Jons trains/railpics http://jons-trains.fotopic.net/ 22 rows en-gb 60 Barnetby trip (cold!!) http://jons-trains.fotopic.net/c1770986.html A weeks holiday and a toss up between Barnetby or Ipswich, well it had to be the lure North!! a 5am start and two and a half hours later and a full bladder i arrived!! A very cold day ranging between 6 and 11 degress and anyone who knows Barnetby knows its an open space and the winds due cause it to be cold. Weather was cloudy to start with, sunny by lunchtime and pissing down by 15.00 which caused me to take cover in a shelter!! Just to make the pics more interesting i took shots from different areas of the station. Highlights included 4 (yes 4!!) class 60's in 4 different liveries, 66709 on a coal train and 66612 which ive never seen before (belive me there aint a lot i need!) It was very busy freight wise up till lunch time, but it seriuosly went quiet after 13.00 with only 2 to 3 freights an hour, but on the whole im glad i went the 126 miles North!! Tuesday 20 October 2009: A weeks holiday and a toss up between Barnetby or Ipswich, well it had to be the lure North!! a 5am start and two and a half hours later and a full bladder i arrived!! A very cold day ranging between 6 and 11 degress and anyone who knows Barnetby knows its an open space and the winds due cause it to be cold. Weather was cloudy to start with, sunny by lunchtime and pissing down by 15.00 which caused me to take cover in a shelter!! Just to make the pics more interesting i took shots from different areas of the station. Highlights included 4 (yes 4!!) class 60's in 4 different liveries, 66709 on a coal train and 66612 which ive never seen before (belive me there aint a lot i need!) It was very busy freight wise up till lunch time, but it seriuosly went quiet after 13.00 with only 2 to 3 freights an hour, but on the whole im glad i went the 126 miles North!!

Still a puller!! the semophores at Barnetby contrast with 170305 first time i've seen a 170 at Barnetby 170305 pulls on a train to Cleethorpes 66197 contrasts with the steam era semophores 66197 chuggs into Barnetby with I/Ore empties from Stanton First 60 of the day in TTF grey livery 60077 stops for a crew change with loaded Tanks form Lindsey crew change for 60077, anyone fancy a ride??? 60077 puts on a clag show couldnt resist another shot (many thanks driver who did this esp for the photters) you had to be there to fully apreciate this!! 'Scud' 153326 comes in for a stop with a train for Grimsby the other 66/0 on the I//Ore circuit 66180 takes the down slow with loaded hoppers 185121 stops with a train from Cleethorpes 66592 on a rake of HAA empties bound for Immingham 66552 with loaded hoppers heads west Second class 60, like the mid 90's!! 60059 climbs past the semophores what a treat!! 60059 makes noisy climb into Barnetby with a long train of empty TEA wagons bound for Linndsey first of many!! 66001 on a mixed Enterprise from Doncaster bound for Immingham 185127 heads for Cleethorpes Third Class 60, Mainline blue 60011 on a short steel train 66050 takes the back road with loaded coal hoppers how long will this nameplate be on here now DBS owns the loco?? 170305 returns driver of 170305 has a cuppa, hard work innit!! the suns out!! 66548 with empty coal hoppers 66175 with another rake of coal empties 66180 and the signals 66180 returns with I/Ore empties track machines been serviced in Barnetby station sidings is this 2009 or is it the 1950's Barnetby East signal box, not Network Rail bod up the signal, how long will this maintenance be carried out before the semophores are torn down! photters awaiting that shot!! (66044) 66044 with more empties 'Scud' 153311 approaches for a stop passenger trains!! 153311 and 185127 pause Track machine comes out of the siding note the GB sticker!! 66054 with loaded coal hoppers 66197 on I/Ore empties 66180 with loaded I/Ore hoppers 66548 catches Autumn sunshine with a rake of loaded coal hoppers 66709 framed in the semophores Medite black 66709 on a long rake of empties 66175 on a loaded coal train 153326 unloads its passengers 66180 again lightly loaded but still clagging nicely 66180 wins 66/0 clagmiester of the day!! 66057 with loaded coal heads under the footbridge 66147 under the home signal 66147 with empty TEA wagons climbs into Barnetby station 66612 makes a fuss climbing into Barnetby stn a new cop for me!! 66612 with 30 empty TEA wagons slowly heads through the station

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]]> Tue Oct 20 2009 Peterborough stn http://jons-trains.fotopic.net/c1762363.html a 'get away from it all' trip to Peterborough, although not very busy, i copped 66730 which cleared my GBRF class 66's and also a Grand Central class 180 Wednesday 30 September 2009: a 'get away from it all' trip to Peterborough, although not very busy, i copped 66730 which cleared my GBRF class 66's and also a Grand Central class 180

66137 arries out a crew change on a Northbound intermodal hammering through the center road Ruston-Paxman HST 43068 leads the way using a very quick shutter speed 43068 is captured at 100 MPH 170113 heads North toward Liverpool 91114 with number on the front valence stops on route to Leeds 158866 crawls into Peterborough with a Norwich service 170205 and 66956 pause at PB 91110 this time with '10' on the right front valence speeds North through the center road plenty of GC Ruston-Paxman thrash still available at PB,here is 43067 and 084 whilst 170521 picks up trade, 43067 and 08 are held at the south end Adelante 180113 hammers south through the center road enthusiasts get spermy over 66956 66956 finally gets the road enthusiasts awaiting Tornado 180111 on a Hull Trains service loco convoy 1:- 66727 and 708 head for Whitemoor 66708 brings up the rear of loco convoy 1 91127 pauses to pick up passengers on a service to Edinborough Tornado approaches a stop a fine view of Tornado 60163 awaits the whistle a view of 60163's nameplate how envyous are you???? meanwhile round the back of the stabling point, this guys getting some 'shed' action 66232 and 001 share stabling space 66232 and 66001 at rest 170638 on a Stanstead airport run hows about this then? CG liveried Adelante 180112 enters PB 43319 stops for trade on a Glasgow service ex DRS 66401 awaits a path up to the GBRF depot North of the station 43299 on the rear of 43319's train 66401 heads of to the GBRF depot 66188 speeds through platform 5 on an aggregates train 43316 slows for a stop at PB train dispatcher lost in thought as 43317 approaches 43317 looks workstained!! loco convoy 2 :- 66712 leading 66730 a happy man!! this was the last 66'7 i needed in the book 180111 returns on route to London framed in the north station bridge more GC HST action on return to Norwich, this awaited me 37087 stabled in the Royal dock

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]]> Wed Sep 30 2009 Barrow Hill 'Type Five' Diesel Gala 09 http://jons-trains.fotopic.net/c1739022.html An invite to Barrow Hill to join the lads on 56101 for the gala was well recieved and off i set at 05.00 for the trip up to Staveley. First job of the day was drain off 125 litres of engine oil that had soaked the bed plate of 56101 as a crank case door came off during Saturdays (thanks Gareth!!) yours truly spent the best part of an hour underneath the loco draining the oil out!! once that was done a new seal was placed on the offending door seal and the whole thing was refitted, Gareth placed fresh oil into 56101 and we spent a day on site, 56101 did three turns on the shuttle run with 47818, later in the day i coupled 56098 up to 56101 and we opened them up in multiple.....my Lordzzzzz!!!!! During the gala and at the end of the day i went round and took as many pics as i could, here are 46 pics taken during the Sunday!!! Sunday 9 August 2009: An invite to Barrow Hill to join the lads on 56101 for the gala was well recieved and off i set at 05.00 for the trip up to Staveley. First job of the day was drain off 125 litres of engine oil that had soaked the bed plate of 56101 as a crank case door came off during Saturdays (thanks Gareth!!) yours truly spent the best part of an hour underneath the loco draining the oil out!! once that was done a new seal was placed on the offending door seal and the whole thing was refitted, Gareth placed fresh oil into 56101 and we spent a day on site, 56101 did three turns on the shuttle run with 47818, later in the day i coupled 56098 up to 56101 and we opened them up in multiple.....my Lordzzzzz!!!!! During the gala and at the end of the day i went round and took as many pics as i could, here are 46 pics taken during the Sunday!!!

20102 and 20096 freshly painted for the gala 20096 and 20102 57006 stabled 57006 stabled 97304 stabled 97304 with 97302 57008 stabled 97302 with 97304 Fastlines 66305 saved but for how long!! 37375 in the storage sidings 66425 with 66433 idle in the storage sidings DRS 66433 B/W era pic of 56101 and 56006 KW flails from 56101 before 56101 took part in the shuttles HNRC's 47818 spent all day on the shuttles, prob supplying ETS for the stock 56101 owner Gareth Broughton with fellow C56G members Keith Wright and Alan Flockheart 47818 returns on a shuttle run me in the cab of 56101 66305 and 57008 stabled 56006 seen from 56101 (wonder who overfilled the header tank on 006 66433 heads out on a shuttle run 56006 and 66841 grids 56006 and 101 with headboards in place Gareth gets final instructions form a BH shunter 20107 and 20096 sit in the warm sunshine 56101 heads out on a shuttle train 56101 heads out on a shuttle run 56006 awaits its turn of duty on the shuttles Western magic 56101 comes in from its shuttles 56101 gives a bit of power as she comes in to stable a fine study of 56101 BR Green at BH ex Fragonset 47488 looking forlorn Hellfire!! 56006 erupts as she heads off on ta shuttle train 56006 on the shuttles 56006 on L/E move 47818 returns from a shuttle run 66842 gets ready for its shuttle run 47818 awaits a drag up the demo line a period shot of BH a period shot of BH inbetween the traction 66305 cab end 57006 and 66305 share stabling space 57006 with 97304 37197 in the storage sidings contrastig cabs of 66841 and 66425 37197 in the storage sidings 57008 on a shunt move

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]]> Sun Aug 9 2009 Lowestoft Air Festival 2009 http://jons-trains.fotopic.net/c1730432.html A visit to the annual Lowestoft air Festival and for me disapointing, not the aircraft participating but how far out the displaying aircraft were, even with my 300mm lens on full whack, i struggled to get sharp crisp images and have had to crop pics to get the feel of an airshow,i seriuosly felt sorry for people who had compact cameras who prob only have minute specs of aircraft on thier camera displays, also the people at the North end of the beach missed out a lot of the action as aircraft coming in from the sea banked left and missed the thousands of people that were at the north end. The Vulcan did two passes but again the aircraft was way to far out to get good pics. I was very Disapointed to be honest, yes its free (although i did donate a chunk of cash for charity) but the display line should have been further forward, most people were using binoculars to view the displays (if they had them) Thursday 23 July 2009: A visit to the annual Lowestoft air Festival and for me disapointing, not the aircraft participating but how far out the displaying aircraft were, even with my 300mm lens on full whack, i struggled to get sharp crisp images and have had to crop pics to get the feel of an airshow,i seriuosly felt sorry for people who had compact cameras who prob only have minute specs of aircraft on thier camera displays, also the people at the North end of the beach missed out a lot of the action as aircraft coming in from the sea banked left and missed the thousands of people that were at the north end. The Vulcan did two passes but again the aircraft was way to far out to get good pics. I was very Disapointed to be honest, yes its free (although i did donate a chunk of cash for charity) but the display line should have been further forward, most people were using binoculars to view the displays (if they had them)

The Blades (2 Excel aviation) go through a close loop The Blades during thier display The Blades with A Offer as leader during thier display An Army AH64 Apache from RAF Wattisham paid a visit (not on the timetable!!) Supermarine Spitfire Mk IX flown by Caroline Grace Supermarine Spitfire Mk IX shows its D-Day stripes Westland Lynx flown by Lt S Gamble Skyraider AD-4N KC 135 stratotanker piloted by Maj C Erricson from Mildenhall KC 135 Stratotanker with fuel boom extended KC 135 does a close pass with fuel boom extended KC 135 heads off after pass Battle of Britain Memorial flight passes as Spitfire and Hurricane peel off BBMF Lancaster passes BBMF Lancaster with bomb bay open BBMF Lancaster with wheels down BBMF trio form up and flys by, the pilot commanding was Sdn Ldr A Pinner BBMF passes the crowds after display Colourfull Hawker Hunter flown by J Whaley Team Guinot (x 2 Stearman) Team Guinot head off after display Avro Vulcan owned by Vulcan Operations and flown by D Thomas Avro Vulcan shows off its bomb bay Capt R Aarts from the Royal Netherlands Air Force passes in his General Dynamics F16 Final display from the RAF Red Arrows led by Wg Cdr J Hawker the Red Arrows the Red Arrows in Formation i had to be very quick on this shot , esp with an 800 mph closer speed on both aircraft heading for the break

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]]> Thu Jul 23 2009 Duxford (Flying legends) 2009 http://jons-trains.fotopic.net/c1726024.html Yes i know its not trains (call it an intermission) but a photographic trip to Duxford came up, so armed with various cameras i attended the 'Flying Legends 2009' firstly many thanks to the staff at Duxford for thier assistance and the re-enactment groups who posed for pictures, i think you will agree there are some superb shots in this gallery!! Tuesday 14 July 2009: Yes i know its not trains (call it an intermission) but a photographic trip to Duxford came up, so armed with various cameras i attended the 'Flying Legends 2009' firstly many thanks to the staff at Duxford for thier assistance and the re-enactment groups who posed for pictures, i think you will agree there are some superb shots in this gallery!!

a line up of P40/B17F and B25 Mitchells on the flight line B17F crewman poses in front of his machine re-enactment pilot beside the P40 serial number 42-105915 two pilots in discussion on the flightline USAAF groundcrew 'chew the fat' on the flightline a line up of P51's on the flightline USAAF re-enactment guys pose by the aircraft B17G-85 44-8846 Pink Lady seen on the flightline more poses by the Re-enactment groups by the aircraft Mk2a BBMF Spitfire P7350 on the flightline Spitfire F IXE PL344 on the flightline another view of the Mk2a Spitfire Pilot rests in the shad of his Seafire Mk2c Hurricane PZ865 complete with RAF pilot Hurricane and Spitfire seen on the flightline Merlin engine in full throttle strapped to a trailer (the sound was awesome) a flight of Yaks in display FW190 taxi's along the perimiter track pilot mounts his Spitfire prior to take off Spitfire start up Spitfire start up Hurricanes R4118 and PZ865 on the flightline a vic of 3 Spitfires take off 3 spitfires take to the sky ME109 and FwW190 pass overhead two Spifires head in for a low pass 4 Spitfires bank left after a high speed pass ME109 and Fw190 on a low pass FW190 carries out a low straffing run FW190 on a low close flypast FW190 on a tight turn trying to catch a Spitfire Mk2a Spitfire taxi's in after display Spitfire F IXE PL344 taxi's in after display 3 P51 Mustangs in a close loop 3 P51's on a low pass 3 P51's head into a climb 3 P51's head up for a loop 3 P51's on a tight left turn 3 P51's on a dive 3 P51's heading in for a low pass 3 B25 Mitchells plus a P40 on a low pass B25D-30 43-3318 Mitchell in a very tight turn P40N 42-105915 passes the crowds P40N in a barrel roll P51D-25 44-84847 taxi's in after display P51D-25-4472917 taxi's along the perimiter B25 II KL161 heads in for a low pass B25 II KL161 in RAF livery and complete with D-Day invasion stripes Sea Fury ISS 37514 on taxi

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]]> Tue Jul 14 2009 Norwich stn 04/07/09 http://jons-trains.fotopic.net/c1721114.html Thanks to gen from Oli Smith (cheers mate) the word spread that 90019 was to be on the 14.18 drag to Yarmouth, now 90019 in First livery and a DRS 47802 together would make an excellent phot, so armed with my Nikon and Canon compact i braved the sweltering 26 heat and took a batch of phots focusing on 47802 and 90019. Thanks once again Oli for the heads up and the up to the min gen as it happened!! Saturday 4 July 2009: Thanks to gen from Oli Smith (cheers mate) the word spread that 90019 was to be on the 14.18 drag to Yarmouth, now 90019 in First livery and a DRS 47802 together would make an excellent phot, so armed with my Nikon and Canon compact i braved the sweltering 26 heat and took a batch of phots focusing on 47802 and 90019. Thanks once again Oli for the heads up and the up to the min gen as it happened!!

47802 approaches Norwich Stn ex Yarmouth 47802 arrives at Norwich 90019 sits in the sunshine awaiting 47802 to drag it to Yarmouth released from the blocks heads out to couple up to 90019 47802 passes a caution light heading out l/e a view of 47802 in the station throat 47802 crossing the scissors into platform 4 47802 approaching platform 4 47802 couples up to 90019 a view of 47802 ready to go shunter awaits the tip!! right of way to depart Mr Elliott my shunter boss at the MNR enjoying some 47 haulage a view of 90019 at Norwich under a blue sky 90019 at Norwich First collaborating with National Express!! bet the bosses love this!! 47802 being coupled to 90019 a view of 47802 and 90019 ready for the 14.18 drag to Yarmouth the colourful convoy leaves for the coast!!

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]]> Sat Jul 4 2009 Toton TMD http://jons-trains.fotopic.net/c1720061.html Me and a few of the lads decided to hire a car and visit Toton to bag the stored 60's that are around the depot, plus me needing 3 loco's that ive never seen and knowing they are there was an opportunity not be missed, firstly the depot was rammed with locos, 60's everywhere most can be picked off from the bank or the A52 bridge, secondly the three locos i needed where there so i have now seen the whole fleet!! thirdly it was bloody hot!! on the bank it had to be close to 30 degrees, we had flies and midges all over us!! all in all a bloody good haul with over 100 locos copped at Toton Sunday 28 June 2009: Me and a few of the lads decided to hire a car and visit Toton to bag the stored 60's that are around the depot, plus me needing 3 loco's that ive never seen and knowing they are there was an opportunity not be missed, firstly the depot was rammed with locos, 60's everywhere most can be picked off from the bank or the A52 bridge, secondly the three locos i needed where there so i have now seen the whole fleet!! thirdly it was bloody hot!! on the bank it had to be close to 30 degrees, we had flies and midges all over us!! all in all a bloody good haul with over 100 locos copped at Toton

pioneer 60001 now sits dumped in the training compound not a good sight to see 60008 and 60069 sits amounst the trees and saplings a sight well worth the journey Toton packed with locos a closer look at the locos stabled at Toton will 60098 ever return to traffic, she looks like she is being robbed for spares, here she sadly sits looking very forlorn in Toton training compund a loco ive never seen 60036 sits in the compound a nice little nest of locos outside the depot long residents 60081/44 and 06 outside awaiting thier fate 60078/50/30 and 090 line up at Toton messers Newton and Allcock copping numbers on Toton bank more locos stored to the rear of the depot Mr Alcock straining to cop a 60 a view looking in of the A52 60081/44 and 006 seen from the /A52 an expanded view of the depot 3 rows of 60's plus a 66 locos outside the depot a super view of the entire depot Toton TMD a mass of locos close up some of these locos i could not id (i wonder why) 60003 and 37402 round the back of the depot at toton Mr Allcock returns from a successfull cop round the back of Toton depot, i had just returned from the same long walk across the long grass and belive me my jeans were bloody ruined with stains taken from up a tree!! 60072 (the things i do to cop a number) the lads taking phots Mr Allcock trying to get a picture clambering down from the A52 to the car on Bessell lane, this was a scary experience coming down, going up was easy!! Mr Allcock and Newton 60003 round the back of Toton depot messers Drain/Allcock and Newton trying to cop numbers round the back of toton depot

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]]> Sun Jun 28 2009 Norwich station 6-6-09 http://jons-trains.fotopic.net/c1708553.html 47501 was rostered on the 'drags' today so a visit to Norwich station to capture the home action was the order of the day, firstly a big thank you to the NATEX station staff and ticket barrier staff who kindly let me onto the platforms without a ticket to photograph (seems if you are polite enough you can gain access to the platforms) Back to the action this afternoon 47501 arrived on time with the ex 13.06 Yarmouth service, but she never took the 14.18 'drag' back to Yarmouth, the service was substituted for 2 x class 170's as 501 developed operating faults, so 501 was left on the blocks ticking over until 15.05 when she left light engine for Crown point. seems the 14.18 service to Yarmouth has caught the 'gremlins' again as it does most years, be interesting to see whats on the drags next weekend!!! Saturday 6 June 2009: 47501 was rostered on the 'drags' today so a visit to Norwich station to capture the home action was the order of the day, firstly a big thank you to the NATEX station staff and ticket barrier staff who kindly let me onto the platforms without a ticket to photograph (seems if you are polite enough you can gain access to the platforms) Back to the action this afternoon 47501 arrived on time with the ex 13.06 Yarmouth service, but she never took the 14.18 'drag' back to Yarmouth, the service was substituted for 2 x class 170's as 501 developed operating faults, so 501 was left on the blocks ticking over until 15.05 when she left light engine for Crown point. seems the 14.18 service to Yarmouth has caught the 'gremlins' again as it does most years, be interesting to see whats on the drags next weekend!!!

90012 on the 13.30 London service Cotswold seem still to have a presence with NATEX 47810 is photted stabled in the royal dock hybrid units on the Yarmouth service 170202 rosterd on the Cambridge service 47501 approaches platform 2 ex 13.06 Yarmouth 47501 entering platform 2 90001 brings up the rear from Yarmouth the race is on!! 156419 and DVT 82105 race for the buffers crowds gather for the 14.18 'drag' replacement dmu's for the 14.18 Yarmouth 170272/271 158788 heads off for liverpool 156419 heads for lowestoft on the heels of 158788 90001 awaits the road with the 14.00 London service who says dmu's dont clag? 170271/272 head into platform 2 replacing the 47 booked service 158866 arrives from liverpool 170271/272 replace the booked class 47 diagram and leave on the 14.18 Yarmouth service 90010 and stock which was supposed to be 'dragged' to Yarmouth head off to Crown point 156418 and DVT 82121 arrive together at Norwich 82121 head into platform 2 (note 47501 is still on the blocks at this time) NATEX liveried 90015 on the 15.00 London service new livery meets old 90015 and 90009 line up at Norwich 170207 arrives from Cambridge disgraced 47501 ticks over on the blocks on platform 2 enthusiast gets his shot of 47501 left on the blocks 47501 awaiting path back to crown point 47501 seen on the blocks after arriving from Yarmouth

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]]> Sat Jun 6 2009 Doncaster Station 29th May http://jons-trains.fotopic.net/c1706386.html Day 2 of the trip took us to Doncaster, we found a car park behind the power signal box and an unbelivable price of 2.00 per day!! now there is a barrier at Doncaster station so you ask at the info desk that you want to take pictures/spotting, they will tell you to go to the barrier and ask to gain permission from the station manager on platform 3b, but the chaps on the barrier just asked us for proof of our aim i:e camera/books etc and let us straight through with no problems (thank you NATEX and the kind staff at Doncaster station who were very friendly towards us) it was a very busy and sweltering day (26 degrees) freight was busy and two rail tours really made the day, but the highlight was 66841 (66406) which came from the south and stabled in the works sidings, a fantastic day i recommend Doncaster station still to anybody!! Friday 29 May 2009: Day 2 of the trip took us to Doncaster, we found a car park behind the power signal box and an unbelivable price of 2.00 per day!! now there is a barrier at Doncaster station so you ask at the info desk that you want to take pictures/spotting, they will tell you to go to the barrier and ask to gain permission from the station manager on platform 3b, but the chaps on the barrier just asked us for proof of our aim i:e camera/books etc and let us straight through with no problems (thank you NATEX and the kind staff at Doncaster station who were very friendly towards us) it was a very busy and sweltering day (26 degrees) freight was busy and two rail tours really made the day, but the highlight was 66841 (66406) which came from the south and stabled in the works sidings, a fantastic day i recommend Doncaster station still to anybody!!

Thunderbirds are go!! 67021 rescues 91102 and stock, here is the consist hurtling through the center road 91110 heads north through the center road 185119 crosses the pointwork heading for manchester airport 158816 in colourfull livery heads south not in the current lists 08754 and 08871 share the sidings 66528 on a l/e move moves slowly through the station 66543 heads a f/l train south through the center road 66060 arrives with a train of continuous rail 43300 heads south out of platform 1 driver of 66060 takes a breather with sunlight glinting off the body sides 66060 gets the right of way 91124 on the 'flying scotsman' service blasts through the center road 'scud' 153383 arrives from Newark 221019 rounds the bend on a x country service partly obscured by an 'up' service 66711 heads south with a coal train 66192 heads south through the center road with an intermodal service 158907 cuts across 66597 66529 slowly crawls through platform 1 on route south 66529 haeds back on the mainline chasing 66597's train which can be see heading south 221019 stops for passengers brightly coloured Volkarail track machine DR77802 comes to a halt Adelante unit 180010 in use with Hull trains stops for passengers 66124 snakes across the points with a south bound coal train haha very funny!! 66124's driver waves at me whilst im taking photts 66182 on a south bound l/e move (love the secondmans foot position) 91110 heads south off doncaster station adelante unit 180011 heads north with a Hull bound train 67022 arrives to cove thunderbird duties 91112 re-joins the mainline south of doncaster station 66509 on yet another l/e move crosses the pointwork photters line up to catch thier pray 43290 thrashes through the center road a real treat!! 47786 leads 47798 through the center road with a Notrwich bound ecs move you had to be there to apriciate this!! 47786 opens up heading south 47786 dit on the rear of the ecs move 47712 heads the 'potter' group container service south 43319 with full NATEX rake heads north 66509 returns with coal hoppers still with ruston paxman engines GC HST's 43068/73 clag up approaching the station the green is given and the CG pair head off 43318 hammers south through the center road on hire to Hull trains 180013 slows for a stop en route to Hul 43305 approaches the station 66197 struggles with a long rake of coal hoppers 43311 in the afternoon sunshine heads north WCR 37516 stops en route south with another WCR railtour ecs move 37516 with its stock awaiting path south 47760 on the rear of 37516's ecs move 66183 suprised me by creeping up on me 66544 rounds the bend with a north bound coal train

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]]> Fri May 29 2009 Barnetby station 28th May 09 http://jons-trains.fotopic.net/c1705388.html The Annual 130 mile trip North to Barnetby/Doncaster, the first day was spent at Barnetby station, a very cloudy start with low light but mid afternoon the clouds dispersed and the sun gave good results from the east. A busy day with 8-9 freight workings per hour, inc a GBRF coal train. The day was started at 9.00 and finished at 18.30 then a few pints and a meal before heading back to the Holcombe guest house. Thursday 28 May 2009: The Annual 130 mile trip North to Barnetby/Doncaster, the first day was spent at Barnetby station, a very cloudy start with low light but mid afternoon the clouds dispersed and the sun gave good results from the east. A busy day with 8-9 freight workings per hour, inc a GBRF coal train. The day was started at 9.00 and finished at 18.30 then a few pints and a meal before heading back to the Holcombe guest house.

66206 on the first catch of the day, with a east bound tank train 66187 heads up the own slow with coal empties 66529 heads west with a coal train 185134 heads for cleethorpes a nice view of 185134 66125 heads west with coal empties 66173 photted in the nest of semophores 66173 on an l/e move to immingham under cloudy skies 66562 heads another coal train into Barnetby 66034 on the i/ore curcuit clags into Barnetby with empties 66051 makes a fuss climbing into Barnetby clagging well 66051 185138 picks up pasengers on route to Manchester 66044 takes the slow line with a tank train 66129 with more coal emties heads for Immingham dock 66083 with more i/ore for the furnaces at scunthorpe 185105 slows for a stop at Barnetby 'scud' 153374 in EM livery heads into Barnetby from Newark 185134 stops on the slow line to pick up fares 66197 heads west with more coal 153374 again stops on route to Newark 'hellfire' 66083 is a candidate for 'Thash' 6 is the i/ore to much for a class 66? 66083 in full bore approaching Barnetby, and these are empties!!! 185105 seen at Barnetby arrives form Cleethorpes is it a race? with both semophores up 66711 just has the edge on 66124 as they climb into Barnetby 66711 a break from the normal DB and FL 66's 66187 heads west with more coal the suns out!! and makes a nice shot of HH 66606 on a lengthy tank train photters capture 66124's departure 66520 heads into Barnetby with coal empties 66562 returns with coal 66034 returns with i/ore empties me thinks the DB 66's are struggling with the former class 60 turns as 034 clagged its heart out all day on this turn spotters and photters get the most of 66034's clagging sessions track machines!! ok if you are into em, but not my cup of tea, anyway for the 'trackies' amounst you here is one entering Barnetby station sidings 66129 heads down the slow line with loaded coal framed in the semophores, 66065 heads more coal empties through Barnetby 66083 takes a wide slow line with i/ore for scunthorpe my fav shot of the day 66595 heads coal empties towards Immingham 'trainboy' gets some DMU action in 153384 picks up a solitary passenger 66118 heads a short tank train toward Barnetby oh nooo! more track machines! in the Barnetby sidings, if you like em, you love this picture!! 66124 returns with a loaded coal train 66083 on a l/e move 66083 heads slowly through Barnetby the enthusiasts mass on the platform spotters and photters swing into action as 66173 heads down the slow line 66173 on a short rake of Ferry wagons crawls through Barnetby

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]]> Thu May 28 2009 Yarmouth Drag 14.06 ex Norwich http://jons-trains.fotopic.net/c1703282.html Thanks to my 'gen bear' Oli i got the word on 47832 working the summer Saturday 'Drags' so armed with my trusty Nikon DSLR i hotfooted to Whitlingham Junc to phot the service ex Norwich, then on way back to Norwich 47760 was spotted shunting Norwich lower sidings, so two 47's captured today, cant be bad!! Saturday 23 May 2009: Thanks to my 'gen bear' Oli i got the word on 47832 working the summer Saturday 'Drags' so armed with my trusty Nikon DSLR i hotfooted to Whitlingham Junc to phot the service ex Norwich, then on way back to Norwich 47760 was spotted shunting Norwich lower sidings, so two 47's captured today, cant be bad!!

47832 rounds the bend toward Whitlingham Junc off to the coast 47832 passes Whitlingham Junc with the 14.06 ex Norwich the day finished! 47832 rests in the royal dock 47760 shunts its stock in Norwich lower sidings under a clear blue sky 47760 seen in Norwich Lower sidings

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]]> Sat May 23 2009 Peterborough stn 25/4/09 http://jons-trains.fotopic.net/c1687730.html A sunny day, a day off and lure of the ECML, on a total whim, i went to Norwich stn bought a 'off peak' return to PB, i was warned it could be hit and miss at PB on a Sat, but it was a Hellfire few hours with 2 rail tours, 2 loco convoys and varied freights and L/E moves, i certainly picked a good day, well worth 16 quid of anyones money Saturday 25 April 2009: A sunny day, a day off and lure of the ECML, on a total whim, i went to Norwich stn bought a 'off peak' return to PB, i was warned it could be hit and miss at PB on a Sat, but it was a Hellfire few hours with 2 rail tours, 2 loco convoys and varied freights and L/E moves, i certainly picked a good day, well worth 16 quid of anyones money

an unusual train to be seen heading north from PB, not my thing EMU's but had to phot it 158810 heads into PB from Liverpool on route to Norwich 158810 entering PB NATEX 43308 leads 43306 south into PB 158810 loads up on pl 4 no wonder us photters get bad press, just look at this guy videoing in the cess off pl 3 170522 heads North after a stop at PB GC 43123 leads 43084 through the center road Adelante 180109 speeds through the center road heading for London 170117 enters pl 5 bound for Stanstead Railtour 1 Driver Rod Eastman eases 67002 into pl 5 with 67019 DIT on the back, the coaching stock had 'Balmoral' emblazoned on the sides 66559 snakes her way into pl 4 with a south bound f/l closer view of 66559 EMT 158783 enters pl 5 heading for Norwich (this unit follows me everywhere!!) in NATEX livery 91111 on pl 4 heading for Leeds man and machine in perfect harmony 43312 leads 43318 into PB with a south bound service Railtour 2 this was supposed to be 70013 Oliver Cromwell, but for some reason and i aint complaining it was substituted for WCR 57601 here is the train hammering through (yes it was bloody fast, so fast i had to quickly adjust shutter speed) the center road for extra support 47786 was DIT on the back, very nice indeed!!! 170398 enters pl 5 with another Stanstead service 43310 on an Inverness service 43295 on the back of 43310's train 43309 with 43290 on the rear come to a stand at PB 158777 heads another service to Norwich 67020 stabled at PB 66097 with DB branded 66152 share the stabling point at PB (note the new farmers field complete with crops sprouting up on the old sidings a better view of 66152 66097 stabled at PB with a threatning sky in the background this shot was irresistable of pl 3 43084 speeds north with a GC service still in Midland Mainline livery 170108 heads into pl 5 whilst 170108 loads up 66536 creeps up the down slow 43306 heads another service to Inverness 43308 about to enter the pointwork 66536 finaly gets a green after a lengthy wait for a clear line 66536 heads its load of f/l flats up the down slow hellfire 1 66577 heads 66519 and 526 into pl 4 another closer view of 66557/519 and 526 66955 in the sun heads a packed f/l on an up slow 170639 loads up with a Stanstead service on pl 5 91008 enters pl 4 on a down service 158863 loads up on pl 4 with norwich bound service just in from Ipswich 170206 sits on pl 5 Hellfire 2, this took me by suprise so please excuse the rubbish shot 66710 heads 66720 and 721 into PB Eastfield sidings 66720/21 pasing 170206 170636 heads into pl 5 with a Stanstead service 170636 awaits a path south as 66107 has a crew change on the down slow L/E move 66703 creeps up the center road heading for the GBRF depot faded front end of 66703 as she heads North still in service with Hull Trains 221104 heads North

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]]> Sat Apr 25 2009 MNR 10/04/09 http://jons-trains.fotopic.net/c1679983.html An off duty visit to Dereham for a ride down the line on the 'cushions' 31438 was the rostered loco today with 47580 doing 'shunt' realease at Dereham stn Friday 10 April 2009: An off duty visit to Dereham for a ride down the line on the 'cushions' 31438 was the rostered loco today with 47580 doing 'shunt' realease at Dereham stn

the thuxton loop is coming on with the southern point now in place network rail paid a visit last week and balasted the northern section of the loop 47580 connects to the stock for a 'shunt' release move Rod gets the right of way to depart 47580 begins to 'glag' rod opens the throttle and darkens the sky 31438 now released heads down the platform 31438 heads down to the yard 47580 pushes the stock back into the platform 47580 is chopped off and heads back to the yard 31438 heads back into the station to re-join its stock 31438 passes 37003 31438 all connected up gets ready for depature to Wymondham Wymondham Abbey and 31438 heads for the loop

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]]> Fri Apr 10 2009 Random images March 09 http://jons-trains.fotopic.net/c1676901.html 30 images from the month of March, i found an assortment of images on a memory card i thought i'd mislaid last week, in this gallery we see pics from Ipswich, London and the MNR Wednesday 1 April 2009: 30 images from the month of March, i found an assortment of images on a memory card i thought i'd mislaid last week, in this gallery we see pics from Ipswich, London and the MNR

20069 and 31438 line up at Dereham Stratford 47 Nameplate 47580 at the MNR 'spoon' fest a selection of Frieghtliner class 660 nose ends at ipswich 86639 heads a Frieghtliner through Ipswich stn 66956 fresh out of the box at Ipswich more nose ends of Frieghtliner 66's 86639 at the North end of Ipswich stn, awaiting path into the yard a nest of 'Freds' at Ipswich 47596 and 37003 at the MNR gala newly painted 56040 with 67008 at the MNR spring gala 66144 and 67008 in multiple working mode at Dereham 37003 split head code box complete with gangway doors seen at Dereham 66144/67008 and 37003 repose in the spring sunshine at Dereham 20069 rests between duties at the MNR spring gala newly painted and fresh from overhaul 90008 seen at Ipswich on a London service 90044 still adourned with BR cast arrows rests at ipswich some wag is trying to have a laugh!! check out the nose number on 66540 Freightliner locos stabled at ipswich 90004 looks very sad in Ipswich stabling sidings, anybody know why she was there? 66516 comes into Ipswich stabling point 66516 heads out to Ipswich yard after refueling 66587 heads 66955 into platform 3 for entry into stabling point 66587 and 66955 come into Ipswich stabling point busy times at Ipswich stabling point 66955 and 66956 share space in the stabling point throat area 66594 awaits path into ipswich stabling point another view of 66594 its the outskirts of London (Daggenham) and here we see EMU 315849 head out of the city on a semi slow daggenham again at the same location at EMU 321347 (i think) heads for Liverpool street

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]]> Wed Apr 1 2009 MNR diesel gala 27-29th March (Sunday DSLR pics) http://jons-trains.fotopic.net/c1675196.html A few more pics from our Spring gala at the MNR, these were taken early on Sunday morning before the first train, headed by 37425, i thought i'd add these as they were taken by my Nikon D70's Tuesday 31 March 2009: A few more pics from our Spring gala at the MNR, these were taken early on Sunday morning before the first train, headed by 37425, i thought i'd add these as they were taken by my Nikon D70's

its 08.00 in the morning and 60059 resides in the MOD road B and W pic of the BR blue locos out of service in the pit road 37425 ticks over in the bay platform 73210 and 20069 rest on the pit road a fine study of 37425 Roger E converses with Martin Reeve during a shunt move with 20069 37425 and 60059 31438 on the pit the rain clouds appear again and 20069/73210 and 31438 get ready to be soaked nose end of 60059 37425 puurs loudly on the first train of the day 37425 awaiting brake test 37003 looks on as her sister 37425 heads the first train of the day 50019 receives attention in Dereham Yard a view from outside the station looking in 37425 leaves Dereham for Wymondham B and W pic of Dereham Station, could be anywhere on the BR system in the 1980's

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]]> Tue Mar 31 2009 MNR diesel gala 27-29th March http://jons-trains.fotopic.net/c1674759.html The annual 3 day MNR March gala was a massive success for us, hosting the event were DB Schenker (EWS) who supplied 4 locos (37425-60059-66144-67008) plus the home and residence fleet 20069-31438-50019-73210 and 56040 which made its passenger debut. The event was prob the most anticipated gala this year, Saturday was a washout for most of the day but that did not keep the crowds away with a record 502 people on one train, what with the visititing DBS locos and the yards being open to the public on Sunday inbetween trains, this has to be the best gala i have worked with. I would like to thank my collegues at the MNR for a great weekend they include: the Ops and Shunt team who made it all work on the day with positioning of locos and all the drivers from the MNR/DRS/DBS and GBRF who put on a great show for the public, i would also like to thank everybody at the MNR who took part in anyway large or small, im proud of you all!! Here are 50 shots taken over the three days which show us at work at Dereham Station. Sunday 29 March 2009: The annual 3 day MNR March gala was a massive success for us, hosting the event were DB Schenker (EWS) who supplied 4 locos (37425-60059-66144-67008) plus the home and residence fleet 20069-31438-50019-73210 and 56040 which made its passenger debut. The event was prob the most anticipated gala this year, Saturday was a washout for most of the day but that did not keep the crowds away with a record 502 people on one train, what with the visititing DBS locos and the yards being open to the public on Sunday inbetween trains, this has to be the best gala i have worked with. I would like to thank my collegues at the MNR for a great weekend they include: the Ops and Shunt team who made it all work on the day with positioning of locos and all the drivers from the MNR/DRS/DBS and GBRF who put on a great show for the public, i would also like to thank everybody at the MNR who took part in anyway large or small, im proud of you all!! Here are 50 shots taken over the three days which show us at work at Dereham Station.

Its first thing friday morning and the locos are prepped in Dereham station yard, here we see 56040 in her paintjob all ready for a full days thrash!! the galas shunt team for the weekend L to R Tim Newton/Roger Elliott and myself, it was our job to position locos in the correct places, to chop off and tie on locos, carry out loco movements and any shunting moves 56040 is fired up in number one siding once exhaust clear 56040 is left to build air also taking part in the gala we see 20069 in number siding with 66144 and 60059 in number 1 siding, all ready to take part in the gala 56040 is moved off number one siding to MOD road to do a shake down run 56040 clears her throat!!! 56040 ready and in position to work onto the 'main' to come back into station to work its first passenger train of the day 67008 resides in the spring sunshine 47596 and 37003 give a little '70's feel to the proccedings, these locos did not take part in the gala 56040 is all tied on to its train and awaiting a brake test DBS 37425 stabled in the bay platform, she was one of the popular locos of the three day event 37425 takes the sun!! 66144 is prepped in number one siding the most popular loco of the gala was 60059, she came to the gala as a stored engine and left the gala re-instated to traffic!! still adourned with LOADHAUL decals 60059 is readied for its train contrasting nose ends of 60059 and 31438 66144 is brought up from nuber 1 siding and 'buckeyed' to 67008, the multi-working cable was then fitted from the nose ends so they could work in multiple 66144 nose end detail, note the stowed 'buckeye' coupling in stowed position Martin Reeve polishes his 'Chopper' (sorry Martin i know you prob heard that one all day friday mate) 60059 ready to work its first train 66144 and 67008 are brought onto the 'main' to back down onto stock DBS ready to haul ass!! 73210 and 31438 are positioned in readiness to work later trains 60059 stabled in the MOD road after being 'chopped off' her train under a thretening sky 50019 is prepped for service a 1970's feel pic of 37003 and 47596 20069 and 73210 ready for action and are postitioned movement shunter Tim Newton with 20069 its a hard life being a shunter, Tim has a nap inbetween trains in very inclement weather, Roger Elliott briefs Pete Taylor on a planned shunt move Pete moves of number siding its now pissing down and 67008 is prepped for later service complete with headboards 56040 is moved into a north section run round sunday morning, clear blue skys and 56040 breaking the silence!!! shunters Tim and Myself (or Bill and Ben) have our pic taken with 'doggie' these dogs have travelled all over the country on railtours Tim with a new freind!! me kissing 'doggie' a mass line up of traction a gorgeous day and locos lined up everywhere!! not taking part on Sunday but still popular 31438 and 50019 rest in number 1 and 2 sidings 20069 heads a service to Wymondham under a super sky the 'twins' as they became to be known are postitioned to work a later train contrasting nose ends of 66144 and 37003 another look at the nose ends of 37003 and 66144 my wife tryed to embarass me by slipping a pair of her knickers in my overnight bag, they ended up somehow doing a few trips up and don the line on 67008's lamp iron!! the last train of the gala is set up!!! 37425 blasts out of Dereham with the final train you had to be trackside to apreciate this 37425 heads 60059/66144 and 67008 out of Dereham, 56040 was on the back a very fitting and emotional moment this was for all of us at the MNR as it summed up the whole event 'HELLFIRE'

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]]> Sun Mar 29 2009 Ipswich stn http://jons-trains.fotopic.net/c1658281.html A warm sunny winters afternoon, so the first trip of the year was well awaited, with a nice gaggle of Freightliner 66's inc a new 66954, a very nice afternoon was had, many thanks to the Freightliner driver who spoke to me a nice chat was had!! Saturday 21 February 2009: A warm sunny winters afternoon, so the first trip of the year was well awaited, with a nice gaggle of Freightliner 66's inc a new 66954, a very nice afternoon was had, many thanks to the Freightliner driver who spoke to me a nice chat was had!!

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]]> Sat Feb 21 2009 Tribute to the class 60 http://jons-trains.fotopic.net/c1657521.html Its been a sad month so far for the Class 60 with only 15 locos remaining in service, DBS has admitted this week that the class 60 fleet is to be axed, which is sad news, so as a tribute i have been through my class 60 pics over the last few years and produced a gallery of 66 of the best class 60 pics i have taken over the last few years, so if you are a class 60 fan like me please enjoy. I also run a class 60 enthusiast site on facebook with daily class 60 news and gen, if you are on facebook please join and keep up to date. Sunday 22 February 2009: Its been a sad month so far for the Class 60 with only 15 locos remaining in service, DBS has admitted this week that the class 60 fleet is to be axed, which is sad news, so as a tribute i have been through my class 60 pics over the last few years and produced a gallery of 66 of the best class 60 pics i have taken over the last few years, so if you are a class 60 fan like me please enjoy. I also run a class 60 enthusiast site on facebook with daily class 60 news and gen, if you are on facebook please join and keep up to date.

60060 still in coal livery sector logos powers through Barnetby June 2004 60086 heads through Barnetby with i/ore working June 2005 60099 in mainline livery on an MGR working at Barnetby June 2005 60023 on the i/ore circuit June 2005 60033 in Chorus silver on the i/ore circuit noted at Barnetby June 2005 another view of 60033 at Barnetby June 2005 60032 comes out of the gloom with i/ore empties july 2005 60037 with loaded i/ore tipplers heads through Barnetby July 2005 60001 with i/ore tipplers heads for Scunthorpe June 2005 60015 in transrail livery heads an enterprise working to Immingham at Barnetby June 2005 pioneer 'tug' 60001 on i/ore empties at Barnetby June 2005 60080 on a light engine move to Doncaster July 2005 60062 on the Doncaster-Immingham enterprise on a very warm July day in 2005 60028 complete with unbranded livery and Immingham depot plaque heads through Barnetby June 2005 in full mainline blue livery and with a First logo on the front 60078 heads light engine through Doncaster July 2005 another view of 60078 in mainline livery at Doncaster July 2005 60063 on a light engine move at Doncaster July 2005 60063 in faded transrail livery heads a steel train through Doncaster July 2005 60063 heads steel empties for Immingham through Doncaster July 2005 60020 passes March with Peak Forest empties Aug 05 60075 approaches Barnetby station in June 2006 60050 climbs toward Barnetby with the Doncaster-Immingham enterprise 60039 heads west through Barnetby with a lengthy tank train June 2006 60008 passing Barnetby with the Immingham-Doncaster enterprise June 2006 60084 at Barnetby on the Immingham-Doncaster enterprise July 2006 60048 on the immingham-scunthorpe iron ore July 2006 60022 passing Doncaster station light engine July 2006 60094 powers through barnetby with yet another load of I/ore empties 60031 framed in the Barnetby home signals climbs into the station July 2006 60090 complete with large beastie logo heads through Barnetby June 2006 60044 retaining its Mainline aircraft blue livery heads through Barnetby on the i/ore circuit June 2006 another shot of 60044 on the immingham i/ore empties at Barnetby June 2006 60094 with i/ore for scunthorpe at Barnetby July 2006 60052 heads into Barnetby with empty tanks July 2006 60090 again heading west through Barnetby June 2006 60094 makes a fuss climbing towards Barnetby with i/ore empties June 2006 60031 passes Barnetby heading west with loaded tanks June 2006 60048 heads into Barnetby with empty tanks June 2006 60044 with a large beastie logo heads through Barnetby with i/ore empties June 2006 60027 on a t and t engineering train at Toton July 2006 60027 with new TEA tanks at Barnetby Oct 2006 this one is a puzzler taken on the 10.10.06 a udf class 60 is on the i/ore curcuit, anybody have an idea which loco it is?? 60002 seen at barnetby with loaded i/ore tipplers Oct 06 60002 on i/ore empties at Barnetby oct 06 a clean 60058 on a coal working heads for immingham through Barnetby Oct 2006 60049 at Barnetby with a lengthy enterprise working oct 06 60002 at Barnetby with a loaded i/ore working oct 06 a udf class 60 heads into Barnetby with a loaded i/ore oct 06 60017 heads into Barnetby with empty tanks oct 06

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]]> Sun Feb 22 2009 Ipswich/Stowmarket/Norwich 17/11/08 http://jons-trains.fotopic.net/c1612296.html A morning out in the damp rain to 3 photographic locations to hunt RHTT trains and grab what was stabled for the weekend, first stop was Stowmarket to see if any locos were stabled at the DRS sidings, we found 37607/087/261 57011 and 57009 Then onto Ipswich which was a feast of class 66's stabled a total of ten along with 3 class 90's i then got word from my 'gen bear' Oli Smith that a few class 66/7's were on engineering duties between Norwich and Diss after following the track from Diss to Norwich through muddy roads, tracks etc, i finally found a top and tail GBRF autoballaster working at Lower Tasborough, the location was horrendous to get to and only loco copped which was 66712, it was such a bad location i darent even take a camera to get a picture (sorry, but by this time my boots were covered in thick mud, my missus is gonna kill me when she gets home!) Finally a visit to Norwich and 47818 was in the center road stabled with 57012 and 57007 stabled near platform 6 with an RHTT train!! all in all a total of 23 locos seen inc 3 x 37's and a class 47, with only a 66/7 awaiting i.d Many thanks to Oli Smith for the heads up gen at Stowmarket, i owe you buddy, buy you a pint when im next at Dereham Sunday 16 November 2008: A morning out in the damp rain to 3 photographic locations to hunt RHTT trains and grab what was stabled for the weekend, first stop was Stowmarket to see if any locos were stabled at the DRS sidings, we found 37607/087/261 57011 and 57009 Then onto Ipswich which was a feast of class 66's stabled a total of ten along with 3 class 90's i then got word from my 'gen bear' Oli Smith that a few class 66/7's were on engineering duties between Norwich and Diss after following the track from Diss to Norwich through muddy roads, tracks etc, i finally found a top and tail GBRF autoballaster working at Lower Tasborough, the location was horrendous to get to and only loco copped which was 66712, it was such a bad location i darent even take a camera to get a picture (sorry, but by this time my boots were covered in thick mud, my missus is gonna kill me when she gets home!) Finally a visit to Norwich and 47818 was in the center road stabled with 57012 and 57007 stabled near platform 6 with an RHTT train!! all in all a total of 23 locos seen inc 3 x 37's and a class 47, with only a 66/7 awaiting i.d Many thanks to Oli Smith for the heads up gen at Stowmarket, i owe you buddy, buy you a pint when im next at Dereham

a damp stowmarket with 37607 prominent with 57009 in the background nearly breaking my neck to get this shot 37607 rests at Stowmarket another precarious position shot of 37607 66567 at a rainy Ipswich stabling point a huge nose collection of noses and liverys at Ipswich still in series one livery 90042 66567 stabled at Ipswich electric and diesels share the parking spaces at Ipswich another view of 66567 Frieghtliner electrics 90042/041 and 048 at rest at Ipswich the mass nest of traction at a wet and damp Ipswich not my thing but EMU 360119 awaits the road to Stratford you know where you are boy??? 153306 under the station sign veteran unit 321330 just in from Stratford a nice collection of locos in view at Ipswich a fine view of the station and stabling point at Ipswich flush end of 57012 seen at Norwich Dirty boy!!! 57007 shows how filthy these locos get on RHTT duties 57007 on the other end of the stabled RHTT train oooh the suns out!! 57007 cab front 57007 and 57012 stabled at Norwich sunlight glints on the side of 57012 57012 and 57007 with a stabled RHTT train at Norwich not often these days you see a class 47 on the blocks at Norwich looking very work worn 47818 'EMILY' seen in the center road at Norwich

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]]> Sun Nov 16 2008 MNR English Electric w/end 27/28 sept 08 http://jons-trains.fotopic.net/c1587805.html The second gala in two weeks, this time featuring our new star atraction of 73210 and GBRF 73210 of course 20069 08631 and 31438 put in fine performances on the line. Myself and Tim had to learn how to shunt with the new loco as she is possesed with buckeye couplings and thanks to Pete from GBRF who not only trained us on all aspects of coupling/uncoupling but also started training our home drivers on the 73. An excellent turn out by the public and i'd like to thank everybody who took the tme to join us over the last two weekends esp the people who took the time and came and spoke to us, your kind comments are very welcome. Again many thanks to my ops collegues for a great weekend esp Roger/Tim/Pete/Mark/Andy/Pete C and Suz for for the cheese toasties!!! Sunday 28 September 2008: The second gala in two weeks, this time featuring our new star atraction of 73210 and GBRF 73210 of course 20069 08631 and 31438 put in fine performances on the line. Myself and Tim had to learn how to shunt with the new loco as she is possesed with buckeye couplings and thanks to Pete from GBRF who not only trained us on all aspects of coupling/uncoupling but also started training our home drivers on the 73. An excellent turn out by the public and i'd like to thank everybody who took the tme to join us over the last two weekends esp the people who took the time and came and spoke to us, your kind comments are very welcome. Again many thanks to my ops collegues for a great weekend esp Roger/Tim/Pete/Mark/Andy/Pete C and Suz for for the cheese toasties!!!

poor old 47596 still made an apearence although being shunted by 08631 08631 basks in afternon sunshine 08631 ready to shunt 47596 into bay platform 08631 and 47596 on mod road 56040 undergoing oil change in the pit road the oil change uses the most up to date tools any railway fitter would be envious of!!! early evening and 73136 and 73210 are stabled in the mod road Sunday morning and 20069 gets ready for the first train to Wymondham our new toy!! 73210 in ex works Intercity livery awaits her sunday service 31438 seen at Wymondham abbey station 73210 seen at Dereham station North end 73136 and 210 enroute to Wymondham playing with the new toy! 73210's cab more cab pics this time 73136 20069 taking on fuel at our modern hi tech fueling bay (ahem) Roger E carrying out the refueling of 20069 easy Rog you know what curiosity did to the cat!! another day over and after releasing 73136 from the stock she comes in for stabling 73136 shut down after another succesful gala

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]]> Sun Sep 28 2008 MNR gala 19/20/21st Sept 2008 http://jons-trains.fotopic.net/c1583836.html A few pics from the three day MNR gala, glorious weather and plenty of action from 20069/31438/08631 and visiting traction from DRS class 20's 20307 and 20315 thanks go out to Barry/Andy/Tim/Paul and the other DRS drivers who made the trips great for the punters also our home drivers Mick/Martin/Mark/Pete and Rod, special thanks must go out to the shunt team run by Roger which included Tim/Graham and myself, everything went to plan, not easy when running triple headed trains, i dedicate this gallery to all members of the MNR who made the event special! Tuesday 23 September 2008: A few pics from the three day MNR gala, glorious weather and plenty of action from 20069/31438/08631 and visiting traction from DRS class 20's 20307 and 20315 thanks go out to Barry/Andy/Tim/Paul and the other DRS drivers who made the trips great for the punters also our home drivers Mick/Martin/Mark/Pete and Rod, special thanks must go out to the shunt team run by Roger which included Tim/Graham and myself, everything went to plan, not easy when running triple headed trains, i dedicate this gallery to all members of the MNR who made the event special!

The shunt team inc farmer giles get there briefing from Roger E the MNR shunt team, minus one who was off rounding up beer!! is that the sound of a train aproaching? myself and young Josh perform our X factor act to the judges hello is anybody listening!! 56040 entertains the crowds by running up and down the MOD road friday morning and 20069 leads 31438 into the main platform for the first service of the day taken from the cab of 31438 20307 and 20315 pull away from Yaxham road crossing one happy man!!! Sean cries as he hands money over to Mark H hazy sunday morning from the cab of 31438 31438 seen at Wymondham Abbey station shunter Tim N takes his job very seriously Tim in the cab of 31438 low down shot of 31438 at Wymondham Abbey driver Mick D gives a cheeky smile (those are fake teeth by the way) DRS choppers blast out of Dereham station 56040 entertained the punters by running up and down the M.O.D road 31438 and 20069 rest at Dereham station 20069 at rest in the unloading siding period shot of resident MNR locos 31438 and 20069 the home fleet take a break in the sun B/W image of 31438 cab shunter Tim N in relaxed mood Sean S gives Tim the 'Horn' known as the 'shunt brothers' at the MNR Tim and myself 20315 head a quadrouple header back to Dereham, photo taken in the Wymondham loop another shot of the mass formation the 'Beer ex' makes it to Wymondham courtesy of 08631 some of us our seminar'd in front of it (photo credit C.Cheney)

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]]> Tue Sep 23 2008 Lost Railways M&GN Norwich to Hellesdon http://jons-trains.fotopic.net/c1578711.html As i live very close to the old Norwich city station, i thought i'd take a walk from the old City station up to the first station on the old M&GN system. The first station Hellesdon is roughly 2 miles form Norwich. The line opened in 1882 and closed to passenger in 1959, freight traffic held on untill the late 1960's with sand trains using the former goods yard at Norwich City, so i thought i'd go on the hunt looking for relics that still remain on the long disused line and to be honest i think i found quite a lot ( must admit i knew where to look) so take a trip with me from Norwich city station to Hellesdon. Sunday 14 September 2008: As i live very close to the old Norwich city station, i thought i'd take a walk from the old City station up to the first station on the old M&GN system. The first station Hellesdon is roughly 2 miles form Norwich. The line opened in 1882 and closed to passenger in 1959, freight traffic held on untill the late 1960's with sand trains using the former goods yard at Norwich City, so i thought i'd go on the hunt looking for relics that still remain on the long disused line and to be honest i think i found quite a lot ( must admit i knew where to look) so take a trip with me from Norwich city station to Hellesdon.

just a mile north of City station was the first bridge (247) which was one of three girder 'A' frame bridges, the original bridge was demolished in the late 1970's due to metal fatigue, it was replaced with a single wooden foot bridge untill that was removed, now there is a modern metal bridge in situ next to the modern bridge foundations can be seen the foundations to the old 'A' frame bridge (in water) the site of the famous 'Wensum dipper' where a coal train was directed up the siding instead of the railway bridge, the loco (J17) went through the buffer stop and into the river where the bush is on the right an old post and wire fence post near the track boundary just 100 yards north of the former 'A' frame bridge another fence post in the same location note the wire still attatched to the post we are now at the former City station,located in the woods is an old air raid shelter for the railway staff, Norwich City station was heavily bombed during the 'baedecker' raids of April 28/29 1942 the floor of the former engine shed at Norwich City station, the shed was a two road dead end shed, after the war a prefab shed was built on the original site, after closure the prefab shed was dismantled and the shed frame work was re erected at Weybourne on the North Norfolk Railway concrete plinths with large bolts which secured the iron uprights of the shed frame more concrete plinths and shed remnants at Norwich City station looking from what would have been platform 1 and 2 the shed would have been in the trees on the right, next to the shed just left was Norwich South box controlling the southern end of the station, Norwich City had a northern box near bridge 247 which controled the northern end of City station, nothing remains of either signal boxes Norwich city station had 4 platforms, 2 and 4 had a bay platform, here is the remains of the bay platform for platforms 1 and 2 on the ground and through a lot of brambles is the platform end for platform 3 the bay platform ends we go North 1 mile to bridge 247B built in 1922 built from concrete blocks, here the telegraph wire mountings for the signal telegraph wires remain more signal telegraph wire mountings on Bridge 247A just to prove the build date of bridge 247A, next to the bridge is a few concrete fence posts the date 1922 is etched into the post the former railway fence posts head north from bridge 247A a view of bridge 247A looking toward Norwich City station soot deposits from locos still blacken the roof of bridge 247A 500 yards north of Bridge 247A is the remains of a culvert bridge (248) a dyke ran underneath this bridge the iron girder work holding the wieght of the railway on bridge 248 looking underneath bridge 248 it has been filled with rubbish and spoil but the brickwork can clearly be seen looking north from bridge 247A Bridge 248A the same as 247A but built in 1932 carries the Norwich inner ring road over it more soot deposits underneath bridge 248A looking toward Norwich from bridge 248A, more signal telegraph mountings adorn the bridge sides a view of bridge 248A looking toward Norwich Near the approach to Hellesdon station is bridge 249 the second of 3 girder bridges on this section of line, in fact these three 'A' frame bridges were the olny ones on the entire M&GN system another view of bridge 249 the river Wensum from bridge 249 look closely you can see the holes for the northern bridge plate the remains of Hellesdon station, the former platform is on the right Hellesdon station platform cattle dock platform at hellesdon the goods sidings at Hellesdon concrete post at hellesdon goods yard the gates firmly closed to hellesdon goods yard the southern bridge plate mounting on bridge 249 you can see the mounting holes and shape of former bridge plate on the section just south of bridge 249 is a fomer post and wire tentioner post where the railway post and wire fence could have the tention adjusted the mechanism on the wire tentioner bridge 278 signal telegraph wire mountings, the next signal box was 5 miles north at Drayton, as hellesdon did not posses a signal box, the signals were controlled by a ground frame this little beauty was busy making a nest along the route between City station and Hellesdon the Dolphin footpath bridge opened in 1921 to replace a ferry which operated at this point the footpath crossed the river Wensum then climbed over the railway line the bridge number over the railway was 247A and ws the second bridge from City Station the footbridge used to climb at the end of the river bridge but now as the bridge has gone it goes down to a level footpath this is a bomb crater from the second world war very close to Bridge 247 and only 20 feet from the former track bed, from what i have heard in the past it was a 500lb bomb which was aimed at bridge 247 over the River so trains would not be able to get in and out of City Station looking at track level towards City station and bridge 247 at this point the dolphin footpath crossed over the railway we are on the track bed looking toward Melton Constable this is the former Dolphin footpath bridge top which spaned the track, when the railway bridge was taken down in the 1980's the top piece was kept and put on the ground to cross a dyke next to where the footbridge stood

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