On Wednesday 20th July, 71000 Duke of Gloucester and POB were towed in light steam with a DBS class 66 diesel from Bristol Barton Hill depot (via Westbury) to Bishops Lydeard on the West Somerset Railway. During the move 71000 was tested under load and no problems found. Further testing was carried out with light engine running between Bishops Lydeard and Norton Fitzwarren and the locomotive found to be in sound working order.
On Saturday 23rd July the Duke entered service on the West Somerset Railway and will haul trains daily up to and including Friday 29th July. Early indications confirm the locomotive to be in good working order. Depending on outcomes from this running-in period, the length of stay at WSR will be reviewed. It is hoped that 71000 will return in August to complete main line commitments with Torbay Express Limited and Pathfinder Tours. The cause of 71000’s failure on 12th June whilst hauling the Torbay Express remains under investigation.
David Briggs
Chairman, Phoenix Heritage Rail Ltd
2 comments:
Thank you Mr Briggs for keeping us informed
I wish the trust and the support crew all the best for the remainder of the year
Many thanks for your best wishes and support.
Post a Comment