On video: Teddy Bear on test…
Last weekend I had a bit of a tip-off that the newly arrived D9525 was going beyond yard limits for an extended test run and gauging clearance check along the whole line to Corwen…
I had enough notice to get down to the station in plenty of time. I thought they might stop at the gates and get down to open them - which would net some lovely photos of her against the signal box. However in the end I decided the light was still good enough to wander down the end of the park and catch her on approach, and hence ‘on video’. Whilst I was waiting (she left 15 minutes later than scheduled so I had 25 minutes to kill I spoke to my good friend Chris in Canada, enjoyed the sounds of nature and had a chance to reflect a little on the history of the prototype.
The D9500s were a folly in many regards. Quite clearly a relative mechanical and design success they rolled off the production line at Swindon just as the traffic they were designed for was withering away and branch-lines were closing. Of the 56 built some managed just 4 years in BR service - but their successful design and knock down price made them attractive to the nationalised industries and those we have today are thanks to their long, second lives in industry.
It is exciting to have a new locomotive, especially a diesel on the railway. However, whilst I have nothing against the particular engine and marvel at its wonderful restoration, I worry that it will take diesel turns away from my favourite trio (the 26, 31 and 47). With us for a least twelve months I look forward to seeing how she gets on with the gradients on the line with a full load. First passenger outing is slated for the Branchline Gala in April, so get your tickets and it will be nice to see some of you in the the valley. Until next time, more soon…
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| Masquerading as 37, thanks to magnetic cabside numbers. |
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Interesting film James. I've never seen a class 14, it looks at home there in the Valley. I like the trackwork on the approach to the station, the signal on the curve and the grass growing by the sidings. Very modellable. Take care.
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