June 19th proved to bear many fruits in the railway scene. No less than 4 four railtours were running in the South West alone that day! This proved difficult deciding which trains to follow effectively.
After going through several alternatives, it was decided to chase the GWR 175 Railtour to Minehead, which was running out and back from London Paddington. Classic western region motive power ruled the day. D1015 Western Champion taking the train to Minehead with 6024 King Edward 1st hauling the return to London. Whilst running on the WSR, the two engines were paired up. Also, and to a complete surprise, message got through of a '6S' or Class 201 'Hastings' DEMU, also visiting the WSR that day with a railtour from Hastings. This interesting unit, splendidly restored, ran on the line between the other railtour, the layover in Minehead only being an hour! In addition, 3850 and 4160 are seen on WSR trains as an added bonus!
A round up of the days catch, D1015 is seen at Cogload Junction and Dene Bridge, before being piloted by 6024 over the WSR and we see them both at Churchlands. The Hastings unit is seen at Crowcombe Heathfield on the outward and climbing Washford on the return. The returning GWR 175 railtour sees D1015 piloting 6024 over Washford. With a train of 11 coaches, plus a 6024 acting as a deadweight, the Western was certainly going at full chat! Finally 6024 is seen at Bruton Station on it's way back to London. WSR action is seen at Crowcombe and Leigh Woods Crossing.
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