Kent Coast tour 22/12/17

Please note that the outwards service will be diverted via Orpington and Paddock Wood due to bridge restriction at Eynsford.

Real Time Trains has not yet been updated.
Water stop will probably be at Headcorn.

Cheers, Neil

 

Revised times now in RTT
Out
http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/U55331/2017/12/22/advanced
Return
http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/U55332/2017/12/22/advanced

I'm on this and was looking forward to a bit of variety in the out and back route, but can't be helped I suppose.

 

No doubt I'll be reminded to ignore RTT - but it's shown as timed for 75mph - with 45212? I'm used to under-estimated speeds on RTT, but not the other way round.

 

Ignore the timed speeds on RTT

 

But 60mph on the outwards leg!
The timed speeds and load are one of the parameters input into TPS when calculating schedules. Probably best treated as guidance, not absolute fact after the electronic extraction to RTT.
I claim it's a "going home" turn .... but the point to point timings are within a minute or two of class 6 (60mph) Channel Tunnel Freights.

Cheers, Neil

 

A bit surprised by this considering I went through Eynsford on the Christmas Sussex Belle with 70013 just last week. Does the restriction only apply in the down direction?

 

The bridge restriction was put in place on Monday after a structural examination for both lines. Most bridges have structural exams every year or two. Some are a quick look and poke, others involve clearing ballast to inspect hidden parts of the structure. I don't have access to details of the construction of the bridge or its inspection programme.

Cheers, Neil

 

On time through Ashford and suitably festive

 

Wasn't going to but went to Martin Mill Bank and only just got there as she passed, so it was point and shoot one shot only.

Pleasantly surprised at her display

 

Diesel was just ticking over through Minster

 

Overall a good day out, and given the run of bad luck that Steam Dreams have had over the last few weeks, I think it must have been a relief that everything went smoothly and the tour stayed laregly on time all day.

I was in Standard, right next to the diesel all day, and it seemed to be mostly only assisting when accelerating out of station stops. However, there was an extended section of shoving in the Sevenoaks area on the return journey, presumably to make sure we hit our path through the London suburbs on time.

The complimenary mince pie and mulled wine at the end of the journey was a nice touch.

 

Pluckley & Westonhanger

 

I love the bunnies!

 

A tasty alternative to turkey.

 

All around here have got mixy at the moment so I'll stay with the turkey!