Ryton In Steam, But No "Achilles"...

Hi all. A quiet afternoon today, driving 0-4-0 Sweet Pea "John H Owen" at Ryton Pool. The railway was operating its usual 1pm - 4pm slot, though two trains were expected to operate due to the bank holiday. However, probably due to the weather forecast, the passenger numbers did not call for two trains, so we simply ran one passenger set, mostly hauled by the Sweet Pea. My engine, "Achilles", was due to attend to haul the 2nd rake but unfortunately failed during the week with fractured pipework underneath. So, she's out of service for a few weeks while we get a new T-piece made! The Sweet Pea ran for around 2 hours; driven by myself for the first hour and Emma for the second. Though it was steaming and pulling brilliantly, a sudden heavy downpour made rail conditions on the 1 in 70 very poor, so the green saddle tank began stalling, and was eventually failed by default, at around 3:30pm. So, with regret, the last few trips were hauled by the Class 37; boo! With 37 hauling the train, myself and Emma disposed of the Pea, before tidying up. At 4:10pm, the railway closed for the day and we packed away before heading home. Though it was short, it was a pleasant afternoon. I always enjoy driving that Sweet Pea on a passenger train; especially a very heavy one; its such a joy! I hope to be at RPMR again soon; though that was my last crew day of 2011; with my own loco, once its fixed. Keep reading folks! Regards, Sam...