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GM/GE Mixed Doubles (or more) Pre-31 July 2023
Occasionally Pairs,sometimes even more of-or- either 59's/66's or 70's from different owning Companies end up together.This section covers this eventuality!
Occasionally '6V64' the 14:48 from Wembley Reception Sdg's 1-7 to Merehead has both loco's leading instead of one being positioned mid-train.Today the sole remaining Ex-DB-Red Class 59/2 59201 (bell end leading) with FL-Green 66558 tucked inside are viewed at Berkley with it multi coloured rake of empty JNA's.
..19 july 2023..
Re-geared 66619 c/w rust stains leaking from the windscreen frames slows at Clink with '6V16' the 13:40 from Fareham going to Whatley Quarry.
..17 july 2023..
59102 'Village of Chantry' and 66418 'Patriot' headed todays '6C77' the 12:21 from Wembley Reception Sdg's 1-7 to Merehead.The train was double headed unusually today rather than having one of the loco's stationed in the middle of the train.
..12 july 2023..
Tonight's '6V64' was a 'triple' but sadly one of the engines was mid-train as tends to happen these days with long trains of empties from Wembley Yard. So here are 59103 & 66593 with 66548 in the middle somewhere hauling '6V64' the 14:48 from Wembley Reception Sdg's 1-7.Seen at Berkley Marsh nr Frome in nice evening lighting.
..6 july 2023..
This is my first 59/2 combo where both engines are in the G&W-Orange colours. Here are 59203 & 59204 with '7C64' the evening working to Merehead from Wembley-Reception Sidings which departed there at 14:48.Here passing Berkley in perfect evening lighting.
..5 june 2023..
This triple-combination of 59104/59101&59204 is probably as a result of the railway industrial action over the coming weekend getting the loco's home to Merehead rather than being stuck out there in a yard somewhere. The working is '6V64' the 14:48 from Wembley Reception 1-7 to Merehead.Seen at good old Berkley nr Frome.
..2 june 2023..
Double 'Tango' GM's make for a colourful sight as they pass along the Frome Avoiding Line at Styles Hill with '6C77' the 12:21 from Wembley to Merehead working.59202 leads with 66415 inside.
..26 may 2023..
59005 leads with 66558 inside working '7A17' the 10:49 from Merehead going up to Colnbrook.Clink Road Junction being just beyond the roadbridge in the distance.
..26 may 2023..
GM-Combi 59102 & 66569 pass Berkley with its heavily loaded '7A17' the 10:49 away from Merehead heading for Colnbrook.
..24 may 2023..
GM pairing 66519 & 59104 'Village of Great Elm' passes a Mayflower encrusted Berkley with 6V64' the 14:48 from Wembley Sidings 1-7 going to Merehead.
..23 may 2023..
Doubl Green Stamps tonight on '7C64' the 14:55 from Theale returning emptied hoppers the Whatley Quarry.Seen in a lucky brief flash of sunniness at berkley nr Frome.
..22 may 2023..
Pairing 66517 and 59102 'Village of Chantry' work '7A17' the 10:24 from Merehead to Colnbrook.Viewed at Great Cheverell.
..03 may 2023..
59004 & 66618 are paired up working '7A17' the 10:24 from Merehead bound for Colnbrook,Seen in the wooded cutting East for Clink Junction.Now in late March if the sun is shining as it was 3 minutes ago this location is now fully lit! Roll on Spring!
..22 march 2023..
A pair of GM-66/6's were the order of the day today on '6L21' the 13:21 from Whatley Quarry to Dagenham Dock-ARC.66603&66610 doing the job.Seen here at Heywood's Church Road taking a diversionary route via Melksham and Swindon to regain its usual route at Reading due to the B&H being closed for engineering work in the Newbury area.
..22 february 2022..
Todays '4O90' the 06:04 from Leeds-FLT to Soton-Maritime produced a pair but sadly the G&W-Orange one wasn't leading.Here are 66520 with 66503 'Railway Magazine' rolling through Southampton Central Station with its nicely loaded Liner.
..06 february 2023..
Just a fortnight ago this shot taken at 15:30 would have been fully shadowed by now here at Clink so signs of the days lengthening once again are become evident. So here are 59204 & 66571paired uo on '6C77' the 12:42 from Acton to Merehead.This train only has a loco in the middle of the consist when it starts from Wembley.
..23 january 2023..
59004 'Paul A Hammond' is working with 5-door GM 66951 hauling '6A17' the 10:24 Merehead to Colnbrook loaded stone.Seen shortly after it had passed Clink Road Junction on a brisk clear autumn morning.
..28 november 2022..
Bog standard FL-Green 66520 is seen here piloting 'AI' 59002 up through Berkley nr Frome on '7A17' the 10:24 from Merehead bound for Colnbrook.
..23 november 2022..
'Hanson' Pioneer 59101 is seen here partnered with FL-66545 on '6A17' the 10:24 from Merehead going across to Colnbrook with its trains of virtually 100% grafittied hoppers. Seen at good old Berkley Marsh.
..28 september 2022..
66516 and 59205 lead '7A17' the 10:24 away from Merehead going over to Colnbrook. Here passing the rather dry looking fields at Berkley nr Frome.
..19 august 2022..
DB-red 59201 leads FL-Green 66566 and 'Hanson in the Sun' 59101 on '6C77' the 12:19 from Wembley Sidings 1-7 to Merehead.No 'combi' set-up today which was a nice piece of good fortune! Seen at Clink under a china-blue sky.
..12 august 2022..
The original 'Tango' 66413 'Lest We Forget' is paired with 'AI' 59005 on '7A17' the 10:24 from Merehead bound for Colnbrook.Seen running down the straightaway at Clink Junction.
..12 august 2022..
Todays '6V41' the 14:46 from Eastleigh-East Yard had the current regular loco for this duty 66730 'Whitemoor' along with 66797, the recent Import wearing the Beacon rail blue livery.Seen at Arn Hill nr Warminster with a short rake of 5 Network-Rail yellow liveried side-tipper MRA's.
..11 august 2022..
Something of a rarity? Three Class59's together on one working. Here 59206 leads with 59205 &59002 in behind on '6C31' the 10:08 from Theale to Whatley.Seen here slowing for Clink Junction turn off towards Whatley.
..10 august 2022..
66560 assists 59204 on '6A17' the 10:24 from Merehead going to Colnbrook,albeit some 90 mins later than planned.Seen at Clink Junction with its heavy load of 100% hoppers.
..10 august 2022..
Another combo,this time 66560 &59005 were today working '7C77' the 12:19 from Wembley to Merehead afternoon retirning empties.Seen at Clink under the clear blue skies of this years seemingly endless summer.
..8 august 2022..
'Tango' newby 66605 along with 59201 haul '7A16' the 17:05 from Merehead to Hanwell Bridge Loop away from Clink Road Junction in the somewhat backlit evening sunlight.
..1 august 2022..
Double Green Stamps today on '4M99' the 16:17 from Maritime going up to Trafford Park.66547 leads with 66566 inside.Seen crossing the perpetual traffic jam that is Mouth Pleasant Level Crossing in Southampton.
..11 july 2022..
A quite busy scene here at Freightliners MCT-Depot.70001,66415,66566 & 66547 all being in evidence.A very congested site at times!
..11 july 2022..
70001 'Powerhaul' is seen undergoing a spot of routine servicing/examination whilst G&W liveried 66415 'Your Are Never Alone' stands ready for its next duty in the depot at Southampton-Maritime.
..11 july 2022..
The recently re-commisioned 59005 along with FL-Green pairing of 66539 & 66555 edge through Clink with the 120-minute late '7C77' 12:19 from Wembley Reception Sdg's 1-7 to Merehead empties.
..27 june 2022..
Just two freights went down to Whatley today as aRail Strike was in progress.This being the second about 15 minutes after the other one ''6C58' from Oxford. This one was '6C48' the 13:50 from Appleford.It ran with a FL-Green pairing 66540 'Roby' and 66531 nicely blending in with the lush undergrowth!
..21 june 2022..
Triple Stamps tonight on '6C76' the 14:09 from Wembley to Whatley Quarry.'Hanson in the Sun' 59102 leads with G&W-66503&66537 tucked in behind it.Sadly this is probably the last weekday before this bridge is closed for a week for nominally 'Bridge Repairs' but for sure it means palisade fencing is to be erected on all 4 corners making for yet another locations buggered up for the sake of a needless 'tick in a box'.Why? with no history of trespass or vandalization around this location.....
..17 june 2022..
Apart from a welcome sighting of the recently reactivated 59005 after a long absense today has been a continuous stream of FL-Green or 'Hansons'.Here is yet another example of that,66613 along with 59103 slows for Clink Junction with '6C76' the 14:09 from Wembley Reception 1-7 to Whatley.
..15 june 2022..
59005 'Alan J Painter' has finally made it back into service recently after an extreemly long period out of use awaiting repairs.I personally havn't seen it for nearly 2 years (July/20) so welcome back! Here it is along with 66540 'Ruby' working '7A17' the 10:24 away from Merehead bound for Colnbrook-FY.Viewed in the now well overgrown cutting at Clink nr Frome.
..15 june 2022..
'7A09' the morning 07:12 from Merehead to Acton-TC passes Clink Road Junction with the early morning shadows shortened sufficiently to allow an acceptable shot here.By the time the shadows are reduced the sunlight has moved off the front end of these Eastbound freights.Quite tricky. So here are FL-66562 and Hanson-59101 with the A09 morning Jumbo in excellent morning light at Clink Road Junction.
..15 june 2022..
Double headers are less common these days with the advent of the 'combi' mode of operation for trains starting from Wembley going down to the quarries.However here is 59004 coupled with 66537 working '7C64' the 14:46 from Wembley to Merehead. Seen at Pot Lane c/w the now heavilly graffitied and work-stained newish TOUAX hoppers.
..1 june 2022..
66415 'You are Never Alone' along with 66549 head '7C77' the 12:20 from Wembley Reception Sdg's to Merehead through Clink in Frome.Usually this train is made up in 'combi' format with the second loco positioned mid-train but today it was made up in the more traditional way!
..18 may 2022..
Todays '6C84' the 08:40 from Taunton-Fairwater Yard up to Westbury Down-TC produced this treble header along with the usual HOBC-Set going for a ballast refill.Loco's are all wearing the mundane standard FL-Green,66511 leads with 66560 and 66507 tucked inside.Viewed at Clink nr Frome.
..18 may 2022.. .
Triple headers are not particularly common these days on Mendip Quarry bound empties so this combo was a nice surprise given the excellent evening lighting as well.Leading Loco is Powerhaul-66528 'Madge Elliot MBE (Border Railway reopening 2015),next in line is DB-Red 59201 and finally G&W-Orange 66415 'You are Never Alone'.The train is '7C64' the 14:59 from Wembley Reception Sidings going down to Merehead Quarry.
..25 april 2022..
66413 'Lest we Forget' the first G&W locomotive to received the latest Orange livery albeit a lighter shade than that which now predominates is seen here along with 66615 working '6V68' a non-regular working from East Usk Yard in Newport to Whatley Quarry.Interestingly the train was partially loaded (1st nine wagons) so I am not quite sure what this movement was all about? Viewed at Clink Road Junction on the outskirts of Frome Town. ..5 april 2022..
Here is 66711 'Sence' which carries a similar 'AI' livery to the 59/0's that are based around this area.This one only making an occasional visit although it has been around Westbury now all week.It is on '0V41' the 14:48 from Eastleigh East Yard to Westbury-Down- TC.Also it has 'Colas' GM-66847 along for company.Better a pair on this working that just a single L/E I guess?Seen at Arn Hill just North of Warminster.
..30 march 2022..
Todays '7C77' the 12:03 from Wembley Sdg's to Merehead was not the usual 'combi' type working with one locomotive mid-train but was double headed instead with just 15 hoppers in tow.59204 leads with 66553 as well. Here viewed at Clink near Frome.
..29 march 2022..
Only two of the former DB 59/2's now remain in DB-Red livery.One being this one 59201.The other is 59205. Here 59201 is seen with FL-66553 on '7C77' the 12:11 from Wembley Reception Sdg's to Merehead empties.Today both loco's were at the head of the train instead of the now usual practice of having the 2nd loco mid-train.
..21 march 2022..
Here is an interesting train set-up which combined a returning engineering working '6C03' from Cornwall with '6C84' the 08:40 from Taunton Fairwater Yard to Westbury.FL's 66566/66547 led with DB's 66165 on the rear.Viewed passing over Clink Road Junction in overcast conditions.
..14 february 2022..
DB-Red pairing 66130/66136 are seen approaching Bath Spa with '6Z86' the 07:31 from Didcot to Tytherington Quarry empties.Viewed from the dizzy heights of Alexandra Park which overlooks the City here.
..8 february 3033..
Todays '6O41' the 10:14 from Westbury to Eastleigh East Yard engineers was powered by 'Sorrento' 66709,the MSC-Shipping liveried GM for GBRf.Also along for the ride was 66776 and just one empty MLA wagon.Seen at Arn Hill nr Warminster under a cold cloudless sky.
..17 january 2022..
'7X40' today ran from Eastleigh East Yard to Westbury drawing a large crane,hence the 'X' coding.GBRf's 66767 'Kings Cross PSB 1971-2021' led with Colas's 66846 hitching a free ride as well.Viewed in Norton Bavant at Scratchbury Hill.
..13 january 2022..
'4O57' the 13:29 from Cardiff-Wentloog to Southampton-MCT had a GM/GE Combo leading the well loaded train today.GM-66520 led with GE-70001 'Powerhaul' tucked 'inside' and probably dead-in-train.The front portion of todays load was all 'tanktainers' giving this freightliner working the look of a oil train type working. Viewed shortly after the working had just crested the summit of the Upton Scudamore Incline at Arn Hill nr Warminster.
..12 january 2022..
The ex-Swedish 'Rush-Rail' GM, now GBRf''s 66792 along with Colas's 66846 DIT are seen climbing the Upton Scudamore Incline as it passes Dilton Marsh with the morning Westbury-Eastleigh Engineers working '6O41' that departs at 10:14.
..05 january 2022..
Here is a bit of an odd working that has been running around based at Taunton's Fairwater Yard for a few days.Some kind of crew training/tester maybe?.Anyway here it is returning to Ealing Plasser Works from Taunton Fairwater Yard as '6Z91' (08:30 away from Taunton).Loco's being a pair of DRS GM-66/4's.66426 leads with 66421'inside'.Both somewhat grubby looking which neatly matches the dire '1600-iso' lighting here at Clink Raod Junction in Frome!
..20 december 2021..
Despite the heavy gloom as the poor light was getting even worse towards late afternoon I waited for this '4O57' the 13:29 from Wentloog to Southampton-MCT purely because it was reported as being double headed,which it duly was.Just a pair of plain green FL's 66547 led with 66593 'inside'.Here passing Hollybush Road Footbridge in Warminster.
..16 december 2021..
This working these days often produces a pair of GM's probably as a way of depriving DB of cash for charging Freightliner for parking their engines in Acton Yard! So here are 66514 leading 59103 on '7C77' the 12:41 from Acton Yard-TC back down to Merehead.Viewed at Fairwood as it passes the freshly ploughed and horrowed fields there.
..21 october 2021..
Its only been about a month since this field here was ploughed and reseeded for the first time in many years and already the Moles have produced multiple 'hills' as they burrow around the fields. Meanwhile '7C29' the 06:41 from Acton-TC to Merehead passes by with 66616 leading and the soon to be repainted into G&W-Orange 59205 behind.A longish train this morning,about 50% hoppers and 50% open boxes.
..29 september 2021..
'7C29' the 06:41 from Acton-TC to Merehead empties today produced this pairing.Freightliner's palindromic 66566 leads with G&W-Orange 59203 'inside'.Here running down the Frome Avoider nr the Styles Hill Overbridge.
..24 september 2021..
Here is an unusual combination for a regular working '6C72' the 08:30 from Taunton's Fairwater Yard to Westbury.66556 leads with interloper from 'Colas' 66847 tucked inside.I think it was just being returned to the Colas-Base at Westbury having been used the previous day on an HOBC trip whilst on short term hire for the weekend. ..20 september 2021..
Todays '7C77' got me all excited when 59202 was listed along with 66524 on this working,the 12:41 from Acton-TC to Merehead. Annoyingly the wrong loco was leading which was a bit of a pity given the superb lighting conditions,Oh Well! Viewed at an increasingly overgrown Styles hill Footbridge on the Frome Avoiding Line. ..7 september 2021..
A pair of 'Greens' led todays '7C77' the 12:41 from Acton-TC to Merehead.66604 leads with 66525 inside.Viewed passing Baynton Farm/Cowleaze lane on the B&H.
..2 september 2021..
Todays '6V41' the 14:48 from Eastleigh East Yard to westbury comprised of 66776/66732 & 66764 and 5 JJA's.The 2 lead loco's and the JJA's being positioned for a working later that evening from Westbury down to Crediton.This fairly unusual triple GBRf combination is viewed a Arn Hill nr Warminster.A nice surprise as I didn't actually know this combination was coming.Just like the old days before mobile phones and g-mail etc! ..26 august 2021..
Todays '7C77' the 12:41 from Acton-TC to Merehead was double headed as it often is nowadays.FL Plain-Jayne 66514 leads with 'AI' 59002 tucked inside.Seen here at Manningford Bruce heading West.
..26 august 2021..
66526 carries the name 'Steve Dunn (George)' inmemory for the Freightliner driver that lost his life in the Great heck rail accident.Here it is paired with 'Tango' 59206 leading '7C77' the 12:41 from Acton-TC to Merehead.Seen on the straightaway just after Fairwood Junction nr Westbury.
..10 august 2020..
'4O57' suffered a failure at Filton Abbey Wood with 70003 being unable to continue.(Probably in shock due to loaded containers right next to the loco!).Presumably 66549 was summomed from Stoke Gifford which is just a few miles away to rescue the working and proceed onward to Southampton-MCT albeit about 2 hours late! The train originated at Cardiff-Wentloog departing there at 13:04,actually 12 minutes early! So here is '4O57' which today was very well loaded with 66549 just about managing to lift this working including a very dead 70003 'inside' up the Upton Scudamore Incline. Viewed from Arn Hill A350 road bridge.
..26 july 2021..
As '7C77' the 12:41 from Acton-TC to Merehead was running 2 hours later than booked it gave me a chance to picture it at Blatchbridge Junction just West of Frome.It could have done with being about 15 minutes earlier to have avoided the encroaching shadows however! 66616 led with 59206 in behind.
..20 july 2021..
This evenings 'Berkley- Double' was 59004 & 66572 working '7C64' the 15:25 from Acton-TC to Merehead.
..19 july 2021..
Here is '7C77' the 12:41 from Acton-TC to Merehead running past Hungerford Common with 59004 leading and 59203 tucked inside.Today the temperature here was well over 30 degree's C and in between bouts of photography I spent my time sheltering in my car with the air conditioning going full blast! Sod the fuel consumption!
..19 july 2021..
With the strong evening light here at Berkley Marsh this evening '6C64' was hard to resist.DB-Red 59205 being paired with 66549 on the 15:25 from Acton-TC going down to Merehead.Just JNA's tonight hence the '6' classification.
..8 july 2021..
Wearing the now abandoned 'Powerhaul' colours 66528 'Madge Elliot MBE-Borders Railway Opening 2015' is partnered with 59205 working '7C77' the 12:41 from Acton-TC going down to Merehead Quarry with a long train of emptied hoppers.Seen approaching Woodborough Loop which on this occasion was missed out as it sped by non-stop.
..30 june 2021..
Here is a nice matching pair of GBRf loco's albeit of completely different classes.Good 'ol' Boy 59003 'Yeoman Highlander' leads 66708 'Jayne' on '6V41' the 14:48 from Eastleigh East yard up to Westbury The load being about a dozen empty JNA's.Seen with Arn Hill nr Warminster as a backdrop.
..15 june 2021..
Todays '6O41' the 10:14 from Westbury to Eastleigh East Yard comprosed this GBRf/Colas combo.66765 led with 66848 tucked inside drawing a pair of identical cranes as the loading.Pictured at Redbridge having just come over the junction from the Salisbury line there.
..14 june 2021..
'7C64' the 15:25 from Acton-TC to Merehead employed 59201 (With Bell-End leading) and 66589 today. Here seen slowing for Clink Road Junction as a precautionary measure even though this working goes straight on down the Avoider to East Somerset Junction and not turning off on to the Frome Station line.
..8 june 2021..
Thanks to this working being 2 hours later than scheduled the opportunity arose to picture it at Bunns lane in Witham Friary. Normally there are no worthwhile workings in here when the light is suitable. So here are 66549 leading 59002 with '7V77' the late 12:41 from Acton-TC to Merehead.
..4 june 2021..
66568/59104 head this mornings '7A09' the 07:12 from Merehead to Acton-TC.Today running about 90 minutes late at this point for some reason.Seen at Berkley Marsh.
..2 june 2021..
Mixed-Double 59204 &66615 dodge the gathering shadows at Clink Woods with '6C76' the 15:25 from Acton-TC to Whatley.This bridge provided photographic opportuntities of just a few hours at the height of the summer only.Here we are at just 17:35 and the shadows are lengthening considerably already! ..1 june 2021..
'7C64' the 15:25 from Acton-TC going down to Merehead with pairing 59101 & 66549 completed todays collection of pictures. Four opportunities down thr B&H toward Woodborough were all screwed up by isolated 'floaters' but still a good collection today considering!
..27 may 2021..
2 'Hansons in the Sun' within 10 minutes!. This working followed '6V62' down to Whatley Quarry within 10 minutes.59104 leads with 66617 on the inside.It is '6V76' the 14:39 from Acton-TC to Whatley Quarry.Well worth a shot as the lighting was simplt too good to miss!
..27 may 2021..
Excellent clean clear evening lighting enabled this long tele shot of '7C64' the 15:25 from Acton-TC going down to Merehead.G&W 59206 leads with its more mundane playmate 66568 tucked inside.Seen at Berkley Marsh nr Frome.
..26 may 2021..
59002 paired with 66572 roll through Clink with '7C77' the 12:41 from Acton-TC to Merehead.
..24 may 2021..
Orange-on-Green! 59206 leads 66510 through Berkley Marsh with the evening '7C64' 15:25 from Acton-TC down to Merehead with its long string of empty-boxes. ..19 may 2021..
After 3 days of trying I just managed to picture '7C77' here on the Frome Avoider in sunlight after 2 days of failures..A close run thing as the light went seconds after it passed, It was all the better for being 45 minutes late sunwise. So here are 66571/59002 with '7C77' the 12:41 from Acton-TC to Merehead.
..18 may 2021..
Todays '7C64' the 15:25 from Acton-TC to Merehead was diverted for some reason via Swindon instead of the B&H.I wonder if the apparantly failed '6V18' in Towny Loops had anything to do with it? 59201 with its Bell leading along with 66565 'inside' were doing the job today.Seen approaching Clink Road Junction.
..17 may 2021..
This working '7C59' is the 19:15 from Whatley Quarry to the sidings at the now disused Westbury Cement Works.The reception sidings there are now being operated by Freightliner for reversing and marshalling trains and wagon storage to avoid DB's rip off charges for use of the sidings at the Station area. 66623 leads with 66516 inside.Also unseen on the rear was 66613,probably the train engine for a working from there to Eastleigh about an hour later with part of this load.
..7 may 2021..
GBRf's Ex-Swedish Beacon Rail Import 66791 with 70812 along for the ride passes the old church at Little Langford in the Wylye Valley.with '6O41' the 10:14 Westbury Down-TC to Eastleigh East Yard made up of a long rake of side-tipper ballast wagons.As can be seen from the cloud formations this was indeed a piece of luck that the sun coincided with its passing! ..7 may 2021..
This was an unexpected bonus.It was supposed to be routed via Basingstoke to get to Eastleigh Works from Langport (departing at 11:00) as '0O69' it turned right at Didcot and came via Swindon and Westbury!. Thank-you very much!...GBRf's 66704 leads with the now totally rebuilt 69001 (the old 56031 'Merehead') and recent import from the Continent 66794.Both of these locomotives being in grey undercoat are to be repainted shortly in the Works at Eastleigh. Viewed shortly after passing Westbury whilst climbing the Upton Scudamore Bank. Wouldn't it be amazing if 69001 came out in BR-Blue with 'Merehead' nameplates!!!!!!!!!!
..4 may 2021..
In the 16 years or so since the 59/2's started working regularly out of the Mendip Quarries this is the first time I think ever that all 3 Class-59 prototypes have worked together on a single working.I certainly have never seen that combo for sure!What are the chances??? So here are 59101 with 59001 and 59201 passing West Woodlands going down to Merehead with '7C29' the 06:33 from Acton-TC viua Swindon.
..1 may 2021..
Double Stamps today on '7C77' the 12:41 from Acton-TC to merehead empties.Freightliner 5-Door 66597 leads the daddy of them all 59001 down the Frome Avoider at Styles Hill in an all too brief splash of nice sunlight.Just a few new 'Toaux' hoppers behind the locomotives which amazingly have so far avoided being defaced by the graffiti-morons that seem to infest freight yards these days.
..30 april 2021..
66413 leads 59206 yet again on '7C29' the 06:41 from Acton-TC to Merehead returning morning empties.Personally I actually prefer the 1st incarnation of G&W-Orange as worn by 66413.Subsequent engines have appeared in the darker shade as on 59206.Thus making 66413 somewhat unique. The working viewed approaching Clink Road Junction in Frome.
..23 april 2021..
66783/66419 and 66743 make up a convoy going to Westbury to provide Top-n-Tail power for a CWR train to Crediton. 66789 and 66719 being the nominated engines.Viewed here at Arn Hill nr Warminster as '0V40' the 14:05 from Eastleigh East Yard to Westbury.
..22 april 2021..
Two distinctly different variations of the G&W Orange Livery were matched together here on the 06:41 from Acton-TC to Merehead morning empties.59206 led with 66413 (The first one to get an orange-makeover so probably a colour match mistake).Pictured in the still fairly shadowy cutting at Styles Hill in Frome on the Avoiding line there. ..22 april 2021..
'7C29'the morning empties from Acton-TC to Merehead (06:41 off) appears lately to be a regular working with apair of engines on.Today the combo was 66622 leading with 'Good Ol Boy 59102 inside.Seen off the Styles Hill footbridge on the Avoiding line in Frome.
..21 april 2021..
Its now been nearly 4 years since 66413 'Lest We Forget' became the first G&W loco to be painted into the Orange Livery and today I had the chance to picture my first G&W-Orange pairing.Here is 66413 coupled with 59206 working '7C29' the 06:49 from Acton-TC to Merehead approaching Clink Road Junction in Frome... Note the much darker shade of Orange on 59206 than 66413.Pictured individually the shades do not seem too different but put together the contrast is quite stark.
..16 april 2021..
Powerhaul's 66416 combined with DB-Red 59204 to work '7C29' the 06:49 from Acton to Merehead..Plenty of indications here at Clink Road in Frome that Spring is now well under way....
..14 april 2021..
With the early evening sun yellowing just a touch '6C76' the 14:39 from Acton-TC to Whatley Quarry passes Berkley Marsh. Hanson's 'Good-O-Boy' 59104 leads with Freightliners nondescript 66525 tucked in behind.
..29 march 2021..
59204 suffered a failure whilst working '6L21' the 13:23 from Whatley Quarry to Dagenham Dock.Inconveniently it happened whilst it was coming over Clink Road Junction thus blocking movements at this point.The delay lasted for nearly a hour whilst a '1Z99' was organised from Westbury with 66621 running wrong line from there to rescue it. Although 66621 is one of the higher traction re-geared versions it had quite a struggle getting this 4000 ton load plus a crippled 59 on the move against the resistance of the sharp curve of the junction here.The train continued on to Westbury where presumably 59204 was removed and the working continued on to London,leaving over 90 minutes down. Amazingly it arrived at Dagenham Dock 2-minutes early!!
..3 february 2021..
Double Stamps today working '7A17' the 10:24 from Merehead to Colnbrook. Here 66558 &66540 seen working quite hard passing Clink Road Junction in Frome.
..4 december 2020..
Here is a study of a pair of front-ends of Prototype GM-66001 and a re-geared version 66621.Pretty much identical but note 66001 still retains the special bracket over the leading wheel-set to enable a 'trip-cock' mechanism to be fitted whilst working over LT lines in and around London usually on RHTT work. I am quite surprised it wasn't allocated to those duties this year? Seen adjacent the DB Office at Westbury Station
..2 december 2020..
The 10:14 from Westbury to Eastleigh '6O41' certainly has a variety of loco's often in its consist.Today it was 66719 'Metroland' and Colas's 66847 'Terry Baker' with a good mix of engineering wagons.Here seen at Arn Hill on the crest on the Upton-Scudamore Incline in a short burst of morning sunlight.
..19 november 2020..
59203 the second 59/2 to get the G&W-Orange makeover commenced duties today in that guise and is seen here returning to Merehead from Chelmsford via Acton-TC in the formation of '7C29' the 06:41 from Acton-TC to Merehead.Nondescript 66558 being the lead loco.Viewed passing Frome at Clink in rather dire 800-iso lighting!
..27 october 2020..
Double--59202 & 66568 rolls through Clink with the 12:41 from Acton-TC to Merehead afternoon aggregate empties. 59202 was the last 59/2 to get the DB-Red repaint.I wonder if the same will apply when it's time for it's G&W-orange make-over?
..22 october 2020..
Despite the poor lighting and persistent drizzle this shot was worth popping out for. '7C77' the 12:41 from Acton-TC to Merehead was headed by this triple....59004 'Paul A Hammond' leads with Powerhaul 66414 and Freightliners pioneer 66/5-66501 'Japan-2001' along for the ride.Shame about the 800-iso lighting but worth the effort!
..12 october 2020..
A triple loco set-up with just a single wagon in tow was the situation on todays '6V41' the 14:48 from Eastleigh to Westbury.66712 leads with 66523 and 66416 along for the ride plus a single JNA.Seen at Arn Hill nr Warminster. ..8 october 2020..
GBRf's Green Celeb 66779 'Evening Star' continues to be based at Westbury having been here now for an entire week,thankfully in nice sunny conditions most of the time.Here seen with '6O39' the 10:14 from Westbury to Eastleigh via Fordingbridge.Today along for the ride was Colas's 66747 and a CWR-Train.This close up shows some of the 'BR' details on this engine such as the 82F replica shed plate for Bath Green Park (Where the original 92220 was based to haul the final Pines Express on the S&D) and the notation 9F above the 66779 cabside-number.This loco would probably classified as about 12F under that classification!
..25 september 2020..
Two of the three recently acquired 'new' Ex-Sweden Class-66's previously numbered T66405 &T66403 (built in 2002) but now leased by GBRf pass Arn Hill on a light-engine movement from Eastleigh East Yard (dep) at 10:10) to Eastleigh East Yard via Basingstoke,Reading,Gloucester,Bristol-TM and Westbury as '0D66'.This is,for sure some kind of proving-run to check all is well with them both before being released into general daily use.Viewed passing Arn Hill nr Warminster on their final leg of the trip back the Eastleigh.
..23 september 2020..
This was a bit of a surprise.I had worked out that this working '0V40' the 16:05 from Eastleigh to Westbury was going to be 66752 'The Hoosier State' as it was booked on an engineers to the west later that evening but to have 66779 'Evening Star' along as well was very nice...Amazingly it was also leading as seen here at Arn Hill nr Warminster.
..17 september 2020..
GBRf-Double 66770 & 66752 power up the bank through Dilton Marsh with '6O41' the 10:14 from Westbury to Eastleigh-East Yard.A nice Muncie-Pair in excellent late summer morning sunshine.
17 september 2020..
Today's '7C29' was a double 66556 leading with G&W 59206 tucked inside.Here passing a still lightly misty Berkley Marsh during its journey from Acton-TC(06:41 off) to Merehead.
..16 september 2020..
My 'voodoo spell with 66415 continues.This time in full light unbelievably screwed by 59206 going the other way..Still quite an interesting shot!..So here is 66415 coming up from Fairwater Yard to Westbury as '6C72' whilst 59206 goes west with '7C29' from Acton to Merehead.At least it was first 'double' G&W-Orange meeting! ..15 september 2020..
'7C77' the 12:41 from Acton-TC to Merehead served up a 'triple' bonus of 59202/66610 & 66564 captured amazingly in full light at Great Cheverell.When it appeared under the bridge in the background the scene was completely dark.However the fast moving cloud supplied just enough sunlight to brighten up the entire scene.....Luck does happen occasionally!
..21 august 209#20..
Westbury's GBRf 'Pet' 59003 with Colas's 70807 along for the ride passes Warminster with '6V41' the 14:48 from Eastleigh East Yard to Westbury with a mixed selection of engineering wagons. ..17 august 2020..
Pairing 59205 & 66546 runs through Manningford Bruce on the B&H with '7C77' the 12:41 from Acton-TC to Merehead.Overly expensive access charges at Acton-TC Yard by DB force Freightliner to bring loco's home to the Quarries rather than leave them at Acton incurring costly expense!
..30 july 2020..
Mine's a Double! ------ 66516 is paired with logo-less 59204 as they work the 06:41 from Acton-TC to Merehead past Berkley Marsh.
..28 july 2020..
GM Pioneer 59001 paired with 66564 rumbles through Berkley Marsh on '7C64' the 15:26 from Acton-TC to Merehead.Yet another evening empties return to the quarries with a pair of engines!
..2 july 2020..
More often than not lately this working '6C76' the14:39 from Acton-TC to Whatley Quarry has a pair of loco's in charge.The second one for sure being DIT.Todays combo being 59201 and 66520 are seen approaching Clink Road Junction.
..2 july 2020..
This was quite interesting. 59201 & 59103 had come to a stand just short of Fairwood Junction on the Westbury Avoider.I presume it had suffered some kind of failure as the following Plymouth Express was diverted through Westbury Station even though it was booked non-stop via the avoider. It eventually got on the move after about 55 minutes and passed here at severely reduced speed with the lead loco seemingly very low on power. The train being '7C64' the 15:26 from Acton-TC to Merehead.
..22 june 2020..
After a 4-hour layover in Westbury '6V12' finally managed to depart there heading for Merehead from Woking (15:38 off).Whilst waiting around in the yards at Westbury it also gained 66533 'Senator Express' to accompany 66509. Viewed in the low evening lighting passing Berkley Marsh nr Frome.
..22 june 2020..
Mixed-Double 66621&59002 pass Warminster with '7V62' the 13:21 from Southampton Up Yard heading for Whatley Quarry.This shot has only been possible since quite recently thanks to the local shrub clearing gang have passed this way!
..22 june 2020..
This working '6C76' the 14:39 from Acton-TC to Whatley seems to be the favoured one for getting spare loco's back to the Mendips from Acton.Tonights combo being the grandaddy of them all 59001 (B-end leading) with 66610 making this a first sight of this combination arrangement.Seen at good old Berkley Marsh.
..28 may 2020..
Another GM-pairing on the B&H today were 66955 and 59001 with the 14:39 from Acton-TC going down to Whatley Quarry as '6C76'.Seen approaching Clink Road Junction.A long tele-shot necessary as the shadows here from the tall tall bushes were getting pretty long even though it was only 18:00 in the late aftertoon.
..26 may 2020..
A pair of the old-guard 59102 & 59004 swing through a superbly manicured Great Cheverell with '7C77' the 12:41 from Acton-TC to Merehead.Note the almost brand new 'Touax' JNA behind to locomotives.Isn't it ironic the the best summer in 45 years has coincided with the worst health crisis since 1918 just over 100 years ago. ------ ..26 may 2020..
Double DB-Red pairing 59203/59201 runs through Berkley Marsh with the evening '7C64' 15:26 from Acton-|TC to Merehead Quarry empties.Tonights working consisting fully of JNA's including a couple of the new 'Tuoax' versions easily identified by their distinctive red bodies.
..15 may 2020..
Freight around Westbury has seen quite an increase in 2020 due to operational changes in the region.The B&H see's quite a few extra trains due to the GWR electrification via Swindon and this line to Southampton now has a few Freightliners to and from Southampton. So here is '4O57' the 13::29 from Cardiff-Wentloog down to Southampton-Maritime.The loco's being 66563 with the pink 'ONE' loco 66587 tucked inside.Pity it wasn't on the front? here seen creeping up the grade towards Warminster at Dilton Marsh.Pictured thanks to a 10 mile return trip exercise cycle ride from home to here.My car remains firmly sat in the driveway!
..6 may 2020..
As the longer evenings are now happening this working '6C76' the 14:39 from Acton-TC to Whatley Quarry is currently ok for good evening light here at Clink Road Junction.Handily just a few minutes exercise walk from my home.A now quite common combination of green and red,5-door 66955 leading with 59203 tucked inside.Might as well make the most of it as pretty soon everything with be G&W Orange!
..1 may 2020..
This DB-Red pairing 59205/59202 runs past Styles Hill in Frome which is a location about 1.5 miles cycling distance from my home.They were drawing '7C77' the 12:41 from Acton-TC to Merehead.A high proportion of the stone traffic out of the quarries now seems to have ceased for the time being apart from some 'jumbo's' up to the London plus a few others.
..23 april 2020..
Todays variation is a pair of AI's 59002 and 59004 powering down the main at Clink with '7V77' the 12:41 from Acton-TC to Merehead.Most stone traffic seems now after 3 weeks of 'lockdown' to be petering out as demand begins to slowdown.At a guess only about 50% seems to be in operation....
..15 april 2020..
A pair of Quarry-Originals,59002 leading with 59104 'inside' working '7C77' the 12:41 from Acton-TC to Merehead passing my only location currently available to me during the Covid-19 lockdown at Clink.
..8 april 2020..
66538 with 66599 & 66601 DIT climb the Upton Scudamore Incline at Dilton Marsh with '4O57' the 13:29 from Cardiff-Wentloog to Southampton-MCT Freightliner. It appears that this will now run regularly via Westbury due to the increased passenger traffic on the 'Top Road' after the introduction of the new 'Winter Timetable' with many additional Class-800 type services.A pretty dull 3200-iso picture but nice to see increased freights on this route!
..16 december 2019..
Here is my first 'all green' pairing since Freightliner became the mendip service provided about a month ago.here are 66524 and 66601 with just 5 hoppers running as '6C77' from Acton-TC (12:41 off) going the Whatley Quarry.With sunset less than 30 minutes away the shadows were moving almost as fast as this train!
..3 december 2019..
This all GBRf triple-combo today operated '6V41' the 14:45 from Eastleigh East Yard up to Westbury.The load being a welded rail carrier-set. 66729 'Derby County' leads with 66778 now named 'Darius Cheskin' and 66711 'Sence' also in tow. It is viewed nr Upton Lovell in the Wylye Valley on a superbly cloudless day.You do not get many of those that's for sure!
..20 september 2019..
66711 'Sence' the current regular loco on the '6O41/'6V41' daily engineering duty to Eastleigh and back from Westbury today had a couple of extra passengers along with a single JNA wagon on '6V41.The pair of Colas 66's were 66850 'David Maidmannt OBE' and 66849 'Wylam Dilly'.Seen running under Arn Hill nr Warminster.
..18 september 2019..
The big bonus ball today was this fully loaded Army-MOD train from Carlisle-NY to Warminster-MOD(Army).It departed this northern outpost of the country at 01:38 this morning.The locomotives being 66722 'Sir Edward Watkins' and 66725 'Sunderland'.Here it is seen at Arn Hill nr Warminster just a few miles from its final destination.Nice to see activity into this Army Depot.For years it was pretty much dormant but recently several workings have happened.
..15 august 2019..
Another few months and this livery combination although quite rare even now will be lost forever! DB's 66053 pilots 59104 through a quite shadowy Clink Road in Frome working '7C29' the 06:27 from Acton-TC down to Merehead.
..15 august 2019..
Paired 59203/59204 (59204 was apparantly a failure but obviously quite a small problem as it was back working that afternoon!) make their way towards Merehead from Acton-TC (06:27 off) as '7C29'.This location here at Clink is now quite shadowy even at 10:25 in the morning.A sure sign of the changes in the seasons as the sun become lower in the skies.Oddly the front portion still seems to be fully loaded?? ---13 august 2019---
As usual when something out of the ordinary occurs re '6O41' I get stuffed by the passing clouds in a 90% clear blue sky!! So here is a Colas-GM 66849 escorting the regular 59003 down to Eastleigh East Yard with the 10:14 away from Westbury.Seen passing under the A303 main road at Wylye in the Valley of the same name.
..15 july 2019..
Freightliner's 66562 & 66618 sandwich 10 JNA's running up to Westbury from Newton Abbott as '6Y40' the 08:45 off that location. Here viewed passing Berkley Marsh nr Frome sufficiently early for the front end to be nicely lit.
..14 july 2019..
Just occasionally the regular '0O12' from Margam to Eastleigh becomes something a little bit interesting! Well today was the day the 10:55 from Margam to Eastleigh East Yard ran as '6O12', a triple-header 66078/66128 & 66065 (All DB-Red) plus three TEA-tanks and one TIA tank for good measure.These are probably off the Robeston Oil Circuit going the Eastleigh for a spot of necessary Mtce. This nice looking working is seen at Arn Hill nr Warminster. This was a bit of a waiting game here as it finally departed Westbury after a delay of almost an hour!
..13 july 2019..
I was all set up to picture EWS-66013 going to Churchyards Sidings from Whatley Quarry as '6M20'--depart time 10:37 when I was nicely 'done' by 59102 going to Merehead from Acton-TC (06:27 off) as '7C29. Oh well that made a nice change--didn't it!
..12 july 2019..
Mixed Double GM-pairing 66118 and 59102 draws '7C29' the 06:27 from Acton-TC to Merehead down the Frome-Avoider at Styles Hill.The seasons continue to roll on.Now is the time for the 'Rosebay-Willow Herb' to make its appearance.
..12 july 2019..
Schenker-Red 59206 paired with AI 59005 rumbles past berkley marsh with '7C64' the 15:26 off Acton-TC down to Merehead.The increasingly tatty looking 59206 is booked for an early visit to Toton as soon as these Class-59/2 are replaced around the Westbury district.Apparantly the wheelsets are life expired or put it another way--knackered!
..6 june 2019..
It's a double! 59101 leads a rather tired,scabby looking Schenker 59206 through Berkley Marsh with '7C64' the afternoon 15:25 from Acton-TC to Merehead empties.
..15 may 2019..
Hanson 59102 doubles up with DB's 59203 working '7C77' the 12:40 from Acton-TC down to Merehead.Pictured off the high roadbridge at Styles Hill in Frome.
..10 may 2019..
This was an STP working '6Z42' from Acton-TC down to Merehead.Just a short rake of boxes which travelled down from Acton via Swindon and the Melksham line instead of the more usual B&H.66098 led with 59005 in behind. Viewed at Berkley Marsh nr Frome. Now that the summer-clocks are with us again this location is quite handy for these workings that pass from the Westbury direction in the after tea-time period.
..10 april 2019..
Here is an unusual combination! GBRf's 59003 is seen passing Wylye with '6V40' the 14:05 from Easleigh East Yard returning to Westbury after its trip there this morning on '6O41'.Just for added spice Colas 66846 was tucked 'inside' getting a free ride up to Westbury.The load here was a set of CWR's.It should be noted that today is the first day that GBRf have worked this duty.DB having lost the work the previous day.
..1 april 2019..
59201 & 59101 head todays '7C77' the 12:40 from Acton-TC back down to Merehead.Seen nr Great Cheverell.The entire consist was boxes and no hoppers whatsoever.Quite an indication of the changes in flow patterns in and around London.
..25 march 2019..
This nice 'Double' 59103 and 59201 was heading todays '7A09' the 07:16 from Merehead going up to Acton-TC.Viewed passing Manningford Bruce nr Pewsey on a very unseasonable warm winters day.In fact the BBC said it was the warmest February day ever since records had begun.
..25 february 2019..
With just 59104 powering and 59203 DIT a lightly loaded '7C77' the 12:40 from Acton-TC to Merehead rolls past Masters Crossing nr Fairwood.
..19 february 2019..
With the driver creeping forwards very slowly shortly after getting a green signal here at Fairwood Junction 66149 with '0C28' from Exeter-Riverside to Westbury runs by slowly in the opposite direction making for a nice passing shot! The 'AI' is 59005 with '7V16' from Fareham going down to Whatley Quarry.Thanks driver,whether it was intentional or not the gesture was greatly appreciated!
..15 february 2019..
'Village of Great Elm' 59104 runs in tandem with DB-Schenker's 59204 working '7V77' the 12:40 from Acton-TC going down to Merehead Quarry.Full tele on my 24-105L lens being necessary to obtain a reasonably shadow-less composition here at Master's Farm Crossing nr Fairwood.
..30 january 2019..
59002 'Alan J Day' and 59206 'John F.Yeoman Rail Pioneer' heads todays '7V77' the 12:40 from Acton-TC to Merehead Quarry.Seen here in the yellowing late afternoon sun at Cowleaze Lane in Bratton.
..2 november 2018..
59205 is doubled up with 66053 as it runs through Clink heading for Merehead working '7C77' the 12:40 from Acton-TC going down to Quarry.Although it was only 15:40 in the afternoon the sunlight had gone completely yellow as the ball in the sky was approaching the horizon.In theory sunset was still nearly an hour away but long long shadows make life quite difficult as well!
..1 november 2018..
With autumnal colours only just beginning in show themselves here at Great Cheverell the 12:40 from Acton-TC to Merehead '7C77' passes by with this pair at its head.Hanson 59103 leads with 59004 inside.A nice traditional Mendip combination me-thinks!
..19 october 2018..
This shot is a quite heavy crop of a nearly full tele-shot on my 24-105 lens due to a cloud line that had almost reached the train when the shutter was pressed.A standard lens version would have been 100% in shadow and therefore a total blow-out! So here is a double Schenker-Red pairing of 59206 and 59203 creeping along under adverse signals at Hungerford Common.It was '7C77' the regular afternoon empties from Acton-TC (12:40 off) returning to Merehead in deepest Somerset.Not too bad considering the circumstances I suppose.
..1 october 2018..
66107 still in its 'as built' colour scheme pilots 59204 on '7C64' the 15:26 from Acton-TC to Merehead.The long train (three portions-over 50 bogie wagons) shot on a longish telephoto of about 300mm in 35mm terms seen amongst the fields between Standerwick and Frome.
..1 august 2018..
Schenker-Red 59204 along with 'AI' 59005 tucked inside pass down the Frome Avoiding Line with '7C29' the 06:53 from Acton-TC going down to Merehead.This is my first opportunity to use this shot since the embankments have been de-bushed as the several inquisitive horses usually in this paddock were today absent.
..25 july 2018..
A Classic shot of GM Class-59's at work on Mendip Stone traffic me-thinks? So here are 59005 and 59203 in contrasting liveries passing Styles Hill in Frome with a diverted '7C29' the 06:53 from Acton-TC to Merehead today running via Swindon due to the B&H being closed for engineering works. Because of this later passing time here in Frome because of this diversion it makes this train a much nicer proposition sun-angle wise.
..24 july 2018..
Here is a pairing of what can these days be considered as 'old' liveries! EWS-66183 along with 'Hanson'-59104 heading '7C64' the diverted via Swindon 15:26 from Acton-TC to Merehead Quarry.Seen passing a rather parched out looking Berkley Marsh nr Frome due to the incredible hot and dry spell we are enjoying this year.The hottest summer since 1976,an amazing 42 years ago!
..23 july 2018..
Double 'Pink Shield Stamps' on todays retimed '4C77' from Acton-TC going down to Merehead.It departed there at 11:33 but arrived at Merehead about the same time as '7C77' usually does because it lost considerable time having been diverted via Swindon as the B&H is shut yet again for OHLE engineering works...59204 along with 59203 headed the short train of just one set of aggregate boxes.Viewed from Church Road in Heywood nr Westbury.
..23 july 2018..
This doesn't happen very often.Both local Class 59 prototypes 59101 & 59001 together on one working.here they are passing Blatchbridge Bridge with '7C77' the 12:40 from Acton-TC going down to Merehead.Temperatures today was approaching 30 degrees C and standing on this exposed concrete bridge here on the Frome Bypass was a bit of a killer temperature wise!
..25 june 2018..
Mixed GM-Double 59002 & 59104 runs down the Frome Avoider at Styles Hill with '7C77' the 12:40 from Acton-TC to Merehead.Apparantly yesterday was a triple but a double is quite acceptable!.
..19 june 2018..
The 15:26 from Acton-TC to Merehead '7C64' tonight produced this double,which was nice! The original Schenker-Red repaint which is now looking somewhat tatty 59206 is paired with 59102 as it works through Berkley Marsh at Pot Lane nr Frome.Nice evening light as it approaches sunset making for superb colours.
..12 june 2018..
This mornings '7C29' the 06:24 from Acton-TC to Merehead empties produced this striking double.The freshly re-liveried DB-66065 leads good old Hanson 59102 down past a nicely landscaped Styles Hill on the Frome Avoider.A good start to a promisingly blue looking day!
..10 may 2018..
59206 creeps away from Clink Road Junction with a fully loaded '6A17' the 09:47 from Whatley Quarry to Acton-TC.Naturally 'sods law' dictated that 59102 on '7C29' from Acton-TC going to Merehead was passing this spot here at Berkley Marsh nr Frome simultaneously.Thankfully using the zoom on my lens enabled me to produce this passing shot.Actually it works quite well given the rushed nature of it all!
..26 april 2018..
Today because the B&H was closed for engineering reasons '7C77' the 12:35 from Acton-TC to Merehead was routed via Swindon and Melksham. It was also delayed at Swindon for a further 30 minutes passing Frome nearly 2 hours behind its normal booked time.Good old 'Hanson in the Sun' 59101 was leading Schenker-Red 59202 as it passed the nicely lit Clink Road Cutting on the approach to the junction there.Its amazing how a few days of sunlight and warmth have allowed the bushes here to spurt into 'green' life!
..23 april 2018..
Todays '6M50' the 07:55 from Westbury Down-TC to Bescot Up Engineers Sidings was triple headed probably with just the lead loco powering.Here is the working with Colas's 70815 leading 70804 and 70811 and its short freight consists passing Didcot North Junction in the superb morning lighting.
..5 april 2018..
'0F84' the 75 minute late 12:12 from Westbury Down-TC to Cardiff-Canton Sdg's passes Heywood in this sun-n-snow scene.Locomotives being 70812 leading along with a trailing 70803.
..19 march 2018..
Here is an 'STP' working '0F78' the 10:05 from Hinksey-Yard in Oxford returning locomotives probably used over the weekend out of that location on engineering workings back down to their nominal base at Westbury-Wilts.70808 was doing the donkey work dragging class-members 70809/70803 &70811 for good measure.Viewed at Didcot North with the still unfinished disgustingly OTT-OHLE looking as bad as ever in the background.This is another location that will be lost forever once the junk in the distance spreads further south.
..12 february 2018..
DB/EWS-66019 along with Schenker-59202 are seen returning empties from Acton-TC (12:38 off) to Merehead as '7C77'.After a dire exceedingly wet morning the weather relented for an hour or more just after 15:00 so I popped out for this regular working before the lengthening shadows became too prominant.Viewed approaching Clink Road Junction nr Frome.
..31 january 2018..
This combo doesn't happen that often so given the superb lighting was a nice surprise..Schenker liveried 66118 with similarly attired 59206 tucked inside rumbles through Berkley Marsh with '7C29' the 07:23 empty-stone from Acton-TC to Merehead.
..15 december 2017..
It was too much to hope for a bit of sun for this working and true to form there wasn't any!.Anyway it was still worth a shot of this triple-header with a few Cartics working between Newport-ADJ (12:42 away) to Eastleigh-East Yard as '6Z12'. 66098 was leading with 66131 and 66096 inside.Pictured at an optomistic 800-iso just cresting the Upton Scudamore Bank at Arn Hill nr Warminster.
..4 november 2017..
Workings in all directions tonight here at Berkley Marsh nr Frome for a short period!. Here is EWS-66207 with '7F51' to Westbury from Whatley Quarry passing 59004 going to Merehead from Wootton Bassett (17:50 off) as '7C66'.
..8 september 2017..
Todays '6M20' the 10:37 from Whatley Quarry to St-Pancras-Churchyard Sidings-Tarmac was unusually a 59/1 and a GM66.Not a very regular occurrence that!.59104 was leading with 66005 was tucked inside.I though perhaps the 59/1 would have dropped of at Westbury but it was seen later going on up the B&H.Seen passing Berkley Marsh nr Frome on a pleasingly clear blue morning.
..23 september 2016..
Double-Heading seems to occur quite regularly in this working,the 14:40 away from Acton-TC to Whatley Quarry '6C76'.Here the double portion loading is being hauled by Schenker-59204 and 'Good ol Boy' 59102 in Hanson-Blue which strangely looks better and better as the years roll by! Location is of course Great Cheverell on the B&H.
..23 august 2016..
The very clourful pairing of 59203 and 59001 passes Duffield Road in Sonning Cutting with '7A09' the 07:!2 away from Merehead Quarry going up to Acton-TC.The mast directly behind the locomotives appeared within the last 48hrs and signals the beginning of the end for photography in the iconic Cutting engineered here by Brunel all those years ago.And for what? I ask myself,so far I cannot think of a single good reason for the entire fiasco that is now slowly unfolding on this line.
..09 august 2016..
66055 working '6A26' the 10:37 from Whatley-Quarry to Hayes & Harlington threads its way past various trains parked in Westbury.The loco it is now passing was Colas-66850 which until a few years ago was a Freightliner numbered loco as 66577.
..30 march 2016..
Todays '6C50' local tripper from Westbury down to Whatley-Quarry comprised the empty wagons off of '7V16' from Fareham and those off of '6C48' from Appleford.Both locomotives from those duties 59206 (Appleford) and 59001 (Fareham) went there as well.It passes here,Berkley Marsh at 17:05 so was well over an hour earlier than its booked departure timing of 18:07.Good job too as the shadows here are quite long even at that hour.At least with 'BST' starting in a few days time these evening working off of Westbury to the Quarries will become considerably easier to picture! Note that this is a combination of the oldest and the youngest Class 59's !!
..22 march 2016..
59202 was paired with 59103 on the 14:40 from Acton-TC to Whatley Quarry.This working being '6C76' is seen in between the lengthening shadows off the Frome Bypass Road Bridge approaching Clink Road Junction.
..17 march 2016..
Earlier this morning 70006 failed on a Southampton-MT to Wentloog working and 66593 was sent out to recover and forward the entire working onwards to Wentloog.Here is the return working with 66593 '3MG Mersyside Multimodal Gateway' leading and defective 70006 still in the consist returning to Southampton-MT from Wentloog (11:15 off) as '4Z70'.Today for possibly the first time since Dundus Aquaduct was regauged and realigned a freightliner was able to use the Limpley Stoke Valley after several decades going south.Here the working is viewed over the meadows at Newton-S-Loe on the approach to Bath Spa.
..20 january 2016..
Unusually todays '6C72' the 08:20 from Taunton-Fairwater Yard to Westbury-VQ had a mixed pairing of Freightliner's 66563 and Schenker's 66021 along as well.The load being the regular 'MOBC' going for a refill.This is the first time I have seen this particular mixed-company combination on this usually solid Freightliner-HH duty.The working is seen cruising up through Clink nr Frome in extreemly thin sunlight!
..06 january 2016..
The Westbury to Whatley-Quarry tripper '6C50' eases through Berkley Marsh with 66213 leading 59103.
..22 july 2015..
Todays '6C76' has a small boost in power with the addition of 66091 tucked inside 59204 for the journey down from Acton (14:40 off) to Whatley Quarry.
..22 june 2015..
'AI' 59005 with Schenker 59206 were doubled up today on '7C77' the 12:40 from Acton-TC going to Merehead.The working is seen under a turbulent sky at Fairwood Farm Crossing.
..12 may 2015..
According to RTT this is supposed to be the 13:44 from Exeter '6C28' going to Whatley-Quarry.In fact it appears to have taken to role of the cancelled '6C50' originally due off Westbury at 17:07 as it seems to be a combination of more than just one train.Here the double-harness GM's 66058 and 'Hanson' 59102 are approaching Clink-Junction. Note 66058 is fitted with an additional light on the front-end for use as a night-time banker on the Lickey-Incline!
..30 april 2015..
The final empty stone train of three such workings in just 15 minutes had a bit of a bonus---double stamps! GM 66003 with 59001 'inside' passes Berkley-Marsh on '6C64' the 15:22 from Acton-TC down to Merehead.The evening was particularly clear with the Westbury-White Horse showing up clearly although it is over five miles from this location.
..29 april 2015..
Here is an interesting combination.59004 the last Class-59/0 to wear the remains of its old version-2 Foster-Yeoman livery and 59206 which was the first loco in the Country to wear Schenker-Red.Both are employed on '7A09' the 07:12 Merehead to Acton 'Jumbo'.Here this colourful combo are passing Clink nr Frome heading east.I had the nod from a fellow enthusiast who noted this train reversing out of Merehead-Torre Sidings.I arrived to picture this train with about 15 seconds to spare-------Thats the way to do it!
..21 april 2015..
Todays '7C77' from Acton to Merehead was running over 2 hours down on its normal timings.I suspect that 59204 probably failed and needed the assistance of 66044 all the way from Acton.Use of 66's on '7C77' is normally quite rare. So here is that combo passing Clink nr Frome heading for the Quarry with its double set of open boxes.
30 april 2014..
'Make mine a double!' 59202 in harness with 59104 rolls slowly past Berkley-Marsh with '7Z50' from Westbury going down to Whatley Quarry.Although booked to depart Westbury at 17:00 it didn't actually depart until 18:50....Such are the vagaries of local train planning and execution!
..17 july 2013..
Upon hearing that freshly repainted 59203 was heading my way on '7C77' I set up here on the Frome Avoider to await it.Although a quite nice shot with 59103 leading and 59203 behind I was rather hoping that they would be the other way round..Oh-Well! another 'Hanson in the Sun'......
..13 september 2012..
The regular '7C77' from Acton to Merehead-Quarry empties passes the Westbury-Cement Works on the final approach to Westbury Station.A pair today, Hanson 59103 looking quite smart leading with 59205 tucked inside.This was recorded at 15:00 in the afternoon and the sun was already on its knees! Indeed as can be seen the moon was quite prominent in the afternoon skies but not really adding much brightness to the scene!
..07 december 2011..
Probably the first time a pair of DB-Schenker Liveried Engines have ever worked a Freight together.60011/59206 pass Gt Cheverell on '6C76'. ..11 april 2011..
MOD traffic is very bouyant at this time since our Government seems to want to pick a fight with virtually everybody in the Arab World these days.Here is '6V38' coming up from Marchwood going as far as Didcot with a healthy load of containers and fuel.Traction being 66009 and 'Royal' 67005 doing its 'bit' for Queen and Country.Viewed passing Cholsey Manor-Farm with a field of Rape behind it approaching full-flower. ..19 april 2011..
Clean! looking 66012 and 59005 head the afternoon Acton to Merehead empties '7C77' away from Westbury.Seen at Fairwood.Don't often see a 66 leading a 59! ..19 january 2011..
Todays '6O41' hauled by 66030 from Westbury to Eastleigh-East Yard included 59103/59206 and 59001 all bound for display at the coming weekends Eastleigh Works Open Day.Seen passing Little Langford in the Wylye Valley.A rare chance for a quadruple header on this regular working!
..22 may 2009..
This is quite a unique shot!.59001 only arrived back at Merehead the previous day from Eastleigh where it became the first 59/0 to get the new 'AI' livery.However this particular shade of green for the central band was in fact too 'turquise' looking and within a fortnight was sent back to Eastleigh for the correct 'shade' to be applied.So not too many shots exist of it in this particular state.Here it is sidelined in Woodborough Loops with '7A17' the 10:33 from Merehead going up to Acton.The wagons were the now long gone Freightliner stone hoppers that were then on hire to the 'MRL' fleet.Overtaking it was '6M20' the 10:37 from Whatley-Q going to St Pancras with 59206 in charge,then still in EWS-Red. A scene that will never be repeated,that is for certain---well in these liveries anyway!