noon, 621,623 and 630 were lined up one behind the other at Pleasure Beach. 723 and 713 were the last 2 heritage trams to depart Bispham around 5.30pm.

Into the evening and 733+734, 736, 737, 718 and 723 were out on Illuminations tours operating two tours each. 715 operated on a Private Hire doing a round tour of the illuminations and then working to Cabin and depot.

Sunday 24th September

Sunday was the second of the two 132nd Anniversary running days and display of rarely seen trams and depot tours. At Rigby Road depot, Brush Cars 634, 627 and 632 were lined up at the Fitting shop wall, whilst Brush Car 625, Engineering Car 754, Open topped Balloon 706 and Balloon 726 were lined up on the depot fan. Balloon 711 was used as the shop tram at North Pier and Balloon 713 was used on the shuttle service running between Rigby Road Depot and Starr Gate Depot.

The depot tour started at the depot fan and went to the Electrical Compound, passing Birkenhead 20, which was stabled just outside it. In the compound were numerous spare parts as well as Boat 230 (604) and Railcoach 679. Walking along the front of the fan, many withdrawn trams were seen including twin car 676+686, Coronation 304, Centenary 642 and Centenary 645. Next the tour went into the Paint shop and Standard 147 was on display having been partially rubbed down for a repaint. In the Body shop, Standard 143, Boat 227 (602) were stabled, 227 was receiving an internal tidy up and rewire. The body shells of Lytham 43 and Glasgow 1016 were also in the Body Shop. In the fitting shop Balloon 719 was there for a blown motor to be replaced and 703 was on display. There was various trolley towers and trucks also on display. Also visible was some of the panels removed from 621 while it was being prepared for service. After a ride down to Starr Gate depot on 713 (via the tram wash) we were then shown round Starr gate depot. 004 and 006 were at the front of the sheds in case they were required for service, whilst 013 was on the body lift where its trucks were being removed to allow it's wheels to be replaced.

Trams that were used on the heritage service during the day were: 40, 66, 600, 621, 623, 630, 631, 648, 680, 700, 711, 713, 715, 718, 723 and 737.

Into the evening and 733+734, 736, 737, 715 and 718 were out on Illuminations tours operating two tours each.

My photos from the weekend (all 247 of them!) can be found at http://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p123308024

An hour at Preston 23.9.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 26 Sep 2017 18:23:12 GMT

Whilst in Blackpool for the weekend, I nipped out to Preston for an hour's spotting. Here are my sightings:

156486 approaches Preston with 2N97 Manchester Victoria - Blackpool North

390002 departs Preston with 9M54 Edinburgh - London Euston

319365 approaches Preston with 1N85 Liverpool South Parkway - Preston

66619 waits at Preston with 6H51 Hardendale Quarry - Guide Bridge Yard Ballast working

150xxx with 150133 on the rear depart Preston with 2T06 Blackpool North - Manchester Victoria

158758 departs Preston with 1B23 Blackpool North - York

390151 approaches Preston with 9S60 London Euston - Edinburgh Waverley, whilst 150144 also approaches with 2T62 Manchester Victoria - Blackpool North

156491 departs preston with 2E86 Blackpool North - Huddersfield

158851 approaches Preston with 1B20 York - Blackpool North whilst 153304+153378 also approach with 2N01 Ormskirk - Preston

156464+156479 arrive at Preston with 1T63 Manchester Victoria - Blackpool North

142050+150201 depart Preston with 2N14 Blackpool South - Colne

153378+153304 depart Preston with 2F02 Preston - Ormskirk

66092 approaches Preston with 4S49 Daventry - Coatbridge containers

Edinburgh Tram 251's advert

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 16 Sep 2017 21:23:22 GMT

Passing Gogar Depot earlier today, I decided to look in and see which trams were stabled there. Parked near the fence along side the road was tram 251 in its #tramspotting livery, which promotes the 7 minute service which operates during each day. I took the opportunity to get a few photos of the tram.


Full Tram	one of the advert sections	the other advert section

East Coast Diverts at Crawford 16.9.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 16 Sep 2017 20:37:57 GMT

Today was day 1 of the East Coast Diverts via the Tyne Valley, Carlisle and the West Coast Main Line to Carstairs South Junction.

I spent a couple of hours at Crawford, 2 miles south of Abington this afternoon and Here are my sightings:

66737 heads north past Crawford with the diverted 6S45 North Blyth - Fort William Alcans

88003 heads north past Crawford with 4S43 Daventry - Mossend containers

43274 'Spirit of Sunderland' and 43308 head south through Crawford with the diverted 1E15 Aberdeen - London Kings Cross

East Midlands Trains liveried 43061 on the rear of an HST set led by 43309 pass Crawford with the diverted 1E17 Edinburgh Waverley - London Kings Cross

43317+43206 head north through Crawford with the diverted 1S09 London Kings Cross - Edinburgh

66047 passes Crawford with 4M30 Grangemouth - Daventry containers

Adverts 9 and 10 for Edinburgh trams 15.9.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 15 Sep 2017 21:55:37 GMT

Adverts 9 and 10 of 18 of the CR Smith Advertising contract have now been applied to 2 members of the tram fleet. As before, the stunning graphics that have created for each advert features a pair of iconic Scottish locations.

The latest adverts in the series sees:

From Largs to Dundee featuring a Viking and Viking Longboat (Vikingar, Largs) and the SS Discovery ship from Dundee. This advert is worn by 267 and appeared in service during week beginning 11.9.17
From Pitlochry - Meadowbank featuring a leaping salmon making its way up the river and a hurdler jumping over a wall. The advert is worn by 274 and appeared in service during week beginning 11.9.17


267	274

Brush Car Friday

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 15 Sep 2017 21:32:44 GMT

Blackpool Heritage Trams Trust have announced that as part of the 132nd anniversary weekend celebrations, that a bonus event will happen on Friday 22nd September. During the afternoon, a special timetable of 'Cleveleys Flyers', running from Pleasure Beach - Cleveleys, using 4 Brush Cars.

The event should see the following trams in service:

the debut of 621, which has not run since 2004 (repainted in 50's livery)
623 (on loan from Heaton Park and in Wartime Livery)
630 (on loan from Crich Tramway Museum and in 90's livery)
631

Over the remainder of the weekend, all servicable heritage trams will run at some point, there are also depot tours and a display of stored trams outside the depot and on the depot fan.

More new adverts for Edinburgh Trams 8.9.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 09 Sep 2017 00:37:20 GMT

Adverts 7 and 8 of 18 of the CR Smith Advertising contract have now been applied to 2 members of the tram fleet. Like before, the stunning graphics created for each of the advert features a pair of iconic Scottish locations.

The latest adverts in the series sees:

From Fraserburgh to Finnieston featuring a crane of the feathered variety (Fraserburgh) and the famous Finnieston crane (with the SECC in the background) on the banks of the Clyde. This advert is worn by tram 270 and appeared in service early in week beginning 4.9.17.
From Dunblane to St Andrews featuring a Tennis player (with more than a passing resemblance to Andy Murray!) and a golfer (with more than a passing resemblance to Tiger Woods!) with a tennis net in the foreground and the old course in the background. This advert is worn by 262 and appeared in service during week beginning 4.9.17

I managed to catch both trams at Ingliston Park and Ride as well as tram 260 with the From Glasgow - Peterhead graphics (that I didn't manage to see on Sunday). I also managed to get better photos of the advert sections on trams 259, 266, 272 and 261.


270	262	260

259	266	272

261

Also spotted at Ingliston Park and Ride stop today were the following trams:

254

More Edinburgh Tram adverts

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 03 Sep 2017 21:12:02 GMT

Adverts 3 -6 of CR Smith's advertising contract for 18 trams have now been applied to the Edinburgh fleet. Each advert features stunning artwork pairing iconic Scottish locations or images that reflects not only the geographical spread of CR Smith’s customer base, but also celebrates Scotland’s soul and personality.

The latest batch sees:

Glasgow’s cone crowned Duke of Wellington with the white and orange striped lighthouse at Peterhead (260)
Lossiemouth's RAF fighter plane and Kinross Geese (263)
A Mountaineer climbing Glen Nevis and a diver at North Queensferry (261)
A sandcastle on Troon Beach and Edinburgh Castle (272)

261's advert replaces the Edinburgh Festival advert that the tram carried during late July / August. Unfortunately I didn't catch 260 but saw the other three. Here are the advert sections of the 3 trams.


261	263	272

Freightliner 90's at Holytown 3.9.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 03 Sep 2017 20:32:43 GMT

Freightliner class 90's 90048 and 90045 pass through Holytown with 4M49 Mossend - Daventry intermodal 3.9.17

Colas Test train at Greenfaulds 2.9.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 02 Sep 2017 23:07:21 GMT

a quick visit to Greenfaulds this afternoon and 2 sightings

334015 departs with 2V46 Dumbarton - Cumbernauld service

Colas liveried 37219 top and tailed with 37421 are seen approaching Greenfaulds with 1Q77 Mossend - Inverness Network Rail Test Train

then on the way home, a quick stop off at Holytown for

66733 passing through with 6S45 North Blyth - Fort William Alcans

Brush Car 630 returns to Blackpool

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 22 Aug 2017 21:05:46 GMT

It has been announced that Brush Car 630 will be returning to the Blackpool Tramway from the National Tramway Museum at Crich on loan at some point soon. The loan deal, which will allow 630 to remain in Blackpool until 2018, means that the tram will be able to take part in the Brush Car's 80th Anniversary celebrations taking place during the September Gold Weekend on 23rd and 24th September. The deal will have an added benefit for Crich as the depot there is having its roof replaced this winter and the move will mean them having to find a place to temporarily store the tram, it will allow the tram to be stored undercover and gives Blackpool the advantage of having a heater fitted single decker to use on the heritage service.

630, like it's 19 sister cars were built by Brush of Loughborough in 1937, entering service in the same year. Originally the inside of the Brush tramcars were considered to be the most luxurious trams ever built for British Tramways, with cushioned seating, heaters, clock and ceiling panels housing concealed lighting. The Brush Cars have been a popular and reliable member of the Blackpool fleet for 80 years and were still seen in regular service until 2004 when a number of them were mothballed, however a handful survived in service until 2011. Of the 20 trams built, 16 of them are still in existence in some form today.

630 was given a major overhaul in 1994/95 and featured low voltage lighting, trafficators, bumpers, new style lifeguards and fixed bus seats. 630 was the final Brush car to receive a major overhaul. After many years of all year round use on the tramway on both service and specials and with the end of traditional tramway in sight, 630 was withdrawn from service in October 2011, just one week before the end for the traditional fleet. 630 was repainted into the 1990's livery carried when it first re-entered service in 1995 in preparation for its move to Crich. 630 entered service at Crich in 2012 and has seen use there ever since. 630's return to Blackpool will see all 4 of the active (or will be by September) Brush Cars (621, 623, 630 and 631) in service at the Gold Weekend, with a further 5 (624, 625, 627, 632 and 634) probably on display at the depot over that Gold Weekend.

Further information on the Brush Cars can be found at my Blackpool Trams website http://blackpool-trams.yolasite.com/brush-trams.php

Original Number	Post 1968 Number	Status	Notes
284	621	Being overhauled	Expected to return to service in September 2017 with the heritage fleet.
285	622	Static classroom	Static Classroom at Anchorsholme Primary School
286	623	Heritage Fleet	On loan from Heaton Park until November 2017
287	624	Stored	Former engineering car 259, stored awaiting restoration to 1937 condition as 287
288	625	Stored	Stored at Rigby Road on behalf of a private individual
289	626	Stored	In store at Pacific Road, Birkenhead
290	627	Stored	Stored at Rigby Road on behalf of Fleetwood Heritage Leisure Trust
291	628	Stored	Body scrapped in 1968, used as a flat wagon and rail crane. Numbered 260
292	629	Scrapped
293	630	In Service (Crich)	Currently based at the National Tramway Museum Crich, going on loan to Blackpool until 2018.
294	631	Heritage Fleet	In service with the Heritage Fleet
295	632	Stored	Stored awaiting an overhaul
296	633	Heritage Fleet	rebuilt in 2001 as Illuminated Fishermans Friend Trawler. Renumbered 737.
297	634	Stored	Stored awaiting overhaul
298	635	Stored Clay Cross	In store at Clay Cross (National Tramway Museum), restoration part complete
299	636	Test Tram	Used for testing at SET Derby
300	637	Stored	Stored at Fleetwood Docks
301		scrapped
302	638	scrapped	received an experimental conversion to one person operation, was later converted back to a conventional tram, scrapped 1984.
303		scrapped	was used as part of an experiment with VAMBAC controls. Scrapped 1963.

44871 at Bo'ness 19.8.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 20 Aug 2017 09:11:55 GMT

Black 5 44871 is seen stabled at Bo'ness

Camelon Freight 19.8.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 20 Aug 2017 09:09:49 GMT

70804 approaches Camelon with 6S36 Dalston - Grangemouth tanks

170472 at Camelon with 2P38 Dunblane - Edinburgh Waverley

66434 approaches Camelon with 4A13 Grangemouth - Aberdeen containers

30 minutes at Carstairs 18.8.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 18 Aug 2017 19:40:02 GMT

380112 arrives at Carstairs with 1D59 Edinburgh Waverley - Glasgow Central

3250xx+0xx+014 head south through Carstairs with 1M44 Shieldmuir - Warrington Royal Mail Train

66303+66421 waits in the down goods loop at Carstairs with 6Z18 Carlisle Yard - Mossend engineering working

66102 leaves Carstairs with 4E99 Mossend - Tees Dock Containers

44871 at Carstairs 17.8.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 17 Aug 2017 20:47:22 GMT

Black 5 number 44871 stopped off in the Down Goods Loop at Carstairs this afternoon. The loco and its support coach had stopped to take on water whilst working on 5Z78 Carnforth - Bo'ness loco and support coach move. Arriving 15 minutes early, the loco was filled up with water before departing 1 minute early.

66080 at Carluke 13.8.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 13 Aug 2017 18:11:19 GMT

66080 passes through Carluke with 6K14 Millerhill - Kilmarnock engineering working

68's at Bo'ness 12.8.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 12 Aug 2017 17:24:56 GMT

12th August saw 68027 and 68003 reach Bo'ness to become the first of the class to visit the heritage line. They were stabled here for the day as they are required for the Northern Belle, however today 37602 and 37609 took the tour to Oban and back so both locos had an off day! Both locos were seen stabled in the yard at Bo'ness.

30 minutes at Camelon 12.8.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 12 Aug 2017 17:13:47 GMT

170396 arrives at Camelon with 2P37 Edinburgh Waverley - Dunblane

170478 departs Camelon with 2P38 Dunblane - Edinburgh Waverley

60085 approaches Camelon with 6S36 Dalston - Grangemouth tanks

66429 approaches Camelon with 4A13 Grangemouth - Aberdeen containers 12.8.17

Carstairs 66's 11.8.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 11 Aug 2017 19:06:19 GMT

66432 top and tailed with 66430 were seen this afternoon waiting in the down goods loop at Carstairs with 6Z18 Carlisle Yard - Mossend engineering working

Bo'ness 37's 11.8.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 11 Aug 2017 19:02:51 GMT

I had a quick visit to Bo'ness this afternoon and saw a line up of class 37's in the Diesel Yard!

One of Bo'ness' resident 37's 37261 was parked outside of the Diesel shed with DRS 37's 37602+37609, which are up to work the Northern Belle from Edinburgh - Oban tomorrow and West Coast's 37685.

Also seen was 27005, which was stabled in the display shed in between restoration work being carried out on it.


37261, 37602, 37609 and 37685 at Bo'ness	27005 in the display shed at Bo'ness in a lul in work to its restoration

37602+37609 at Camelon 10.8.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 10 Aug 2017 20:42:16 GMT

On Saturday the Northern Belle is visiting Oban. Due to Route Availability, traction that can be used on the Oban line is limited so a pair of 37s are required. In connection with this working, 37602 and 37609 complete with a support coach, worked as 5Z37 from Carlisle Kingmoor to Bo'ness.

37602+37609 were seen today approaching Camelon on 5Z37 Carlisle Kingmoor - Bo'ness

Edinburgh Tram 266's new advert 10.8.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 10 Aug 2017 20:33:07 GMT

I decided to pop back to Edinburgh and try and get a photo of Edinburgh CAF Urbos 3 tram 266 in its new advert livery, having missed it yesterday and I wasn't disappointed!

266's advert for CR Smith features a CR Smith van on one of the wheel sections with a Musselburgh Racehorse and Falkirk Kelpie on the other wheel section.

The advert looks stunning and is very well designed.

Trams 259 and 266 are the first of 18 trams that will carry CR Smith adverts and it is expected that the 3rd advert liveried tram, which will feature the Orange and White striped lighthouse at Peterhead and Glasgow's Duke of Wellington statue complete with traffic cone and is expected out soon.

When the 18 trams are complete, there will be 20 trams in advertising livery, with 251 wearing the #tramspotting advert and 261 wearing the Edinburgh Festival advert, although this will probably be changed for another in house advert once the Festival is over at the end of the month.

Some of the detail of 266's advert


Kelpie and Racehorse on one of the Wheel Sections	CRSmith Van on the other wheel section

A closer look at 261's advert


261's Edinburgh Festival Advert	All Night Trams every Saturday during August panel	70th Anniversary pane

More Edinburgh Tram adverts! 9.8.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Wed, 09 Aug 2017 21:28:23 GMT

Following on from the Edinburgh Festival advert tram a further 2 trams have appeared in advert liveries, both being launched today. Edinburgh Tram and CR Smith have signed a 2 year deal for CR Smith to advertise on an incredible 18 out of the 27 strong fleet!

On 9th August, the first 2 adverts were unveiled featuring stunning artwork pairing iconic Scottish locations or images that reflects not only the geographical spread of CR Smith’s customer base, but also celebrates Scotland’s soul and personality.

The first designs revealed include:

a Musselburgh racehorse racing alongside a Falkirk Kelpie (carried by 266)
the oldest stone bridge in the highlands at Carrbridge, arching over the Forth Rail Bridge (carried by 259, see photo on right)
Glasgow’s cone crowned Duke of Wellington with the white and orange striped lighthouse at Peterhead (still to be unveiled).

It should be an interesting time for the Edinburgh Tramway with as many new advert liveries appearing in the next few weeks, talk of a 3 minute service during morning and afternoon peaks and with thoughts also turning to extending the tramway to Newhaven.

Detail of 259's new advert livery

251 in Tramspotting livery at Gogar Depot

Detail on 251's Tramspotting Livery

Birkenhead Tramway and Wirral Transport Museum 4.8.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 20:55:25 GMT

I spent an enjoyable couple of hours on the Birkenhead Tramway on Friday 4th August. It was my first visit to the line and I was very impressed. After getting off the ferry at Woodside, Lisbon 730 and Hong Kong 70 were waiting at the terminus. Lisbon 730 was the service car, whilst Hong Kong 70 was out on Driver Training and was running just in front of the service car.

Hong Kong (Birkenhead) 70 was built in Hong Kong (to the same style as the famous Hong Kong double deckers) in 1992 along with sister car 69, which was in Taylor Street depot. Both trams were delivered to and used occasionally on the Blackpool tramway until 1994 until the Birkenhead line was ready for testing.

Lisbon 730 was built in 1930 and spent many years operating on its native system before it was acquired for further use at the Seaton Tramway. However this didn't happen and eventually after a period in store, 730 ended up at Birkenhead in 2004, where it was restored (and reguaged from 2ft 11 7/16 inches to standard gauge), returning to service in 2006.

After a short 5 minute journey to the Wirral Transport Museum, both trams waited before heading back to Woodside.

Inside the museum were 4 tramcars, these were:

Warrington 28: A 4-wheel G F Milnes car. This was originally car 2, which was withdrawn in the 1930s, and was used as a shelter on a bowling green at Cuddington until 1977. It was based at St Helen's Bus Garage till 2004. Merseyside Tramway Preservation Society began to procure parts to help with it's preservation. The preservation will include a covered top deck with open balconies. Number 2 did not run in this form but number 8 did so the tram will be numbered 28 when complete.

Liverpool Baby Grand 245: 245 moved to Birkenhead in 2006 and restoration started in 2010. After 4 years of Hard work, 245 was completed and ready to grace the rails once more.

Liverpool Corporation Tramways 'English Electric' fully enclosed 8-wheel bogie car No.762. After withdrawal in 1956, the lower saloon was used as a clubhouse for the Newsham Park bowling green. The remains were rescued by the MTPS in 1977, and it was restored intermittently, arriving on the tramway on 6 February 2000. It entered public service in 2001.

Wallasey Corporation Tramways 'Bellamy' Brush 4-wheel car No.78. This tram was built in 1920, although it was old-fashioned in its design, having a covered central section of the upper deck, but open balconies at each end. On closure of the Wallasey system in 1933, it was used for storage on a farm in North Wales. The farmer gave it to the MTPS in 1986, and some initial restoration work was carried out in 1987. In 1997, the society obtained some Heritage Lottery Funding to allow them to complete the restoration, and the tram entered service in August 2002.

The museum also featured many photographs and displays from all the local and now closed tramways as well as some buses, cars and motorbikes from the local area. There was also a model railway.

After visiting the museum, it was time to catch Lisbon 730 back to Woodside. Once again, Hong Kong 70 followed behind and the pair were once again stabled at the terminus.

Chester and Southport 6.8.17 and 7.8.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 08 Aug 2017 19:41:05 GMT

I was at Chester over the weekend, here are my sightings:

6.8.17

An unidentified pair of Arriva Class 158's and a class 153 on the rear pass Chester Racecourse with 1G26 Chester - Birmingham International

142044 seen stabled at Chester

Arriva Trains Wales liveried 158836+158837 wait at Chester prior to departure with 1G30 Chester - Birmingham International

175003 and 175010 seen stabled in the DMU sidings to the north of Chester Station

Arriva Trains Wales 175105 prepares to depart Chester with 1H88 Holyhead - Manchester Piccadilly

Colas Track Machines DR73921 and DR73922 at Chester

Mersey Travel liveried 3rd rail unit 508131 departs Chester with 2C46 Chester - Chester via Liverpool Central

7.8.17

67022 approaches Chester Racecourse with 1D34 Manchester Piccadilly - Holyhead Arriva Trains Wales Loco Hauled service

a pair of unidentified Class 221's pass Chester Racecourse with 1D83 London Euston - Holyhead

an unidentified class 158 passes Chester Racecourse with 1D12 Birmingham International - Holyhead via Chester service

On the way home, there was an unexpected stop off in Southport

507007+508126 prepare to depart Southport with 2U41 Southport - Hunts Cross

3rd rail Mersey Travel liveried 508136 and 507017 at Southport

150119 and 150218 seen at Southport

142070 at Southport

508136 and 508117 at Southport

507021 and 508117 at Southport

Colas Test Train 2.8.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Wed, 02 Aug 2017 20:11:16 GMT

I headed out this afternoon to catch the Colas test train. My intention was to catch it at Carstairs South Junction.

I headed there but as I approached, I saw 66731 heading round the curve at Carstairs East Junction.

66731 with 6S50 Carlisle Yard - Millerhill Departmental

The heavens opened shortly afterwards so I decided to head further south to Crawford to catch the Colas test train, which I did, closely followed by a 68/66 combo.

37219 top and tailed with 37421 1Q74 Carlisle Wapping - Mossend Yard via Ayr, Carstairs South Junction and Shotts

68007+66429 pass with a Carlisle Kingmoor - Motherwell TMD Light engine move

Edinburgh Trams all over adverts 28.7.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 28 Jul 2017 21:54:46 GMT

There are currently 2 adverts on the Edinburgh trams, the first is 251 with 'Tramspotting' all over advert and revynaled in the past couple of days tram 261 is wearing a vynal advertising the Edinburgh Festival. Both are seen at Ingliston Park and Ride on 28.7.17.

Tram 251 in 'Tramspotting' advert

Tram 261 in Edinburgh Festival advert

The other side of Tram 261's advert

Camelon 28.7.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 28 Jul 2017 21:38:49 GMT

I spent a couple of hours at Camelon this afternoon, here are my sightings:

68017 approaches Camelon with 5G13 Motherwell TMD - Edinburgh Waverley Fife Circle ECS

170460 pauses at Camelon with 2P32 Dunblane - Edinburgh Waverley

158726 arrives at Camelon with 2J72 Glasgow Queen Street - Falkirk Grahamston

170456 waits at Camelon with 2P34 Dunblane - Edinburgh Waverley

158726 arrives at Camelon with 2J73 Falkirk Grahamston - Glasgow Queen Street

60095 approaches Camelon with 6R46 Prestwick - Grangemouth tanks

66135 passes through Camelon with 6M80 Grangemouth - Sinfin Sidings Aviation Fuel tanks

30 minutes at Bargeddie 27.7.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Thu, 27 Jul 2017 21:41:31 GMT

I spent 30 minutes at Bargeddie this afternoon, here is my sightings:

320319+320415 arrive at Bargeddie with 2R40 Dalmuir - Whifflet

56094 passes through Bargeddie with 6R46 Prestwick - Grangemouth oil tanks

318252+320413 depart Bargeddie with 2S01 Motherwell - Dalmuir

Colas liveried 47749 passes through Bargeddie with 0Z47 Polmadie - Mossend light engine move

Bonus afternoon of spotting 25.7.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 25 Jul 2017 19:55:26 GMT

An unexpected early finish led to an afternoon of spotting!

I wasnt expecting to get out spotting today but an unexpected early finish at work meant an afternoon out!

First I headed to Carstairs for 66737 with 4 flats heading south with 6M63 Glen Douglas MOD - Carlisle Yard wagon move

then went to Greenfaulds and saw the following:

68017 with 5G13 Motherwell - Edinburgh Waverley Fife Circle ECS move

318257+320415 with 2F01 Cumbernauld - Dalmuir

320309 departs with 2V54 Cumbernauld - Dumbarton Central

334010 arrives with 2V56 Dumbarton Central - Cumbernauld

156496 arrives with 2J71 Falkirk Grahamston - Glasgow Queen Street

158789 arrives with 2J72 Glasgow Queen Street - Falkirk Grahamston

318253+318252 arrive at Greenfaulds with 2C02 Milngavie - Cumbernauld

60085 approaches with 6R46 Prestwick - Grangemouth oil tanks

Carstairs Freight 24.7.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 24 Jul 2017 21:07:50 GMT

I spent 30 minutes at a gloriously sunny Carstairs and caught 3 freights in that time! Here are my sightings:

88007 heads south from Carstairs with 4M48 Mossend - Daventry containers

90039+90040 approach Float Viaduct with 6M76 Mossend to Warrington Arpley

86609+86622 approach Float Viaduct south of Carstairs with 4L81 Coatbridge - London Gateway Containers

Carlisle 22.7.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 24 Jul 2017 07:01:04 GMT

Sightings from Carlisle Station 22.7.17 2.45pm - 5.10pm

156490 + 156492

156483 arrives at Carlisle with 2C33 Lancaster - Carlisle via the Cumbrian Coast service

unidentified 390

185153 arrives at Carlisle with 1S61 Manchester Airport - Glasgow Central service

46233 reverses into Carlisle with 5Z46 Carlisle - Carlisle loco and support coach turning move

158907 arrives at Carlisle with 2H88 Leeds - Carlisle service

156490 departs Carlisle with 2N40 Carlisle - Middlesborough service

158859 prepares to enter Carlisle with an ECS working from the siding behind platform 6

46233 prepares to depart Carlisle with 1Z34 'Cumbrian Mountain Express' railtour from Carlisle - Crewe

66096 passes through Carlisle with 4M30 Grangemouth - Daventry containers

66516 passes through Carlisle with a light engine working from Tyne Yard - Carlisle Yard

68004 prepares to depart Carlisle with the Pathfinders railtour from Carlisle - Bristol Temple Meads

156460 arrives at Carlisle with 2C37 Barrow in Furness - Carlisle

142063 arrives into Carlisle with 2N37 Newcastle - Carlisle

West Coast's 37516 passes through Carlisle with 5Z51 Fort William - Carnforth ECS working

DRS Open Day at Carlisle 22.7.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Mon, 24 Jul 2017 06:45:19 GMT

I went to Carlisle for the DRS depot open day in Carlisle. It was a great day out, even if the weather didn't play ball in the afternoon! Here are my sightings:

From the bridge outside Kingmoor:

68022 moves into the headshunt at Carlisle Kingmoor
88007 approaches Carlisle Kingmoor with 4S43 Daventry - Mossend containers

Once I had seen 88007 pass, I went into the depot. There was a good selection of locos on display to see throughout the depot. There was a lineup of 4 68's in 4 different liveries with 68026 in the plain blue livery, 68001 in Compass livery, 68012 in Chiltern Livery and 68006 in Scotrail livery. 66301 was also named 'Kingmoor TMD' during the afternoon.

Locos seen included:

BR Large Logo liveried 37424 named 'Avro Vulcan XH588'
66301, It would later be named 'Kingmoor TMD', the name previously carried by 37688
88010 'Aurora'
68026
68012
68001
68006
20312+20302
88001
88004
88008
57312
88003
57302
68029
88006
37425

The heavens opened at around 1.30pm and it was torrential rain! I hung around till the naming ceremony for 66301 and then went into Carlisle Station.

Tram Sunday 16th July

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 18 Jul 2017 20:33:18 GMT

I went to Blackpool for the day on Sunday for the annual Fleetwood Transport Festival (Tram Sunday). I arrived in Blackpool at 1pm and went to North Pier for the tram to Fleetwood. There was a 20 minute Heritage service running to Ash Street as well as the regular Flexity service. Trams on the Heritage Service were:

Route A: Brush Car 623 and Ex Towing Railcoach 680

Route B: Millennium Balloon 718

Route C: Bolton 66

Route D: Balloon 717

Route E: Balloon 715

Route F: Balloon 723

I caught Balloon 717 from North Pier to Ash Street and had a wander round the event. Stabled at Pharos Street was Fleetwood Box Car 40, B Fleet Balloon 711 and Illuminated Trawler 737. I headed back to Ash Street to catch the tram to Blackpool and just as I arrived, Brush Car 623 and Ex towing railcoach 680, which were both operating on route A arrived.

623 has recently returned to Blackpool on loan from Heaton Park Tramway in Manchester and will be in Blackpool till the end of the illuminations as part of the 80th Birthday celebrations for the Brush Cars. It required a reduced height trolley tower to allow it to fit into the depot at Heaton Park. When it returned to Blackpool a couple of weeks ago, it required an extension to the trolley tower to allow the pantograph to be able to reach the wire. 623 had last ran in Blackpool in November 2009 on the last day of service to Fleetwood before the line from Ash Street to the Ferry closed for upgrading. It moved to the Museum of Museums in Manchester along with Balloon 702 in 2010, then to Heaton Park in 2011 where it made its debut in 2012. 623 made it's debut back in Blackpool on a tour on 14th July in Wartime Green and Cream livery.

I caught 680, which ran a short distance behind 623 heading back to Pleasure Beach. At Cabin, 623 and 680 were joined by Balloon 717, which had arrived on a short working from Pleasure beach and was returning there. So from Cabin to Pleasure Beach, there was a 3 car heritage convoy made up of 623, 680 and 717, bringing back memories of the pre upgrade tramway where convoys of trams was commonplace.

Once at Pleasure Beach, the 3 trams unloaded and headed back north to the Foxhall, where they would reverse and head back to Rigby Road. Bolton 66 made an unscheduled journey to Pleasure Beach and was soon followed by Balloon 723, the last Pleasure Beach working of the day. After a trip to the Velvet Coaster for Dinner, it was time to head back to Blackpool North for the train home.

More Photos from Tram Sunday can be found at http://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p553573863

Blackpool Trams 2.7.17-8.7.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sun, 09 Jul 2017 20:27:51 GMT

I spent a week on holiday in Blackpool and had a few journeys on the heritage trams!

The following trams were out on the heritage service during the week:

Sunday 2nd July: Balloon 715 and Balloon 717
Monday 3rd July: Balloon 717 and Ex Towing Railcoach 680
Tuesday 4th July: Balloon 717 and Balloon 723
Wednesday 5th July: Boat 600 and Balloon 715
Thursday 6th July: Bolton 66 and Boat 600
Friday 7th July: Bolton 66 and Balloon 715
Saturday 8th July: Boat 600 and Balloon 717

6 different trams were used on the service during the week, 66 was out twice, 600 was out 3 times as was 715. 717 was out 4 times and 723 and 680 were out only once during the week.

Balloon 717 also worked a Private Hire from the North Pier heritage siding to the Savoy Hotel near Gynn Square via Little Bispham loop on Friday 7th, while Fleetwood Box Car 40 was out on a tour from Pleasure Beach on Saturday 8th, unfortunately I was already on my way home by this point so didnt manage to get a photograph.

Of interest at Rigby Road, Brush Car 625 and Standard 143 were stabled at the front of the depot as was newly repainted Millennium Balloon 718, while Brush Car 623 was visible in the Electrical Compound.

More photographs from the week can be found at http://scottishtrains.zenfolio.com/p399815755

Carluke 28.6.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Wed, 28 Jun 2017 21:47:06 GMT

Freightliner's 90049 heads through Carluke with 5C11 Polmadie - Edinburgh Waverley Sleeper ECS working 28.6.17

66061 heads south through Carluke with 4M30 Grangemouth - Daventry intermodal 28.6.17

88002 at Holytown 27.6.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 27 Jun 2017 19:21:06 GMT

88002 passes through Holytown with 4M48 Mossend - Daventry Tesco Containers 27.6.17

Shed 47 Railway 18.6.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Wed, 21 Jun 2017 18:59:25 GMT

I went to the Vintage Transport festival at the Scottish Bus Museum at Lathalmond near Dunfermilne, here they have the Shed 47 railway, a short railway within the site. Based in the original Locomotive Shed at what was Royal Naval Store Depot Lathalmond, Shed47 Railway Restoration Group is actively recreating some of the vast internal railway network that existed on the site until 1971.

They are also in the process of building a narrow gauge railway to transport visitors through the site.

Here are a few photos from the railway:

Narrow Gauge Locomotive

Fife Coal Company no 17

Another Narrow Gauge Loco

recently repainted Hunslet MOD251

MOD 250 in fictitious BR Green livery and numbered D2650

Wagon 47930 and tanker NS161

Also in the Bus Museum is Edinburgh Horse Tram 23

Greenfaulds 16.6.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 16 Jun 2017 19:58:05 GMT

320413+318258 depart Greenfaulds with 2C38 Milngaive - Cumbernauld

320308 arrives at Greenfaulds with 2V54 Dumbarton Central - Cumbernauld

68007 passes through Greenfaulds with 5G13 Motherwell TMD - Edinburgh Waverley Fife Circle ECS move

318258+320413 departs Greenfaulds with 2F01 Cumbernauld - Dalmuir

60002 passes through Greenfaulds with 6R47 Prestwick Airport - Grangemouth Tanks

334037 arrives at Greenfaulds with 2V56 Dumbarton Central - Cumbernauld

Camelon and Cumbernauld 14.6.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 22:15:33 GMT

sightings tonight including an HST on an ECS working and a pair of 37's

43320 top and tailed with 43277 approach Camelon with 5S22 Stirling - Craigentinny ECS move

318253 prepares to depart Cumbernauld with 2V47 Cumbernauld - Dumbarton Central

37421 top and tailed with 37025 at Cumbernauld with 1Q81 Mossend - Carlisle High Wapping Sidings Network Rail test train

Busy spell at Carluke 13.6.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 13 Jun 2017 19:25:57 GMT

2 freights in opposite directions in 1 minute at Carluke

Freightliner liveried 90016+90044 passes through Carluke with 4S44 Daventry - Coatbridge containers

88003 passes through Carluke on only the 2nd day of class 88 haulage on 4M48 Mossend - Daventry Tesco containers

Greenfaulds 10.6.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 13 Jun 2017 19:22:15 GMT

68002 passes through Holytown with 0Z11 Carlisle Kingmoor - Motherwell TMD light engine move 10.6.17

Carstairs 7.6.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Tue, 13 Jun 2017 19:20:53 GMT

I spent a couple of hours at Carstairs, here are my sightings:

86604+86607 heads south from Carstairs with 4L81 Coatbridge - London Gateway containers

82230 on the rear of an unidentified class 91 heads north past Carstais with 1S23 London Kings Cross - Glasgow Central

60026 passes through Carstairs with 6M34 Grangemouth - Dalston tanks

92038 passes through Carstairs with 5C11 Polmadie - Edinburgh Waverley Sleeper ECS working

390042 waits at Carstairs with 5S80 Edinburgh - Polmadie ECS move

Camelon 3.6.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Sat, 03 Jun 2017 21:26:22 GMT

I headed to Camelon today, my intention was to catch the Dalston tanks and the Aberdeen containers. The Dalston Tanks, however were running 25 minutes early and had already passed through before I arrived! I did catch the containers though!

Here are my sightings:

170394 prepares to depart Camelon with 2P38 Dunblane - Edinburgh Waverley

66425 passes through Camelon with 4A13 Grangemouth - Aberdeen containers

156457, still in the First Barbie livery, departs Camelon with 2J66 Glasgow Queen Street - Falkirk Grahamston

After passing through 2 massive downpours with thunder and lightning, I stopped off at Greenfaulds and caught 318268 still in SPT livery

SPT Carmine and Cream liveried 318268 departs Greenfaulds with 2V50 Dumbarton Central - Cumbernauld

I had headed to Gartcosh to catch the Alcan tanks passing through, however another thunderstorm started with torrential rain so I just went home!

Greenfaulds and Carstairs 2.6.17

(Scottish Trains Website) — Fri, 02 Jun 2017 21:38:49 GMT

320412 stops at Greenfaulds with 2V54 Garscadden - Cumbernauld service

Scotrail Saltire liveried 68007 approaches Greenfaulds with 5G13 Motherwell TMD - Edinburgh Waverley Fife Circle ECS working

One of the last few 318s remaining in Carmine and Cream livery, 318267 departs Greenfaulds with 2F01 Cumbernauld - Dalmuir service

Colas liveried 70802 working in place of the usual class 60, approaches Greenfaulds with 6N47 Prestwick - Grangemouth tankers

Scotrail Saltire liveried 68006 passes through Hartwood with 5L69 Motherwell TMD - Edinburgh Waverley Fife Circle ECS working

350407 accelerates away from Carstairs South Junction with 1M94 Edinburgh Waverley - Manchester Airport

an unidentified 390 heads north towards Carstairs with 1S87 London Euston - Glasgow Central

390040 with Virgin Radio advertising approaches Carstairs with 9S85 London Euston - Glasgow Central

92014 passes through Carstairs with 5C11 Polmadie - Edinburgh Waverley sleeper ECS working