Well, no narrow guage or model live steam this weekend, but instead, the full monty! We boarded a Steam Dreams charter from London (OK, Staines) to Bath as a (slightly belated) celebration of our first wedding anniversary! The 11 coach train was hauled by A4 no. 60009, Union of South Africa (sister to record breaking Mallard), and what a fantastic sight she was too. Of course, as far as my daughter was concerned, UoSA was in fact Spencer from Thomas and Friends. We had a chance to admire her from the platform at the watering stop at Newbury, which was pretty busy. Whilst taking the photo above, the safety valve lifted,which was one the loudest sounds I have ever heard (and I'm no slouch behind a set of drums - this was CHUFFING LOUD). I only wish we could have seen her running at full tilt from the trackside; must have been an impressive sight!
Bath was characteristically soggy, and absolutely heaving with Christmas shoppers. Fortunately we had a nice meal before our return trip in the dark! The Steam Dreams stewards were great, and despite some hassles getting on & off the coaching stock with our buggy, a good time was had by all, large & small.
Jane sold this week, meeting her original reserve :-) She's been parcelled up & sent to her new owner, who I hope will have lots of fun.
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