|
|
|
|
Bo'ness Goes Nuclear!!!  Howdy folks. The geiger counters were out in force at the SRPS Class 37 running day on the 3rd of January 2009 as DRS Class 37611 represented Cumbrian railfrieght operator with Bo'ness resident Class 37s also running (37025 and 37125). Class 37611 made a fine sight sitting on the bay platform at Bo'ness. The locomotive appeared quite grimy, perhaps evidence that it had been worked hard on RHT trains. This contrasts with the immaculate Virgin Class 57 which appeared at the Diesel Gala which may not have been worked on such arduous trains as 37611.   The first train at the Class 37 running day was worked by 37025 and 37175 (which appeared in a mish-mash livery because of ongoing repairs to the bodywork. It was pleasing to note how busy the platform and the train was despite the recession. The departure from Bo'ness was fantastic with two 37s providing the power past the abandoned dock at Bo'ness Harbour with Longannet Power Station and snow-capped mountains.   The Class 37s were worked hard all day, mainly in top and tail mode. Various combinations of 37025 being at the front and rear of trains were used during the superb 37025. The locomotives were duly thrashed up and down the hill between Kinneil and Birkhill with many photographers out to witness these trains on a clear crisp January day. 37611 looked superb in the sunshine resting in the headshunt.   The double header of 37025 and 37611 was a good match as 37025 spent a number of years working the Far North Line to Thurso. The proximity of the Dounray plant meant that this loco must be used to nuclear fallout! (that's enough radioactive jokes - Ed!)   One of the most pleasing aspects of the day was to see an old favourite 37403 parked at Bo'ness having been saved from the scrap line alongside 37413 which has also been saved for future generations to enjoy. Both these locomotives have arrived in poor condition as did 37025 but look at how good a job the volunteers at Bo'ness have made and the Scottish Locos team is sure that those same volunteers will give it 110 percent to get these locos in ship shape condition and running again.   The Scottish Locos team are glad to report that the Class 37 running day was a well attended event and that money raised on the day will go to securing the future of the Class 37s featured. A big big THANKYOU to all the staff and volunteers who operated these trains on the day. We look forward to the next event.   © Copyright D Kirk, D Yellowlees |