A view of the link to the main line, from the platform at Norden. A diesel main line excursion is planned to use this soon, with a view to a steam excursion soon after.

Our steam engine for the day was Battle of Britain class No. 34070 'Manston'

We wind our way towards Swanage. Corfe Caslte provides a beautiful backdrop through the steam

Corfe Castle as seen from the train as we travel past.

The name says it all !!

34070 at Corfe Castle station with the castle as a backdrop. Shame it wasn't as sunny as it had been earlier in the day

A view of the museum at Corfe Castle station

Manston prepares to depart Corfe Caslte heading for Harmans Cross

34070's safety valves have lifted creating a fountain of steam, combined with an ear piercing hiss!

34070 tiptoes away towards Harmans Cross - the driver having to be careful now that the rails are wet

Class 33 No. 33111 sits in the sidings at Swanage

Class 08 No. 08436 was giving brake van rides at Swanage. This had to make way as Manston pulls out of the station

As we arrive at Swanage station, M7 class No. 30053 hides in the engine shed and a class 4 tank sits on the turntable

Another view of the standard 4 tank and the M7

34070 arrives at Swanage. The signalman prepares to receive the token as the engine passes

34070 runs around the train at Swanage with it's rebuilt cousin Rebuilt West Country class No. 34028 'Eddystone' in the background

34070 backs into position ready for another trip to Norden

A view towards Harmans Cross from the coaches at Swanage

34070 runs around the train

34070 slowly backs into position. Once coupled, the crew also take the opportunity to top up with water

34070 runs around the train at Swanage.

When the train clears the platform, the rockery on the opposite bank comes into view

Says it all really!

As is usual with me, no collection would be complete without a cabside number!