Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/ 71 rows en-gb 60 Bluebell Railway - Giants of Steam 2009 http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1772182.html Photos taken from a very wet and windy Giants of Steam. A welcome return to the autumn gala. Sadly No. 777 Sir Lamiel did not show, as this engine failed the previous weekend. No other engines were booked to visit and so only members of the existing Bluebell fleet were in steam. Saturday 24 October 2009: Photos taken from a very wet and windy Giants of Steam. A welcome return to the autumn gala. Sadly No. 777 Sir Lamiel did not show, as this engine failed the previous weekend. No other engines were booked to visit and so only members of the existing Bluebell fleet were in steam.

SR U class No.1638 sits in the rain at Horsted Keynes GWR Dukedog No. 9017 'Earl of Berkeley' pulls out of Sheffield Park with a rake of freight trucks SR Rebuilt Battle of Britain class No. 34059 'Sir Archibald Sinclair' waits at Sheffield Park before it leaves for Horsted Keynes and Kingscote Another view of 'Sir Archibald Sinclair' - note that you can tell where the water level is on the tender by the condensation on the side BR Standard 4MT Tank No. 80151 pulls out of Horsted Keynes heading for Sheffield Park As No. 80151 pulls further out of Horsted Keynes, it passes Terrier class 'Fenchurch' coming the other way BR Standard 4MT 4-6-0 No. 75027 on static display at Horsted Keynes Two Giants of Steam sadly not in steam - BR Standards 4MT 4-6-0 No.75027 and 9f No.92240 GWR Dukedog No.9017 'Earl of Berkeley' arrives at Horsted Keynes Another view of the Giants of Steam sadly not in steam! SR Rebuilt Battle of Britain class No. 34059 'Sir Archibald Sinclair' briefly pauses before heading towards Kingscote A wider view of the north end of Horsted Keynes Another view of the two Satndard class engines on display at Horsted Keynes SR Rebuilt Battle of Britain class No. 34059 'Sir Archibald Sinclair' heads for Kingscote GWR Dukedog No.9017 'Earl of Berkeley' has now finished the freight demonstration. It is seen hear running around the train to push the freight back into the sidings GWR Dukedog No.9017 'Earl of Berkeley' starts reversing towards the freight trucks Terrier class engine No. 672 'Fenchurch' takes passngers for a brake van ride. Going south, it went down the Ardingly spur - maybe this will be extended once East Grinstead has been reached! BR Standard 4MT Tank No. 80151 pauses briefly at Horsted Keynes as it continues towards Kingscote GWR Dukedog No.9017 'Earl of Berkeley' has finished its work for the day, and sits in the sidings at Sheffield Park SR S15 class No. 847 undergoing extensive restoration at the Sheffield Park works SR E4 class No. B473 is almost finished, and should be out into traffic duties again soon SE&CR H class No. 263 is not quite as advanced as B473. Hopefully this will be out into traffic in early 2010 The wheels and frame of Standard 5 No. 73082 'Camelot' The tender of Standard 5 No. 73082 sits in the sidings at Sheffield Park A couple of boilers sit in the sidings at Sheffield Park. These will hopefully be fitted to their respective locomotives as soon as possible SR Rebuilt Battle of Britain class No. 34059 'Sir Archibald Sinclair' prepares to leave Sheffield Park with the last train of the day

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sat Oct 24 2009 Watercress Line Autumn Steam Gala 2009 http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1754131.html Photos from the Watercress Line Autumn Gala. Visiting the line this year was LNWR 0-8- 'Super D' No. 49395 from the National Railway Museum. Sadly the West Somerset Railway's West Country class No.34046 'Braunton' was not able to attend due to problems with the axles on the tender. All engines ran fine until the afternoon when No.850 Lord Nelson failed at Alton with brake problems and the USA Tank No. 30075 failed in the loco yard at Ropley. A slightly chaotic end to the day! Saturday 12 September 2009: Photos from the Watercress Line Autumn Gala. Visiting the line this year was LNWR 0-8- 'Super D' No. 49395 from the National Railway Museum. Sadly the West Somerset Railway's West Country class No.34046 'Braunton' was not able to attend due to problems with the axles on the tender. All engines ran fine until the afternoon when No.850 Lord Nelson failed at Alton with brake problems and the USA Tank No. 30075 failed in the loco yard at Ropley. A slightly chaotic end to the day!

Pete Waterman owned GWR 42XX class No. 5224 sits at Ropley station and prepares to leave for Alton Recently restored Standard class 9f No. 92212 arrives at Ropley The Standard class 9f looked immaculate in the autumn sunlight. A tribute to all those that have loving restored her Southern Lord Nelson class No. 850 'Lord Nelson' prepares to run around the train at Ropley Engine No. 850 'Lord Neslon' simmers in the autumn sunshine at Ropley Resident engine LNER A4 class No. 60019 'Bittern' arrives at Alresford station Engine No. 850 'Lord Nelson' moves slowly into position as it prepares to connect to its coaches LNER A4 class No. 60019 'Bittern' runs around the train at Alresford Standard 4MT 2-6-0 No. 76016 sits in the yard at Ropley awaiting its turn to be restored and run on the line once more Ivatt class 2 tank No. 41312 in Ropley yard. It is surprising how dirty these egines become when they are not used regularly! A very dirty West County class No. 34105 'Swanage' awaitsits turn to be restored Standard class 4MT 2-6-0 No. 76017 on the left, Ivatt class 2 tank No. 41312 in the middle and Merchant Navy class No. 35005 'Canadian Pacific' in the yard at Ropley LNWR class G No. 49395 'Super D' pulls a freight train into Ropley station GWR 42XX class No. 5224 heads back into Ropley Having passed briefly, LNWR class G No 49395 heads for Alton Standard class 9f stops at Ropley to take a well earned drink of water Engine No. 850 'Lord Nelson' takes on water at Ropley Just to remind everyone who owns enigne No. 49395 USA tank engine No. 30075 at Ropley. This engine has recently moved to the Mid-Hants railway from the East Somerset railway GWR 42XX class No. 5224 arrives at Ropley USA tank engine No. 30075 pauses at Alresford station. This was taken shortly before the engine failed at Ropley LNWR class G No. 49395 'Super D' simmers in the shade of the trees at Alresford Standard class 9f and unrebuilt West Country class No. 34007 'Wadebridge' make an impressive sight as a double header - 16P of pulling power Standard class 9f runs around the train at Alresford West Country class No. 34007 'Wadebridge' pauses for water at Ropley LNER A4 class No. 60019 'Bittern' approaches Ropley

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]]> Sat Sep 12 2009 Ffestiniog Railway http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1742097.html Photos from the Ffestiniog Railway. The weather could have been better, but it didn't stop us from admiring the views as we went from Ffestiniog to Porthmadog and back. Wednesday 12 August 2009: Photos from the Ffestiniog Railway. The weather could have been better, but it didn't stop us from admiring the views as we went from Ffestiniog to Porthmadog and back.

The Ffestiniog Railway alongside the mainline A view of the platform at Ffestiniog. Strangely, there weren't any seats on the platform, so we all had to stand while waiting for the train! Our train arrives at Ffestiniog Hunslet 2-4-0STT 'Blanche' runs around the train Hunslet 'Blanche' pauses to fill up with water A view of the cab of 'Blanche' Hunslet engine 'Blanche' fills up with water again at Porthmadog A view of the tracks looking back towards Boston Lodge A view of the station at Porthmadog Our destination was Porthmadog Our return train heads towars Porthmadog. Ffestiniog Railway No.10 'Merddin Emrys' arrives at Porthmadog Engine No.10 'Merddin Emrys' runs around the train at Porthmadog A view of the coaches at Porthmadog Engine No.10 continues to run round the train at Porthmadog Back at Ffestiniog, engine No.10 attaches to the coaches ready to return to Porthmadog A close up of the engine number! Welcome to the Ffestiniog Railway

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Wed Aug 12 2009 Severn Valley Railway http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1742095.html Photos taken from a very grey and overcast Severn Valley Railway. This was our first visit to the railway and I was very impressed with how much work had gone into getting the line back to full working order after the terrible floods in 2007. The other very impressive element of the line was the Engine House at Highley. The trains on view were good, there was lots for the kids to interract with and there was a great view of the railway. Monday 10 August 2009: Photos taken from a very grey and overcast Severn Valley Railway. This was our first visit to the railway and I was very impressed with how much work had gone into getting the line back to full working order after the terrible floods in 2007. The other very impressive element of the line was the Engine House at Highley. The trains on view were good, there was lots for the kids to interract with and there was a great view of the railway.

Our engine to Kidderminster was GWR 57XX class 0-6-0PT No. 5764. Kidderminster station with its newly created station canopy, which looked very impressive The Southerly point of the railway joins up with the main line at Kidderminster Engine No. 5764 gets a fill of water at Kidderminster Coming out of Kidderminster, we pass the diesel locomotives sat in the sidings. Here can be seen class 08 No. D3022 and class 20 No. D8188 'River Yeo' Class 50 No. 50026 'Indomitable' looks as though it has had a catastrophic engine faliure as there is a large amount of oil on the bodywork! From left to right - class 37 No. 37906, class 50 No. D444 'Exeter' and class 50 No. 50135 'Ark Royal' A closer picture of class 37 No. 37906 In the sidings at Bewdley is GWR Manor class No. 7802 'Bradley Manor' Also in the sidings at Bewdley is Ivatt class 2 No. 46443 A Stanier mogul LMS 5P4F No. 42968 heads for Kidderminster LMS 5MT mogul No. 42968 pulls hard as it heads towards Bewdley and Kidderminster Inside the Engine House at Highley - GWR Hall class No. 4930 'Hagley Hall' BR Standard 4 tank No. 80079 in the Engine House GWR class 15XX No. 1501 in the Engine House From the Longmoor Military Railway, a War Department 2-10-0 No. 600 'Gordon' in the Engine House An LMS class 3F Jinty No. 47383 A GWR 4300 class No.7325 with the Cathedrals Express headboard The Engine House provided a fantastic vantage point from which to photograph engines going past. Here GWR class 45XX No. 4566 comes into view A close up of GWR class 45XX No. 4566 GWR 0-6-0PT No. 5764 pulls away from Highley station towards Kidderminster An LMS class 8F No. 48773 A view of Highley signal box As we come back into Bridgnorth, the loco shed can been seen to the left of the station Class 08 diesel No. D3586 sits in the sidings GWR Manor class No. 7812 'Erlestoke Manor' also sits in the sidings at Bridgnorth LMS 5P4F No. 43968 runs around its coaches at Bridgnorth A firebox and boiler await resoration Bridgnorth station! LMS 5P4F No. 43968 prepares to leave for Kidderminster Hiding at the back of the engine shed is GWR 5700 class 0-6-0PT No. 7714 Class 52 diesel No. D1013 'Western Ranger' sits high above the car park at Bridgnorth

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]]> Mon Aug 10 2009 Crewe Heritage Centre http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1742091.html Pictures taken at the Crewe Heritage Centre Saturday 8 August 2009: Pictures taken at the Crewe Heritage Centre

The Advance Passenger Train sits right next to the West Coast Mainline Class 47 No. 47575 'City of Hereford' Not the best photo I've ever taken, but this is all I could see of LMS No. 6100 'Royal Scot' MR No. 44422 is split from its tender and is under repair A BR Standard class engine tender. I couldn't see the engine this should be attached to. The tender for LMS No. 6100 'Royal Scot' GWR 14XX class No. 1450 has been stripped of most of its component parts An unknown engine under restoration A view of Crewe Station A signal box A view of the levers inside the larger signal box at Crewe A view of the smokebox of GWR Manor class No. 7828 'Odeney Manor' A view of the side of the cab of LMS Princess class engine No. 6201 'Princess Elizabeth' A close up view of the nameplate of LMS engine No. 6201 A full view of LMS Princess class No. 6201 'Princess Elizabeth' A front view of MR No. 44422. As can be seen, the left hand cylinder is under repair Class 03 diesel locomotive No. D2073 A class 08 locomotive No. 08330

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]]> Sat Aug 8 2009 Llangollen Railway http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1742062.html Photos taken from a grey and overcast Llangollen Railway. Despite it being August and holiday season, there was only one train in steam and three services running. Our train for the day was GWR Pannier Tank No. 6430. Tuesday 4 August 2009: Photos taken from a grey and overcast Llangollen Railway. Despite it being August and holiday season, there was only one train in steam and three services running. Our train for the day was GWR Pannier Tank No. 6430.

The sign rather tells its own story The end of the line at Llangollen A view of the station Llangollen signal box Our train for the day - a GWR 6400 class 0-6-0PT No. 6430 Having filled up with water, the engine now runs around the train Engine No. 6430 is seen here attached to the train in readiness for its journey No. 6430 is seen here at Carrog, the current Westerly terminus of the railway Here No.6430 runs around the train at Carrog Back at Llangollen, the engine shed is not open to the public. You can't even get to see any of the engines from a distance. These wheels were the only train related objects on show GWR 0-6-0PT No. 6430 fills up with water at Llangollen No. 6430 runs around the train No. 6430 reverses towards the coaches in readiness for the final service of the day to Carrog The coaches are now attached, and the crew get ready to leave for Carrog

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]]> Tue Aug 4 2009 Romney Hythe & Dymchurch Railway http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1728181.html Photos taken from a sunny and very windy Romney Hythe and Dymchurch Railway. Saturday 18 July 2009: Photos taken from a sunny and very windy Romney Hythe and Dymchurch Railway.

Diesel engine no.12 'John Southland' heads towards Hythe from New Romney Davy Paxman no.2 'Northern Chief' simmers in the sunshine at New Romney Davey Paxman no.1 'Green Goddess' prepares to continue it's journey to Dungeness Davey Paxman no.3 'Southern Maid' sits under cover at New Romney Engine no.2 'Northern Chief' side by side with engine no.3 'Southern Maid' Engine no.3 'Southern Maid' slowly moves towards the turntable at Hythe Davey Paxman no.8 'Hurricane' simmers under cover at New Romney Engine in place, it only takes the effort of one man to turn the engine through 180 degrees A drivers eye view taken from engine no.3 'Southern Maid' at Hythe. Engine no.1 'Green Goddess' and engine no.8 'Hurricane' producing a lot of smoke! A close up of the name plate. This engine has been recently restored and looks immaculate. Well done to all those that played a part in her restoration. Engine no.1 'Green Goddess' and engine no.12 'John Southland' at New Romney Engine no.1 'Green Goddess' gets a quick clean from her driver before heading off to Hythe A close up of the front of the boiler and smoke box Engine no.2 'Northern Chief' sits in the sun at New Romney Engine no.2 'Northern Chief' pauses briefly at Dungeness before pulling our train back to New Romney Engine no.1 'Green Goddess' at New Romney in rather blustery conditions

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]]> Sat Jul 18 2009 Eastleigh 100 http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1702359.html Photos taken at 'the' train event of the year - the Centenary celebrations of the Eastleigh works. On view was a vast array of steam, diesel and electric locomotives. A fantastic event which gave the paying public a chance to get up close to a lot of the engines, as well as having a look around the historic works. Saturday 23 May 2009: Photos taken at 'the' train event of the year - the Centenary celebrations of the Eastleigh works. On view was a vast array of steam, diesel and electric locomotives. A fantastic event which gave the paying public a chance to get up close to a lot of the engines, as well as having a look around the historic works.

Ivatt class 2 tank No.41312 from the Watercress Line Lord Nelson No.850 from the Watercress Line A fantastic model of a Southern Railway Q1. Shame it wasn't in steam! Pete Waterman speaks in front of the assembled audience to officially open the Eastleigh 100 A close up of the cab of 59103 A class 59 No.59001 'Yeoman Endeavour' Just some of the Southern totems on display An EWS class 37 No.37422 sits inside the works A class 33 No.33002 An impressive line up of British diesel traction from left-right 47580 'County of Essex', 55022 'Royal Scots Grey' , 45060 'Sherwood Forester' and D1015 'Western Champion' A lovely array of replica model trains, behind which my son spent a lot of his day! A magnificent scale replica of an Unrebuilt Merchant Navy class locomotive An LMS train deep in Southern territory Class M7 No.53 from the Swanage Railway having been recently painted in Southern black A class 07 diesel shunter. Above the engine is a reminder as to how close Southampton airport is! A line up of 3 class 73 electro-diesels. From left-right Nos.73119, 73109 and 73006 A pair of West Coast Railways class 37s - Nos.37516 and 37706 Southern Railway's finest locomotives - A Lord Nelson, a Merchant Navy, an unrebuilt Battle of Britain and a rebuilt West Country class From left-right, Merchant Navy class No.35005 'Canadian Pacific' from the Watercress Line, unrebuilt Battle of Britain class No.34070 'Manston' from the Swanage Railway' and rebuilt West Country class No.34028 'Eddystone' also from the Swanage Railway A head-on view of No.850 Lord Nelson Class B4 No.96 'Normandy' from the Bluebell Railway From the National Railway Museum collection, Beattie Well Tank No.30587 Bulleid's finest - 34028 nearest the camera with 34070 next and 35005 furthest away A fantastic line up of 3 DRS liveried class 20 diesels.From left-right, 20110, 20314 and 20305. My son was able to get into the cab of 20305 to 'toot' the horn. It made his day! Another pair of class 37s - Nos.37411 (D6990) and 37059 Another view of the class 73s An EMU No.1497 with the headboard '150 Lymington Flyer' A newly painted DB Schenker class 59 No.59206 Along side the M7 No.53 is another class 59 No.59103 'Village of Mells' A model of an SE&CR tank engine A class 50 No.50026 'Indomitable' A class 50 No.50135 'Ark Royal' Class 73 No.73201 was renamed 'Broadlands' in a ceremony today A class 33 No.33103 A class 47 No.47712 'Pride of Carlisle' A GBRf class 66 No.66730 Late in the day, Merchant Navy class No.35028 Clan Line makes an appearance at Eastleigh station

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sat May 23 2009 Spa Valley Railway Steam Gala 2009 http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1698479.html Photos taken from the 2009 Spa Valley Railway Steam Gala. There were four engines in steam today - resident engines Jinty 3F No. 47493, GWR Pannier Tank No.7715 and Peckett Saddle Tank 'Fonmon'. Visiting the railway for the gala weekend was USA Tank No.65 from the Kent & East Sussex Railway. Saturday 16 May 2009: Photos taken from the 2009 Spa Valley Railway Steam Gala. There were four engines in steam today - resident engines Jinty 3F No. 47493, GWR Pannier Tank No.7715 and Peckett Saddle Tank 'Fonmon'. Visiting the railway for the gala weekend was USA Tank No.65 from the Kent & East Sussex Railway.

GWR 0-6-0PT No.7715 pauses at Groombridge before pulling the train into the loop LMS Jinty No.47493 runs round the train at Tunbridge Wells Resident engines Peckett 0-6-0ST and Jinty No.47493 sit outside the engine shed at Tunbridge Wells GWR Pannier Tank No.7715 arrives at Tunbridge Wells with an engineers train Resigent engine GWR pannier tank No.7715 at Tunbridge Wells USA Tank No.65 prepares to bring the train back into Groombridge station No.7715 and No.65 move off shed to prepare to pull the 1610 Tunbridge Wells to Groombridge The GWR Pannier Tank and USA Tank double header creep closer to the head of the train ready to pull the train from Tunbridge Wells to Groombridge An extremely powerful double header - USA Tank No.65 and GWR Pannier Tank No.7715 seen here at Groombridge USA Tank No.65 waits in the loop at Groombridge LMS Jinty No47493 heads towards Groombridge creeping past the new houses on the approach to the station LMS Jinty No.47493 travels past the old station building at Groombridge LMS Jinty No.47493 arrives at Grrombridge with the engineers train USA Tank No.65 has pulled the train out of the loop at Groombridge, and now prepares to head back to Tunbridge Wells Visiting engine USA Tank No.65 runs around the train at Tunbridge Wells

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sat May 16 2009 Sir Archibald Sinclair http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1695065.html Photos taken of the newly restored Battle of Britain class No.34059 'Sir Archibald Sinclair'. This engine looked magnificent and credit must go to all those involved in restoring her to such a high standard. Saturday 9 May 2009: Photos taken of the newly restored Battle of Britain class No.34059 'Sir Archibald Sinclair'. This engine looked magnificent and credit must go to all those involved in restoring her to such a high standard.

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sat May 9 2009 Bluebell Southern at War 2009 http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1695060.html Photos taken at a sunny Bluebell for the 2009 Southern at War event. The highlight of the day being a special flypast of a DC-3 Dakota from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. This day also marked our first ride behind the newly restored engine - Battle of Britain class No.34059 'Sir Archibald Sinclair'. Saturday 9 May 2009: Photos taken at a sunny Bluebell for the 2009 Southern at War event. The highlight of the day being a special flypast of a DC-3 Dakota from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. This day also marked our first ride behind the newly restored engine - Battle of Britain class No.34059 'Sir Archibald Sinclair'.

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sat May 9 2009 Kent & East Sussex Railway Steam Gala 2009 http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1691387.html Photos taken at a gloriously sunny Kent & East Sussex Railway Gala Weekend. Along side their own engines was a visitor from the Bluebell Railway. SE&CR 01 class No.65 made a welcome return to the K&ESR metals. We had a great day and the railway looked as immaculate as ever. Saturday 2 May 2009: Photos taken at a gloriously sunny Kent & East Sussex Railway Gala Weekend. Along side their own engines was a visitor from the Bluebell Railway. SE&CR 01 class No.65 made a welcome return to the K&ESR metals. We had a great day and the railway looked as immaculate as ever.

A1X No.32678 'Knowle' arrives at Tenterden A Wallis Advance steam roller on display at Tenterden Hunslet 0-6-0ST No.23 'Holman F Stephens' is seen here at Tenterden in a double header with A1X No.3 'Bodiam'. Note the headboard displaying 662 Martello. Unfortunately A1X 'Martello' was unable to run on Saturday so the Hunslet ran in it's place. USA Tank engines were originally built in the USA and shipped across the Atlantic in kit form as part of the war effort. Here No.65 'Maunsell' arrives at Tenterden station USA class No.65 'Maunsell' hauls a breakdown train into Tenterden station USA Tank No.65 'Maunsell' takes on water at Northiam station Visiting 01 class engine No.65 is seen here slowing as it approaches Northiam station. The signalman is waiting to exchange tokens from the footplate crew A GWR 16XX class No.1638 arrives at Northiam An immaculate class 03 diesel No.D2023 at Tenterden Class A1X No.3 'Bodiam' takes on coal at Tenterden Built in 1872, the class A1X No.3 'Bodiam' sits in the sunlight at Tenterden Class 33 diesel No.D6570 'Ashford' gets ready to take the last train of the day to Bodiam A Hunslet 0-6-0ST No.23 'Holam F Stephens' sits in the sdiings at Tenterden USA class No.65 'Maunsell' also takes on coal at Tenterden Another Wallis Advance steam roller on display, this time at Northiam A vintage bus on display at Northiam P class No.753 is seen in the sidings at Bodiam station I promised my son I would use this photo. He took this from the train as well left Wittersham heading for Rolvenden A beautiful 'Terrier' double header. No.3 'Bodiam' and No.32678 'Knowle' seen together at Tenterden The class 33 diesel No.D6570 'Ashford' prepares to leave Tenterden with the last train of the day

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sat May 2 2009 Spa Valley Railway Spring Diesel Gala 2009 http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1687806.html Photos taken at a very sunny Spa Valley Railway. The trains in use today were a class 37, a class 73, a class 12, a Drewry industrial loco and a very special Tamper unit. We had a few rides up and down the line including a couple of brake van rides - one to High Rocks in front of the class 12 and the Drewry, the other was a special ride to Groombridge behind the Tamper. Something we are unlikely to experience again! Saturday 25 April 2009: Photos taken at a very sunny Spa Valley Railway. The trains in use today were a class 37, a class 73, a class 12, a Drewry industrial loco and a very special Tamper unit. We had a few rides up and down the line including a couple of brake van rides - one to High Rocks in front of the class 12 and the Drewry, the other was a special ride to Groombridge behind the Tamper. Something we are unlikely to experience again!

Class 37 No. 37254 is seen in the Groombridge loop Class 73 No. E6047 sits at Tunbridge Wells West awaiting its turn in the days proceedings The following sequence of photos were taken from a brakevan ride pushed by the Drewry locomotive and the class 12. This was a special that went from Tunbridge Wells to High Rocks and return. This gives a different perspective of the railway that we haven't had before. Class 37 No. 37254 sits at Groombridge station as it prepares to head for Tunbridge Wells A new sign at Groombridge showing Eridge is only 2 miles away. Not long now before trains will return to Eridge The tamper unit prepares for the brakevan rides later in the afternoon An interesting line up of diesel locomotives outside Tunbridge Wells West engine shed This class 12 is the only survivor of the class. It was designed by Oliver Bulleid and has the boxpok style wheels usually found on steam engines designed by Bulleid Class 73 No. E6047 arrives at Tunbridge Wells Class 37 No. 37254 is at the tail of a train as it leaves High Rocks for Tunbridge Wells Another view of the engine shed at Tunbridge Wells in the evening sun The new signal box at Groombridge takes shape The tamper unit has left the brake van in the Groombridge loop and runs around the train

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sat Apr 25 2009 Watercress Line Spring Steam Gala 2009 http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1664255.html Photos taken at the 2009 Spring Gala at the Watercress Line. And what an eventful day! Visiting the railway for this weekend was Metropolitan No.1, Beattie Well Tank No. 30585 and the star attraction Lord Nelson No.850. Around 10.30am, resident standard five No. 73096 suffered a major failure of the left hand cylinder which blocked all traffic between Ropley and Medstead for approx 90 minutes. The published timetable was no longer of use, but the railway staff kept us informed as much as they could, and the rest of the day went without a hitch. Despite the problems, we had a great time in the spring sunshine! Saturday 14 March 2009: Photos taken at the 2009 Spring Gala at the Watercress Line. And what an eventful day! Visiting the railway for this weekend was Metropolitan No.1, Beattie Well Tank No. 30585 and the star attraction Lord Nelson No.850. Around 10.30am, resident standard five No. 73096 suffered a major failure of the left hand cylinder which blocked all traffic between Ropley and Medstead for approx 90 minutes. The published timetable was no longer of use, but the railway staff kept us informed as much as they could, and the rest of the day went without a hitch. Despite the problems, we had a great time in the spring sunshine!

West Country class No.34007 'Wadebridge' prepares to take the train to Alresford This is the best photo of the day, taken by my 7 year old son. This captures the Watercress Line rather well I thought! Metropolitan No.1 looks in fantastic condition here at Ropley A closer view of 34105 'Swanage' Class 33 No. D6593 is fired up and heads off to rescue the stricken standard 5 No. 73096 Sadly, class 33 No. D6593 failed. As it pulled away from Ropley, huge flames were coming out of the electric motors and created as much smoke as a steamer! The problem was that bad that the engine had to pushed beyond the points to allow it to be rescued. Resident class 08 No. 08032 came to the rescue the broken class 33. A view of all the engines outside the loco works - from left to right, No. 34105 Swanage (disguised as 34102 'Lapford'), Standard 4 No. 76017, Standard 4 No. 75079, No.34016 Bodmin and No. 35005 'Canadian Pacific' - quite an impressive line up! In the meantime, a second 33, No. 33053, was fired up and went to rescue the stricken standard 5 No.73096 A close up of unrebuilt West Country class No.34105 'Swanage' Standard 4MT No. 76017 needs a good clean before any restoration work can be carried out! Beattie Well Tank No.30585 simmers at Alresford No.850 Lord Nelson arrives at Alresford The sun always shines on the Southern. No.850 Lord Nelson looks maginificent in the March sunshine Immaculate paint work! LNER A4 No.60019 'Bittern' stops at Ropley in the right place so it can take on water Ivatt tank No.41312 pulls into Ropley carrying the Lymington Flyer headboard. This engine had a special extension to its boiler certificate so that it could take part in the gala weekend A4 No. 60019 'Bittern' and West Country No. 34007 'Wadebridge' make a fantastic air smoothed/streamlined pairing as they arrive at Ropley Nos.34007 and 60019 sit in the March sunshine at Ropley Another view of Wadebridge and Bittern - 6 cylinders, 50,000lbs+ of tractive effort and 15P of pulling power. Very impressive! Metropolitan No.1 arrives at Medstead and the crew accept the token from the signalman Southern Railway No.850 Lord Nelson runs around the train at Alton

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sat Mar 14 2009 Swanage Railway http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1658171.html Photos taken at the Swanage Railway during the February 2009 Fun Week. It was the first time for a while that we had visited this railway. Newly restored Battle of Britain class No. 34070 'Manston' was our locomotive for the day. 03/03 - I have added some more pictures, which I managed to retrieve from a corrupted CF card in my Canon EOS350D Thursday 19 February 2009: Photos taken at the Swanage Railway during the February 2009 Fun Week. It was the first time for a while that we had visited this railway. Newly restored Battle of Britain class No. 34070 'Manston' was our locomotive for the day. 03/03 - I have added some more pictures, which I managed to retrieve from a corrupted CF card in my Canon EOS350D

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. As we arrive at Swanage station, M7 class No. 30053 hides in the engine shed and a class 4 tank sits on the turntable 34070 runs around the train at Swanage. 34070 backs into position ready for another trip to Norden Another view of the standard 4 tank and the M7 A close up of the RAF crest and the Battle of Britain nameplate As is usual with me, no collection would be complete without a cabside number! Says it all really! When the train clears the platform, the rockery on the opposite bank comes into view 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 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 Class 08 No. 08436 was giving brake van rides at Swanage. This had to make way as Manston pulls out of the station Class 33 No. 33111 sits in the sidings at Swanage 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 The name says it all !! A view of the museum at Corfe Castle station Manston prepares to depart Corfe Caslte heading for Harmans Cross 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. 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

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Thu Feb 19 2009 Tangmere at Headcorn http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1643579.html Photos taken of Battle of Britain class no. 34067 Tangmere on a very frosty morning. 34067 was on a Golden Arrow trip to Folkestone Harbour and Headcorn was it's first water stop. Saturday 24 January 2009: Photos taken of Battle of Britain class no. 34067 Tangmere on a very frosty morning. 34067 was on a Golden Arrow trip to Folkestone Harbour and Headcorn was it's first water stop.

34067 comes into view as a class 375 goes in the opposite direction 34067 creeps ever closer to Headcorn station 34067 enters Headcorn station about 1 minute down on it's scheduled arrival time Tangmere was pulling a rake of maroon coaches, with the exception of it's support coach As usual, 34067 looking magnificent as it crept into Headcorn The famous Golden Arrow insignia can clearly be seen Tangmere finally comes to a rest and the support crew get to work With it being cold, the steam lingered in the air longer and made getting a good photo almost impossible A close up of the Tangmere nameplate and plaque, and the Golden Arrow After 15 minutes, it was time to continue the journey With the rails being icy, Tangmere did take a while to find her feet My son took this photo, so I promised that it would be included. A class 47 diesel brings up the rear and would be needed when tackling the gradient around Folkestone Harbour

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sat Jan 24 2009 The Bluebell - between Christmas & New Year http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1630327.html Photos taken from a very cold Bluebell Railway. The engines running today were BR Standard 4 tank no. 80151 and GWR Dukedog no.9017 'Earl of Berkeley'. Sunday 28 December 2008: Photos taken from a very cold Bluebell Railway. The engines running today were BR Standard 4 tank no. 80151 and GWR Dukedog no.9017 'Earl of Berkeley'.

Standard 4 tank no.80151 takes on water at Sheffield Park A beautiful sunny day, with clear skies - but cold temperatures! 80151 creeps closer to the coaches 80151 arrives at Kingscote Having run round the train, 80151 gets ready to leave for Horstead Keynes and Sheffield Park 80151 back at Sheffield Park 80151 runs round the train at Sheffield Park 80151 stops off to take on more water 80151 looks immaculate in the winter sunlight as it approaches the coaches Having attached to the coaches, 80151 prepares to take the 3pm train to Kingscote GWR Dukedog no.9017 arrives at Sheffield Park 9017 takes on water at Sheffield Park 9017 runs around the train at Sheffield Park

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sun Dec 28 2008 The Bluebell in November http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1611695.html We've not been to The Bluebell railway for a while. These are some of the photos taken on a grey November. Despite the economic gloom the car park at Sheffield Park was full and there were lots of people at the railway, which was great to see. Saturday 15 November 2008: We've not been to The Bluebell railway for a while. These are some of the photos taken on a grey November. Despite the economic gloom the car park at Sheffield Park was full and there were lots of people at the railway, which was great to see.

GWR Dukedog no.9017 Earl of Berkeley at Sheffield Park waiting to pull the 1300 train to Kingscote. 9017 has recently come back from a trip to the Severn Valley Railway. SECR O1 class no.65 takes on Sheffield Park. This would be our train for the day Another view of no.65 at Sheffield Park Visiting engine S&DJR class 7F no.53809 in the loco yard at Sheffield Park Fenchurch looks to have been prepared for no running over the winter. No.65 and 80151 are in the background No.65 at Kingscote. We arrived 10 minutes late as we had to wait for the Golden Arrow Luncheon special to arrive at Sheffield Park No.65 runs around the train at Kingscote No.65 couples to the coaches ready for our journey back to Sheffield Park. Again we were 10 minutes late as we had to wait for the arrival of the Golden Arrow Luncheon special

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sat Nov 15 2008 Watercress Line Big Four steam gala http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1578236.html Photos taken at a gloriously sunny Watercress Line. This weekend was the much anticipated Big Four gala with engines from each of the regions in steam. There were 7 engines in steam - 34007 Wadebridge representing Southern, 41312 and 41241 representing LMS, 4936 and 5029 Nunney Castle representing GWR, 60019 Bittern representing LNER and 76096 representing BR. Saturday 13 September 2008: Photos taken at a gloriously sunny Watercress Line. This weekend was the much anticipated Big Four gala with engines from each of the regions in steam. There were 7 engines in steam - 34007 Wadebridge representing Southern, 41312 and 41241 representing LMS, 4936 and 5029 Nunney Castle representing GWR, 60019 Bittern representing LNER and 76096 representing BR.

Our first ride of the day was GWR Hall class no. 4936 'Kinlet Hall' GWR Castle class no.5029 'Nunney Castle' prepares to leave Ropley for Alton A view of the Ivatt tanks engines as they take on water at Ropley Another engine receives extensive work in the loco shed at Ropley Standard 5 no.73096 pulls and engineers train through Ropley GWR engine no.4936 'Kinlet Hall' leaves Ropley heading for Alton 73096 returns to Ropley with the engineers train LNER A4 no.60019 runs round the train at Alresford Southern West Contry class no.34007 slowly moves forward to attach to the train at Alresford GWR Caslte class no.5029 'Nunney Caslte' arrives at Alresford The Ivatt class 2 tank engines back onto the train at Alresford GWR Hall class engine no.4936 arrives at Alresford as seen from the footbridge 4936 pauses before running round the train at Alresford A newly restored truck on display at Medstead & Four Marks A view of Medstead & Four Marks from the footbridge, with a train in each platform The signal box at Medstead & Four Marks A view of the buildings of Medstead & Four Marks station Standard class 5 no. 73096 sits at Medstead & Four Marks Southern West Country class no.34007 'Wadebridge' arrives at Medstead & Four Marks having climbed the 1 in 60 gradient from Alton A double header of Ivatt class 2 tank engines nos. 41312 and 41241. These two await another double header coming the other way Arriving at Medstead & Four Marks, another double header arrives. This pair is GWR Hall class no.4936 Kinlet Hall and Castle class no.5029 Nunney Castle Souther engine no.34007 Wadebridge sits alone in the sun at Ropley A view of unrebuilt West Contry class no.34007 'Wadebridge' with a rebuilt West Country engine no.34016 'Bodmin' in the background A readiness for the Sunday running, 34007 receives another tender full of coal The GWR double header arrives at Ropley as the last train of the day to Alton LNER A4 no.60019 slowly moves towards to coaches LNER A4 no.60019 'Bittern' sits in the late afternoon sun A rare sight of a triple headed train of Bittern, Nunney Castle and Kinlet Hall. It was the end of the day, and the locos were heading back to Ropley A new sign at Alton depicting Merchant Navy Class no. 35005 Canadian Pacific in it's unrebuilt form

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sat Sep 13 2008 Babbacombe Cliff Railway http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1572761.html Photos taken at the Babbacombe Cliff Railway. The line was built in 1926 at a cost of £15,648. It is one of sixteen working finicular railways in the United Kingdom. It provides an beautiful way of going to the beach, and at it's peak, transported 250,000 passengers a year. Wednesday 27 August 2008: Photos taken at the Babbacombe Cliff Railway. The line was built in 1926 at a cost of _15,648. It is one of sixteen working finicular railways in the United Kingdom. It provides an beautiful way of going to the beach, and at it's peak, transported 250,000 passengers a year.

A view of the cliff railway looking down the hill Now on board, another view down the hill We are now underway, and you can see that the car at the bottom has started it's climb Almost at the crossing point A wider view of the bottom station - with a view of Torbay behind A view from the bottom of the cliff looking towards the top station A close up of the top station A view from the beach of a car arriving at the bottom station A view from the car preparing to travel up the hill Again, we pass the other car, this time going up the hill A view of the top station as we approach the summit

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Wed Aug 27 2008 The Torbay Express http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1570977.html Photos taken at the Paignton & Dartmouth Railway when the Torbay Express arrived. The engine pulling this train was GWR King Class no. 6024 King Edward I Sunday 24 August 2008: Photos taken at the Paignton & Dartmouth Railway when the Torbay Express arrived. The engine pulling this train was GWR King Class no. 6024 King Edward I

The Torbay Express pulled by GWR King class locomotive no. 6024 King Edward I - here seen at Paignton station 6024 arrives at Kingswear station Another view of 6024 as it pulls into the station at Kingswear A close up of the nameplate A view of the front of the engine at Kingswear Going out of the station, there is a road which runs uphill alongside the station. It provides some excellent vantage points from which to see the trains 6024 prepares to head back to Churston where it can turn on the turntable 6024 is back at Paignton, and is seen heading off to Kingswear to collect it's train and passengers

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sun Aug 24 2008 Paignton and Dartmouth Railway http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1570966.html Photos taken from our first visit to this railway. Beautiful scenary as the railway winds it's way to Kingswear. The engines have to work hard on the gradient to the middle station of Churston in both directions, which makes the engines sound fantastic. The only let down was that the railway appeared to very 'commercial'. This is the first railway that I've been to where there hasn't been a society running it, and therefore no society magazine to buy & read. Sunday 24 August 2008: Photos taken from our first visit to this railway. Beautiful scenary as the railway winds it's way to Kingswear. The engines have to work hard on the gradient to the middle station of Churston in both directions, which makes the engines sound fantastic. The only let down was that the railway appeared to very 'commercial'. This is the first railway that I've been to where there hasn't been a society running it, and therefore no society magazine to buy & read.

A class 08 no. D3014 'Samson' in the sidings at Paignton The Devon Belle observation car at Kingswear 7827 runs around the train at Kingswear A view of the clock tower at Kingswear station A view of Kingswear station looking towards Paignton A view of the platform with the river Dart and Dartmouth in the background A view of Kingswear station with Dartmouth in the background A view of Kingswear station from the platform 7827 Lydham Manor arrives at Kingswear A closer photo of 7827 entering the station The sign at Churston station showing just big the climb is from Paignton. The gradient makes the engines sound fantastic as they travel towards the summit A beautiful mural on the wall inside the ticket office A close up of the the name plate A GWR class 7800 no.7827 'Lydham Manor' sits in the sun at Paignton A GWR class 5205 no.5239 'Goliath' sits in the sidings at Paignton The Paignton sign 7827 runs around the train at Paignton A view from the platform looking south towards Kingswear A view looking north towards Paignton The entrance to the railway at Paignton, which is right next to Paignton mainline station

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sun Aug 24 2008 South Devon Railway http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1570961.html Photos taken from the South Devon Railway. A beautiful railway which is based in Buckfastleigh and winds it's way down seven miles of beautiful scenary to Totnes. There was lots to see at this railway, especially at Buckfastleigh. An interesting selection of GWR steam locomotives and a varied collection of diesel locomotives. Walking round the station you would also see the museum and loco works. There was also a nice cafe with a huge shop - a mecca for OO gauge modellers! Thursday 21 August 2008: Photos taken from the South Devon Railway. A beautiful railway which is based in Buckfastleigh and winds it's way down seven miles of beautiful scenary to Totnes. There was lots to see at this railway, especially at Buckfastleigh. An interesting selection of GWR steam locomotives and a varied collection of diesel locomotives. Walking round the station you would also see the museum and loco works. There was also a nice cafe with a huge shop - a mecca for OO gauge modellers!

GWR class 2884 engine no. 3803 sits at Buckfastleigh station A view of Buckfastleigh station from the footbridge Class 37 no. D6737 its in the sun at Buckfastleigh The line is single track except for a passing loop between Buckfastleigh and Staverton. Here engine no.1369 passes on it's way back to Buckfastleigh Another Hunslet 0-6-0ST no.3163 WD132 'Sapper' - this time at Tones station Little touches like the station name built into the brick wall of a flower bed shows the attention to detail The Totnes station sign Engine 3803 departs for Totnes GWR class 4500 no. 5526 hides behind the Buckfastleigh station sign For passengers wanting to go to Buckfast Abbey, a vintage bus awaited passngers An 0-6-0ST sits in the sidings at Buckfastleigh compete with restored boiler Class 20 no.20118 'Saltburn-by-the-sea' at Buckfastleigh. We have seen this engine before at the Spa Valley Railway when it took part in the 2006 diesel gala Class 25 no.D7612 nestles inbetween the class 20 and the class 37 A class 33 no. 33002 also sits in the queue of immaculately restored diesel locomtives A view of the workshops which shows some work being on a set of Bulleid Pacific driving wheels One pair of which was sat outside A Peckett 0-4-0ST engine no. 1690 'Lady Angela' Another Peckett 0-4-0ST engine. This one is no.2031 called 'Ashley' A Hunslet 0-6-0ST engine no.68011 'Errol Lonsdale' Class 9 no.09002 awaits restoration Hiding in the engine shed was GWR 5700 class no. 5786 Also in the engine shed was GWR Hall class no. 4920 Dumbleton Hall which was unfortuntely not running on the day we visited To complete the varied collection of diesel locos, a class 04 no. D2246 Another view of 5526 GWR class 1366 no. 1369 arrives at Buckfastleigh Another view of engine 1369 taking on water at Buckfastleigh A view of Staverton station. I bet the station master could tell a few train stories! An indutrial diesel lcomotive in the sidings just outside Staverton Another class 20 awaits to depart to Totnes. This engine is no.20110 Loco 20110 running round the train at Totnes The line connecting the South Devon Railway to the mainline. Looks like the gate has been run into and needs repairing!

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Thu Aug 21 2008 Didcot - The Great Western Society http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1550909.html Our first visit to The Great Western Society at Didcot. What a fantastic day out - it was a great location with mainline trains running past. There were many GWR engines to look at, and we got to ride behind two different engines. We also had a ride behind Firefly - the broad gauge engine. We also got the see the TPO demonstration, which was very good, and they got it to work 3 times without any problems. All the staff there were very friendly and pleased to talk to us about what they were doing. Thank you to all the staff for making it a memorable day - we will definitely be visiting again. Saturday 26 July 2008: Our first visit to The Great Western Society at Didcot. What a fantastic day out - it was a great location with mainline trains running past. There were many GWR engines to look at, and we got to ride behind two different engines. We also had a ride behind Firefly - the broad gauge engine. We also got the see the TPO demonstration, which was very good, and they got it to work 3 times without any problems. All the staff there were very friendly and pleased to talk to us about what they were doing. Thank you to all the staff for making it a memorable day - we will definitely be visiting again.

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sat Jul 26 2008 Clan Line at Tonbridge http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1545781.html Photos taken at Tonbridge station and sidings for the visit of Merchant Navy class no. 35028 Clan Line. Clan Line was on a VSOE tour to Headcorn. Once the passengers disembarked at Headcorn the train was diesel hauled back into Tonbridge Jubilee sidings where it was coaled and watered. It then picked up the passengers from Headcorn before doing a circuit along the North Kent coast back to Victoria. Wednesday 16 July 2008: Photos taken at Tonbridge station and sidings for the visit of Merchant Navy class no. 35028 Clan Line. Clan Line was on a VSOE tour to Headcorn. Once the passengers disembarked at Headcorn the train was diesel hauled back into Tonbridge Jubilee sidings where it was coaled and watered. It then picked up the passengers from Headcorn before doing a circuit along the North Kent coast back to Victoria.

Merchant Navy class no. 35028 Clan Line approaches Tonbridge station about 3 minutes early 35028 alongside platform 3 at Tonbridge Clan Line pauses for a moment before continuing towards Headcorn A closer view of the immaculate engine After waiting an hour, the engine arrives back at Tonbridge hauled by a class 67 diesel no. 67026 Clan Line being dragged into the Jubilee Sidings A view from the footbridge that crosses the Jubilee sidings and the West sidings. 35028 has now come to a stop along side the modern traffic already in the sidings A view of Clan Line which is obscured by the fence next to the Jubilee Sidings 35028 and it's support coach are then detached from the rest of the train so that it can get coal and water 35028 and support coach head for Tonbridge station where it then had to reverse into the West sidings Clan Line reverses into the sidings The support crew get to work by helping to fill up the coal and the water A wider angle view of the sidings at Tonbridge with the station in the background Later in the afternoon, all the support work has been completed and Clan Line moves forward into Tonbridge station before reversing to attach to it's coaches. A view of Clan Line in Tonbridge station 35028 looks immaculate and is a credit to the Merchant Navy Locomotive Preservation Society Clan Line reverses once more to attach to the VSOE stock it left behind a few hours earlier

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Wed Jul 16 2008 GWR Large Prairie no. 5199 at the Bluebell http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1542970.html Photos taken of GWR Large Prairie no. 5199 which is on loan to the Bluebell Railway Friday 11 July 2008: Photos taken of GWR Large Prairie no. 5199 which is on loan to the Bluebell Railway

GWR Large Prairie no. 5199 at Sheffield Park 5199 had just arrived at Sheffield Park with the 12.30pm train 5199 had run around the train and just filled up with water 5199 is now attached to the train and preparing to leave with the 1pm train to Kingscote The large prairie arrives at Kingscote 5199 runs round the train at Kingscote and slowly approaches the coaches 5199 gets ever closer to the coaches 5199 as seen from the footbridge at Sheffield Park 5199 attached to the train at Sheffield Park and prepares to leave with the 3pm train A good view of the engine and the coaches at Sheffield Park. Not sure about seeing a GWR engine with Southern coaches! 5199 blows off as it prepares to leave

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Fri Jul 11 2008 Sir Nigel Gresley at York http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1540681.html Photos taken at York station of Sir Nigel Gresley arriving at York having travelled from Edinburgh on The Coronation tour. Sunday 6 July 2008: Photos taken at York station of Sir Nigel Gresley arriving at York having travelled from Edinburgh on The Coronation tour.

A4 no 60007 'Sir Nigel Gresley' sits at York station having travelled down from Edinburgh A steam engine always attracts many people, usually armed with a camera or camcorder 60007 heads out of the station to put the coaches into a sidings while the engine joined up with the other A4's at the NRM 'Sir Nigel Gresley' backs into a siding so that it can be turned 60007 continues it's journey backwards occupying the line that is usually used by diesel haulage traffic

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sun Jul 6 2008 Union of South Africa at York http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1540677.html Photos taken at York station when Union of South Africa headed for Edinburgh on the Coronation Tour Saturday 5 July 2008: Photos taken at York station when Union of South Africa headed for Edinburgh on the Coronation Tour

A4 no 60009 'Union of South Africa' pulls into York station ready for the next leg of The Coronation Tour to Edinburgh A4 60009 sitting at the platform waiting for the passengers to board the train. This photo was taken by my son who managed to get to the front of the crowd. A blast of steam from the steam cocks means the train is under way It was a slow start as rain had made the rails very slippery After a couple of small slips, 60009 finds her feet and is able to put the power down 60009 with the York Eye in the background 60009 heads to Edinburgh past a very crowded platform

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sat Jul 5 2008 The Great Reunion http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1540638.html A selection of photos taken at York when all four UK based LNER A4 class engines were reunited. The Great Reunion was organised to celebrate the 70 year anniversary of Mallard braking the steam speed record. On the Saturday conditions were wet and overcast, especially during the 2 hour period when all four engines were together. The sun did appear briefly late afternoon, but only after an enormous thuderstorm had passed overhead. By this time Union of South Africa had already headed off to Edinburgh. Saturday 5 July 2008: A selection of photos taken at York when all four UK based LNER A4 class engines were reunited. The Great Reunion was organised to celebrate the 70 year anniversary of Mallard braking the steam speed record. On the Saturday conditions were wet and overcast, especially during the 2 hour period when all four engines were together. The sun did appear briefly late afternoon, but only after an enormous thuderstorm had passed overhead. By this time Union of South Africa had already headed off to Edinburgh.

The morning line-up of 60006 'Union of South Africa', 60019 'Bittern' and 4468 'Mallard' 'Bittern' and 'Mallard'. Here you can see the difference the full streamlined casing around the wheels has 'Bittern' was being prepared for running on the Sunday, so it was brought up to steam to assess for any problems 'Union of South Africa' was taking the next leg of the Coronation Tour to Edinburgh Together at last - all four A4's line up to celebrate Mallard's steam world record in 1938 Another shot of all four from a bit further round A close up of 'Mallard' and 'Bittern' '60009' looked in good condition, especially as it had just travelled up the East Coast Mainline. 'Mallard' had been wheeled out of The Great Hall at the NRM. There were many onlookers from the other side of the glass. A close up of 'Union of South Africa' and 'Sir Nigel Gresley' The Coronation headboard on 'Sir Nigel Gresley' The Coronation headboard on 'Bittern' The Coronation headboard on 'Mallard' The famous The Coronation headboard was put on each engine, so I have taken a photo of each one A close up of the famous name plate 'Union of South Africa' A close up of the famous name plate 'Sir Nigel Gresley' A close up of the famous name plate 'Mallard' A close up of the famous name plate 'Bittern', although the smoke was blowing towards me and made for a very smokey photo I promised my son that I would put this on the website. He was able to get to the front and take pictures that I wouldn't be able to get. The sun came out after a massive thunderstorm. This allowed for some better light in which to take photos. A4 60007 'Sir Nigel Gresley' simmers after the thunderstorm A4 60019 'Bittern' is in light steam while the crew check the engine in preparation to running to London The reason we were all in York - A4 4468 'Mallard' sits in the sun as we all celebrated her magnificent achievement 70 years ago A day of contrasting weather - bright sunshine on the 'Sir Nigel Greseley' with dark strom clouds in the distance

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sat Jul 5 2008 Kent & East Sussex Railway Steam Gala 2008 http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1503956.html Photos taken from the 2008 Steam Gala at the Kent & East Sussex Railway. A beautiful sunny day - for a change, where five engines were in steam. Resident engines Terrier A1X no.3, Austerity 0-6-0ST no. 25 and GWR 1600 Pannier Tank no. 1638 were in steam along with two visitors. GWR Small Prairie no. 5552 was visiting from the Bodmin & Wenford Railway and LNER N7 no. 69621 was visiting from the North Norfolk Railway. It's been over two years since our last visit and we had a fantastic day. Saturday 3 May 2008: Photos taken from the 2008 Steam Gala at the Kent & East Sussex Railway. A beautiful sunny day - for a change, where five engines were in steam. Resident engines Terrier A1X no.3, Austerity 0-6-0ST no. 25 and GWR 1600 Pannier Tank no. 1638 were in steam along with two visitors. GWR Small Prairie no. 5552 was visiting from the Bodmin & Wenford Railway and LNER N7 no. 69621 was visiting from the North Norfolk Railway. It's been over two years since our last visit and we had a fantastic day.

Another shot of engines no. 25 and no.3 Visiting engine LNER N7 no. 69621 at Bodiam Resident K&ESR engines no.3 Bodiam and no. 25 take their turns to fill up with water at Northiam Engines no.3 and no.25 head for Bodiam A view of Northiam station looking towards Bodiam A view of Northiam station looking towards Tenterden GWR Prairie no. 5552 arrives at Northiam station Visiting engine GWR Prairie no. 5552 at Bodiam GWR Prairie no. 5552 running round the train at Bodiam Engine no. 25 and no.3 together at Tenterden GWR Prairie no. 5552 sits in the warm May sunshine at Tenterden Another view of 5552 as it basks in the sunshine. This engine sounded fantastic and looked in immaculate. A good advert for the engineering skills of those at the Bodmin & Wenford Railway While engine no. 5552 sits at Tenterden, resident GWR engine no. 1638 brings a train into the station Both GWR engines are coupled together ready to take a double header to Rolvenden A view of visiting loco no. 5552 double heading with GWR Pannier Tank engine no. 1638 at Rolvenden station GWR Prairie no. 5552 at Rolvenden station Resident engine Norwegian no. 376 undergoing an overhaul at Rolvenden Resident engine USA Dock Tank no. 65 in the sidings at Rolvenden Resident engine Austerity 0-6-0ST no. 23 sits in the sidings at Rolvenden Class 14 diesel no. 14029 sits in the sidings at Rolvenden. This engine is usually on standby in case any trains get into difficulty going up Tenterden Bank. It can be brought into life quickly and help any train in difficulty Visiting engine LNER N7 no. 69612 moves the train into Rolvenden station Resident engine GWR Pannier Tank engine no. 1638 at Rolvenden station Engines no.3 and no. 25 move the train into the station at Rolvenden in preapration for the climb up to Tenterden Another view of the LNER N7. This engine sounded great and looked in good condition. A credit to those who restored and maintain her at the North Norfolk line Visiting LNER N7 no. 69621 sits in the sun at Tenterden Engine no. 25 and GWR Pannier Tank 5552 double head a train up Tenterden Bank. This shot is of them just reaching the summit

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sat May 3 2008 Spa Valley Railway Spring Diesel Gala 2008 http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1499839.html Photos taken at the Spa Valley Spring Diesel Gala. Four engines were being used today - the resident class 73 and both class 33's. In addition to these, a class 37 (no. 37254) was running, which is at the railway on a long term loan. Saturday 26 April 2008: Photos taken at the Spa Valley Spring Diesel Gala. Four engines were being used today - the resident class 73 and both class 33's. In addition to these, a class 37 (no. 37254) was running, which is at the railway on a long term loan.

Thomas sits in the sidings after a busy couple of weekend on the railway. He is awaiting collection to be taken to another railway and hopefully encourage the next generation of railway preservationists! Class 73 no. E6047 moves from the engine shed onto the train at Tunbridge Wells Class 73 no. E6047 backs on to the coaches Class 37 no. 37254 at Groombridge station Another photo of class 37 no. 37254 at Groombridge station A view of the yard at Tunbridge Wells. Included in this shot are the class 09 diesel and both class 33's Class 33 no. 33063 'R J Mitchell' moves into position to pull the next train Class 33 33065 'Sealion' moves into position for the double headed class 33 train 33065 is in position and 33063 moves ever closer Here the train is at Groombridge where the two class 33's run round the train The class 33's move the coaches back into Groombridge station A Drewry diesel no. 2591 'Southerham' sits outside the engine shed at Tunbridge Wells A class 12 no. 15224 waits at Tunbridge Wells A class 09 no. 09004 (D3668) at Tunbridge Wells Class 33 no.33063 arrives at Tunbridge Wells where the driver is giving the token to the signalman The class 37 no. 37254 sits in the sun at Tunbridge Wells The class 37 moves away to allow the next engine to couple up to the coaches

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sat Apr 26 2008 Romney Hythe & Dymchurch Railway http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1490808.html Photos taken in the glorious spring sunshine. It's been 18 months since our last visit and the railway looked as good as ever. Engine no.8 'Hurricane' was back in use after a rebuild and looked magnificent - a tribute to those who helped get it back to full working order. Thursday 10 April 2008: Photos taken in the glorious spring sunshine. It's been 18 months since our last visit and the railway looked as good as ever. Engine no.8 'Hurricane' was back in use after a rebuild and looked magnificent - a tribute to those who helped get it back to full working order.

Engine no.8 'Hurricane' sits under the shelter at New Romney station Engine no.14 'Captain Howey' at Dungeness station Engine no.9 'Winston Churchill' backs onto the train at New Romney Engine no.9 'Winston Churchill' on the turntable at Hythe station Engine no.9 leaving the turntable having been turned 180 degrees Engine no.9 pulling the train between Hythe and New Romney Engine no.7 'Typhoon' waits at New Romney New Romney station in the spring sunshine A view of the newly restored engine no.8 'Hurricane' Engine no.7 'Typhoon' backs onto the train at New Romney ready to take the last train of the day to Hythe Engine no.7 'Typhoon' looking great in the sunshine Engine no.7 'Typhoon' leaves New Romney Engine no.8 'Hurricane' on the turntable at New Romney Engine no.8 'Hurricane' on the turntable - this one is electric where as the one at Hythe is man-powered Engine no.8 'Hurricane' looking great in the sun, as it backs up towards the engine shed

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Thu Apr 10 2008 2008 Branchline Weekend at The Bluebell http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1466111.html A selection of photos taken at The Bluebell Railway during the Branchline weekend Sunday 24 February 2008: A selection of photos taken at The Bluebell Railway during the Branchline weekend

A view of the outside of Horsted Keynes station Standard class 4 tank no. 80151 arrives at Horsted Keynes Visiting engine GWR 0-4-2T no. 1450 fills up with water at Sheffield Park 1450 pulls slowly into platform 2 at Sheffield Park as it prepares to couple onto the carriages 1450 now coupled to the carriages 1450 pulls out of Sheffield Park heading for Horsted Keynes and Kingscote GWR Dukedog class no. 9017 'Earl of Berkeley' fills up with water at Sheffield Park 9017 couples onto the visiting Autocoach no. 178 A view of Standard Class 5 no. 73082 'Camelot' minus it's boiler and firebox Standard 4 Tank no. 80151 prepares to leave Horsted Keynes for Kingscote 9017 returns to Horsted Keynes from Kingscote Terrier class no. 672 'Fenchurch and E4 class no. 32473 depart Horsted Keynes for Kingscote. I don't know what sort of coal was being used, but 32473 particularly, was producing a lot of thick black smoke An impromptu stop on the way back to Sheffield Park to put out a lineside fire A view of 1450 from the footbridge at Sheffield Park A view of 1450 and Autocoach 178 together 80151 stops for water at Sheffield Park 672 and 32473 back at Sheffield Park C Class 0-6-0 no. 592 sits outside the engine shed at Sheffield Park A view inside Atlantic House showing the progress of Brighton Atlantic No.32424 9017 simmers at Kingscote

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sun Feb 24 2008 Watercress Line 35th anniversary of line closure http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1452040.html Our first outing of the year saw us to go the Mid-Hants (Watercress) Railway on a sunny but very cold February day. This special event celebrated 35 years since the line closed. Three trains were running today - a Class 117 DMU, and Hampshire DEMU (not taking passengers) and Merchant Navy number 35005 Canadian Pacific. Saturday 2 February 2008: Our first outing of the year saw us to go the Mid-Hants (Watercress) Railway on a sunny but very cold February day. This special event celebrated 35 years since the line closed. Three trains were running today - a Class 117 DMU, and Hampshire DEMU (not taking passengers) and Merchant Navy number 35005 Canadian Pacific.

A class 117 DMU which took us from Alton to Alresford Class 117 DMU alongside class 205 Hampshire unit. The Hampshire unit was running but not with passengers A view of the front of the Hampshire unit Class 33 number D6593 pulls along side the Hampshire unit Merchant Navy class number 35005 Canadian Pacific stops for water at Ropley with class A4 60019 Bittern in the background 35005 still taking on water with Ivatt class 2 number 41312 in the background LNER A4 Pacific number 60019 Bittern has been fully restored and now performs mainline tours. Today it was having a rest Class 45 number 45132 awaiting it's turn to be restored ....along with all the others - USA tank 30076, S15 class number E828 minus bolier, West Country class number 34105 Swanage and a Standard Class 4 number 76017 The Thomas trains line up ready for the next Thomas event Class 4MT 4-6-0 number 75079 under restoration West Country class number 34016 Bodmin needs a good clean A closer view of the Ivatt class 2 tank Bittern sitting in the winter sun. What a fantastic job has been done by those that restored the engine Bittern's extra water tender. This clearly shows the corridor which allowed the train crew to move between carriage and footplate, passing through the water tender and the water/coal tender A view of the end of the tender The class 33 helps the class 117 and the class 122 on it's way to Medstead & Four Marks Another view of Bittern Another view of Bittern's water tender The Hampshire unit arrives at Ropley on it's last round trip of the day

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sat Feb 2 2008 The Bluebell - between Christmas and New Year http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1432093.html A few pictures taken from The Bluebell Railway in between Christmas and the New Year. Sunday 30 December 2007: A few pictures taken from The Bluebell Railway in between Christmas and the New Year.

Our ride for the day - Terrier class no.672 Fenchurch. The engine takes on water prior to our departure The shadow of Fenchurch cast on a nearby field from the low winter sunlight Having arrived at Kingscote, the crew detach the engine from the coaches The engine plus the wonderful rake of Metropolitan coaches A view looking south towards Horsted Keynes Fenchurch runs around the train ready for our return trip. Fenchurch is now attached and ready to go The same view 100 years before??

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sun Dec 30 2007 Bluebell Railway - Giants of Steam 2007 http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1392974.html Photos taken at the Bluebell Railway 2007 Giants of Steam. As well as the regular Bluebell engines, there were two visiting engines. Both were Bulleid light pacific engines - West Country Class no.34007 'Wadebridge' and Battle of Britain Class no. 34081 '92 Squadron'. The weather was warm and sunny - just perfect to see these Giants of Steam in the Sussex countryside. Saturday 20 October 2007: Photos taken at the Bluebell Railway 2007 Giants of Steam. As well as the regular Bluebell engines, there were two visiting engines. Both were Bulleid light pacific engines - West Country Class no.34007 'Wadebridge' and Battle of Britain Class no. 34081 '92 Squadron'. The weather was warm and sunny - just perfect to see these Giants of Steam in the Sussex countryside.

Steam rises from the safety valves on visiting engine 34007 'Wadebridge' Standard class 4 tank no. 80151 moves the rake of metropolitan coaches and the United Dairies tank past visiting engine no. 34081 '92 Squadron' Visiting engine no. 34081 '92 Squadron' was not running well. Both steam and water was escaping from places they shouldn't. The train limped up to Kingscote and then back down to Sheffield Park where some running repairs were made Standard 4 tank no. 80151 sits in the early morning sun at Horsted Keynes Bluebell engines U class no. 1638 and West Country Class no. 21C123 'Blackmoor Vale' form a double header into Horsted Keynes Bluebell engine no. 55 'Stepney' was re-named as engine no. DS377 'Brighton Works' A model GWR 2-8-0 provided a smaller steam powered option at Sheffield Park Two West Country Class engines together - one rebuilt (Eddystone) and the other un-rebuilt (Wadebridge) Two un-rebuilt West Country class light pacific engines together - 21C123 'Blackmoor Vale' and 34007 'Wadebridge' Another view of the two engines, this time with Wadebridge in the foreground DS377 'Brighton Works' gave rides in a brake van up and down the line from platform 2 Battle of Britain Class 34081 '92 Squadron' leads West Country Class no. 34028 'Eddystone' on a double header. West Country Class no. 34007 'Wadebridge' at Kingscote Bluebell engines U Class no. 1638 leads West Country Class no. 21C123 'Blackmoor Vale' into Kingscote West Country Class no. 34028 'Eddystone' pulls a train solo to Kingscote A visiting engine double header - 34081 leads 34007 Both engines head to Kingscote in the fading light

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sat Oct 20 2007 The Giants arrive http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1390252.html Photos showing the arrival of the visiting engines for the Giants of Steam gala weekend at The Bluebell. The visiting engines are both Bulleid Light Pacifics - West Country 34007 'Wadebridge' and Battle of Britain 34081 '92 Squadron' Tuesday 16 October 2007: Photos showing the arrival of the visiting engines for the Giants of Steam gala weekend at The Bluebell. The visiting engines are both Bulleid Light Pacifics - West Country 34007 'Wadebridge' and Battle of Britain 34081 '92 Squadron'

West Country Class no. 34007 'Wadebridge' has been winched off the low loader and sits on the rails awaiting connection to it's tender This is not the tender belonging to 'Wadebridge'. This one belongs to '92 Squadron' A close up of the nameplate and crest A close-up of the cabside number A view of an engine that you don't get to see very often 34081's tender is slowly winched onto the tracks Battle of Britain Class no. 34081 '92 Squadron' waits it's turn to be winched from the low loader A view of the front of 34081 The Bluebell's West Country Class no. 21C123 Blackmoor Vale has been re-named O.V.S Bulleid for the weekend 34007 has been moved into position just outside the engine shed. A busy weekend is expected

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Tue Oct 16 2007 Autumn Tints Special http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1390248.html Photos taken during our ride on the Autumn Tints Special. The train was Class E4 32473, formally known as Birch Grove and we were pulled in the observation carriage Tuesday 16 October 2007: Photos taken during our ride on the Autumn Tints Special. The train was Class E4 32473, formally known as Birch Grove and we were pulled in the observation carriage

Our train for the Autumn Tints Special was class E4 no. 32473. Here the engine is seen filling up with water at Sheffield Park Another view of the engine A view from the observation car window, as 32473 approaches ready to attach A view from the other end of the observation car looking towards Newick A view looking back towards Sheffield Park A view of Freshfield Bank A view of Three Arch Bridge A view of south Horsted Keynes A view of the Ardingly branch at Horsted Keynes We are continuing to head north and this is the view of the north side of Horsted Keynes This is a wider view showing all five platforms and the sidings Going into the tunnel... ...and out again Coming into Kingscote, this is the signal box just where the track splits in two Now in Kingscote, this is the view looking south 32473 runs around the train 32473 appraches the train ready to attach and head back to Sheffield Park

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Tue Oct 16 2007 Bredgar & Wormshill Railway http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1389683.html Photos taken at the Bredgar & Wormshill railway on the last open day of 2007. An immaculate 2ft gauge railway, with some varied and interesting engines. Sunday 7 October 2007: Photos taken at the Bredgar & Wormshill railway on the last open day of 2007. An immaculate 2ft gauge railway, with some varied and interesting engines.

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sun Oct 7 2007 Grandparents Day on the Bluebell http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1378015.html Some photos taken at the Bluebell railway on Grandparents Day. A special train was laid on to serve a cream tea departing Sheffield Park at 3.30pm. Sunday 23 September 2007: Some photos taken at the Bluebell railway on Grandparents Day. A special train was laid on to serve a cream tea departing Sheffield Park at 3.30pm.

Our train for the afternoon was class E4 0-6-2T 32473 The Grandparents train was known as the Welden Rambler A view of 32473's cab Having reached Kingscote, 32473 prepares to run round the train 32473 runs round the train at Kingscote Now back at Sheffield Park, 32473 prepares to round round the train so that it could push the coaches into the sidings A view from the footbridge looking towards Newick West Country class light pacific 21C123 Blackmoor Vale sits outside the engine shed GWR Dukedog no. 9017 also sits outside the engine shed Newly restored C class no. 592 sits in the engine shed. Hopefully not long before it is out pulling trains Terrier class no. 672 'Fenchurch' is dwarfed by the larger engines A tender behind! A view of the rear of three trains in the engine shed (l-r) H class no. 263, U class no. 1638 and standard 4 no. 75027 The Bulleid Society's engine Normandy waits for it's turn to be restored Standard 4 tank no. 80151 arrives at Sheffield Park with the last train of the day 80151 pauses before moving the coaches into the sidings for the evening

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sun Sep 23 2007 Watercress Line Autumn Steam Gala 2007 http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1375227.html Photos taken at the Watercress Line's Autumn Steam Gala. 6 engines were in steam on the Saturday - resident engines 35005 'Canadian Pacific', 34016 'Bodmin', 73096 Standard 5 and 41312 Ivatt Class 2 Tank. There were two visiting engines which were 34007 'Wadebridge' which is at the line on a years loan and 30926 'Repton' which made the trip down from the North York Moors Railway. Saturday 22 September 2007: Photos taken at the Watercress Line's Autumn Steam Gala. 6 engines were in steam on the Saturday - resident engines 35005 'Canadian Pacific', 34016 'Bodmin', 73096 Standard 5 and 41312 Ivatt Class 2 Tank. There were two visiting engines which were 34007 'Wadebridge' which is at the line on a years loan and 30926 'Repton' which made the trip down from the North York Moors Railway.

Visiting engine West Country class no 34007 'Wadebridge' sits at the station at Alresford A close upof the cabside number ...and nameplate Visiting engine Schools class no 30926 'Repton' sits at Alresford station A view of standard class 5 no.73096 taken from the footbridge at Alresford Class 33 diesel no. D6593 alongside Repton Class 33 no D6593 in the siding at Alresford attached to the RAT (Real Ale Train) U class 31625 disguised as no 5 'James' Thomas hides away in the engine shed Plym Valley Railway's Standard class 4 no. 75079 undergoing restoration Merchant Navy Class no. 35005 Canadian Pacific takes on water at Ropley West Country Class no. 34007 'Wadebridge' waits at Ropley before continuing to Alton Ivatt Class 2 Tank no. 41312 pulls a mixed traffic train into Ropley Back at Alton, a modern class 450 no. 450114 heads for Waterloo Wadebridge waits at Alton with the Royal Wessex headboard The Standard 5 waits at Ropley to take the last train back to Alresford

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sat Sep 22 2007 Spa Valley Railway Mainline Gala 2007 http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1370855.html Photos taken at the Spa Valley Railway during the Mainline Gala. Three visiting engines were present - a class 25 diesel no. D7612, GWR 0-6-0PT no. 9466 and GWR 2-6-2T no. 6695 Saturday 15 September 2007: Photos taken at the Spa Valley Railway during the Mainline Gala. Three visiting engines were present - a class 25 diesel no. D7612, GWR 0-6-0PT no. 9466 and GWR 2-6-2T no. 6695

Visitng engine GWR 2-6-2T no. 6695 runs round the train in the Groombridge loop A view of 6695 and the class 25 no. D7912 pulling the train towards High Rocks A view of 6695 at Tunbridge Wells A view in front of the loco shed. SVR's resident engines (l-r) class 33 no. 33063, Barclay 0-4-0ST and Class 12 diesel no. 15224 Visiting class 25 diesel no. D7912 at Tunbridge Wells GWR 2-6-2T no. 6695 in front of the water tower at Tunbridge Wells Resident class 73 diesel no E6047 The class 25 diesel in the sunshine at Tunbridge Wells The two visiting engines make a great double header. GWR 2-6-2T no. 6695 leads GWR 0-6-0PT at Groombridge Engine 6695 runs round the train on the Groombridge loop With permission given for trains to run to Eridge, trains will be required to pass each other on the Groombridge loop. This picture shows the foundations of the new signal box that will be built at the Eridge end of the Grrombridge platform Visiting engine GWR 0-6-0PT no. 9466 sits next to the water tower at Tunbridge Wells Resident 'Jinty' engine no. 47493 47493 and 9466 together at Tunbridge Wells Both visiting GWR engines together at Tunbridge Wells Resident engines 'Fonman' and 'Lady Ingrid' move back to the engine shed after both were filled with coal

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sat Sep 15 2007 Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1351282.html A few pictures of the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway. The track length is 287 yards and ascends 500ft. The railway uses water to run - the car at the top made heavier than the one at the bottom. Friday 10 August 2007: A few pictures of the Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway. The track length is 287 yards and ascends 500ft. The railway uses water to run - the car at the top made heavier than the one at the bottom.

A view from the top of the hill in Lynmouth A view down the line from the top. Note how the tracks diverge slightly in the middle when the cars meet A view from the railway across Lynmouth Bay

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Fri Aug 10 2007 Lynton & Barnstaple Railway http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1350411.html Photos of the Lynton and Barnstaple Railway taken during our 2007 holiday. A very picturesque narrow gauge railway which originally ran between Lynton and Barnstaple across Exmoor. The line currently runs for a third of a mile, with plans to extend further in the future. Friday 10 August 2007: Photos of the Lynton and Barnstaple Railway taken during our 2007 holiday. A very picturesque narrow gauge railway which originally ran between Lynton and Barnstaple across Exmoor. The line currently runs for a third of a mile, with plans to extend further in the future.

Our train for the day was Hunslet 0-4-0 'Statfold'. A beautiful engine which was built new in 2005 A view of the run around loop at Killington Lane. In time, the line should continue further south west to Barnstaple The other end of the line is Killington Lane, approx a mile south west of Woody Bay A view of the carriages at Killington Lane A Hunslet diesel hydraulic 'Heddon Hall' A Hudswell Clarke 0-6-0WT 'Bronllwyd'. I believe that the 10-year boiler ticket had just expired on this engine A German Maffei 0-4-0WT 'Sid' A view of the engine and carriage shed at Woody Bay A view from Woody Bay station looking towards Killington Lane Woody Bay station is the headquarters of the Lynton & Barnstaple railway Statfold arrives back at Woody Bay Another view of Statfold A close-up of the train, with the other carriages in the background Woody Bay station - looking immaculate

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Fri Aug 10 2007 West Somerset Railway - August 2007 http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1350410.html Photos taken of the West Somerset Railway during our 2007 holiday. Wednesday 15 August 2007: Photos taken of the West Somerset Railway during our 2007 holiday.

S&DJR class 7F 2-8-0 no 88 sits in the sidings at Minehead GWR Manor Class no 7820 Dinmore Manor hides behind a class 31 diesel at Minehead A view from Minehead station looking towards Dunster GWR 2-6-2T prairie no 4160 backs on the the train at Minehead A class 04 diesel no D2271 GWR Manor Class no 7820 Dinmore Manor can clearly be seen now the diesel has moved. This locomotive is awaiting it's turn for restoration GWR 2-6-0 no 9351. This engine used to be a 2-6-2T prairie no 5193 but was converted to a tender engine during it's last restoration A view of Minehead station buildings A view of Bishops Lydeard taken from the bridge Another view of No.88 S&DJR has now coupled onto the train and is preparing to leave for Minehead On the left is a Class 33 diesel no D6566 and on the right is a Sentinel 0-4-0CD (chain drive) no DH16 A class 03 diesel no 03119 A class 04 diesel no D2205 Washford is home to the Somerset & Dorset Railway Museum. This shows the sheds and rolling stock And a view of the rear of the Ruston & Hornsby diesel engine A Southern Railway truck A view of Washford station (from Minehead) from the train MR class 4F no 44422 0-6-0 GWR 2-8-0 no 3850 is on display next to the road at Minehead. Behind this engine is the diesel shunter used to move the trains. A view of the platform at Washford station looking towards Minehead A view of the line towards Watchet A truck that would be used at Thomas events A view of the S&DJR Ruston & Hornsby diesel shunter GWR 2-6-2T no.4160 arrives at Washford station Another view of engine no 9351 as it heads for Dunster GWR 2-6-2T no 5553 backs on to the train at Minehead S&DJR 2-8-0 no 88 prepares to leave for Bishops Lydeard Another class 31 sits in the sidings at Minehead Class 33 no D6566 now seen at Bishops Lydeard A class 115 DMU arrives in the rain at Bishops Lydeard A view of the station looking towards Norton Fitzwarren. A class 08 diesel number D3462 can just about be seen on the left A view of Bishops Lydeard looking towards Minehead The station sign seen on a showery summers day GWR 2-6-0 no.9351 seen at Bishops Lydeard A view of the loco works at Williton. Inside on the left is SR rebuilt West Country Class no.34046 Braunton in the final stages of restoration A view of the station looking towards Norton Fitzwarren. The museum at the station can be seen in the building on the right A class 14 diesel hydraulic no D9526 Class 47 diesel no D1661. Behind is a class 25 diesel no D7523 When the S&DJR 7F no.88 was restored, it's cylinders needed replacing. These are the old ones Class 03 diesel no D2133 moves GWR 2-6-2T no 4160 towards to north end of the platform at Minehead

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Wed Aug 15 2007 Clan Line at Paddock Wood http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1315492.html Photos taken of Merchant Navy class engine number 35028 'Clan Line' at Paddock Wood. This train had been to Whitstable on a VSOE Kent Luncheon Special. Paddock Wood was the venue for the water stop on it's return journey. This is my son's favourite steam engine and is the first time he has seen it. Needless to say, he was very happy when we told him we were going to see Clan Line - and the grey and overcast weather didn't spoil it either. Saturday 30 June 2007: Photos taken of Merchant Navy class engine number 35028 'Clan Line' at Paddock Wood. This train had been to Whitstable on a VSOE Kent Luncheon Special. Paddock Wood was the venue for the water stop on it's return journey. This is my son's favourite steam engine and is the first time he has seen it. Needless to say, he was very happy when we told him we were going to see Clan Line - and the grey and overcast weather didn't spoil it either.

Merchant Navy class no. 35028 'Clan Line' arrives at Paddock Wood having been to Whitstable for a VSOE Kent Luncheon Special Clan Line loops off the main line Clan Line continues slowly towards the end of the platform where the water crew are waiting Clan Line comes to a stand still A side-on shot of 35028 The name plate 35028 from the front. Today's engine was not a golden arrow, even though it was pulling the VSOE coaches. A close up of the cabside number. Clan Line has only been in traffic for a few months after a major overhaul, so the paint work is immaculate Clan Line prepares to leave. Several whistles were heard to encourage the passengers to get back on-board Just as the train departs, the steam valve opens, creating a huge explosion of steam and noise 35028 pulls away slowly. The track was very greasy, as it slipped several times as it set off 35028 continues her slow start, with traction still an issue 35028 is off the loop and back on the main line heading for London Victoria

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sat Jun 30 2007 The Bluebell in the May sunshine http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1292209.html Photos taken at The Bluebell on an sunny May day. Thursday 31 May 2007: Photos taken at The Bluebell on an sunny May day.

Standard class 9f sits in the sidings at Sheffield Park Class 08 diesel sits at Sheffield Park in readiness for shunting duties USA Dock Tank number WD1959 also sits in the sidings at Sheffield Park Class A1 number 672 'Fenchurch' and class 4 Standard Tank no. 80151 sit in the sunshine outside the loco shed GWR Dukedog class no. 9017 'Earl of Berkeley' passes the class 08 diesel 9017 takes on more water Clive Groome contemplates the journey to Kingscote 9017 prepares to depart for Kingscote Class 08 diesel now with a Southern coach attached, waits for it's turn to depart for Sheffield Park A close up of the British Railways emblem A United Dairies tank sits in the sidings at Horsted Keynes A brake van and a wagon at Horsted Keynes A view looking north at Horsted Keynes. The station looks great in the sunshine A view of the Horsted Keynes station building 9017 waits to depart to Sheffield Park

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Thu May 31 2007 Eddystone at The Bluebell http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1292177.html Photos taken at the Bluebell of West Country class engine no 34028 'Eddystone'. This engine was built in May 1946 and was originally numbered 21C128. In December 1948 it was re-numbered to 34028. In August 1958 the air-smoothed casing was removed and it was re-built to a more conventional design, as it is today. It was withdrawn from service in May 1964. Thursday 31 May 2007: Photos taken at the Bluebell of West Country class engine no 34028 'Eddystone'. This engine was built in May 1946 and was originally numbered 21C128. In December 1948 it was re-numbered to 34028. In August 1958 the air-smoothed casing was removed and it was re-built to a more conventional design, as it is today. It was withdrawn from service in May 1964.

34028 at Kingscote, about to run around the train 34028 slowly approaches the front of the train 34028's nameplate The cabside number showing a powere rating of 7P 5FA Bulleid's 'boxpox' wheels 34028 now attached and ready to go 34028 arrives at Sheffield Park 34028 running around the train and about to go under the foot bridge 34028 heading for the front of the train 34028 stops to take on more water A close up of 34028 34028 couples up to the train once more 34028 bringing a train into Horsted Keynes

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Thu May 31 2007 Spa Valley Railway Spring Gala 2007 http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1282804.html Photos taken at the Spa Valley Railway 2007 Spring Gala. Visiting engines were E4 32473 from the Bluebell Railway and Beattie Well Tank 30587 from the National Railway Museum Saturday 19 May 2007: Photos taken at the Spa Valley Railway 2007 Spring Gala. Visiting engines were E4 32473 from the Bluebell Railway and Beattie Well Tank 30587 from the National Railway Museum

Visiting engine Class E4 number 32473 from the Bluebell Railway, sits in the sidings outside the engine shed at Tunbridge Wells A newly restored Queen Mary brake van DEMU 1317 in the engine shed Southerham and RJ Mitchell sit in the shed. Today is not the day for diesels Another view of 32473 LMS Jinty no 47493 enters Tunbridge Wells 47493 has now had it's turn, so now has to wait in the sidings Beattie Well Tank no 30587 at Groombridge 30587 at Tunbridge Wells 30587 moves into position for a rather special double header 32473 also moves into position. This being the other half of the double header 30587 and 32473 coupled together and ready to go 30587 and 32473 pull out of Tunbridge Wells heading for Groombridge Barclay 0-4-0ST no 2315 Lady Ingrid is filled with coal in a rather unusual manner! Lady Ingrid looking lovely in the spring sunlight

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sat May 19 2007 May Day at The Bluebell http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1274113.html A grey and blustery day at The Bluebell on May Day. The engines in steam were Standard 4 Tank, U class and Earl of Berkeley Monday 7 May 2007: A grey and blustery day at The Bluebell on May Day. The engines in steam were Standard 4 Tank, U class and Earl of Berkeley

GWR Dukedog no. 9017 Earl of Berkeley was the engine for our ride to Kingscote Before we can go, more water was needed - so the crew topped-up the water before joining the train A view of Earl of Berkeley from platform 1 at Kingscote Kingscote station from the road entrance A view of the goods yard. The line to East Grinstead can just be seen in the background Back at Sheffield Park, the class 08 diesel sits in the sidings The class 9f no 92240 sits in the sidings hiding behind the bushes Earl of Berkeley passes the class 08 diesel while running round the train Having round round the train, Earl of Berkeley waits for the Golden Arrow train to arrive before it can be allowed to go to Horsted Keynes Class 4 tank no.80151 had the honour of pulling the Golden Arrow luncheon train With the work for the Golden Arrow done, the crew chat before shunting into the loco yard Terrier class no 672 Fenchurch in light steam In pieces - The Maunsell Locomotive Society appear to be making good progress on the rebuild of class S15 no. 847 Bulleid's West Country class no. 21C123 Blackmoor Vale sits in the brief sunlight in the loco yard U class no. 1638 brings the last train of the day into Sheffield Park. The engine has now been in use for over a year and still looks fantastic. A wonderful testiment to those who restored her.

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Mon May 7 2007 North York Moors Railway http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1251748.html Photos taken during our visit to the NYMR. The highlight of the day was being pulled by A4 60007 'Sir Nigel Gresley'. A magnificent engine and a credit to those who spent time and effort restoring the speed machine. Just a shame that 25mph is the limit on the line! Sunday 8 April 2007: Photos taken during our visit to the NYMR. The highlight of the day was being pulled by A4 60007 'Sir Nigel Gresley'. A magnificent engine and a credit to those who spent time and effort restoring the speed machine. Just a shame that 25mph is the limit on the line!

Class 5 number 45212 waits at Grosmont to take a set of Pullman coaches back to Pickering Class A4 number 60007 'Sir Nigel Gresley' at Grosmont Standard class 4MT 4-6-0 number 75029 arrives at Grosmont The enginemen of the class 4MT and the A$ compare notes 45212 heads for Pickering Class 08 number 12139 helps move the coaches between platforms A close up of the name plate A4 number 60007 'Sir Nigel Gresley' - looks magnificent in the sunlight A close up of the plaque which details the speed record set in the post war steam era 60007 sits in the sidings awaiting clearance to head off to Pickering Class 50 diesel number 50027 'Lion' in the engine shed Standard class 4 tank number 80135 also in the shed GWR 4200 class number 5224 sits in the engine shed. This engine belongs to the Crewe Heritage Centre and is either here for repairs or is on loan GWR 5600 class number 6619 also sits in the shed The pedestrian tunnel which links Grosmont station to the engine shed, and was built in 1836 A view into Grosmont station including the level crossing A view of the tunnel at Grosmont. When engines are shunting about they must stand in the tunnel while the points are changed A beautiful floral display on the bank opposite the viewing platform at Grosmont V or Schools class engine number 30926 'Repton' arrives at Grosmont Having been to Whitby, this LNER K1 number 62005 'Lord of the Isles', returns to Grosmont A view of the K1 from our carriage window A wider angle shot shows the stunning scenary the North York Moors has to offer A beautiful April day in the North York Moors! A better photo of the K1 at Pickering A view from the end of Pickering station looking North A view from the north end of Pickering platform. The carriage and wagon workshop is based here

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sun Apr 8 2007 National Railway Museum http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1251700.html Photos from our visit to the National Railway Museum over the 2007 Easter weekend. Saturday 7 April 2007: Photos from our visit to the National Railway Museum over the 2007 Easter weekend.

SECR Class D number 737 built at Ashford in 1901 LSWR Class M7 number 245 built in 1897 NER Class M number 1621 built in 1893 A Midland Railways 4-2-2 number 673 built in 1899 The lighting in this part of the museum wasn't great. In the darkness is an LMS class 5MT number 5000, built in 1935 A Battle of Britain class locomotive number 34051 'Winston Churchill'. This engine was used to pull the body of Winston Churchill to his last place of rest GWR class 2800 number 2818 built at Swindon in 1905 A class 47 diesel number 47237 sits out the rear of the museum Class 37 number D3600 sits under the temporary cover at the rear of the museum Class 81 number 81001 'Royal Scot' Class 31 number 31018 We couldn't come this far and not have a ride on the small gauge railway Another class 47 number 47715 'Posiden' sits in the sidings A class 08 (?) diesel number 13079 sits in the sidings Inside the Interactive Learning Centre is a Terrier class number 82 'Boxhill' Inside The Great Hall, the first train to greet you is The Mallard - the LNER record breaking engine Close behind is The Bullet Also in this corner of The Great Hall was a cab from a Eurostar A view from the footbridge An LMS Fairburn Class 4 Tank number 2500 A GNR 4-2-2 no 1 built in 1870 A class 20 diesel number D8000 A 'V' or 'Schools' class engine number 925 'Cheltenham' with a rather annoying placed red ladder!! A class 08 diesel number 08911 'Matey' A class 55 Deltic. This one is number 55002 'King's Own Yorkshire Light Infantry'. The engine along side is worth a look just to get your head round the triangle configuration of the pistons! Probably the biggest engine in the museum - a Chinese 4-8-4 monster. It was displayed alongside Evening Star, and dwarfed it A class Q1 number C1. This class of engine is the most discussed in our house - my wife doesn't like the design and thinks it looks ugly. My son and I disagree - it's not ugly, it's unique A GWR Star class engine number 4003 'Lode Star' A LNWR 2-4-0 'Hardwicke' sits on the turntable A view of the engines around the turntable A close up of Chinese engine alongside BR 9F number 92220 'Evening Start' A Midland Railway class 4 number 1000 More engines around the turntable Class V2 'Green Arrow' was in the works for some repairs. The repairs didn't look to be too extensive as it was largely in tact The Flying Scotsman's tender The frames of class A3 number 4472 'Flying Scotsman'. The engine is undergoing a 10 year overhaul and was in bits all over the workshop floor

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sat Apr 7 2007 Watercress Line Spring Gala 2007 http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1223059.html Photos taken from the Watercress Line at their 2007 Spring Gala Saturday 3 March 2007: Photos taken from the Watercress Line at their 2007 Spring Gala

Alton station signs - old and new Standard class 5 number 73096 approaches Visitng Terrier engine no 662 Martello, sits in the sidings at Alresford Beatie 'Well tank' no 30585 its in the sidings at Alresford Little and Large - Standard Class 5 with the Beatie 'Well Tank' The standard class 5 departs for Ropley The Beatie engine removes a goods wagon from the sidings The big engine arrives - Merchant Navy class 35005 Canadian Pacific arrives at Alresford Doesn't she look great Canadian Pacific - having run round the train, attaches itself to the front ready for departure to Ropley Having travelled behind her, here is Canadian Pacific at Ropley - taking on water The smaller Bulleid - West Country class 34016 Bodmin - is in light steam in the loco yard Newly acquired dock tank engine numer 30076 outside the engine shed 15P of pulling power in the same shot - Candian Pacific heads for Alton with Bodmin in the background Visiting engine GWR small prairie number 5542 pushes a train into Ropley Another shot of the Prairie from the rear three-quarter Class A4 number 60019 is almost complete. It will look magnificent once painting has been completed Thomas sticks his buffers out from underneath the shed door - he wants to get in on the fun! This is where fun started. Canadian Pacific stopped just short of Ropley. No one was really sure why, but the following pictures tell the story Canadian Pacific passes the Standard 5 heading towards Alresford. 35005 was making room for..... ...the Ivatt Class 2 tank number 41312. The Ivatt attached itself to the coaches left by Canadian Pacific. Still no one was sure exactly what was going on. Had Canadian Pacific failed??? Then it all became clear. Canadian Pacific had no more coal. A few scoops of coal later, and Canadian Pacific was on its way again The Standard 5 heads towards Alton having had to wait for over 20 minutes while 35005 and 41312 shuffled about Visiting E4 class engine number 32473 Birch Grove moves through Ropley The GWR Prairie stops at Ropley once more A splendid double header of 662 and 30585 arrives at Ropley Our day was over - we were back at Alton and Canadian Pacific runs round the train ready for departure to Alresford

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]]> Sat Mar 3 2007 Lavender Line http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1212177.html Pictures taken on a cold grey day at the Lavender Line Sunday 18 February 2007: Pictures taken on a cold grey day at the Lavender Line

Isfield station platform 1 The signal box at Isfield The inside of the signal box The view of where the line used to go - towards Lewes. Perhaps this line will be reinstated?? A view of the carriages and brake van on platform 1 A view towards Uckfield from the end of platform 2 Another view towards Uckfield, which shows the water tower Our train for the day - a Planet 0-4-0 Diesel Mechanical Shunter - No.15 A This picture shows engine 205033 three car unit DEMU. However, one car is missing - presumably it is in the engine shed A disused Vulcan diesel sits just behind the engine shed Two class 03 diesels (03020 and 03197) sit in the sidings awaiting their turn for restoration The line to Uckfield This is where the line stops A view of the line back towards Isfield station What the driver might see! Austin 1 - an 0-6-0 Kitson Steam Locomotive No 5459 The diesel doing some shunting work on its way back to the engine shed

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sun Feb 18 2007 Spa Valley Railway Diesel Gala 2006 http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1186570.html Photos taken from the 2006 diesel gala, which was held over three days - 4/5/6 August. Some of these photos were taken at Groombridge after work on the Friday with the photos at Tunbridge Wells taken on the Saturday. Saturday 5 August 2006: Photos taken from the 2006 diesel gala, which was held over three days - 4/5/6 August. Some of these photos were taken at Groombridge after work on the Friday with the photos at Tunbridge Wells taken on the Saturday.

Class 33 number 33063 R J Mitchell enters Groombridge station Class 73 number E6047 is second in this double header Class 20 number 20118 Saltburn by Sea brings up the rear of the train The class 20 stopped at the station The train returns to Groombridge having been to the end of the line at Birchden The trailing two engines on their way through Groombridge station Class 33 number 33065 sits in the station at Tunbridge Wells Class 33 number 33063 sits along side Class 73 E6047 is also sitting at Tunbridge Wells station Class 09 number 09004 getting ready for action Class 09 moves into position Class 10 number D3489 'Colonel Tomline' also moves into position The Class 09 and 10 at the rear of the train at Groombridge The class 20 moves into position for the next train A close up of the cabside number A Drewry industrial diesel number 2591 'Southerham' gets ready for some hard work! The class 10 is ready to lend a hand

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sat Aug 5 2006 Bluebell Vintage New Year Train http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1170042.html We visit the Bluebell every year at this time. The older rolling stock tends to make an appearance, as do the older engines. A very grey day but lovely and cosy inside the heated coaches. Thursday 28 December 2006: We visit the Bluebell every year at this time. The older rolling stock tends to make an appearance, as do the older engines. A very grey day but lovely and cosy inside the heated coaches.

Class 08 diesel waits to pull a rake of coaches to Horsted Keynes A close up of the class 08 diesel Class O1 No 65 fills up with water at Sheffield Park Class O1 No 65 from the rear three-quarter A view of the wagon yard at Kingscote A view from the Sheffield Park footbridge of the Victorian coaches lined up The USA dock tank on static display at Sheffield Park A magnificent view of the 'older' rolling stock Class O1 No 65 awaits it's next journey to Horstead Keynes and Kingscote Steam and diesel traction together - a rare sight at The Bluebell Railway U Class no 1638 arrives at Sheffield Park along side the class 9f no 92240 which is on static display in the sidings

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Thu Dec 28 2006 Bluebell Railway - 2005 Giants of steam http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1151144.html These photos were taken at the Bluebell Railway's annual Giants of Steam weekend. The event saw four of the Bluebell's trains running - 21C123, 75027, 9017 and 32473. There were two visiting engines - both from the Mid Hants line - 35005 and 41213. Saturday 22 October 2005: These photos were taken at the Bluebell Railway's annual Giants of Steam weekend. The event saw four of the Bluebell's trains running - 21C123, 75027, 9017 and 32473. There were two visiting engines - both from the Mid Hants line - 35005 and 41213.

E4 Radial Tank 32473 Birch Grove and Ivatt Class 2 Tank 41213 emerge from the Sharpthorne tunnel heading for Kingscote West Country Class 21C123 Blackmoor Vale heads for the Sharpthorne tunnel on its way to Horsted Keynes Visitng engine Merchant Navy class 35005 Canadian Pacific emerges from the Sharpthorne tunnel heading for Kingscote Canadian Pacific at platform 4/5 at Horsted Keynes All the Merchant Navy class were rebuilt to a more conventional design, and as a result, the air-smooth casing was removed Blackmoor Vale runs around the train at Kingscote Blackmoor Vale waiting to depart Blackmoor Vale is an example of an un-rebuilt Bullied Pacific Canadian Pacific runs around the train at Kingscote The Canadian Pacific nameplate Having run round the train, Canadian Pacific waits to depart from Kingscote Canadian Pacific about to run under the footbridge at Sheffield Park GWR Dukedog Earl of Berkley arrives Sheffield Park as the lead engine on a double-header Standard Class 4MT 75027 is the second train on the double-header arriving at Sheffield Park A good view of the motion on 75027. 75027 is the trailing engine again in this double header with Earl of Berkley. Both trains are coupled to the carriages and are waiting to depart

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sat Oct 22 2005 The Bluebell Railway - Terrier Gala http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1136286.html Photos taken at The Bluebell Railway on the Monday of the 2006 Terrier Gala. The highlight of the gala was to be six of the class lined up at Horsted Keynes for a special photo opportunity. Sadly Bodiam, from the K & ESR had a problem which could not be repaired in time. The remaining 5 engines looked very impressive in their line up. Monday 13 November 2006: Photos taken at The Bluebell Railway on the Monday of the 2006 Terrier Gala. The highlight of the gala was to be six of the class lined up at Horsted Keynes for a special photo opportunity. Sadly Bodiam, from the K & ESR had a problem which could not be repaired in time. The remaining 5 engines looked very impressive in their line up.

Freshwater fifty years ago - maybe?? Freshwater at Hosted Keynes Knowle arrives at Horsted Keynes pulling the Observation Car, containing several VIP guests Freshwater and Martello pose for photos Knowle joins in the fun The Bluebell Terriers make a dramatic late entrance double-heading into Horsted Keynes Fenchurch simmers in the sun in between showers Birch Grove is ready to head back to Sheffield Park The line up. From left to right - Knowle, Freshwater, Martello, Stepney and Fenchurch. This picture is taken trackside Stepney and Fenchurch are seen 'discussing' how much they have enjoyed some other 'Terrier' company over the last few days Spot the difference. How many differences are there between Martello and Stepney??? The same line up, but taken from an elevated position on the bank Looking across platforms 3, 4 and 5 Just before the rain started - the line up from the end of platform 3/4 With the line up complete, and Stepney runs round the train at platform 4/5 ready to head back down to Sheffield Park Knowle prepares to take a train up to Kingscote

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Mon Nov 13 2006 Tangmere at Robertsbridge http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1128316.html Pictures taken at Robertsbridge of Battle of Britain class 34067 Tangmere. Tangmere was taking part in a mainline steam tour of Sussex and Kent. 34067 stopped at Robertsbridge to take on more water. Saturday 4 November 2006: Pictures taken at Robertsbridge of Battle of Britain class 34067 Tangmere. Tangmere was taking part in a mainline steam tour of Sussex and Kent. 34067 stopped at Robertsbridge to take on more water.

Battle of Britain class 34067 Tangmere slowly enters Robertsbridge station Tangmere just before the pedestrian bridge Tangmere comes to a halt ready to take on more water The support crew start their work. The fire can be seen glowing and provides the footplate crew with warmth on this crisp November morning Tangmere's safety valve lifts, creating an eruption of steam and a deafening noise Tangmere simmers in the early morning sun The footplate crew take a breather Having taken on water, Tangmere prepares to leave Tangmere slowly creeps forward with seemingly minimal effort Tangmere continues it's journey towards Hastings The EWS Class 66 '66127' brings up the rear

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sat Nov 4 2006 Bluebell Railway - 2006 Giants of Steam http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1116003.html A collection of photos taken at the 2006 Giants of Steam gala at the Bluebell Railway. Eddystone had new wheels fitted, but a problem was found during its test run which meant it was only in 'light steam' at Sheffield Park. The Bluebell engines Standard 4MT 75027, Standard 4 Tank 80151 (running as 80154) and Maunsell U Class 1638 were the other engines to run. Saturday 21 October 2006: A collection of photos taken at the 2006 Giants of Steam gala at the Bluebell Railway. Eddystone had new wheels fitted, but a problem was found during its test run which meant it was only in 'light steam' at Sheffield Park. The Bluebell engines Standard 4MT 75027, Standard 4 Tank 80151 (running as 80154) and Maunsell U Class 1638 were the other engines to run.

U Class 1638 emerges from the Sharpthorne tunnel U Class 1638 has just cleared the Sharpthorne tunnel and making its way to Kingscote Standard 4 Tank 80151 (running as 80154) heads for the Sharpthorne tunnel City of Truro and Earl of Berkeley double-head the train and is just arriving at Horsted Keynes U Class 1638 departs Horsted Keynes heading for Sheffield Park The class 08 diesel sits in the sidings at Horsted Keynes City of Truro - the 2000th engine to be produced by GWR at Swindon in 1903. It is also the first train to ever travel over 100mph (unofficially) West Country Class 34028 'Eddystone' steams lightly in the sidings at Sheffield Park City of Truro and Earl of Berkeley run round the train at Sheffield Park City of Truro takes on more water at Sheffield Park Stepney and Fenchurch await their turn in the spotlight. The Terrier weekend will be very soon! Standard Class 4MT 75027 approaches Horsted Keynes from Kingscote Standard 4 Tank 80154 runs non-stop through Horsted Keynes on its way to Kingscote Earl of Berkeley and City of Truro once more double head a train into Horsted Keynes U Class 1638 powers away from Horsted Keynes on its way to Kingscote

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sat Oct 21 2006 Watercress Line Autumn Steam Gala 2006 http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1091356.html These are a selection of photos taken at the 2006 Mid-Hants Autumn Steam Gala. Visiting engine GWR Prairie 4160 was due to run over the weekend, but encountered a problem on the Friday, which prevented it from taking any further part in the weekend. The other visiting engine - GWR Hall Class 4936 Kinlet Hall, was immaculate and produced a fantastic noise over 'the Alps'. This was my first visit to The Mid Hants railway, and I was very impressed. The large engines were well turned out and sounded great over 'the Alps'. The station buildings were also very well kept and made the whole trip a good experience. Saturday 23 September 2006: These are a selection of photos taken at the 2006 Mid-Hants Autumn Steam Gala. Visiting engine GWR Prairie 4160 was due to run over the weekend, but encountered a problem on the Friday, which prevented it from taking any further part in the weekend. The other visiting engine - GWR Hall Class 4936 Kinlet Hall, was immaculate and produced a fantastic noise over 'the Alps'. This was my first visit to The Mid Hants railway, and I was very impressed. The large engines were well turned out and sounded great over 'the Alps'. The station buildings were also very well kept and made the whole trip a good experience.

Class 5 73096 backs onto the coaches at Alresford Ivatt Class 2 tank engine number 41312 arrives at Alresford pulling a selection of vans and wagons A close up of the visiting engine's name plate Visting engine Kinlet Hall in the sidings at Alresford Class 9F arrives at Alresford with a rake of Southern coaches Kinlet Hall leaves Alresford heading for Ropley West Country Class Bodmin running around the train at Alresford Class 9F and Ivatt Class 2 tank at Alresford Class 9F at Alresford preparing to leave for Roply West Country Class Bodmin entering the sidings at Alresford Class A4 engine Bittern in the loco shed at Ropley under going full restoration Visiting engine GWR Prairie Class 4160 in the engine shed at Ropley. This engine apparently suffered a failure the day before, and was being worked on to repair it ready for the Sunday That 'really useful engine' in the loco yard at Ropley Class 08 number D3358 sits in the sidings at Ropley Black five The Sherwood Forester arriving at Ropley Class 5 73096 waiting at Ropley to leave as Class 9F arrives Ivatt Class 2 tank operating the push/pull service between Ropley and Alresford Class S15 class number 30506 under going restoration at Ropley Class S15 number E828 also under going restoration at Ropley Bullied Pacific West Country Class 34105 Swanage disguised as 34102 Lapford, awaiting restoration in the sidings at Ropley Standard class 4MT number 76017 waits for it's turn to under go restoration A view from platform 3 at Alton Class 9F running arounf the train at Alton The new and the old together at Alton

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sat Sep 23 2006 Romney Hythe & Dymchurch Railway http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1052392.html Pictures from a very wet Romney Hythe & Dymchurch Railway taken on 14th August 2006 Monday 14 August 2006: Pictures from a very wet Romney Hythe & Dymchurch Railway taken on 14th August 2006

New Romney engine shed New Romney signal box No 14 'Captain Howey' at Hythe station No 10 'Dr Syn' at New Romney station No 5 'Hercules' at New Romney station No 5 'Hercules' from the front No 2 'Northern Chief' at New Romney station No 8 'Winston Churchill' at New Romney station The main terminus at New Romney. In wet weather, as it was during our visit, an excellent place to view the trains arriving at the station No 6 'Samson' reversing out of the sidings at New Romney station No 7 'Typhoon' arrives at New Romney station from Dungeness No 5 'Hercules' moves into a siding at New |Romney No 5 'Hercules' reversing out of the sidings at New Romney Station No 2 'Northern Chief' at New Romney station No 2 'Northern Chief departs from New Romney on it's way to Dungeness

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Mon Aug 14 2006 Cabside numbers http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1018445.html This is a bit anorakish - but this collection contains photos of cabside numbers! LATEST UPDATE - I've added some more pictures after our visit to the National Railway Museum and the North York Moors Monday 10 July 2006: This is a bit anorakish - but this collection contains photos of cabside numbers! LATEST UPDATE - I've added some more pictures after our visit to the National Railway Museum and the North York Moors

Merchant Navy class - Canadian Pacific Standard class 4MT U class West Country class - Blackmoor Vale Battle of Britain class - Tangmere Black 5 - The Sherwood Forester Standard class 5 'Camelot' Standard class 9F Standard class 4T Schools Class 'Stowe' LMS Ivatt Class 2 Tank LMS Jinty GWR Pannier Tank Class 94XX Standard class 5 GWR Hall class - Kinlet Hall Class 9F West Country Class - Bodmin City of Truro Standard 4 Tank 80151 in disguise! West Country Class - Eddystone Terrier class 'Knowle' LBSCR Radial Tank Class E4 'Birch Grove' GWR Prairie 2-6-2T Battle of Britain class 'Winston Churchill' GWR class 2800 2-8-0 Merchant Navy class 'Ellerman Lines' Standard class 4MT LNER A4 Pacific 'Sir Nigel Gresley' SR Schools class 'Repton' LNER K1 class 2-6-0 Beattie Well Tank Merchant Navy class - Clan Line

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Mon Jul 10 2006 Tangmere at Penshurst http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c1016017.html A collection of pictures taken when Battle of Britain class 34067 Tangmere stopped for water at Penshurst during it's tour of Kent and East Sussex as Golden Arrow on 8th July 2006. Saturday 8 July 2006: A collection of pictures taken when Battle of Britain class 34067 Tangmere stopped for water at Penshurst during it's tour of Kent and East Sussex as Golden Arrow on 8th July 2006.

Tangmere arrives at Penshurst The support crew get to work Cab side number and crest Golden Arrow headboard with flags Tangmere departs after taking on more water Tangmere heads for Edenbridge An immaculate class 67 diesel 'Royal Sovereign' at the rear of the train

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sat Jul 8 2006 Bentley railway http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c979409.html Pictures of the miniature railway at Bentley, near Lewes. Saturday 3 June 2006: Pictures of the miniature railway at Bentley, near Lewes.

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sat Jun 3 2006 East Somerset Railway http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c975032.html These are a selection of photos taken from the East Somerset Railway. We visited the railway during our 2005 holiday on a glorious sunny day. Thursday 11 August 2005: These are a selection of photos taken from the East Somerset Railway. We visited the railway during our 2005 holiday on a glorious sunny day.

30075 just about to run around the train Cranmore station looking beautiful The engine shed minus roof Thomas being prepared for the ESR Thomas weekend Class 56XX - engine number 5637 in the engine shed Class 08 diesel 'Mendip' in the sidings The signal box at Cranmore USA Tank 30075 at Cranmore

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Thu Aug 11 2005 GWR Steam Museum at Swindon http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c975018.html A collection of photos from the GWR museum in the old works buildings at Swindon. An excellent museum with some great engines on display. Saturday 13 August 2005: A collection of photos from the GWR museum in the old works buildings at Swindon. An excellent museum with some great engines on display.

Caerphilly Castle Pannier Tank 94XX class - engine number 9400 2301 class - engine number 2516 King George V The drivers eye view of King George V Class 50 Diesel - Glorious

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sat Aug 13 2005 Misc train pictures http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c975008.html A mixed bag of photos - these include mainline trains, both electric and diesel on lines around the South East and in London. Tuesday 30 May 2006: A mixed bag of photos - these include mainline trains, both electric and diesel on lines around the South East and in London.

Corfe Castle station from Corfe Castle Class 4T #80078 heading towards Norden Eastbourne to Hastings train as seen from Pevensey campsite Another Eastbourne to Hastings train The Southern Railway emblem at Charing Cross The 11:09 enters Crowborough heading for Uckfield The 11:09 departs! 12.09 Uckfield service from Crowborough approaching the Western Road bridge 12.09 Uckfield service heading for the Crowborough Tunnel Class 377 arrives at Penshurst heading for Tonbridge Class 508 arrives at Penshurst heading for Edenbridge Class 375 arrives at Penshurst heading for Tonbridge Class 375 heading towards Marden station Class 375 heading for Ashford station A view of Dolis Hill tube station Class 165 '165004' heading out of London on the Chiltern line Class 66 '66020' Class 66 '66703' Class 66 '66701' Charing Cross from the London Eye Class 450 number 450 055 waits at Alton Station Class 450 number 450 067 waits at Alton Station Class 375 '375922' leaves Robertsbridge heading for Charing Cross

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Tue May 30 2006 Kent & East Sussex Railway Diesel Gala 2005 http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c968153.html A small collection of photos taken at the Kent & East Sussex Railway on their diesel gala day on 9th October 2005. Sunday 9 October 2005: A small collection of photos taken at the Kent & East Sussex Railway on their diesel gala day on 9th October 2005.

Class 33 at Bodiam Another view of the Class 33 diesel Class 33 at Tenterden A view of Tenterden station looking towards Rolvenden A view of Tenterden looking east The drivers cab inside the class 108 DMU A drivers view

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Sun Oct 9 2005 The Bluebell Railway http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c954060.html A collection of pictures taken over time at the Bluebell. These include photos of the engines in current operation, as well as those on static display. LATEST UPDATE - additonal photos from our visit on 13th October. City of Truro being the working engine for our journey. Wednesday 10 May 2006: A collection of pictures taken over time at the Bluebell. These include photos of the engines in current operation, as well as those on static display. LATEST UPDATE - additonal photos from our visit on 13th October. City of Truro being the working engine for our journey.

Standard Class 4 Tank 80151 at Sheffield Park Class O1 No 65 at Horsted Keynes Earl of Berkley waiting to pull out of Sheffield Park Standard 9F awaiting overhaul Standard Class 5 'Camelot' awaiting overhaul The signal box to the south of Kingscote station Standard Class 4MT 75027 at Sheffield Park A very steamy Standard Class 4MT begins it's journey to Sheffield Park A view from the observation car - looking south at Sheffield Park Earl of Berkley runs around the train Three arch bridge - just south of Horsted Keynes Standard Class 4MT departs from Horsted Keynes heading for Sheffield Park Stepney at Horsted Keynes - probably being used for steam driving days Looking back into Horsted Keynes as we travel north to Kingscote Heading into the Sharpthorne tunnel ...and then out the other end One of the footplate crew accepting the token from the guard at Kingscote signal box U Class 1638 at Horsted Keynes Bullied wheels on a truck at Horsted Keynes 'The little train' - as my son described it - running through Horsted Keynes Doris at Horsted Keynes 75027 at Horsted Keynes Blackmoor Vale in the sunshine at Kingscote The line to East Grinstead - the view north of Kingscote Looking south to Kingscote from the East Grinstead stretch of track Yours truely on U Class 1638. I celebrated my birthday by having a footplate ride U Class 1638 seen from the footbridge U Class 1638 filling up with water at Sheffield Park LMS Ivatt Class 2 Tank 41312 at Kingscote The signal box at Kingscote Terrier class 672 Fenchurch providing the power for the driver training day at Horsted Keynes Class O1 65 at Sheffield Park Pullman car Fingall at Sheffield Park LMS Ivatt Class 2 Tank 41312 as Golden Arrow Visitng engine 3440 City of Truro at Sheffield Park City of Truro nameplate City of Truro getting ready to pull the train clear of the platform City of Truro's GWR engline plate On its way Maunsell S15 class number 847 sits just outside the locomotive works at Sheffield Park The tradesman's entrance to the loco works

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Wed May 10 2006 Spa Valley Railway - general http://photosbysean.fotopic.net/c953914.html A collection of engines which you can find at the Spa Valley Railway in Tunbridge Wells. Most are resident engines with a few visiting engines along the way. LATEST UPDATE - pictures from the Steam Gala taken on the 17th September Monday 1 May 2006: A collection of engines which you can find at the Spa Valley Railway in Tunbridge Wells. Most are resident engines with a few visiting engines along the way. LATEST UPDATE - pictures from the Steam Gala taken on the 17th September

Fonman at Tunbridge Wells Class 33 at Groombridge Sealion and R J MItchell at Tunbridge Wells Lady Ingrid at Tunbridge Wells Visiting engine Martello at Groombridge Class 10 diesel at Tunbridge Wells Class 33 'R J Mitchell' arriving at Groombridge Visiting engine class 20 'Saltburn-by-the-sea' at Groombridge Class 20 diesel returns to Groombridge having been to Birchden Class 73 entering Groombridge Class 33 'R J Mitchell' at Tunbridge Wells Class 09, Class 10 and two class 33 line up at Tunbridge Wells Class 10 and Class 09 at Groombridge Class 20 at Tunbridge Wells Diesel shunter 2591 'Southerham' moves into position at Tunbridge Wells An impressive line up of Lady Ingrid, Fonman and Jinty at Tunbridge Wells Lady Ingrid at Tunbridge Wells LMS Jinty 47493 at Tunbridge Wells Fonman at Tunbridge Wells Visiting engine GWR Pannier Tank 9466 running round the train at Tunbridge Wells. This engine is immaculate and is a credit to those that maintain her. A view of the end of the line at Birchden. This is where the line will join the mainline and the next stop will be Eridge.

Published in Preserved train photographs by Sean Tompsett

]]> Mon May 1 2006