70013 to Folkestone Harbour: March 14th 2009.

14th March 2009 saw what really does seem to be the last steam hauled train to Folkestone Harbour! next

I had planned to get my first shot of the Brit just East of Ashofrd, but left that photo spot in a hurry as there was a temporary speed restriction in place. I quickly got to the main road overbridge near Sandling. next I lined up on the difficult side of the bridge as the sun made it's only appearance of the day, and the wind was blowing hard as well. Only able to use max telephoto I had to re plan my shot very hastily as a Eurostar overhauled the Brit! next I gratefully accepted the chance of getting a very rare shot! next The Brit was due to make three runs up the Harbour branch. And I chose the Harbour side for the first of those. next 70013 on the first of three runs up the Folkestone Harbour branch. next For the second run I went to the "Tram Road" Bridge to see the very noisy and powerful display from the BR Standard Class pacific. next 70013 storms up the steep grade from Folkestone Harbour. next For the third and last train I was back in the Harbour area. next With Pete Roberts at the controls the pacific made a lovely sight heading over the Harbour Bridge. next My last shot of a steam hauled train leaving Folkestone Harbour? Only time will tell! next The pacific and it's train were pulled back to Ashford by diesel. Then, and now facing in the correct direction again, the Brit left on it's homeward journey via Canterbury. next 70013 made the best noise of the day attacking the grade away from Minster! next 70013 storming away from MInster. next An easy drive for me whilst the big pacific went around via Margate and Ramsgate. I had plenty of time to get ready to see it roaring up Beltinge bank. next A last shot of the day for me as 70013 headed away from Faversham. top  Earlier 2009 Photos   Index