Merlin '60027' Photographs http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/ 71 rows en-gb 60 Battlefield Line http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c1774869.html Battlefield Line Saturday 31 October 2009: Battlefield Line

Thompson B1 4-6-0 no. 1306 'Mayflower' at Shenton station on the Battlefield Line. 1306 at the end of the line at Shenton, near Bosworth field. 'Mayflower' runs round its train at Shenton. 'Mayflower' stands ready to depart from Shackleton station. 1306 was built by NBL in Glasgow in 1948. The fireman of 1306 takes a break between trains at Shackleton.

Published in Merlin '60027' Photographs

]]> Sat Oct 31 2009 Great Central Railway http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c1773791.html Great Central Railway Sunday 18 October 2009: Great Central Railway

Cleaning the coupling rods of the LMS class 2 Cleaning the coupling rods of the LMS class 2 Polishing the coupling rods of LMS 2MT 46521 Polishing the coupling rods of LMS 2MT 46521 'Oliver Cromwell' during the Steam Railway Gala 9F 92203 'Black Prince' at Quorn during the Steam Railway Gala 42085 pulls into Quorn & Woodhouse station during the Steam Railway Gala. 'O4' 63601 pulls out of Quorn & Woodhouse heading towards Lougborough. Fairburn tank 42085 gets its smokebox cleaned out in the twilight at Loughborough MPD. 48305 simmers at Loughborough MPD 48305 simmers at Loughborough MPD Fairburn tank 2-6-4T 42085 after disposal at Loughborough MPD D8098 and D123 in the yard at Lougborough D8098 and D123 in the yard at Loughborough

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]]> Sun Oct 18 2009 Beamish http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c1396288.html A collection of photos of the tramway and waggonway at Beamish. Wednesday 18 July 2007: A collection of photos of the tramway and waggonway at Beamish.

The 'Locomotion No. 1' replica in steam on the Pockerly Waggonway The tramway in Beamish runs for a over a mile in a circuit connnecting various areas of the museum, with unlimited travel included in the admission. Tram 16 was one of Sunderland's first trams, and was built as an open top tram by Dick, Kerr at Preston in 1900. Tram 31, originally from Blackpool, passes Sunderland tram 16. Tram 16 was withdrawn from service in 1953 and rescued from a farm for preservation in 1989, being launched into traffic in 2003. Tram 196 was originally built for Oporto in Portugal in 1935 to an Amercian design dating from the Great War. It is painted in Gateshead colours. Tram 31 again entering the depot at the end of the day. It was built in 1901 by Midland RC&WCo, and became part of the Beamish fleet in 1987.

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]]> Wed Jul 18 2007 Foggy Leith http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c1093649.html An early morning autumn visit in the fog to Leith. Monday 25 September 2006: An early morning autumn visit in the fog to Leith.

66245 arrives at Seafield Level Crossing having arrived as 0D01 from Millerhill. 66245 arrives at Seafield Level Crossing having arrived as 0D01 from Millerhill. 0D01 waits to enter Leith Docks at the Marine Esplanade Level Crossing. Having coupled to its train of empty HAA wagons, 66245 waits for them to be loaded with imported coal amongst the puddles of a foggy Leith Docks. Having coupled to its train of empty HAA wagons, 66245 waits for them to be loaded with imported coal amongst the puddles of a foggy Leith Docks. Having coupled to its train of empty HAA wagons, 66245 waits for them to be loaded with imported coal amongst the puddles of a foggy Leith Docks.

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]]> Mon Sep 25 2006 Bathgate line http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c1035113.html The Bathgate branch is served by a half-hourly passenger service from Edinburgh, and has a large STVA car terminal receiving a daily train. The line originally ran through to Glasgow via Airdrie, and there are plans to reopen it, electrify the line, and redouble the current single line section to Bathgate. Friday 28 July 2006: The Bathgate branch is served by a half-hourly passenger service from Edinburgh, and has a large STVA car terminal receiving a daily train. The line originally ran through to Glasgow via Airdrie, and there are plans to reopen it, electrify the line, and redouble the current single line section to Bathgate.

66210 shunts its trains of car wagons having arrived at Bathgate with 6X38. Having positioned flat wagons in the neighbouring road, 66210 pulls clear of the articulated double-deck cartics while they are unloaded at Bathgate. STVA staff unload the new cars at Bathgate. STVA staff unload the new cars at Bathgate. Three beasties. New cars seen inside covered flat wagons. 66210! First Scotrail-liveried 158739 and a NatEx ScotRail liveried sister depart from Bathgate for Edinburgh. 158727 starts its journey to Edinburgh. 66210 waits for the road at Carmondean Jn with 6M85. 66210 with 6M85 waiting at Carmondean Jn, where the parallel Goods and Passenger single lines from Bathgate merge. 66210 in the grassy cutting at Carmondean Jn with 6M85 13.09 from Bathgate STVA. 66210 in the grassy cutting at Carmondean Jn with 6M85 13.09 from Bathgate STVA. 66210 seen through the empty train. 66210 in the grassy cutting at Carmondean Jn with 6M85 13.09 from Bathgate STVA. NatEx-liveried 158702 heads past Carmondean Jn with a Bathgate - Edinburgh service. 66071 has arrived at Bathgate with 6X38, and has rounded its train before propelling it back into the STVA sidings. 66071 has arrived at Bathgate with 6X38, and has rounded its train before propelling it back into the STVA sidings. An LNER 1938 bullhead rail chair at Bathgate. 66071 waits in the sidings at Bathgate for its train to be unloaded. 66071 seen across the large car storage area at Bathgate With the train emptied and now remarshalled, 66071 waits to depart with 6M85. The STVA sidings seen with 66071 waiting to depart. The passenger line is furthest to the right, with Bathgate station just out of sight round the bend.

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]]> Fri Jul 28 2006 Forth Bridges http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c1012196.html Forth Bridges Tuesday 4 July 2006: Forth Bridges

The Forth Bridge, seen at night from the slipway at South Queensferry. Smit Young boat to ferry people to and from the oil tanker pier at Houndpoint, moored in front of the Forth Bridge. The Forth Bridge illuminated at night. The Forth Bridge with the former ferry slipway at South Queensferry. The Forth Bridge with the former ferry slipway at South Queensferry. The Forth Bridge with the former ferry slipway at South Queensferry. The Forth Bridge with the former ferry slipway at South Queensferry. The Forth Road Bridge and Forth Bridge looking across the Firth to the north. The Forth Road Bridge.

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]]> Tue Jul 4 2006 Falkirk Wheel http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c992498.html A visit to the impressive Falkirk Wheel - the world's first rotary boat lift - on the E&G Union Canal. Tuesday 6 June 2006: A visit to the impressive Falkirk Wheel - the world's first rotary boat lift - on the E&G Union Canal.

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]]> Tue Jun 6 2006 Syphon Swansong http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c992452.html The last booked run of the Caledonian Sleepers to be hauled by a class 37: the engine at rest after its swansong. Thursday 15 June 2006: The last booked run of the Caledonian Sleepers to be hauled by a class 37: the engine at rest after its swansong.

5 o'clock in the morning, and 37405 has worked the last turn of 1B11 'Caledonian Sleeper' from Fort William to Edinburgh Waverley, and has been replaced by a modern class 67 (which failed!). 37405 is seen through the fog resting at Millerhill TMD. Inside Millerhill TMD, 37405 is seen with the traditional West Highland Terrier symbol, as it waits for an 'A' exam to be carried out later that day. The cab of 37405.

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]]> Thu Jun 15 2006 M.O.D. Smalmstown http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c992449.html Stored class 20s. Thursday 15 June 2006: Stored class 20s.

20032, 20072 and 20215 (in Railfreight livery) all owned by Harry Needle are seen at M.O.D. Smalmstown waiting transfer by road to Long Marston. 20215 was the last stored 20 to leave Smalmstown on 7 June, 20032 and 20072 both having been removed on 1 June. 20032, 20072 and 20215 (in Railfreight livery) all owned by Harry Needle are seen at M.O.D. Smalmstown waiting transfer by road to Long Marston. 20215 was the last stored 20 to leave Smalmstown on 7 June, 20032 and 20072 both having been removed on 1 June.

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]]> Thu Jun 15 2006 Mystery locations / objects http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c969938.html Can you guess where it is yet...? Thursday 25 May 2006: Can you guess where it is yet...?

A GNER 225 with the DVT leading. Where and what is this? The loco is 66132. But where is it? ---- OK, Donald Stirling guessed this in only 4 minutes! This is the entrance to Cockenzie PS. Sidings and a grassy knoll. Where could this be? Mystery object(s) Semaphore signals and a mechanical signalbox. What is it? Slightly different framing from the previous pic, but do you know what it is yet? What's this? 158727 in First Scotrail livery, but where?

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]]> Thu May 25 2006 Stirling - Alloa -Kincardine update 2 http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c947136.html Another update on progress on reopening the railway between Stirling - Alloa - Kincardine. Tuesday 2 May 2006: Another update on progress on reopening the railway between Stirling - Alloa - Kincardine.

Kincardine Bridge looking west along the track towards Kincardine station, Alloa and ultimately Stirling. The track is still in good condition with new ballast having been dropped in the cesses and 4' in 2004 by Merlin. Kincardine station seen looking west from Kincardine Bridge, with the platforms still visible. Looking east along the bank of the Forth from the Kincardine Bridge towards Longannet Power Station, visible in the distance. This stretch of line was remained in traffic for Kincardine Power Station, which became a loading point for coal trains after the power station was closed. On the track at Kincardine station, looking back eastwards towards Kincardine Bridge and Longannet. Looking west through Kincardine station. The bottom of a tubular semaphore signal post lying on Kincardine platform. Looking from Kincardine station across the level crossing to the loop which was prior to Kincardine Power Station. Track recently lifted beyond Kincardine station. The site of the loop between Kincardine station and the power station. No track, but a milepost still survives. The bracket signal post remaining outside Kincardine Power Station. The junction with the route into Kincardine Power Station to the left, and the Alloa line passing under the bridge on the right. The bridge on the Alloa line seen in the earlier picture, seen looking back east towards Longannet with the trackbed having been cleared and fencing work underway. A contruction site cleared between Kincardine and Tulliallan. Boring work underway on the trackbed at Tulliallan to stablise mine workings. The junction seen from the bridge visible in the previous picture, with track remaining into Kincardine Power Station. The yard at Kincardine Power Station is beeing used for storing track materials, with the internal track having been refurbished. Perhaps an indication that there will be some works trains running from this end of the line. A forklift unloading new rails from a lorry at Kincardine Power Station. Signals for controlling the unloading of coal trains still remain. Culvert reconstruction work at bridge 25 Kilbagie looking east. [Photo from this point in the previous collection.] Completed drainage and fencing work looking west at bridge 25 Kilbagie. [Photo from this point in the previous collection.] Completed drainage and fencing work looking west from bridge 27 Kennet. [Photo from this point in the previous collection.] Boring work underway in the cutting at Clackmannan. Looking east along the cutting at Clackmannan with boring work underway, seen from bridge 31 B910. [Photo from this point in the previous collection.] New bridge 34 over the Black Devon, looking west at Helensfield in Clackmannan. Demolished bridge over the A907 at the west end of Clackmannan, near the site of Kincardine Junction where the lines to Kincardine and Dunfermline Upper diverged. Sure to be a prime photo location in the future, the new bridge 34 over the Black Devon at Helensfield. The bridge over A908 Whins Road in Alloa undergoing extensive refurbishment. The view west from bridge 38. Looking east towards bridge 37 Alloa. This is the site of Alloa East junction where the lines to Kinross via Tillicoultry and Dollar (to the left) diverged from the lines to Dunfermline and Kincardine. Track set in concrete and a speed restriction sign survive at Alloa. Looking east along the trackbed in Alloa, with the construction of a new Asda in progress to the right. Looking west from bridge 37 in Alloa to bridge 38. Looking east along the cutting at Grange Road LC towards Alloa, with a surviving bracket signal post. Rails still in place at Grange Road LC, looking west. Stacks of new steel sleepers on the trackbed just west of Grange Road LC, and a surviving signal post. This is the site of Alloa West Junction where the Caledonian Railway line over the Forth to Throsk and Larbert diverged to the left from the North British line to Stirling to the right. A survivng wooden gradient post at Alloa West Junction. 1:190 - 1:340. Blackgrange LC, and the trackbed has received further clearance work since my previous visit, and stacks of steel sleepers are laid out in readiness for tracklaying. [Photo from this point in the previous collection.] Another store of track materials at Manor Powis LC, looking east. Refurbished bridge at Manor Powis. Looking east along the trackbed at Causewayhead LC at Abbey Craig. Store of track materials looking west at Causewayhead LC. Another future photo location - Causewayhead LC at Abbey Craig, with the Wallace Monument in the background. Stirling's distant signal SN27 on the Alloa branch. Trackbed marked up for a store of new rails. Refurbished bridge in Striling, with the Highland main line bridge over A9 Causewayhead Road in the background. The twin bridges over the River Forth at Stirling North, with a First Engineering tamper heading south on the Caledonian Stirling - Perth main line . Bridge over the River Forth in Stirling. Refurbishment work underway on the bridge over the River Forth at Stirling. Refurbishment work underway on the bridge over the River Forth at Stirling, with the Caledonian line to Perth to the right. Just visible in the distance is the semaphore home signal for the Alloa branch, controlled by Stirling North. Machinery involved with the work on the branch seen with the Wallace Monument in the distance.

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]]> Tue May 2 2006 Top of the tower http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c947094.html Views from the top of the rapid loading bunker at Ravenstruther. Friday 14 April 2006: Views from the top of the rapid loading bunker at Ravenstruther.

66109 propels 4C12 under the 500t bunker at Ravenstruther. 66109 propels its train of HTA bogie coal wagons under the bunker at Ravenstruther, with the WCML visible beyond. Birds-eye view of HTAs as the empty wagons pass under the bunker at ¾mph.

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]]> Fri Apr 14 2006 Weedspraying MPV http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c896382.html A Network Rail MPV fitted out for weedspraying, captured at Mossend Yard. Monday 20 March 2006: A Network Rail MPV fitted out for weedspraying, captured at Mossend Yard.

DR98959 and DR 98909, still in Railtrack livery but with Network Rail branding, seen in Mossend Yard fitted with equipment for weedspraying. High-level spraying equipment fitted to the front of DR98959. A Network Rail water tank module mounted on DR98909. Weedspraying, water tank, and diesel generator modules fitted to DR98959. Close-up of the low-level spraying equipment mounted next to the bogie at the inner end of DR98959. View of the driver's side of the cab of an MPV. And the assistant's side of the cab, with various display screens and forward looking video camera mounted in the window.

Published in Merlin '60027' Photographs

]]> Mon Mar 20 2006 North London http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c890703.html A trip round north London from Dagenham via the T&H to Wembley. Friday 10 March 2006: A trip round north London from Dagenham via the T&H to Wembley.

57008 heads east with a container train near Woodgrange Park. 313122 with the 13.44 North Woolwich service from Richmond passes Kensal Green Junction. Network Rail MPV DR98965 passes Kensal Green Junction. 66076 with 6X38 13.06 from Dagenham, loaded with new Ford cars and vans, pulls into Wembley high level. 87007 in Cotswold Rail silver livery at Wembley.

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]]> Fri Mar 10 2006 Gatwick station http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c890702.html Gatwick Airport station on the LBSCR mainline from Victoria to Brighton, and is served by Southern, Gatwick Express, First Great Western Link, Thameslink, and Virgin Cross Country. Monday 13 March 2006: Gatwick Airport station on the LBSCR mainline from Victoria to Brighton, and is served by Southern, Gatwick Express, First Great Western Link, Thameslink, and Virgin Cross Country.

A Southern Electrostar waits next to a Gatwick Express Juniper class 460 which is waiting to form the 09.30 for London Victoria. Thameslink 319380 arrives at Gatwick with the 07.28 from Bedford to Brighton. First Great Western Link 166218 departs from Gatwick northbound with the 09.17 for Reading. An 8-car Electrostar leaves Gatwick as 377103 approaches, passing 166218. 377103 departs Gatwick northbound. 377414 arrives at Gatwick heading south, passing 377103. 377414 377122 Electrostar 377102 calls at Gatwick. Thameslink 319453 calls at Gatwick with the 09.00 Brighton to Bedford service.

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]]> Mon Mar 13 2006 73 on the Channel Tunnel Rail Link http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c890699.html 73 on the Channel Tunnel Rail Link Monday 13 March 2006: 73 on the Channel Tunnel Rail Link

FM Rail 73107 'Spitfire' and a German V211 locomotive at Dagenham for work on the Channel Tunnel Rail Link. FM Rail 73107 'Spitfire' and a German V211 locomotive at Dagenham for work on the Channel Tunnel Rail Link. FM Rail 73107 'Spitfire' and a German V211 locomotive at Dagenham for work on the Channel Tunnel Rail Link.

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]]> Mon Mar 13 2006 On shed - Craigentinny C&RSMD http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c890697.html Craigentinny depot (EC) is located next to the ECML east of Edinburgh Waverley, and is responsible for both GNER and Virgin Cross Country's train fleets. Thursday 13 October 2005: Craigentinny depot (EC) is located next to the ECML east of Edinburgh Waverley, and is responsible for both GNER and Virgin Cross Country's train fleets.

Wabtec's 08615 and barried vehicle 6340 outside Craigentinny depot. Barrier coach at Craigentinny. A Virgin Voyager streaks past Craigentinny at 04.49 with 5A41 via the Sub to Dundee. Mark IV DVT 82205. A rake of Mark IV stock stabled at Craigentinny. A couple of GNER Mark IV coaches stabled by the wheel lathe at Craigentinny. GNER HST 43107 'Tayside' waiting its next duty outside Craigentinny T&RSMD. GNER HST 43107 'Tayside' waiting its next duty outside Craigentinny T&RSMD. An UID GNER HST power car with an emergency coupler fitted to its front end. EWS's 67018 'Rapid' is on hire to GNER for Thunderbird rescue duties, and is stabled at Craigentinny. EWS's 67018 'Rapid' is on hire to GNER for Thunderbird rescue duties, and is stabled at Craigentinny. A GNER class 91 Bo-Bo electric locomotive, built for the ECML electrification, peeps out of the shed at Craigentinny. A Virgin Voyager slowly pulls up to Craigentinny's fuel point. 5-car tilting Super Voyager 221122 'Doctor Who' and non-tilting 220009 'Gatwick Voyager' at Craigentinny. Moment before a high speed impact? Actually, it is 221122 uncoupling from 220009! 43078 is just visible behind. Craigentinny from the air. The ECML runs diagonally across the picture with Waverley off the picture to the top right. The white roof of Craigentinny is clearly visible, with stabling roads above. The fuelling point is visible at next to the mainline in the top right corner. Below Craigentinny, Baileyfield S&C works is the greenish building with the grey roof. Round the top of this building is the Leith branch, and below it is Harry Lauder Way.

Published in Merlin '60027' Photographs

]]> Thu Oct 13 2005 Waverley enhancement project http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c881367.html Waverley station is undergoing £24m worth of work to create two new platforms and two new through lines, as well as construction of a new platform at Haymarket, which will see capacity at the west end of the station to be increased from 24 to 28 trains per hour by the end of 2007. This collection will be updated to show the progress of the work. Sunday 5 March 2006: Waverley station is undergoing _24m worth of work to create two new platforms and two new through lines, as well as construction of a new platform at Haymarket, which will see capacity at the west end of the station to be increased from 24 to 28 trains per hour by the end of 2007. This collection will be updated to show the progress of the work.

31 January '06: Work under way to contruct new platforms in Edinburgh Waverley, with the North Loop and North Loop Siding lifted. 31 January '06: Work under way to contruct new platforms in Edinburgh Waverley, with the North Loop and North Loop Siding lifted. 05 March '06: The track in platform 1 has been renewed, and the north loop has been lifted. A new concrete base has been laid under the plastic sheeting. 05 March '06: 66120 with a train of Sea Urchins in platform 1. 05 March '06: 66120 with a train of Sea Urchins in platform 1. 05 March '06: A road-rail machine at the site access opposite platform 1. 05 March '06: 66120 with a train of Sea Urchins in platform 1. 21 March '06: Work area fenced off to create a green zone opposite platform 1, on what was previously the North Loop Siding. New overhead electrification stanchions are in the process of being erected, while equipment and materials is stored in front of the filled-in platforms 2/3. 29 March '06: The renewed track through platforms 1/19 has now had a new scissor crossover installed, which will connect to the track serving the new platform. This was installed over the weekend of 25/26 March, having been delivered by 66135 and 66140 on BPA 'Boplate' wagons. The crossover is in a different position to the former pointwork, requiring the protecting signals to be moved. 29 March '06: The new platform's brick retaining wall is quickly going up on the concrete base, seen in one of the 05 March pics. New rail is lying ready for use behind the protecting blue fence. 29 March '06: Work underway building the new platform's brick retaining wall. The existing overhead stanchions will clearly have to be replaced and removed and replaced before the new platform line can be laid. 20 May '06: By May, a temporary footbridge has been erected over platform 19 to access Princes Mall, with the footbridge and access via Waverley Steps being closed for work. 20 May '06: The new platform opposite platform 19 is proceeding well. 20 May '06: Work underway to dismantle the footbridge crossing platform 19 to the Waverley Steps entrance. 20 May '06: Another view of the new platform under construction opposite platform 19. 20 May '06: Brickwork for the new platform opposite platform 1. 20 May '06: Road-rail vehicles in platform 1. 25 May '06: Signal E444 has been moved and replaced with a new Dorman LED 4-aspect searchlight signal, the first of its kind in Waverley, and the first 4-aspect searchlight signal in Scotland for nearly 20 years. 25 May '06: Another new signal erected on platform 1 to replace E457. This is also a 4-aspect LED searchlight signal, and will protect the new scissor crossing. 25 May '06: Plasser & Theurer 08-16/4x4C-RT switch & crossing tamper DR73913 in Amec Orange livery, usually operating in the SE of England, was transported by road for work on the new platform line. It arrived at Rutherglen on Tuesday 23 May, travelling to Edinburgh by rail the next day, and seen working on the Thursday. This is the first rail vehicle to use the new track. 25 May '06: The footbridge to Waverley Steps has been almost completely demolished within 5 days of the earlier pictures, seen with DR73913 underneath. A Bardic torch has been left on the tamper's siren! 06 June '06: New 4-aspect Dorman searchlight LED signals installed to control the new scissor crossover between platforms 1/19. 06 June '06: A close-up of signal E458 on platform 19. 06 June '06: Scoffolding erected to repair the roof and replace glazing over what will become one of Waverley's new platforms. 11 July '06: A model of the new platform works on display in the station. 27 July '06: The new signalling centre under construction in the former goods yard, now a car park, at Edinburgh Waverley. 27 July '06: The original Edinburgh signalling centre dating from 1977, which will be replaced by the new building being constructed to the right. 27 July '06: The new signalling centre under construction at Waverley. 27 July '06: The western limit of the new platform opposite p19. 27 July '06: The new platform construction work terminates underneath Waverley Bridge.

Published in Merlin '60027' Photographs

]]> Sun Mar 5 2006 March miscellany http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c880216.html A collection from various locations - sun and snow at Motherwell and Carstairs, Cockenzie power station, snow at Haymarket, Bathgate for the cars. Sunday 5 March 2006: A collection from various locations - sun and snow at Motherwell and Carstairs, Cockenzie power station, snow at Haymarket, Bathgate for the cars.

66164 heading south from Ravenstruther on the Down line with 7B52 for Millerhill via Carstairs and Cobbinshaw. 66093 arrived in the headshunt at Ravenstruther for loading with 4C12 from Millerhill via Motherwell. 66007 accelerates towards Carstairs having propelled onto the WCML at Carstairs with the late running 7B52 at Ravenstruther. The Down line is bi-directional as far as Carstairs for trains using Ravenstruther. 66105 in Ravenstruther headshunt waiting to propel onto the mainline with its loaded train, 7B60 for Cockenzie Power Station running via Carstairs and Millerhill. 7B99 from Leith propelling through the unloading plant at Cockenzie Power Station. A unique view of Cockenzie. 66177 propelling 7B67 from Millerhill Yard (which arrived from Falkland the previous evening as 7B72) through the unloading plant at Cockenzie Power Station. Conveyor belts take the coal directly from the unloading plant to either the power station or the bing. 66177 discharging 7B67 at Cockenzie Power Station, with Port Seton and the Firth of Forth in the background. 66106 and 66240 with test coach Mentor stabled on Motherwell TMD. Virgin Voyager 220007 'Thames Voyager' passing underneath Bellshill Road bridge at Braidhurst, Motherwell with 1S31 05.10 Manchester Piccadilly - Glasgow Central. 156442 at Braidhurst with 2D55 08.39 Motherwell - Cumbernauld. Refurbished 318259 forms 2C55 09.16 Motherwell - Dalmuir. Two hours on from the previous photo, the bright sunshine at Motherwell has given way to thick snow at Carstairs as First Engineering tamper DR73803 approaches Carstairs. 66107 approaches Motherwell station with 6B54 Ravenstruther - Millerhill after the fresh snowfall. 158707 passes Haymarket West Junction with 2B07 07.48 Edinburgh Waverley - Bathgate. A First Scotrail class 170 approaches Haymarket West Junction with a service from Fife. Passing Murrayfield Stadium in the snow. A 170 DMU passing Murrayfield Stadium. 170430 passing Murrayfield Stadium. 170458 heads towards Fife. The west end of Haymarket depot, with class 170 and 158 DMUs in sight. 66041 waits for its path off the Sub at Haymarket West Junction with 6X38 car train from Doncaster to Bathgate. 158707 heads westwards through the snow with 2B09 08.18 Edinburgh Waverley - Bathgate with Corstorphine Hill in the distance. End of the line at Bathgate. The current end, with the passenger station on the right, and the bufferstops on the course of the route towards Airdrie which it is planned to rebuild. 66041 shunts its train of new cars (6X38) for unloading at Bathgate. A Freightliner class 66 stabled at Oxwellmains cement works on the ECML. Disused works shunters at Blue Circle Oxwellmains. 66107 approaches Reston on the ECML with a loaded coal train. The approach to Livingston North station from Uphall, showing that the platform has been built on the formation of the former Up line and will therefore have to be demolished before the line can be redoubled.

Published in Merlin '60027' Photographs

]]> Sun Mar 5 2006 Powderhall branch http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c868499.html The Powderhall branch in Edinburgh, which originally ran to Leith but now only survives to serve the refuse loading point at Powderhall. Tuesday 21 February 2006: The Powderhall branch in Edinburgh, which originally ran to Leith but now only survives to serve the refuse loading point at Powderhall.

37406 'The Saltire Society' leaves the ECML at Piershill Junction with 6B44 Oxwellmains - Powderhall empty refuse train. To the right of the train is Meadowbank Stadium's cycle track, which is built on the site of Saint Margarets MPD (64A). 37406 passing through the closed Meadowbank Stadium station, which was opened for the Commonwealth Games held in Edinburgh for the second time in 1986. 6B44 passing under Marionville Road, where the Abbeyhill loop diverged. Hibs' Easter Road ground is in the background. 37406 approaches Albion Terrace. 37406 running round its train at Dryden Terrace before propelling the wagons into Powderhall. 37406 moves onto the KFA wagons. 37406 propels the container wagons into Powderhall, ready for them to be loaded for the next morning's trip. 37406 'The Saltire Society' passes the closed Easter Road station with 0B44 light engine move to Millerhill.

Published in Merlin '60027' Photographs

]]> Tue Feb 21 2006 Queens Curve http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c868492.html Earthworks for the closed 'Queens' Curve at Carstairs. Tuesday 21 February 2006: Earthworks for the closed 'Queens' Curve at Carstairs.

The Queens Curve, looking from Carstairs East towards the Float Bridge on the WCML. The earthworks for the Dolphinton branch, seen from Carstairs East.

Published in Merlin '60027' Photographs

]]> Tue Feb 21 2006 Closed lines: Corstorphine Branch http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c861486.html This short branch line, opened in 1901, connected to the Edinburgh & Glasgow mainline just to the west of Haymarket station, and had three stations. Balgreen, the first station, was immediately after leaving the main lines, had timber platforms, and opened after the rest of the branch in 1934. The second was Pinkhill, next to the zoo, and the terminus was Corstortphine itself. The line was double track throughout. DMUs took over from steam traction in July 1957, with the passenger service finishing on New Year's Day 1968, and the line closed entirely a month later. In latter days, trains operated from Corstorphine, through Waverley, direct to North Berwick or Rosewell. It is now in use as a footpath, but is largely intact, with Pinkhill station being in particularly good condition. Tuesday 14 February 2006: This short branch line, opened in 1901, connected to the Edinburgh & Glasgow mainline just to the west of Haymarket station, and had three stations. Balgreen, the first station, was immediately after leaving the main lines, had timber platforms, and opened after the rest of the branch in 1934. The second was Pinkhill, next to the zoo, and the terminus was Corstortphine itself. The line was double track throughout. DMUs took over from steam traction in July 1957, with the passenger service finishing on New Year's Day 1968, and the line closed entirely a month later. In latter days, trains operated from Corstorphine, through Waverley, direct to North Berwick or Rosewell. It is now in use as a footpath, but is largely intact, with Pinkhill station being in particularly good condition.

The Corstorphine branch diverged from northwards from the main lines here, at Balgreen Road. This is Haymarket West Junction joining the Fife lines to the E&G and the Sub, and is between Haymarket station (to the east) and Edinburgh Park station (to the west). Looking westwards, the footpath can be seen curving northwards along the trackbed of the Corstorphine branch at Balgreen. The curved wooden platforms for the Halt began immediately. The site of Balgreen Halt can only be made out from the widening of the formation, as nothing now survives of the station. Seen looking back eastwards towards the junction. The first underbridge crossing Glendevon Park, which gives access to Carrick Knowe golf course. The bridge over Glendevon Park, seen from the trackbed looking westwards. A new surfaced and lit pathway has been created from the second underbridge. Immediately after is an impressive low, curved two-span viaduct. The viaduct seen from the trackbed looking westwards towards Pinkhill station. Pinkhill station has survived in excellent condition with both platforms and the station building remaining. Vegetation has been cleared and the path on the trackbed and the Up platform have been resurfaced, and street lighting installed. Seen from the trackbed looking westwards. The resurfaced Up platform at Pinkhill and the station building on the overbridge. The wooden single-storey station building at Pinkhill from the road. Looking westwards from the Pinkhill station overbridge. Just round the corner the footpath finishes, with housing obliterating the last few hundred yards of the trackbed. A surviving signpost made from rail at Pinkhill station. A 170 Turbostar streaks past the allotments on the E&G, seen from near Balgreen Halt on the Corstorphine branch.

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]]> Tue Feb 14 2006 Edinburgh nights http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c847078.html Various locations in around Edinburgh at night. Wednesday 1 February 2006: Various locations in around Edinburgh at night.

Tilting Super Voyager 221121 'Charles Darwin' rests in platform 20 at Edinburgh Waverley on its way to Craigentinny depot with 5S78. 322482 stabled in platform 7 at the end of its day's work on the North Berwick branch. 90035 stabled in the former Motorail bays waiting to work the southbound sleepers, while 90040 'The Railway Mission' is behind in platform 10 having brought in 5B00 21.21 empty sleeper stock from Polmadie. 90035 in the Motorail bay is ready to work 1C11 23.40 sleepers to London Euston with 322485 in platform 7 forming 2Y12 23.07 to North Berwick. 90040 'The Railway Mission' in platform 10 at Edinburgh Waverley having arrived with 5B00 21.21 empty stock from Polmadie. 90040 'The Railway Mission' in platform 10 at Edinburgh Waverley having arrived with 5B00 21.21 empty stock from Polmadie. Blue-liveried 322484 stabled in the parcels sidings at Edinburgh Waverley. 220026 'Stagecoach Voyager' arrived in Waverley's platform 19 with 1S91 14.25 from Plymouth. Super Voyager 'Sir Ernest Shackleton' arrived from the east shortly after, having travelled round the Sub with 5S76 22.16 e.c.s. from Dundee, and the two units coupled together to run to Craigentinny as 5S91. 170457 and 170415 in platform 17.

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]]> Wed Feb 1 2006 37417 at MH http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c845876.html 37417 waiting in company with some 66s at Millerhill TMD, before working the sleepers. Also some night shots from Edinburgh Waverley. Tuesday 31 January 2006: 37417 waiting in company with some 66s at Millerhill TMD, before working the sleepers. Also some night shots from Edinburgh Waverley.

158705 in the turnback siding at Newcraighall waiting to work 2B11 22.04 service to Bathgate. 37417 'Richard Trevithick' and 66093. 37417 'Richard Trevithick' and 66093. 66006 and an unidentified classmate receiving attention inside the single road Millerhill TMD. Withdrawn 08489, 37886, and 37709 in the Tank Lye at Millerhill. The frosty west end of Edinburgh Waverley at night, with class 156, 158 and 170 DMUs stabled ready for their morning duties.

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]]> Tue Jan 31 2006 Britain's smallest train? http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c845010.html Britain's smallest train? Monday 30 January 2006: Britain's smallest train?

Is this Britain's smallest standard gauge train?! Two trolleys carrying a new crossing. Is this Britain's smallest standard gauge train?! Two trolleys carrying a new crossing.

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]]> Mon Jan 30 2006 Stirling - Alloa - Kincardine branch http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c837880.html Work underway to reopen this line. Monday 23 January 2006: Work underway to reopen this line.

Trackbed clearance looking west from bridge 21A next to the demolished Kincardine Power Station. Looking eastward from bridge 21A towards the current limit of track. Bridge repairs underway near Broomknowe. Work on going near the paper mill at Kilbagie. View east from bridge 25 of the cleared trackbed. View west from bridge 25 of the cleared trackbed. View east from bridge 27 at Kennet. View east from bridge 31 at Clackmannan. View west from bridge 31 at Clackmannan. The level crossing at Hilton Road in Alloa. Track still in place across Hilton Road, though it has been lifted either side. Worksite sign at Hilton Road. Level crossing with road signs and lights still in place at Blackgrange, between Alloa and Stirling. Track in place at Blackgrange. Location box for the level crossing at Blackgrange. Signalpost and lamp at Blackgrange AOCL. Blackgrange level crossing seen from the railway. 3.5 miles by rail from Stirling.

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]]> Mon Jan 23 2006 Longannet http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c837874.html Longannet Monday 23 January 2006: Longannet

66066 and an unidentified loco wait to depart Longannet with empties. Waiting to depart from Longannet Power Station with empty wagons, with the lights of Grangemouth in the distance across the Forth. A 66 in the lights next to the coal bing. 66242 waits to discharge at Longannet having brought in 7G14 06.25 from Hunterston. 66242 waiting to depart for the single line to Dunfermline having discharged its train. 66156 wainting to enter the coal plant with another load of imported coal. The discharge plant at Longannet, with the Power Station in the distance. 66156 seen from the coal bing having discharged its train. 66174 on the south line at Longannet Power Station. 66110 on the north line at Longannet Power Station. This sylvan setting is Britain's second-largest coal-fired power station! 66221 waits to depart from the North Line at Longannet having discharged its train of imported coal. The rear of the 1950s-vintage Longannet Signal Box, overlooking the East Departure line for trains heading to Dunfermline. The lever frame and block shelf inside the mechanical Longannet Signal Box. The diagram and block shelf in Longannet Signal Box. The front of Longannet Signal Box looking onto the line from Dunfermline to Kincardine. A train of mgr wagons is discharged on the North Line at Longannet. The first wagon has been emptied, while the second is about to drop...

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]]> Mon Jan 23 2006 Snow in Fife. http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c815822.html Snow in Fife. Tuesday 3 January 2006: Snow in Fife.

66131 passing through Thornton Yard with an afternoon train for loading at Westfield. 66131 passing through Thornton Yard with an afternoon train for loading at Westfield. 66131 passing through Thornton Yard with an afternoon train for loading at Westfield. 66131 crests the top of the bank at Skeddoway. 66131 crests the top of the bank at Skeddoway. 66131 passing the 32 MP. Westfield Power Station in the mist. 66131 arrived at Westfield. Waiting to pass over the weighbridge for loading, with Westfield Power Station in the distance. 66131 at Westfield. 66131 at Westfield. 66131 at Westfield. 66131 silhoetted against the afternoon winter sun... ...and glinting.

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]]> Tue Jan 3 2006 Mossend's Mystery Machine http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c815814.html Not such a mystery now, thanks to John Turner on the UK-RAIL group (http://finance.groups.yahoo.com/group/uk-rail/) and Phil Brindley on the Industrial Railway Society group (http://groups.yahoo.com/group/IndustrialRailwaySociety/ ). The loco is 0-4-0DH RSHD/WB 8365/3210 of 1962. Tuesday 3 January 2006: Not such a mystery now, thanks to John Turner on the UK-RAIL group (http://finance.groups.yahoo.com/group/uk-rail/) and Phil Brindley on the Industrial Railway Society group (http://groups.yahoo.com/group/IndustrialRailwaySociety/ ). The loco is 0-4-0DH RSHD/WB 8365/3210 of 1962.

Mystery 0-4-0 diesel shunter found tucked away in Mossend Yard. The cab, with sideways seat for the driver. The controls are duplicated on both sides. Cab - there's a plate visible with '19092'. Driving controls. View ahead. The shunter's Rolls-Royce engine. Close up of the engine plate.

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]]> Tue Jan 3 2006 Translator Vehicles http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c815812.html Translator Vehicles Tuesday 3 January 2006: Translator Vehicles

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]]> Tue Jan 3 2006 Santa trains at Tanfield http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c804480.html Santa trains at Tanfield Saturday 24 December 2005: Santa trains at Tanfield

'Renishaw' waits to relieve the 'North Pole Express' at the North Pole, aka Andrews House. Austerity no. 49 has its boiler blown down at East Tanfield. No. 49 blowing down. No. 49 blowing down. No. 49 lifts its safety valves while running round at East Tanfield. No. 49 at East Tanfield. From the footplate: assaulting the bank up to Causey station. No 49 passes Marley Hill signalbox. Inside Marley Hill signalbox. No. 49 waits at Andrews House with the last train of the day to East Tanfield. No. 49 in the dark at Andrews House. No. 49 and 'Renishaw' back in the engine shed at Marley Hill. 'Stagshaw' and 'Renishaw' in the engine shed. 'Sir Cecil A. Cochrane' on blocks as it receives attention to its journals.

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]]> Sat Dec 24 2005 Snow ploughs http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c804446.html Snow ploughs Saturday 24 December 2005: Snow ploughs

Beilhack snow plough ZZA no. ADB965577, converted from a class 40 bogie, at Motherwell TMD. Snow plough ADB965576 at Motherwell TMD. Beilhack snow plough ADB965577 inside Motherwell shed. Four independent snow ploughs waiting for the weather outside Motherwell TMD, ADB 965209, ADB965243, ADB965231, ADB965219. Independent snow plough ADB965209.

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]]> Sat Dec 24 2005 November snow http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c778087.html November snow Saturday 26 November 2005: November snow

A class 156 calls at West Calder station during heavy snowfall with 2Y71 11.22 Edinburgh Waverley - Glasgow Central service. Seen from the former goods yard at West Calder. Pendolino 390012 waits at Ravenstruther due to the failure of Cleghorn LC. 390012 at Ravenstruther, with the coal bunker in the distance.

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]]> Sat Nov 26 2005 Fife ballasts http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c778081.html Engineering work. Tuesday 29 November 2005: Engineering work.

Plain track renewals at Clunybridge Junction. 66129 with a train of empty Network Rail side tippers, at Thornton West Junction. 66129 at Thornton West Junction. Road-rail machines during track renewals at Redford Junction. 66129 at Redford Junction with 6K21. 66129 aith autoballasters in the dark at Redford Junction. The lights on the autoballasters illuminating a stack of new steel sleepers. 66129 with 6K21 illuminated by the trackside lighting.

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]]> Tue Nov 29 2005 At speed http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c767805.html At speed Sunday 27 November 2005: At speed

Hurtling through the platforms of Craiglockhart at 25mph and approaching the tunnel under the Union Canal. Zooming through an engineering worksite during track renewals - at 2mph! Redford Junction.

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]]> Sun Nov 27 2005 Inverkeithing http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c766272.html Junction for the Fife Circle via Dunfermline and Kirkcaldy, and the focus of much activity with passenger and freight traffic, including coal train loading in the yard. Thursday 17 November 2005: Junction for the Fife Circle via Dunfermline and Kirkcaldy, and the focus of much activity with passenger and freight traffic, including coal train loading in the yard.

Panorama view of Inverkeithing Yard. My first attempt at using the stiching facility, and I'm quite pleased by it! 170458 approaches Inverkeithing station with 2G06 12.26 Cowdenbeath - Edinburgh Waverley. 66116 loading a set of mgr wagons in Inverkeithing Yard, having arrived as 6S22 from Drax. 66116 loading its train in the yard. 170458 in First Scotrail livery passing Inverkeithing Yard with 2G29 13.20 Edinburgh Waverley - Cowdenbeath service. 170458 passing Inverkeithing Yard just before Rosyth station, and starting the steep climb to Cowdenbeath. 66116 ready to depart the overgrown Inverkeithing Yard with its loaded train, 6G08 to Drax Power Station, near Selby. 66116 ready to depart. 66129 poses next to a pile of frozen ballast. a First Scotrail Turbostar passing 66129 with the late running 2K05 inner circle service. 66120 heads south with a loaded train of Fife coal. NEx liveried 158701 heads towards Inverkeithing with 2K07 inner circle service for Edinburgh. 66105 waits for a path at Inverkeithing Central Jn with a loaded coal train. First Engineering tamper DR7304 'James Watt' arrives in Inverkeithing Yard. 170451 crosses Inverkeithing North Jn with 2K09 inner circle service. 158701 heads towards Rosyth with 2G53 11.50 outer service circle, passing 170451 with 2K09. 66129 in Inverkeithing Yard loading 6S22. 66129 in Inverkeithing Yard, bulled up with white buffers and front hand rails. 66129 in Inverkeithing Yard. 170461 heading southwards with 2G06 12.26 departure from Cowdenbeath. 158706 about to pass under the motorway with 2G27 12.20 Edinburgh Waverley - Cowdenbeath. A concrete post stamped 'G' positioned over a culvert. Recently removed position light signals next to the S&T base at Inverkeithing. 170451 again, passing this time northbound with 2G55 12.50 outer circle service. 170451 with 2G55. 66129 running round 6G08 at Inverkeithing North Junction. Ready to depart with 6G08 15.55 Inverkeithing - Drax PS. 170454 glints as it approaches Inverkeithing Central Junction with 2K01 inner circle service. 170454 with 2K01. 66129 with 6G08 in Inverkeithing Yard.

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]]> Thu Nov 17 2005 Shed rescues the beds http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c760098.html The sleeper e.c.s. needed rescueing from Midcalder Junction by a class 66 after being sent out with the wrong traction. Saturday 12 November 2005: The sleeper e.c.s. needed rescueing from Midcalder Junction by a class 66 after being sent out with the wrong traction.

66089 was returning as 0B38 from Bathgate when it was sent instead to rescue the sleeper e.c.s. for Polmadie. Seen reversing at the closed Craiglockhart station. 66089 reversing at Craiglockhart before running as 1Z99 to Midcalder. 66089 attached to the rear of the sleeper e.c.s. at Midcalder Junction, 89¼ miles from Carlisle. The sleeper e.c.s. had departed Edinburgh Waverley with a class 90 at the head as usual, but due to engineering work was routed via the unelectrified Shotts line, requiring 66089 to drag it back to Edinburgh. After running via the Sub to reverse the train, 5B26 passes through Waverley station 2 hours after it first departed. 66089 hauls 5B26 sleeper e.c.s. into the Mound Tunnels. The class 90 on the rear of the train.

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]]> Sat Nov 12 2005 Edinburgh by night 2 http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c755971.html Another variety from the Edinburgh area in the dark. Tuesday 8 November 2005: Another variety from the Edinburgh area in the dark.

66090 and Mainline blue liveried 60011 on shed at Millerhill. 60011 has just arrived on shed at Millerhill after working 6S40 pipe train from Hartlepool, and is about to be replaced by 66090 which is preparing to move off shed, and continue with 6S40 to Leith South Yard. 60011 and 66090 at Millerhill TMD 60011 at Millerhill TMD. 66090 waiting in Freddie 6 at Millerhill Yard before departing with 6S40 to Leith South Yard. 66090 on 6S40 at Millerhill Yard. 66090 shunting 6S40 at Leith South Yard. 66090 in Leith South Yard. A GNER Mk IV DVT resting at Craigentinny. 66024 on an rake of empty mgr wagons in Millerhill Yard. 66024 in Freddie 5 road in Millerhill. 37406 'The Saltire Society' on shed at Millerhill TMD for new brake blocks. 37406 'The Saltire Society' on shed at Millerhill TMD for new brake blocks. 66153 arrives at Seafield LC, Leith, with 6S40 pipe train from Hartlepool. The first train of the day - 6D01 arrives at Leith for loading from Millerhill. The first train of the day - 6D01 arrives at Leith for loading from Millerhill. The first train of the day - 6D01 arrives at Leith for loading from Millerhill.

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]]> Tue Nov 8 2005 Class 73s visit Scotland. http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c754675.html Two class 73s made a very rare visit to Scotland to act as barrier vehicles for a transfer of HST coaches, hauled by a class 87. Poor photos (!) from Shieldmuir and Craigentinny! Monday 7 November 2005: Two class 73s made a very rare visit to Scotland to act as barrier vehicles for a transfer of HST coaches, hauled by a class 87. Poor photos (!) from Shieldmuir and Craigentinny!

The two 73s and 87 stabled at Shieldmuir Royal Mail Terminal along with a class 325 mail EMU. The two 73s and 87 stabled at Shieldmuir Royal Mail Terminal along with a class 325 mail EMU. At Craigentinny a class 73 was marshalled either end of the HST coaches, and hauled by 87012. This is 73205 in GBRf livery at the rear of the train. The front of the train with 73204 and 87012, in Network South East livery.

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]]> Mon Nov 7 2005 Bo'ness & Kinnneil Railway steam gala http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c737094.html The BKR held a steam gala over the weekend of 22/23 October to mark the entry into service of 'Morayshire'. Sunday 23 October 2005: The BKR held a steam gala over the weekend of 22/23 October to mark the entry into service of 'Morayshire'.

Caledonian Railway 0-4-4T no. 419 leaves Bo'ness with its matching CR coaches on the first train of the day. 419 traverses a foot crossing on Bo'ness foreshore. The Caledonian Railway train storms up the bank at Crawyetts. 2005? 419 arriving at Birkhill with the 10.00 departure. Caley loco, Caley coaches, and a Caley station. Birkhill. Pulling the ground frame. After arriving, 419 runs round its train at Birkhill. Running round. The points are across, and 419 moves onto its train. 419 at Birkhill. Changing the lamps before returning to Bo'ness. Ready to depart from Birkhill. Lost in a cloud of steam. D49 'Morayshire' with matching LNER coaches at Bo'ness. 'Morayshire' waiting for the road next to Bo'ness' award-winning signalbox. CR no. 419 is watered at Bo'ness MPD. The 11.00 departure saw the LNER coaches hauled by 'Morayshire'... ...with the Caley coaches at the rear, banked up the demanding climb by 419. 'Morayshire' at Birkhill. If only we could continue on to Manuel Jn. Neilson Reid-built no. 1 'Lord Roberts' was in charge of a short demonstration freight train at Bo'ness. The freight train passing Bo'ness signalbox. No. 246 'Morayshire' ready to depart. Waiting to leave Bo'ness with the 13.00 departure. Sole-surviving Gresley D49 'Morayshire' under the canopy from Edinburgh Haymarket. In the exhibition building at Bo'nes is this working points and signalling display, using equipment donated from the Cowlairs resignalling. A hit with the children! I tried to use a long exposure time to show the point blades moving a signal changing (hence the red and double yellow aspects on C56), but unfortunately it hasn't picked up too well. NBR J36 0-6-0 no. 65243 'Maude' in the exhibition building, on display until it is returned to traffic. 27005 in the exhibition building. NBR Y9 0-4-0ST no. 42 (BR no. 68019). Industrial 0-4-0ST 'Kelton Fell'. One of the most interesting wagons on display is this Rectank, complete with armoured personnel carrier. NBR Reid D34 'Glen' 4-4-0 no. 256 'Glen Douglas'. Steeple cab electric locomotive used to haul wagons over Glasgow Corporation tramway's lines between shipyards. The cab of 'Glen Douglas'. The cab of 'Maude'. 'Maude'. 419 hauls the 13.30 departure from Birkhill on its return along the Bo'ness foreshore. The Caley train approaches Bo'ness' fixed distant signal. 'Morayshire' on the rear. The 14.00 departure from Bo'ness was double-headed by 419 and 'Morayshire', passing the Bo'ness distant. 419 and 246 on the foreshore.

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]]> Sun Oct 23 2005 Edinburgh by night http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c724550.html Millerhill, Cockenzie, Craigentinny and the Waverley! Thursday 13 October 2005: Millerhill, Cockenzie, Craigentinny and the Waverley!

66156 in the mid-road at Millerhill T.M.D. 66040 at Millerhill T.M.D. 66040 and 'Florence Nightingale' 66156 66024 waiting in the yard at Cockenzie after discharging its train. 66024 at Cockenzie. 66024 at Cockenzie. 66024 at Cockenzie. (The rails in the foreground are clamped OOU.) 66024 at Cockenzie, seen from the bridge at Prestonpans. Waverley station at night, seen from Jacob's Ladder with North Bridge crossing the station. The sleeper's day coaches are visible in the Motorail bays, and two class 322 EMUs for North Berwick services are in platform 7 and the former parcels sidings. Waverley station east end framed by Jacob's Ladder. 37427 'Bont Y Bermo' and 67008 arrive at Waverley to haul the Caledonian sleepers after fuelling at Millerhill. The 37 is attached to the day coaches ready to shunt them on to the Fort William portion of the Caledonian Sleeper, while 67008 is detached ready to take its portion to Inverness. The class 67 departs to run into the South Loop leaving 37427 on top of the day coaches to wait for the sleepers to arrive from Euston. 37427 with the sleeper day coaches waiting in the former Motorail bay (platform 9) for the sleeper portion to arrive from Euston, before going on to Fort William. A First Scotrail class 170 in platform 21. 66040 about to propel its discharged train back through the unloading plant after arriving as 7B04 from Leith Docks.

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]]> Thu Oct 13 2005 Night shift Leith http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c722594.html The loading of a coal train in Leith Docks during a night shift. Tuesday 11 October 2005: The loading of a coal train in Leith Docks during a night shift.

6B70 is waiting in Leith South Yard to propel back into Leith Docks for loading, having arrived from Cockenzie Power Station. 66100 waiting next to new pipes. Leith South Yard, with 66100 about to propel 6B70 into Leith Docks to be loading with imported coal. The train is loaded with coal for Cockenzie Power Station by digger in Leith Docks. There are two loading points in the Docks, one is at the former unloading point where Scottish coal was once exported, but this one is on a road way. The disused coal conveyor for loading Scottish coal into boats for export. The train is loaded with coal for Cockenzie Power Station by digger in Leith Docks. The disused coal conveyor for loading Scottish coal into boats for export. 66100 leaves the Docks with 7B99 for Cockenzie Power Station. 66100 crossing Albert Road level crossing in one of the public parts of Leith Docks. 66100 crossing Albert Road level crossing in one of the public parts of Leith Docks. 7B99 waits at Portobello Junction next to the former freightliner terminal. Night view of Craigentinny. Bird's eye view. Lights 66040 in Leith South Yard with 6D04. 6D04 propelling into Leith Docks. 66040 loading 7B04 in Leith Docks. Boats 66040 loading 7B04 in Leith Docks. 66040 loading 7B04 in Leith Docks. 66040 seen across Edinburgh Dock. 7B04 approaching Seafield LC. 66040 in Leith South Yard, seen from Salamander Street. 7B04 in Leith South Yard. 66040 approaching Seafield LC. 66040 waiting at Seafield LC.

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]]> Tue Oct 11 2005 ECML Ballasts http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c710712.html Engineering trains on the East Coast Main Line. Saturday 1 October 2005: Engineering trains on the East Coast Main Line.

66120 at the head of 7K20 passes the site of the junction with the Eyemouth branch at Burnmouth. Behind the locomotive is a track relaying machine (TRM), and then new Falcon open wagons in Network Rail yellow, loaded with spent ballast from the renewal site at Ayton. 7K21 leans with the cant at Burnmouth. The lines were closed to normal traffic, otherwise this viewpoint would not have been possible due to the proximity of the cutting side! 66229 waits its turn with a train of autoballasts as 6K21 above the A1 near Ayton. 7K24 is ahead loaded with new concrete sleepers on a Salmon wagon, ready to be laid through the site of Ayton station. They will be lifted off using the TRM in the first picture. 6K24 held at a signal on Jameston Viaduct. 66106 with 6K24 waiting to enter the possession at Inverkeithing. 66052 and 66106 silhouetted against the moon. 66052 and 66106 silhouetted against the moon. 60058 with a train of SeaHare wagons at Musselburgh during renewals of Monktonhall Jn. 60058 with a train of SeaHare wagons at Musselburgh during renewals of Monktonhall Jn.

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]]> Sat Oct 1 2005 Rail Head Treatment Train http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c707459.html The Sandite/water cannon train for treating rails during periods of poor adhesion. Wednesday 28 September 2005: The Sandite/water cannon train for treating rails during periods of poor adhesion.

66004 with 66116 on the RHTT in Millerhill Yard. The two modified container wagons with tanks, compressors and generators in place. The Sandite application pipe to drop Sandite onto the cleaned railhead on one of the wagons. The Sandite is like sand in a glue which sticks to the railhead to aid adhesion. The high pressure water cannon for cleaning leaf mulch off the railhead before Sandite is applied. Close up of the couplings between a class 66 locomotive and the RHTT. As well as the screw coupling and train brake (red cock) and main reservoir (yellow cocks) pipes is the red multiple working jumper cable which allows the locomotives at either end of the train to be controlled simultaneously by one driver. The orange socket is for blue star multiple working fitted locomotives such as class 37s.

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]]> Wed Sep 28 2005 Leith South Yard and Docks http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c682244.html Leith has recently seen an upturn in traffic, with pipe traffic arriving from the NE, and imported coal being loaded. Wednesday 7 September 2005: Leith has recently seen an upturn in traffic, with pipe traffic arriving from the NE, and imported coal being loaded.

A train of empty mgr wagons arrives in Leith South Yard hauled by 66174 for rounding before propelling into the Docks for loading with imported coal for Cockenzie Power Station. New pipes are unloaded from a mixture of BDA, BEA and BFA wagons in Leith South Yard.

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]]> Wed Sep 7 2005 A sunny morning http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c500250.html A sunny morning Wednesday 13 April 2005: A sunny morning

Running along the Firth of Forth betwen Aberdour and Burnisland. A bit of a quiz - can you see the signal and its aspect against the sun? Ah a bit easier now! This is approaching Kinghorn Tunnel. Looking out to sea the rising sun from the line near Kinghorn.

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]]> Wed Apr 13 2005 A Shark's Tale http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c471618.html Shark ballast plough brakevans. Monday 21 March 2005: Shark ballast plough brakevans.

Three brakevans together in Millerhill Yard in 2005! DB993738 on the left, DB993937 centre, and DB993834. A fourth brake was at the wagon shops at the same time. End view of DB993738 DB993834 in maroon. DB993738 in grey and yellow 'Dutch' engineers livery. Close-up of the ballast plough in its raised position. The running boards are hinger to ease access to the axleboxes. Originally plain bearings, these have been replaced with roller bearings. The verandha on a Shark showing the large Air and vaccum emergency brake valves. The guard's seat in the ducket with side windows so that he could see along the train. The hand brake in a Shark, with the hearth for the stove (now removed) in the corner. Hooks to hang a shunter pole (or coats!) and brackets for track circuit operating clips. Shark brakevan DB993937 The builder's plate on DB993937 stating it was built by Central Wagon in 1967. The guard's desk, vacuum brake gauge, emergency brake handle, and spare tail lamp irons in a Shark brakevan.

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]]> Mon Mar 21 2005 MPVs http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c471596.html MPVs Monday 21 March 2005: MPVs

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]]> Mon Mar 21 2005 Highland Rail stag http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c460242.html Highland Rail stag Saturday 12 March 2005: Highland Rail stag

The Highland Rail logo on 66111.

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]]> Sat Mar 12 2005 Class 90s http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c460224.html Class 90s Saturday 12 March 2005: Class 90s

90020 'Sir Michael Heron' rests with a North Berwick set of Mk IIIs and DVT in the early morning sun at Edinburgh Wav 90020 'Sir Michael Heron' rests with a North Berwick set of Mk IIIs and DVT in the early morning sun at Edinburgh Wav GNER blue-liveried 90024 next to a rake of m.g.r. coal wagons in Millerhill Yard after having arrived light engine as 0S50 from Carlisle Kingmoor. GNER blue-liveried 90024 next to a rake of m.g.r. coal wagons in Millerhill Yard after having arrived light engine as 0S50 from Carlisle Kingmoor.

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]]> Sat Mar 12 2005 Carstairs, Ravenstruther and area. http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c459532.html Carstairs, Ravenstruther and area. Friday 11 March 2005: Carstairs, Ravenstruther and area.

A northbound Virgin Pendolino passing Carstairs village, just before Ravenstruther. A GNER set with DVT 'Duke of Edinburgh' at the rear passes Ravenstruther with 1S02 06.15 from Doncaster on its way to Glasgow Central. 66098 'bulled up' with white buffers at Ravenstruther with 6S01. A GNER 225 heading towards Carstairs. 66098 loading its train at Ravenstruther. 66098 loading its train at Ravenstruther.

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]]> Fri Mar 11 2005 Loco cabs - coaching stock http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c459523.html Ok so not quite "loco" cabs, but close! Cab views of DVTs and PCVs. Friday 11 March 2005: Ok so not quite "loco" cabs, but close! Cab views of DVTs and PCVs.

Propelling Control Vehicle (95301). Propelling Control Vehicle (95301) - driver's side. Propelling Control Vehicle (95301) - secondman's side. Driver's side of Mk III DVT cab. Switches on driver's side Mk III DVT. Secondman's side Mk III DVT. Shunting controls by the cab doors of Mk III DVT. Looking back from the cab of a Mk III DVT towards the parcels area. Looking towards the driving cab in the parcels area of a Mk III DVT. The white frames (right) are for bicycles. The guard's office in a Mk III DVT, with brake gauges, parking and emergency brakes next to the seat. Guard's desk, switches, and intercom in a Mk III DVT. Brake gauges and controls in the guard's compartment of a Mk III DVT. Door controls in the vestibule of a Mk III DVT.

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]]> Fri Mar 11 2005 Gas lamp survivor http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c457644.html A surviving gas lamp next to the Ayrshire main line at Brownhill. Wednesday 9 March 2005: A surviving gas lamp next to the Ayrshire main line at Brownhill.

Gas lamp? Close up of the top.

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]]> Wed Mar 9 2005 EMUs http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c457642.html Insert mandatory Rod Hull joke here... Wednesday 9 March 2005: Insert mandatory Rod Hull joke here...

334004 with 2K04 07.58 Ayr - Glasgow passes Brownhill. 334028 with 2T54 08.14 Ardrossan Town to Glasgow passes Brownhill.

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]]> Wed Mar 9 2005 Tanfield Railway http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c447639.html The Tanfield Railway is a heritage railway near Newcastle which is the world\'s oldest existing railway. It is quite different from most heritage lines as you won\'t find a Mark 1 there, or a mainline loco. Instead, its trains are formed of four-wheeled vehicles hauled by industrial locomotives, much closer to collieries\' workmens trains. Monday 28 February 2005: The Tanfield Railway is a heritage railway near Newcastle which is the world\'s oldest existing railway. It is quite different from most heritage lines as you won\'t find a Mark 1 there, or a mainline loco. Instead, its trains are formed of four-wheeled vehicles hauled by industrial locomotives, much closer to collieries\' workmens trains.

Disposing of 'Renishaw Steelworks No. 6' in the snow at the Tanfield Railway's Marley Hill shed. The fireman on 'Renishaw' attends to that passing clack! An 0-4-0 diesel shunter at Tanfield. Firman and cleaner clean the fire. Putting the stock away in the new carriage shed. An 0-6-0ST awaiting restoration. A wooden coal wagon. 'Austerity' 0-6-0ST no. 49 and 0-6-0ST 'Stagshaw' in the historic engine shed on the Tanfield Railway.

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]]> Mon Feb 28 2005 Loco cabs - electric http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c445249.html Cabs of electric locomotives, including class 86, 90, and 92. Saturday 26 February 2005: Cabs of electric locomotives, including class 86, 90, and 92.

Driver's side of an 86. Secondman's side of an 86. 86 cab. Class 92 - driver's side switches, rear Class 92 - switches above driver's side window, front. Class 92 - warning lights above windscreen. Class 92 - switches above secondman's side window. Class 92 - secondman's side. Class 92 - central section of 'dashboard'. Class 92 cab, driver's side. Class 92 - driver's central pedestal with power handle, NRN handset, cab-train handset, and fault book. Class 92 - driver's controls, LH side: horn (black), train brake (green), straight brake (blue), emergency plunger (r Class 90 works plate and data panel. Class 90 - switches under driver's side window, and brake controls. Class 90 - driver's side. Class 90 - secondman's side and central controls. Class 90s shunting controls next to the doors. Horn on the left, combined brake and power on the right.

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]]> Sat Feb 26 2005 On shed - Shields http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c443671.html Shields depot is near Glasgow Central on the lines to Paisley Canal and Gilmore Street, and maintains the Glasgow suburban EMUs of classes 314, 318, 320, and 334. It also has a wheel lathe which is often used by 'foreign' visitors. Thursday 24 February 2005: Shields depot is near Glasgow Central on the lines to Paisley Canal and Gilmore Street, and maintains the Glasgow suburban EMUs of classes 314, 318, 320, and 334. It also has a wheel lathe which is often used by 'foreign' visitors.

334039, 007, and 010 wait their next duties at Shiels Depot. 314215, 334025, 314204, and 318267 all in Strathclyde Passenger Transport blood and custard livery outside Shields. An overall view of Shields, with 314s, 318s, and 334s outside. Three class 334 EMUs at Shields. 66022 'Lafarge Charnwood' passing Shields with 4Z79 to Hunterston High Level. A class 314 and 334010 outside Shields. A class 334 passes Shields Jn and depot with another service from Central to Ayrshire. 334010 and an internal use only four-wheel wagon outside Shields. 314204 and 318261 318268 at Shields. 314204 and 334013 both in SPT carmine and cream livery outside Shields. 314201 in old orange SPT orange and black livery. 1989-built 320005 at Shields. Class 320 and 334, with a 314 behind. The depot sign at Shields, still displaying the BR double arrow logo ten years after privatisation, and the Cuneo mouse symbol. Freightliner's 47816 with blue and grey translator vehicle collects 318253 from Shields. Freightliner's 47816 with blue and grey translator vehicle collects 318253 from Shields. Newly refurbished 318251 shows the difference in front ends with an unrefurbished example nect to it. The recently-arrived 322485 is furthest to the right, in preperation for taking over services to North Berwick from class 90s.

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]]> Thu Feb 24 2005 On shed - Polmadie <B><I>UPDATED 26/10/07</I></B> http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c443666.html Polmadie depot is located next to the WCML near Glasgow Central, and maintains Voaygers and Pendolinos for Virgin, class 91s and Mk IV sets for GNER, as well as the ScotRail sleepers and North Berwick class 90 and Mk III sets. There are also stored coaches kept there made surplus by the introduction of the Pendolinos. Thursday 24 February 2005: Polmadie depot is located next to the WCML near Glasgow Central, and maintains Voaygers and Pendolinos for Virgin, class 91s and Mk IV sets for GNER, as well as the ScotRail sleepers and North Berwick class 90 and Mk III sets. There are also stored coaches kept there made surplus by the introduction of the Pendolinos.

Stored coaching stock made surplus by the introduction of Pendolinos on the WCML at Polmadie Down Through Sidings. The old order - 87033 'Thane of Fife' and a rake of Mk IIIs outside Polmadie Depot. The old order - 87033 'Thane of Fife' and a rake of Mk IIIs outside Polmadie Depot. Mk III DVT 82120 in use with Scotrail on North Berwick services, though still in Virgin colours, outside Polmadie. EWS's 90021 still in pre-privatisation Railfreight Distribution livery at the head of a North Berwick set of Mk IIIs 87033 'Thane of Fife' and 47840 'NOTH STAR' with stored Mk III stock in Polmadie Down Through Sidings. 90021 ans 57306 'Jeff Tracy' at Polmadie. Pendoline 390029 and 47840 'NORTH STAR' at Polmadie. 57314 'FIREFLY' at Polmadie. A Voyager in Polmadie. Pendolino 390016 'Virgin Champion' at Pomadie. 390029 in the Eurostar compound at Polmadie. An 'Up' Voyager passing Polmadie. Virgin Thunderbird 57302 'Virgil Tracy' in front of the empty ScotRail sleeper stock at Polmadie. EWS's 08886 shunts the ScotRail sleeper stock at Polmadie. Class 86 no. 86249 'County of Merseyside' still in Intercity swallow livery at Polmadie, where it finished as a training locomotive. Freightliner 66531 with 'Mossend Heavy Haul' headboard stabled in the Clydesdale Loop at Polmadie while working 4Z41 Ferrybridge to Hunterston HL. 90031 'The Railway Children Partnership' with sleeper stock. 390001 'Virgin Pioneer', EWS 90021, and 57310 'KYRANO'. 390001 'Virgin Pioneer' Fragonset 31106 hiding in the Down Sidings. It had worked a Chief Engineer's train top and tailed with 31105 as 4Z08 16.10 Carlisle to Glasgow the previous day. 390001 'Virgin Pioneer' again, but this time in the Down Sidings minus its nose fairing, apparently following an altercartion with a cow. 57310 preparing a rake of former Virgin Mk III coaches for an e.c.s. move. Work underway in May 2005 on the new wheel lathe building. Cladding stored in the foreground. Another view of the new wheel lathe building under construction, with the yellow crane noticeable. The wheel lathe building was almost complete externally by August, with an 0-6-0 diesel shunting loco having arrived for shunting vehicles using the facility. The 0-6-0 shunting loco for moving vehicles at the wheel lathe. The almost complete building seen from the south end, with cladding and trackwork in place. Seen from the north end, with the yellow crane prominent. 08922 with one of the Visit Scotland sleeper day coaches. 87026. The sleeper stock is prepared inside Polmadie. 66197 waiting in the Up Clydesdale Loop with a loaded train from Hunterston. 31190 / D5613 in BR green livery at Polmadie. The engine was on a Network Rail test train consisting of 6261 + 999602 + 977983 (coaches) with 31106 at the other end. 31190 / D5613 in BR green livery at Polmadie. The engine was on a Network Rail test train consisting of 6261 + 999602 + 977983 (coaches) with 31106 at the other end.

Published in Merlin '60027' Photographs

]]> Thu Feb 24 2005 On shed - Rutherglen http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c443654.html Rutherglen is on the WCML out of Glasgow, south of Polmadie, and is a base for On Track Machines (OTMs) and Network Rail's Multi Purpose Vehicles (MPVs). Thursday 24 February 2005: Rutherglen is on the WCML out of Glasgow, south of Polmadie, and is a base for On Track Machines (OTMs) and Network Rail's Multi Purpose Vehicles (MPVs).

OTMs in Rutherglen Yard. Withdrawn/stored OTMs at Rutherglen Yard. First Engineering's DR73904 'Thomas Telford' at Rutherglen. First Engineering's GWS 75 at Rutherglen. Presumably these machines are waiting for the scrapman!

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]]> Thu Feb 24 2005 In the snow http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c443651.html In the snow Thursday 24 February 2005: In the snow

66110 with 4Z79 0950 Millerhill - Hunterston High Level at Slateford while a train of autoballasters passes. 66110 with 4Z79 Millerhill - Hunterson High Level in the snow approaching Mossend East/Fullwood Junction.

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]]> Thu Feb 24 2005 Mossend http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c442250.html Mossend is situated near Motherwell, and as such is convenient for the WCML and ECML (via either Shotts or Carstairs), as well as being en route for trains coming from Ayrshire to central Scotland. It is Scotland's busiest railfreight yard dispatching train all over the UK, and dispatching and receiving a variety of traffics. Coal is loaded within the down yard, while the up yard is home to the Euroterminal. A number of locos for EWS and Freightliner are also stabled in the Engine Sidings. Wednesday 23 February 2005: Mossend is situated near Motherwell, and as such is convenient for the WCML and ECML (via either Shotts or Carstairs), as well as being en route for trains coming from Ayrshire to central Scotland. It is Scotland's busiest railfreight yard dispatching train all over the UK, and dispatching and receiving a variety of traffics. Coal is loaded within the down yard, while the up yard is home to the Euroterminal. A number of locos for EWS and Freightliner are also stabled in the Engine Sidings.

Approaching Mossed Yard from Coatbridge in the snow. A 66 is waiting to depart the Up sidings while an 08 shunts. On the down side a container train for Coatbridge is double-headed by two 86/6s while a coal train from Ravenstruther waits for depature. Great Western liveried 47811, now in use with Freightliner, stands next to EWS's tri-voltage electric Co-Co 92039 'Johann Strauss' at Mossend engine sidings. 92023 'Ravel' and 92030 'Ashford' stabled in the engine sidings at Mossend. Three class 92 triple-voltage electrics, built for working through the Channel Tunnel and on the Continent at Mossend 92001 'Victor Hugo' in EWS livery at Mossend. 92001 in EWS livery next to a railfreight triple grey 92 stabled in the Engine Sidings at Mossend. 67020 stabled in the goods at Mossend, outside EWS's new Scottish HQ New Caledonian House. Class 92s, 86s, and Translator vehicles in the Engine Sidings at Mossend. 08866 with mail vehicles in Mossend Down Yard. 08866 with mail vehicles in Mossend Down Yard. A 66 with a pipe train in the Down Yard next to a rake of HTA coal wagons. Two Freightliner 86s and two EWS 92s in the Engine Sidings. 92023 'Ravel' and 92031 'Ashford' in the Engine Sidings at Mossend. Freightliner's 47830. Two class 92s stabled in the Engine Sidings. A container train entering the Down Passenger Loop hauled by two class 86/6s for a crew change before running on to Coatbridge. A class 90 with a Freightliner container train on the Up Main at Mossend. 08500 in the Euroterminal. 66092 in the goods at Mossend. 66108 and 37416. 37416 and 66108. The now name-less 37407 awaiting purchase. 66239 in the private sidings headshunt. 86628 and 86627 stabled in the engine sidings. 86607, 90043 'Freightliner Coatbridge', and 86628. 92030 'Ashford', 92016 'Brahms', 47830, 86628 and 86627 in the engine sidings. 66226 at Mossend North Jn, underneath the Holytown Road bridge. 67007 and 66109 stabled in the Goods at Mossend Yard, in front of EWS's Scottish HQ New Caledonian House. 67007, 67008 and 66109 stabled in the Goods at Mossend Down Yard. Freightliner 86627 and 86632 stabled with two others in the Engine Sidings. 92042 'Honegger', 86632 and an unidentified 86/6 in the Engine Sidings, with two Mark 1 translator coaches behind. Polo anyone? The Channel Tunnel cast logos on a class 92 electric. DRS 66404 drawing out of P. D. Stirlings at Mossend with a train of Malcolm containers. DRS 66404 drawing out of P. D. Stirlings at Mossend with a train of Malcolm containers. DRS 66404 drawing out of P. D. Stirlings at Mossend with a train of Malcolm containers. Mossend yard pilot 08500 in the Down Reception roads. 86622 and 92029 'Dante'.

Published in Merlin '60027' Photographs

]]> Wed Feb 23 2005 On shed - Motherwell T.M.D. http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c442243.html Motherwell TMD is EWS's main depot in Scotland, and is situated between Motherwell station and Mossend Yard. Wednesday 23 February 2005: Motherwell TMD is EWS's main depot in Scotland, and is situated between Motherwell station and Mossend Yard.

08811 in departmental grey livery and 47785 - formerly 'Roy Castle' - at Motherwell TMD. 66077 with BR blue-liveried 08492, Transrail 37424, and an EWS-liveried 08 at Motherwell TMD. 08402 with a mail van at Motherwell TMD. Withdrawn 08807, once of Bletchley depot, with 'Northampton Line' branding at Motherwell. Two EWS 08s - 08441 and an unidentified loco - at Motherwell with NAA propelling control vehicle 95300 converted from an EMU for mail use. Withdrawn Transrail 37409, once 'Loch Awe', at Motherwell in front of the fuelling shed. 67003 waiting to be serviced at Motherwell TMD. 67003 in the fuel road at Motherwell TMD, with the mail sidings behind. Virgin's 57306 'Jeff Tracy' waits to depart Motherwell shed for its Carstairs thunderbird duties. 66161 awaiting fueling and 90034 in the mail sidings at Motherwell. The east end of Motherwell shed with the fuelling shed on the right. The Motherwell end of Motherwell shed. Withdrawn 08768 in BR blue livery at Motherwell. Withdrawn 08768 in BR blue livery at Motherwell. 08881 and 47785 with 37674 behind. 37674 'Saint Blaise Church 1445 - 1995' 08402 The unroofed part of Motherwell shed following a fire, containing a line of withdrawn locos - a 37, five 08s and a 47 Fire-damaged 08534. Close up of 37430's nameplate 'Cwmbrân', with dedication plate and Scottish and Welsh stickers. 37430 'Cwmbrân' with Transrail marking in the burnt out section of Motherwell shed. Two mainline blue 37s at Motherwell - 37373 nearest camera, and 37216. 66098 with 4C12 to Ravenstruther in the Braidhurst Up Goods Loop, opposite Motherwell shed. 374xx and 37152 moved to the outside of the shed, 374xx for stripping, and 37152 for preservation. 47785 and 37424. 37409 and 37216. EWS road-rail vehicle for rerailing operations. Having just arrived from Mossend Yard, 66133 waits to be serviced in the fuel point. 37401 receiving attention inside Motherwell TMD. Withdrawn 47739 'Resourceful'. 47739 and 08883. Withdrawn 37421 waiting its fate outside Motherwell TMD. Motherwell T.M.D. 66B Two DRS class 37s 37611 and 37607 stabled at Motherwell TMD with Network Rail OHL test vehicle 975091 'Mentor'. A close up of the pantograph and observation windows of 'Mentor'. 'Mentor' and 37607 at Motherwell. 'Mentor' and 37607 next to snow ploughs and the old steam shed at Motherwell TMD. Withdrawn locos. 37421 seen through the doors of the steam shed at Motherwell TMD. 67026 receiving attention inside Motherwell TMD. 66112 on over one of the inspection pits at Motherwell TMD.

Published in Merlin '60027' Photographs

]]> Wed Feb 23 2005 The Forth Bridge - from the footplate http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c437646.html I have been fortunate enough to have a footplate trip across the Forth Bridge, and this collection shows the driver's view. Saturday 19 February 2005: I have been fortunate enough to have a footplate trip across the Forth Bridge, and this collection shows the driver's view.

Approaching the Bridge from Dalmeny. Approaching the south tower on the approach viaduct. Passing through the south tower A scaffold tower! Work in progress on repainting the Bridge. Leaving the cantilever section through the north tower. Approaching North Queensferry station. The crossovers before North Queensferry. Passing through North Queensferry station.

Published in Merlin '60027' Photographs

]]> Sat Feb 19 2005 Sojourn at Haymarket West http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c437502.html Haymarket West Junction is situated on the Fife and E&G lines out of Edinburgh, and provides a connection between these an the Sub. It is next to Murrayfield Stadium. Saturday 19 February 2005: Haymarket West Junction is situated on the Fife and E&G lines out of Edinburgh, and provides a connection between these an the Sub. It is next to Murrayfield Stadium.

66073 with 6G24 for Thornton, coming off the Sub from Millerhill at Haymarket W Jn. Haymarket W showing the old formation to Princes St station (right), with the lines from Haymarket station and Haymarket depot to the left. 170454 or 55 with 2K59 13.15 to Markinch at Haymarket W. A class 158 approaqching Haymarket station on the E&G lines with 2P38 12.27 from Dunblane, passing Murrayfield Stadium.

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]]> Sat Feb 19 2005 Ayrshire Coal Workings <B><I>UPDATED 26/10/07</I></B> http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c434834.html Ayrshire is a major source of power station coal for the whole of Britain, with a number of open casts centered on Falkland Yard, Ayr, as well as imported coal coming through Hunterston and loaded using twin bunkers fed by conveyor from the ship. Services are operated by both EWS and Freightliner Heavy Haul. Thursday 17 February 2005: Ayrshire is a major source of power station coal for the whole of Britain, with a number of open casts centered on Falkland Yard, Ayr, as well as imported coal coming through Hunterston and loaded using twin bunkers fed by conveyor from the ship. Services are operated by both EWS and Freightliner Heavy Haul.

4R90 hauled by 66111 approaches Midcalder Jn, where the lines to Carstairs via Cobbinshaw and Motherwell via Benhar and Shotts divide. 4R90, composed of modern 75mph HTA wagons hauled by 66111, appraoches Midcalder Jn en route from Millerhill Yard to Falkland Yard. 4R90 arrives in 1 Dn Reception at Falkland Yard, next to 66185. Another view of 66111 at the head of 4R90 and 66185 at Falkland Yard. 4R90 would earlier that day have been discharged at Cockenzie PS before working to Falkland, to the go on to one of the nearby open casts for loading again. 66111 at Falkland Yard. 66155 about to back down onto its train in no. 1 road at Hunterston High Level, with the single line to Largs on the left. Hunterston was originally built for the loading of imported iron ore for Ravenscraig steel works, but now supplies imported coal to a number of power stations in England and Scotland. The loading bunkers at Hunterston High Level, seen from the arrival (Ardrossan) direction, with a train of mgr wagons being loaded in the 'A' (beetle) side. The loading bunkers seen from the other direction, 'A' side on the left, and 'B' side with a set of HTA wagons being loaded for Drax power station (to form 6U67) on the right. Trains are propelled through the 'B' side by the train engine, but dragged through using a 'beetle' on the 'A' side. 66164 with a train of loaded HTAs waits to leave Hunterston with 6Z66 for Yorkshire. 66021 with 4J41 0628 Millerhill - Hunterston High Level pauses at Brownhill on a frosty morning. 66021 with 4J41 0628 Millerhill - Hunterston High Level pauses at Brownhill on a frosty morning. 66133 hauls another load of coal from Ayrshire into Brownhill Up Loop. 66133 with a loaded m.g.r. set passes 66021 with empty HTAs en route to Hunterston at Brownhill. 66145 hauling 4Z79 09.52 Millerhill - Hunterston HL pauses in the Down Loop at Brownhill to let a Largs passenger service pass. 66145 hauling 4Z79 09.52 Millerhill - Hunterston HL pauses in the Down Loop at Brownhill to let a Largs passenger service to pass. 66145 hauling 4Z79 09.52 Millerhill - Hunterston HL pauses in the Down Loop at Brownhill to let a Largs passenger service to pass. 66247 passes under Shields Jn on the Burma Road with a train of imported coal from Hunterston. 66041 arrives in no. 4 road at Hunterston with 4J71 from Millerhill. Dunoon and the Argyll perninsula is visible in the background. 4J71 moves towards the loading towers. The 'beetle' on the B side has been removed and modification made to allow the higher HTA wagons to be loaded on both sides, and trains can now arrive and depart on any of the four roads. A Scotrail class 334 passes Hunterston High Level with 1T15 09.45 Glasgow Central - Largs service. On the far side of the EMU the branch to Hunterston Low Level diverges.

Published in Merlin '60027' Photographs

]]> Thu Feb 17 2005 Penmanshiel Tunnel http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c432690.html Penmanshiel Tunnel was on the ECML between Grantshouse and Dunbar, but collapsed in 1979 with the loss of two lives. The Tunnel could not be reconstructed, or the bodies recovered, and the railway was subsequently diverted around the hill, also forcing the A1 road to be moved. A memorial was erected above the Tunnel to the men who died. Monday 14 February 2005: Penmanshiel Tunnel was on the ECML between Grantshouse and Dunbar, but collapsed in 1979 with the loss of two lives. The Tunnel could not be reconstructed, or the bodies recovered, and the railway was subsequently diverted around the hill, also forcing the A1 road to be moved. A memorial was erected above the Tunnel to the men who died.

The memorial erected to the two men who died in the Tunnel collapse. The memorial itself is triangular in plan, with a cross on one side, and a plaque to each man on the other two. Memorial plaque to Gordon Turnbull. Memorial plaque to Peter Fowler. The memorial seen from below. The site of the Tunnel's southern portal, seen from a road bridge made redundant once the A1 was moved. The 'new' railway formation can be seen to the left. View of the bridge, with the site of the Tunnel's southern portal to the right, and the diverted railway line at the end of the road, with the current A1 beyond with the blue lorry on it. The Tunnel portal, the railway's formation can be made out from the boundary wall. Looking towards Gransthouse along the old railway formation, taken from approximately the top of the Tunnel portal.

Published in Merlin '60027' Photographs

]]> Mon Feb 14 2005 Thornton Yard http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c425989.html Thornton Yard is at present busy again since coal has started being loaded in Fife, with three loading points in the yard itself plus those at Westfield and Inverkeithing. Tuesday 8 February 2005: Thornton Yard is at present busy again since coal has started being loaded in Fife, with three loading points in the yard itself plus those at Westfield and Inverkeithing.

66106 with 6S22, empties from Drax Power Station in Yorkshire. This train usually loads at Inverkeithing Yard, but on this occassion a lack of coal at Inverkeithing meant the train was diverted to Thornton where its train is loaded in the headshunt. 6S22 getting loaded at Thornton Yard's headshunt. 66106 with 6S22 in Thornton Yard headshunt. Just visible beyond the loco cab is the grass embankment which originally carried tracks to Thornton colliery. 66073 with 7B71 for Cockenzie loading at Thornton Yard, Road 13. The old control tower for the hump yard. Thornton Yard, looking westwards. Thornton Yard looking east. The grey building is the loco shed, and the red signal is on the Westfield branch. 66111 leads 7B35 the 10.35 Thornton Yard - Cockenzie PS at Clunybridge Jn. 7G09 having been loaded in Thornton Yard, passes underneath the spray rig before travelling on to Cockenzie Power Station. The spray rig at Thornton for applying fixing agent to coal trains to reduce blow off. A rare sight - 60094 'Rugby Town' passing through Thornton Yard with 7G31 from Westfield. 60094 'Rugby Town' passing through Thornton Yard with 7G31 from Westfield. 66006 with 7G09 waiting to depart from Thornton Yard, where it was loaded, for Cockenzie Power Station. Getting into its stride after clearing Clunybridge Jn. 66006 in the headshunt at Thornton Yard.

Published in Merlin '60027' Photographs

]]> Tue Feb 8 2005 Westfield loading point and branch http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c425969.html The Westfield branch was reopened to traffic in 2004 after some years disuse so that coal - from St Ninians open cast - could be loaded at the former mine\'s loading point. The route runs for 5 miles from Redford Junction, through Thornton Yard, to Westfield and is all that remains of a route which joined the direct Cowdenbeath to Perth line at Kelty. Tuesday 8 February 2005: The Westfield branch was reopened to traffic in 2004 after some years disuse so that coal - from St Ninians open cast - could be loaded at the former mine\'s loading point. The route runs for 5 miles from Redford Junction, through Thornton Yard, to Westfield and is all that remains of a route which joined the direct Cowdenbeath to Perth line at Kelty.

66025 approaches Thornton Yard with 7B31 from Westfield to Cockenzie Power Station. This train starts from Millerhill Yard as the 0511 6G31 to Westfield, where it is loaded, then returns via Kirkaldy and Millerhill to Cockenzie, where it is discharged before returning to Westfield in the afternoon as 6G72. The weighbridge, with loading pad and poser station beyond, at Westfield. The coal loading pad at Westfield. 66182 with 6G72 from Millerhill is loaded at Westfield. The train will then run back to Millerhill as 7B32 for discharging at Cockenzie PS the next morning. Looking from the loading pad loop towards the former running line which ran from Redford Jn (Thornton) to Kelty. The current end of running, marked by a notice board and sleepers fixed to the rails, looking towards Kelty. Beyond the current limit of working the rail remain in place for a short distance as they latterly formed a headshunt for trains to reverse into Westfield PS. The line from Thornton comes in on the left, with the PS sidings on the right, and the route to Kelty continuing through the bridge. The entrance to Westfield PS sidings. Westfield PS sidings. At the bufferstop. 7G32 ready to depart Westfield for Drax PS.

Published in Merlin '60027' Photographs

]]> Tue Feb 8 2005 On shed - Millerhill T.M.D. <B><I>UPDATED 26/10/07</i></b> http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c425960.html Locomotives and scenes from EWS's Millerhill T.M.D., Edinburgh. Tuesday 8 February 2005: Locomotives and scenes from EWS's Millerhill T.M.D., Edinburgh.

37427 in EWS livery stabled at the battery end at Millerhill. The adjacent signal (M24) controls the entrance to Millerhill Yard from the Niddrie/Newcraighall direction, and is cleared to let a train in. 66237 rest inside the shed at Millerhill. 66237 rest inside the shed at Millerhill. 66237 rest inside the shed at Millerhill. Withdrawn locos wait a decision in the Tank Lye at Millerhill TMD. 08489, 37886, 37709. Fueled and ready to go, an unidentified 66 waits at Millerhill. 66118 waits for servicing in front of the shed, while withdrawn 47747 is down The Chute. The Yard and Virtual Quarry are beyond. 37416 in Royal Scotsman maroon with cast crests stabled in the Chute at Millerhill TMD. Millerhill Yard pilot 08924. 60064 at the battery end. The locos retains its 'Back Tor' nameplates on the other side only! Golden shed 1. A class 66 hauls a rake of loaded mgrs into Millerhill from the north. Golden 47. Withdrawn 47747 'Florence Nightingale'. Golden shed 2. 66129 standing in a frosty Freddie 5. Golden shed 2. 66129 standing in a frosty Freddie 5. Yard pilot 08924 in the headshunt at Millerhill Yard. Freightliner 66527 'Don Raider' in Millerhill Yard. 08924 at night. 90017 stabled in Millerhill Yard next to 66070 at the head of an Anglo-Scottish coal train. GBRf 66714 'Cromer Lifeboat' passes light engine through the south end of Millerhill Yard towards the ECML. GBRf 66714 'Cromer Lifeboat' passes light engine through the south end of Millerhill Yard towards the ECML. 37406 'The Slatire Society' rests at the battery end of Millerhill TMD after working the bucket train from Powderhall to Oxwellmains. Signal M24 is the entrance signal for trains entering Millerhill Yard from Newcraighall on the adjacent line. Mainline blue-liveried 60044 waiting in Freddie 5 with 6S58 Lackenby - Dalzell steel slabs. A busy scene on New Years Day 2007, with locos in all five roads of the TMD.

Published in Merlin '60027' Photographs

]]> Tue Feb 8 2005 Loco cabs - diesel http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c425728.html Pictures of the cabs of various locomotives. Tuesday 8 February 2005: Pictures of the cabs of various locomotives.

The 'big seat' of a EWS 66/0. Class 66/0. Switches above the drivers side window. 66/0 Side desk 66/0: (b to t) AWS reset, hazard lights switch; train brake (black), horn; sanders, slow speed switches, direct brake, train length switch; emergency brake plunger. The DSD pedal can also be seen in front of the seat. Control pedestal 66/0 to the right of the driver's seat. NRN radio at the top, then power lever (in idle, forward to apply power), brass reverser handle, various isolation switches. 66/0 gauges left: (l to r) main res, bogie brakes (applied), air flow indicator, train brake (released). 66/0 gauges right: (l to r) train brake pipe, speedometer, ammeter, AWS indicator and speaker. NRN radio handset and RETB equipment above. 37/4 drivers side (37417) 37/4 drivers side (37417) 37/4 drivers side (37417) 37/4 drivers side (37417) 37/4 secondmans side (37417) 37/4 light switches (37417) 47 cab drivers side (47747) 47 cab drivers side (47747) 47 cab switches (47747) 47 cab (47747) The righthand side of the 08 cab. The white lever on the right is the train brake, the large brass handle is the regulator, while the smaller handle at 90o to this is the reverser. The lower verticle black handle operates the loco's straight air brakes, while the upper handle operates the sanders. 08 desk seen from the right. The ammeter and speedometer are centrally mounted, and can be turned to face either left or right driving position. 08 desk seen from the left. The lefthand side of the 08 cab. The loco can be driven from either side to aid the driver's view when shunting. General view of the 67 cab. Driver's controls l/h side. Driver's desk. Driver's controls r/h side. Secondman's side. Controls above front windscreen. Ammeter and Propelling Advisory Control System for mail trains. The driver's side of the class 60 cab. Desk to the left of the driver. Driver's gauges. Desk to the right of the driver with power handle, reverser, AWS cancellation button, and NRN handset. Switches above the driver's side window. Secondman's side of a class 60 cab. Cooker is underneath the cover in the left-hand corner. 27 drivers side (27005) 27 secondmans side (27005) Class 31 drivers side Class 31 drivers side Class 31 drivers desk Class 31 cab back bulkhead

Published in Merlin '60027' Photographs

]]> Tue Feb 8 2005 Coal to Cockenzie http://merlinsphotos.fotopic.net/c413472.html Workings to, from, and in Cockenzie Power Station on the ECML near Edinburgh. Monday 24 January 2005: Workings to, from, and in Cockenzie Power Station on the ECML near Edinburgh.

7B31 from Westfield hauled by 66122 approaches Monktonhall Junction on the East Goods line from Millerhill en route to Cockenzie, with the A1 road bridge in the background. Typical grey Edinburgh weather! 66122 waiting for a path on the ECML at Cockenzie for the 6 mile run to Millerhill with 6G72 to Westfield, after discharging its train at the power station. The coal plant at Cockenzie. The yellow'Darleks' before the doors undo the safety catches on mgr wagons. Inside the coal plant at Cockenzie. The Darleks here open the wagon doors, allowing the coal to drop through the grids to the bays below. Both tracks are in use, but the doors are kept shut unless a train is actually in the plant to reduce the dust. At the far end of the discharge roads at Cockenzie power station. The roads look like a giant ski slope pointing towards the Firth of Forth, though no train has yet managed to jump all the way across to Fife... The groundframe controls the position light signal on the main line and loop at Prestonpans to allow entry into the yard, and is operated by the shunter. The frame is release by Edinburgh PSB. The white levers are now unused, while the red ones control the two signals. The groundframe at Cockenzie, next to the roadbridge. The track under the bridge leads to the ECML at Prestonpans. 66100 and the groundframe at Cockenzie 66100 waiting to depart from Cockenzie with 6G72 to Westfield. 66041 rounding the curve from Millerhill on its way to Cockenzie. 66041 waits with 7B31 for Cockenzie Power Station on the East Goods lines, connecting Millerhill to the ECML. 66174 with 7B78 Falkland Yard - Cockenzie waits for depature from Millerhill Yard, while next to it 66185 waits to go on to Drax Power Station with 6U75 from Inverkeithing Yard. 66174 crawls through the plant at Cockenzie at 1/2mph emptying its load of Ayrshire coal. 66132 passes under the B1361 road bridge at Prestonpans, arriving in the Cockenzie PS yard from the ECML with 7G09 from Thornton. Having discharged its train, 66132 waits at 833 signal for a service from North Berwick to pass on the ECML with 6B55 for Millerhill. Blindwells was through the ECML bridge in the background.

Published in Merlin '60027' Photographs

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