Hi there guys. Today I was the rostered fireman on Peckett 0-6-0ST "Sir Gomer" at Shackerstone. Owing to an unfortunate coal shortage due to a mix up over delivery times, we were very short of coal today and the Peckett was obviously not going to manage all 5 trips - not at all. However, with a little planning we managed to get the engine into steam using as little coal as possible and decided that we would operate a trip just to show willing. After all, we felt that at least if we tried to do a run then the public would have some steam to see/ride behind, rather than none at all. Myself & Driver Phil took the engine off shed with a good boiler pressure and a level coal fire at about 12:30pm. We took water and then proceeded to wait in Platform 1 for the return of the Class 73 and the train. Below, we can see why you should always exercise care when feeding a wood fire in an engine being warmed up...
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| "Blowback" |
With "Sir Gomer" at the head of the 1:45 train we left Shackerstone with a good head of steam. The loco performed beautifully in both directions and steamed like a witch. The return trip to Shackerstone, after careful thinking, saw us decide to do the 3pm train as well. There was 'just enough' coal in the bunker. The 3pm trip saw "Sir Gomer" performing just as well and she went like a dream. I for one really enjoyed it, as did the public...some of whom had waited just for the steam hauled trips. By the time we got back into Shackerstone I reckon I had 4 shovelful's left in the bunker but, nevertheless, "Sir Gomer" had done 2 trips and she had done them well. A very enjoyable, if short, day. Thank you very much for reading guys. Next weekend is MTEW...Fingers crossed, ay?...
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