We believe that First North Western have now decided to reduce the number of loco-hauled diagrams from three to two in the Summer timetable which begins on 18 May, so 11 May was the last chance to see the remarkable Sunday afternoon gathering of classic traction which has been a feature of the place since 30 March. John Lewis took his camera along to take a look; the picture above shows all four trains: 47 756 Royal Mail Tyneside closest to the station bridge; 43 157 at the head of the HST and 43 122 at the rear; then 47 757 behind 47 746 The Bobby on the same track.
A closer look at 43 122, looking very clean.
47 737 stabled ...
... and 47 737. From Monday 19 May the Manchester 'club train' and the two runs to Birmingham starting at 06:48 fron Holyheah will be the only FNW loco-hauled workings, so 'bashers' and photographers should make the best of their chances while they can. - 11 May
The Mid Cheshire Rail Users railtour from Manchester to Aberystwyth ran faultlessly on 10 May. Motive power was unrefurbished class 37s 37 042 & 37 114 City of Worcester, with 13 coaches from Riviera's set CP01. Timekeeping and organisation was excellent, with a half-hour early arrival back in Chester. Some passengers also enjoyed a run to Devil's Bridge on the Vale of Rheidol Railway behind No 9 Prince of Wales.
The train arrives at Cuddington on the outward journey (Tim E. Rogers)
37 042 & 114 arrive at Chester in the morning sun. (Laurence Wheeler)
Ready to leave Chester in the Wrexham direction. A few moments earlier this had been an animated scene as EWS staff and railtour organisers struggled to attach the home-made GWR style headboard. These old locomotives still retain their nose connecting doors and the retaining clips are close to the lamp irons. (Laurence Wheeler)
At Welshpool, westbound (Tim E. Rogers)
At Aberystwyth, waiting the run-round (Tim E. Rogers)
The two 37s make a spirited ascent of Tallerddig bank on the way home. (Laurence Wheeler)
Back at Chester in the evening (Tim E. Rogers)
A last look at the train about to depart Mouldsworth (Tim E. Rogers) - 11 May