Not since 2002 has a Coronation class ventured over the notorious South West banks, but on the first weekend of August 2016, Duchess of Sutherland would make for an unforgettable sight & sound as the class 8 digged it's heels in over some of the toughest mainline gradients the UK has to offer.
The day started at Whiteball Bank where the Duchess makes an early charge towards the tunnel passing us at a good rate of speed, although speed was just above par for this section, the smaller load has to be taken into account. Having now crossed into Devon the Coronation Class is seen tackling Tigley & Rattery as it thumps up the 1/52 section. With the loco being serviced at Plymouth I tried to make the dash to St Germans, but unfortunately my sat nav sent me to the ferry instead of the road bridge so that payed end to that ! Fortunately I was close to Devonport Station and I was able to make it there with two minutes to spare.
For the return leg and undoubtedly the highlight of the trip, the LMS stalwart would take on the immense climb of Hemerdon Bank. With a Westerly wind present everything was set up for a dramatic climb and Boy ! What a climb it was, with the Duchess sounding better than ever and with even more steam to spare. Now with the main event behind us, I dropped in at Tiverton Parkway for my final shot on the way home, where we see 46233 approaching the station slowly due to a 25mph clearance restriction. After clearing the station the loco can be heard working the way and lighting up the road bridge as it passed underneath.
A great day down south and without doubt possibly the highlight of the year on the mainline. Well it was for me anyway !
I hope you enjoy the video.
7 авг 2016
