Day Trip to Bangor Report Archive
Below is a list of Day Trip reports in the archives. Simply scroll down and click on the date to view!
The Three Day Event (27th - 29th August 1998)
9th October 1998 | 31st October 1998 | 3rd December 1998.
14th January 1999. | 10th - 12th February 1999
12th March 1999 | 7th April 1999
15th May 1999 (illustrated) | 3rd July 1999
12th February 2000 | 11th March 2000 | 23rd May 2000.
20th December 2000 | 28th December 2000
4th April 2003 (illustrated) | 18th April 2003 (illustrated)
Day Trip To Bangor Picture Gallery Page
As is nearly always the case. The day started off by travelling on 1V38, 0605 Leeds - Plymouth. Messrs Bennett, Blanksby and Hargeaves joined the Train at Derby at 0739; I boarded at Burton upon Trent at 0751. Departure was on time with everyone feeling OK for once. The power cars were 43101 and 43092, After being held outside New Street arrival was on time. Bets were taken at what point my umbrella would be forgotten. The next objective of the day was Phot 31434 on the rear of 1M02, Padd - Manchester. Virgin once again short of locos and the Gen had been received that it was on the rear to Man Picc then to work 1G08 Man Picc - Birmingham. The train loco 47701 did its best not to make it out of the station. Obviously not used to a load equivalent of 11 coaches! We were later informed that 47701 was losing time hand over fist. Breakfast was then taken, including around five cups of tea each for two pounds and sixty new pence, a bargain. After a long conversation were by Mr Hargeaves commented on the use of E-mail and stated that Bob Hoskins spent six years telling everyone it is good to talk, Mr Hargreaves also pointed out that it is far easier to convey a message via the telephone, than type it out and send it E-mail. It should be noted that Mr Hargreaves is not noted for his IT friendly policies. After a stroll back to the Station at New Street We boarded 1D67, the 1007 Birmingham - Holyhead and went on our merry way. The very large 37175, a Motherwell specimen, provided haulage.
Mr Bennett required some dot Wavs of the thrash but due to excessive N/511, (Flat Batts) on his tape recorder this was not achieved. 37175 went well providing an on time arrival at Bangor. By this time we were all now gagging for a beer. A Fast Tacsi was arranged and we were all speed to the T & S. The first pint lasted all of 10.5 seconds. A very nice Drink of Elgoods. A pint of was consumed in the Union and 4 1/2 pints and an hour later we were all quite refreshed. Another Fast Tacsi was then sorted and conveyed us to the Hogshead, whereby Mr Bennett was screaming due Caledonian 80 shillings being on the menu. After a pint of that it was via Threshers to Auntie Betty's at the Harp in. Marston's single malt was the order of the day in there and Phil (Mr Blanksby to his friends) got quite attracted to one of the Barmaids. Des sorted the Chips out and then we trotted off up the station to have 37175 back to Crewe. Fiasco time now ensued. No sign of the train, anxious phone calls were made. Train shown on time in TOPS. Station manager was advising everyone to catch the 101 DMU. It would appear 37175 went bang at Valley. Day turned a little sour at this point. Pie, Chips Gravy were eaten and spilled (All down my jeans) in the very draughty Shelter on Bangor station. It was now lashing it down with rain and blowing a gale. A plastic rolled in for the 1622. So at 1550 a joint decision was made to return to the Harp and have 37421 back to Brum on the 1718. Lots of thrash then ensued. So more renditions of "A day trip to Bangor" were heard in the Harp. As was mentioned, Phil actually persuaded the barmaid to exchange Phone numbers. More on this Romance will be heard on later editions. So with everyone awash with ale we returned east behind 37421. A storming run was had; All the tractor bashers were not impressed with a "Bent" 37, so they were all in the second coach. After a bit of DRO (Doss right out) arrival back at Birmingham was slightly late.
The plastic to Burton was had Mr Bennett very impressed by the fact that there was about four units all coupled. We just wanted to get to the pub. The Alfred (Derby Street, Burton) for some mighty fine Burton Bridge bitter. Another fine day was enjoyed by all. A nice leisurely pace with some good thrash, good beers and good company. And finally my umbrella did not make it home. It is still at the Prince Alfred. This will be obtained when I next visit.
Nominated words and phrases of the day.
lleoedd gwag. = No vacancies.
Allt. = Hill
Datblygiad = Development.
Ysgriffennydd = Secretary.
Gwladol = State.
Our guest editor is Mark Bennett. The roadshow were somewhat depleted for today's official event with Messrs Shaw and Bennett (your scribe for this report) present. The start of summer workings has seen a revision to the normal move, unfortunately the Wings Club at Bae Colwyn has to be foregone. However 37s out and back from Birmingham to Bangor, more time in Bangor as well go some way in compensating for this. As usual the day commenced for your scribe at Derby Midland Station. The 'Ramraider' arrived on time with 43159+079. Mr Shaw and his cousin Joanne joined the train at Burton-on-the-Booze. Also present on the train was another of our colleagues who is not well known for his IT policies - Warro. He was en-route to Birmingham International for the 10am flight to Amsterdam; the booked power being a BAC 1-11 (A craft which produces bald headed thrash). This day trip had come about due to the aircraft bursting on a recent trip, so Warro had a free ticket. We learned that he had just acquired a calculator from Boots at a cost of three quid, but he would not be using it to book any flights on the Internet! It can be reported that our conversation was totally over cousin Joanne's head by the way, you cant beat basher speak!
After arrival at New Street we all went our separate ways, Mr Shaw and scribe to the Victoria Sandwich Bar for an intake of full grease and gallons of their excellent tea, using the saucer provided to place the cup upon rather than the table! The 1007's Holyhead appeared with 37422 at the sharp end of five coaches, Joseph Public all crammed into the first one (or so it seemed!), we departed right time and were shortly treated to some brilliant sound effects in the tunnel. '422 is currently growling very well, and as we later found out it also produces copious quantities of exhaust smoke! The first farce of the day took place at Crewe. Some 158 unit had collapsed outside Crewe works and single line working was taking place. This meant we had to wait for the Holyhead - Euston to arrive. We left Crewe (equipped with this week's edition of the Crewe Chronicle for Mr Hargreaves) some 20 minutes late. At Chester the booked driver change occurred and Driver Thomas Harold Rash (T.H.Rash !) took over. Some excellent full power standing starts, a couple of wheelslips caused 422 to automatically cut out causing an outbreak of nodding heads throughout the train! The next riot was a broken rail, which we were allowed over at 5mph, cue more sound effects when that was cleared. By now the timekeeping arrears had extended to some 31 minutes. Still we had a really noisy run off 422 rounded off by an erupting start from Bangor.
A fast tacsi was soon procured to convey us to the Tap & Spile for some rather charming Tomintoul brew (a special to commemorate the World Cup - the Vindaloo record by Fat Les is about the only decent thing to have come from said event!). We then rushed round to the Union Hotel and decided to have some dinner. Most civilised, the Burtonwood Bitter was on top form as well. Next it was 'right away' to see Auntie Betty at The Harp Inn where the Marstons Choice was on equally top form. We were presented with a Marstons beer barrel keyring too! Whilst en-route to the Harp much bellowing and hilarity occurred when the phrase of the day was observed on a local building, much to the alarm of a few elderly Bangorians present on the green! (See below). The 1718's was in the hands of the very healthy sounding 37419, which had only four coaches in tow. A very good run back to Birmingham was had. Here came the penultimate fiasco. The 2025's Nottingham, formed of a 158 unit was held for 20 minutes awaiting the arrival of an empty unit which was attached, we were becoming quite cross about this, meanwhile a GNER power car led an HST set into the station, rather rare. More time was lost at Tamworth where Her Majesty's Tamworth Constabulary were out in force to remove, of all things, a glue sniffer from the train. The gripper suggested that anyone offended by the strong smell of glue might like to move to the next carriage. As we were awash with ale our sense of smell had suffered somewhat; it was suggested that 158s always smell of glue anyway, as this is what actually holds the things together! Also of note was the reappearance of Warro, no BAC 1-11 we were informed, instead a class 47 of the airways (Boeing 737!). We all alighted from the train at Burton; the planned pint was scrapped in favour of the now visible HST to Derby which had 43197+121 in charge.
WORD OF THE DAY
OPTEGYDD = OPTICIANS
PHRASE OF THE DAY
CLWB BOWLIO DINAS = BANGOR CITY BOWLING CLUB.
Thursday 27th - Saturday 29th August 1998.
Your guest reporter for The Three Day Event is Mark Bennett.
A one-day trip to Bangor is the norm so it was thought to be a jolly fine idea to organise a three day bash.
Accommodation was in the Union Hotel, one of the regularly used venues. Although not quite The Ritz it is very comfortable and visitors are very well looked after. There are four twin rooms priced at 15 pounds per person per night, which is quite reasonable. The full breakfast is excellent too.
The day started with your scribe managing to miss the Ramraider at Derby, Mr Shaw boarded this at Burton, as scheduled, and reports that he was far from impressed over the lack of said scribe on the train. I followed 12 minutes later on some sprinter unit and we finally convened in the Victoria Sandwich Bar in Birmingham.
The 1007 Holyhead rolled in with 37418 in charge. The loco was not performing at all well and seemed to be lacking in power throughout the journey. Indeed time was being lost hand over fist. The guard very kindly informed us all that we were approaching Prestatyn prior to us passing through the station at a reasonable rate of knots (for 37418 anyway). The train is not actually booked to stop there, nor at Bae Colwyn.
Much flapping and gathering of various articles ensued when we did actually stop at CB where we leapt off and duly reported to the Wings Club across the road for some superb (and cheap at 1.20 per imperial pint) Lees bitter.
A couple of hours later it was back to the station where 37420 rolled in with the 1158 from Birmingham to Holyhead. Indeed it had arrived slightly in advance of the booked departure time, it was soon found out why as 420 gave an outstanding run. A change of name from The Scottish Hosteller to The Scottish Hosser was deemed to be in order. The train was taken to Holyhead for just under 90 minutes in The Boston, a Burtonwood pub just outside the station selling good quality Burtonwood Mild and Bitter at a very reasonable price. Then it was back to the station for The Hosser on the 1650 departure, which was alighted from at Bangor.
A fast Tacsi was immediately procured which conveyed us to The Union. Here room No 3 was duly allocated, after a suitable freshening up session it was off to the nearby Tap & Spile for some solid refreshments before a wander across town to catch the 2022 departure with the still hopeless 37418 in charge. This was left at Cyffordd Llandudno as Mr Shaw had reported some unwellness and required an intake of Lucozade to rectify this.
The final journey of the day consisted of 47829 on the Euston - Holyhead. It is very rare these days to see a class 47 hauling more than a mere 7 coaches, 829 had 10 on. Quite a delight to hear a big Sulzer working hard, indeed an orange glow was visible at times from the exhaust, the loco gave an excellent run and was ahead of schedule too. Off at Bangor where the sociable driver seemed game for creating some exhaust flames, he succeeded on the third attempt!
PHRASE OF THE DAY
Clampiau yn Gweithredu ; Wheelclamps in operation!
Day Number 2.
Day 2 commenced with 11 out of 10 being awarded for the breakfast in The Union, however a few flames were evident as your scribe was unable to consume all of his!
A fast tacsi was duly ordered using the hotline provided, unfortunately its eventual arrival left us with a minimal connection into the 0905 departure from Bangor. Now for some unknown reason it had somehow been decided that the Holyhead - Euston left at 0905 with the Birmingham train following at 0920. Onto the plate-form (not a spelling mistake by the way!) where an unidentified class 37 plus train was just about to depart. It was thought that the Euston was well late and the 37 would leave at 0920. Fine as it pulled out at 0906 and it was then realised that it might just have been a jolly good idea to have actually been on the train as the Euston is in fact behind it as booked.
A Sulzer running day then commenced with 47829 to Chester; more bald headed thrash, returning with 47701 with Mark III vehicles in tow to Cyffordd Llandudno. Here very rateable snacks were taken in the Old Station Hotel and the Boddingtons Bitter was unusually very nice. The snacks consisted of swordfish steak, guaranteed no bones!
The next plan was to deal with 701 again but it seemed to have lost oceans of time so it was the Scottish Hosser to Chester. A stunning run again with 89mph being recorded. Sitting opposite was a British Transport Policeman. A rather shady individual boarded the train at Prestatyn. As soon as he caught sight of the approaching gripper (Guard) he promptly rushed off in the direction of the toilets at the end of the carriage, these were inconveniently (for him) bereft of door handles. Becoming a little panic stricken (for fear of parting with some money) he rushed back and found some alternative WC accommodation and passed said gripper unchallenged. Scribe and Mr Shaw had a little discussion about this just making sure that Mr BTP could hear, this had the desired effect when Mr Shady returned and Mr BTP (by now with visions of promotion!) had tipped off the gripper. Said Mr Shady was duly kerchinged.
Not too long in Chester and the useless 37418 staggered in. it was decided to go and explore Prestatyn. Interestingly a minus eight minute connection was made with the 37 going back to Chester, once upon a time we would have leapt on, it was watched departing - Oh well! Three pubs and one wine bar were found, one pub looked a bit undesirable, the wine bar was shut. Of the other two pubs (either side of the station) the Old Victoria can be recommended if you wish to sprinkle your beers on some chips instead of vinegar (nuff said), there was a commotion as said vinegar was returned to the bar, its replacement was not any better so a walkout ensued. The big steak pub opposite seemed reasonable though; we certainly could not wait to leave Prestatyn though!
Next up was 37419 complete with the superb Mark I corridor brake coach (as flagged off this morning) in its rake of carriages to Chester, returning to Bangor on the Hosser. Reports came in that a German tourist was heard to declare the profusion of caravans in the Rhyl area as being a PRISON!!
At Bangor the 2022 to Chester was made by a narrow margin for a run to Bae Colwyn for what was hoped to be the excellent sounding 47829 back to Bangor on the Euston - Holyhead. This duly appeared a trifle late with 47854 in charge, still a good run with 10 vehicles on.
The rest of the days licensing hours were spent in The Harp in Bangor where the Marstons ale was in the usual well top form, followed by a fast tacsi to the Union. It must be reported that Mr Shaw completely shut down (snores and all!) in said pub.
WORD OF THE DAY
E-BOST = E-MAIL
Day Number 3
After last night's considerable excesses, all right then YESTERDAY'S considerable excesses!, breakfast was reported for on time. Your scribe succeeded in devouring all of it thus avoiding any more flames from the cooking department!
By way of a change we actually boarded the 0905 rather than watching it leave, 37426 was in command. Off at 'The Junction' for 47854 forward on the Euston alighting at Rhyl. The still naff 37418 trundled in and the coaching stock included the super brake corridor second, 35452 bouncy seats as well!
Off at 'The Junction' again for two round trips to Chester. The final run back from Chester was to Bangor with 37426 complete with a right merchant at the controls! The handle went RIGHT back in Chester station and it stayed there all the way to Prestatyn. The speed reached 93 mph, totally bald headed! Full power standing starts were the order of the day and Colwyn Bay (no I'm not a poet!) yielded some fine wheelslipping and an equally fine taping!
We were going to carry on to Holyhead given the rateable thrash, a driver change at Bangor soon fixed that, so it was off the train and round to see Betty in The Harp for lots of beer before another run off 37426 all the way to New Street, a swift beer in the ordinary Bridge bar followed by 43164 and 43080 to Burton and Derby.
Nominated Words and Phrases.
(Spellchecker just loves these you know!)
Pier Fictorianaidd - Victorian Pier
Bysiau - Buses
Gorsaf Dan - Fire Station (The 'a' in Dan has a little roof over it!)
The first Day trip to Bangor of the winter 1998 timetable saw a depleted Roadshow in the form of Messrs Shaw and Bennett in attendance.
Mr B actually managed to catch the Ramraider today with Mr S boarding at Burton-on-Trent reporting he had only just made the train due to excessive doss. The power cars were 43013 and 43094. The former is newly transferred from Great Western Trains, as it does not have the type of signal warning device now in use by GWT.
On arrival in Birmingham, surprisingly devoid of the usual cloud of smog at 0824 it was off to the Victoria Sandwich Bar to load up with lots of tea and full grease.
The 1007 arrived at New Street and stopped half way along the plate-form. Once an electric unit had cleared off it then had to draw forward. Motive power was in the shape of 37421. Although it kept to time the locomotive did not seem to be reaching full revs and the run to Bangor was quite a stagger. Meanwhile Mr B was becoming rather excited at the possibility of 37401 on tonight's 1718 from Bangor. An act of incompetence had seen the summer locomotive diagrams left in Derby under the assumption they would not be needed. It seems the winter diagrams are the same anyway, but 401 will have to remain a possibility.
The normal fast Tacsi was immediately procured at Bangor and was not so fast due to Roadtrack performing some engineering works on the main road from the station. Single line working was in force together with temporary signalling arrangements, which was causing quite a road traffic commotion to say the least!
Eventually we arrived at the Tap & Spile. The beer quality here is back up to scratch again now that there is a regular landlord, next it was the Union Hotel for a couple or so pints of John's finest Burtonwood Bitter. A scenario with the Tacsi Company took place with them claiming it would take 15 minutes for one to reach us for conveyance to The Harp, we decided to walk instead!
The top jukebox was on the blink in The Harp, we still managed a few discs though including Day Trip to Bangor! The next port of call was the nearby chip shop which was open for a change before heading to the station for the 1718 to Birmingham. Much to Mr B's delight 37401 arrived and put up quite a lively run to New Street. Mr B assures us that the ruler and red biro will perform in the 'scratching' book!
The 2025 unit was taken from Birmingham as by this time Mr S was operating on well reduced power ("Too many pints of Directors" he reckoned!).
WORD & PHRASES OF THE DAY
Recordiau = Records.
Ardau Borffor = Purple Zone.
Ardau Aur = Gold Zone.
Report For the Trip on 31st October 1998.
The purpose of today's excursion was to celebrate the impending birthdays of Mr Bennett and "Yorkie Man". A new face for the roadshow, "Yorkie Man", or Pete to be precise, in common with Mr Bennett used to take part in a radio phone-in show in the East Midlands.
Messrs Hargreaves and Blanksby also reported to Derby Railway Station to board the Ramraider.
Unfortunately Mr Blanksby had come down with a severe attack of amnesia, firstly he arrived in a taxi as apparently the buses round his area do not start running until 1000 hours (well they do, we took great delight in pointing buses out to him before 1000!). In the Station bookshop Mr Blanksby was seen to be surveying titles by a Bill Bryson. He pointed out rather glumly to Mr Hargreaves that the particular one he wanted was not available at which point Mr Hargreaves immediately removed it from the shelf! The Ramraider arrived on time with 43194 and 43071 providing the power. As the wheels began to revolve Mr Blanksby declared that he had left his umbrella in the taxi!
Meanwhile we were treated to a guided tour of Mr Hargreave's sandwich box and among the contents was a "do the yoghurt factory's work for them yoghurt". This is a product where the consumer has the option of adding the strawberries or whatever other flavouring is provided. On arrival in Birmingham we toddled off for the statutory intake of grease and several gallons of tea. On the way back to the station Mr Blanksby rectified his new lack of umbrella at a cost of £9.99 and much mickey taking!
The 1007 for Holyhead rolled into New Street at 0947 with 37414 in charge. Stackhead (Mr Harburn) had put in an appearance by this time and we all boarded the train. The locomotive was in fine form and seemed incredibly noisy on one side. On Saturdays there is an additional 37 diagram which would enable us to visit the Wings Club in Colwyn Bay. Mr Biggles and the Child joined us at Crewe to complete a very creditable turnout; unfortunately Squaddie was working 12 hour nights and so could not attend.
After a good run we got off 414 at Colwyn Bay, the reason for the amplified sound effects was found to be the bodyside door being open. An hour and three pints of superb Lees bitter later we returned to the station. It was discovered that the extension ticket from Llandudno Junction to Bangor is now priced at £3.25, a whopping 40 pence increase or 14%.
The unit in front of our train was running late, quite a surprise when the expected Scud 158 was in fact a Metro Cammell class 101 DMU. With the exception of Stack we piled on to sample this heritage device (51201 and 54347) to Llandudno Junction. It was being driven very well, the driver was until recently a guard whom we dubbed 'Hitler' due to his atrocious attitude, especially one day when he upgraded the famed BSK to first class!
The 37 came in on the rarely used platform 4 and a mad rush over the bridge ensued to board the train, which was in the hands of 37421.
A pair of fast Tacsis was taken to the Tap & Spile. From there we walked round for an extended stay in the Union before another pair of fast Tacsis to see Betty at the Harp. The jukebox was duly photographed and will appear on the site soon. Indeed many photographs were taken a selection of which will hopefully appear too.
Stackhead left to go to the chip shop, no time for a shipping order for everyone though, so Mr Blanksby quickly took the orders and did the honours approximately one minute later.
The 1718 off Bangor was in the hands of 37420, although powering extremely well the locomotive was very poorly, misfiring severely on one side and throwing out acrid white smoke, still the Scottish Hosser got us to Birmingham. Here the 1944 departure for Derby was well late and was duly taken with 43065 and 43078 powering. The excellent day was rounded off in The Brunswick Inn before all went their separate ways.
Word of The Day
Ambwilans = Ambulance.
Report for the Trip on Thursday 3rd December 1998.
Compiled with thanks to Mr Hargreaves for the gen.
One or two riots with the day's attendees make the headlines for one of the final Day Trips to Bangor of 1998.
Mr Bennett was stricken with flu and evidently spent the whole day at home in bed, mainly with high water temperature. Meanwhile Squaddie boarded the Ramraider at Burton (a credible achievement given his recent return from America, what with jet lag and all that!). However Messrs Hargreaves and Blanksby did not partake of said Ramraider from Derby. Instead Mr Blanksby went round to Hargreaves Towers, near to Derby Station, and hammered billio out of his front door in order to awaken Mr H at 0750 hours!!!!!!!
This suitably achieved our two dignitaries proceeded to the nearby "Knackery and Shrill" for an intake of solids (in Mr Blanksby's case, Mr Hargreaves just had coffee), prior to 47 853 to Birmingham to make the 1007 Holyhead, and of course, convene with a rather concerned squadron leader in the process!
37 421 was in command on the 1007 and was taken to Colwyn Bay for the statutory one hour and three pints of well cheap Lees Bitter in the Wings Club. Hargreaves snacks plc had some Do It Yourself cobs, just butter on them and a selection of ingredients to be included at leisure. It can also be reported that the yoghurt of the day did in fact have all the relevant ingredients included by the manufacturer!! Some sprinting type of device followed this to Bangor. Here a fast Tacsi was chartered to the Hogshead. It is reported that severe quantities of Black Sheep Bitter and Batemans XXXB were consumed. This was rounded off by a wander to see Betty at The Harp (Mr Hargreaves operating via Threshers for a sizeable consignment of cider) before the 1718 off Bangor which was in the hands of 37 414.
As a footnote 37414 went for a day out in Edinburgh the following Saturday, dragging a failed 37 428 and 9 coaches. Evidently there was much bald headed thrash until 414 gave up as well, after tackling both Beattock and Shap summits on its own during the return run. After two hours 37 716 (37 094 in real money) came to the rescue!
Report For The Trip on Tuesday 29th December 1998.
The finale for 98 and what a super and enjoyable day it was. Indeed a day of scenarios and debacles had been expected, as there was major track work at Birmingham. The Holyhead - Birmingham and return services during the daytime were starting and finishing at Stafford.
Today's roadshow consisted of Messrs Bennett, Harburn, Shaw. Mr Hargreaves was unable to change his day of rest to attend whilst a special guest appearance by Mr Jakeway (aka 'The Vicar') had to be cancelled due to him being stricken with flu.
The roadshow did not actually convene until aboard the 10:18 Crewe - Holyhead, a recently introduced hauled diagram. Mr Harburn did 156 405 from Derby to Crewe, he was joined at Tutbury & Hatton by Mr Shaw who had persuaded Mother Taxis plc to convey him there from Burton. Vehicle N53 VAC was used for this purpose we hear.
Meanwhile Mr Bennett departed from Derby on 47 844, the plan was to change at Tamworth and Stafford to make the 10:18 out of Crewe. He succeeded in alighting at Tamworth. 47 488 was then seen out on a Newcastle working which included 47 814 on the rear of the train (running and unattended). On reporting to the low level platforms 90 014 arrived, Mr Bennett chose to ignore the announcements provided and did not board the train based on the evidence contained on the carriage window stickers (next stop Stockport). Only when the train had departed did it occur to him that it didn't say Tamworth either and that was the train he should have been on to Stafford for what was 87 020 forward (this screamed through Tamworth shortly after the 90 had left). The next train from Tamworth was the 09:10 Nuneaton - Edinburgh, running in lieu of the 09:05 Birmingham - Edinburgh. Reported as being some 13 minutes late 86 236 rolled in and left (with Mr Bennett on board) approximately 6 minutes down. Arrival in Crewe was at 10:16 and 30 seconds, the 10:18 was ready to leave with, of all things, 37 261 in charge. Mr Bennett made the train by the narrowest of margins and duly collapsed into a seat declaring he was out of condition after his desperate leap over the bridge!
Arrival at Chester saw the man with the gloves and 37 408 waiting. And so 408 worked its first passenger train since overhaul and repainting into EWS corporate livery. It was surprisingly loud, however Mr Shaw reported this was something to do with 408 spending "about 10 000 hours on the load bank" on static test!
Our jolly trio alighted at Colwyn Bay and visited the still excellent Wings Club for just under an hour before 37 421 forward to Bangor. A sudden shortage of Tacsis then broke out, a very elderly lady who got off the train after us cheated by using the lifts to get to the Tacsi Rank first! A Peugeot duly arrived complete with a 'Tacsi' sign on the roof. We decreed that the vehicle was a mobile Ministry of Transport prohibition notice due to a plethora of defects evident, not least the front passenger door dropping a good three inches when opened! Mind you it was a bit of a flashback as the driver puffed away on a roll-up and a large packet of Old Holborn was evident together with lots of fag papers for future fag manufacturing purposes!
Once established in the Tap & Spile an intake of food was ordered, Mr Shaw went for a full Stottie (equivalent of nearly a loaf of bread in content), Mr Harburn had a large Yorkshire pudding which included an array of sausages in its contents and Mr Bennett went for only half a Stottie.
The next venue, as ever, was The Union. Here Mr Shaw declared himself 'blown up'. Indeed shortly afterwards in the Hogshead he shut down completely, even whilst drinking a glass of Cola! It was discovered that Mr Shaw had been 'Dot Wavving' (on the computer) until approximately 02:30 this morning whereupon the sympathy level dropped considerably! The final port of call was The Harp where Mr Harburn proceeded to extract £15 out of the fruit machine which Messrs Shaw and Bennett had admirably fed with revenue beforehand.
The 17:18 was in the hands of the rather rare 37 415 (unofficially named "Chester Standby" as that is usually the case when we hold an event!). Quite a loud and enjoyable run was had to Crewe. For safety reasons it had been decided to return direct to Derby for fear of untold riots via Tamworth. The unit involved was 156 416. The day ended in The Brunswick, quite a good crowd had assembled, some of whom had been to Newcastle on 47 488. Indeed the locomotive enjoyed itself that much it ran out of fuel on the way back!
Words And Phrases Of The Day
Ffacs = Fax.
Trennau = Trains.
Gorsaf Heddlu Trafnidiaeth = British Transport Police Station.
Clwb Snwcker = Snooker Club.
Ystafell aros = Waiting room.
Arian & Cardiau = Coins & cards.
Neuadd Tocynnau = Booking Hall.
Report For the Trip on Thursday 14th January 1999.
A Happy New Year to all our readers, here we go then with the first Day Trip to Bangor of 1999.
The day started with the 'Ramraider' from Derby with Messrs Hargreaves and Bennett on board. Squadron Leader Shaw joined the train at Burton - on - Booze. Power was provided by 43 103 and 43 089. On passing Saltley depot of motive power one of the new Class 66 things was observed and duly copped for sight by all members of the party. The original plan was to perform an old move by covering the Paddington - Manchester from Birmingham to Stafford for a suitable electric locomotive forward to Crewe to make the 10:18 departure for Holyhead.
Arrival at Birmingham was greeted with an announcement that the delayed 08:10 for Holyhead was just arriving - and so a bonus run behind 37 415 to Crewe. During this Mr Hargreaves' water level had become rather low, as he had not consumed any liquid at all since the previous day's two gallons of cider. For reasons, which will forever remain a mystery, Mr Bennett overlooked the fact that his bag contained half a litre of Coca-Cola, indeed his popularity rating for the morning plummeted somewhat! Our merry trio alighted from the train at Crewe and promptly reported to the buffet for an intake of tea prior to covering the 10:18. This was announced as departing from platform number 9, the bay platform. Upon sighting 150 149 in said platform and on said service there followed an unprecedented outbreak of Anglo-Saxon expletives. Mr Shaw even contemplated doing an AL7 to London Euston!
Departure from Crewe was finally achieved by means of the Euston - Holyhead service with 43 084 and 43 014 in charge. This meant less time in the Wings Club where it was noted that the price of the superb Lees bitter has increased again to £1.35. After two hurried pints things began to return to something like normal as our trio returned to the station for 37 426 to Bangor. Stackhead was on board thus completing the turnout for the day.
A fast Tacsi was soon procured to the Tap & Spile where some rather nice Cains bitter was available. From here it was round to see John in the Union. It was reported he was on a state visit to Ireland. Mr Shaw succeeded in obtaining the highest score (5960) on the ageing Space Invaders machine. Another fast Tacsi was telephoned to convey one and all to the Hogshead, once again the range of beers available was a little disappointing and consideration is being given to omitting the establishment on future visits.
The final port of call was The Harp, Betty was in attendance and served some very nice Marstons Little Lambswick. Mr Bennett was introduced to the new pub moggie who has replaced the previous one due to it's withdrawal from traffic. Betty then presented Mr Bennett with a copy of "Day Trip to Bangor" which had been obtained from the jukebox man. Indeed Mr Bennett began to experience some difficulty in staying awake which nearly resulted in another shutting down incident!
The 17:18 departure from Bangor was in the very capable hands of the "Scottish Hosser" (37 420), which performed very well as usual. Mr Hargreaves had indeed paid a visit to the Threshers cider emporium for supplies for this journey.
Chaos reigned supreme on arrival in Birmingham, the Bournemouth - Leeds was well late. The 20:25 departure for Nottingham was duly boarded. Everyone was forced to sit and await the guard who was apparently on a tea break. The train left some 20 minutes late as a result of this. Much heckling of said guard took place when he appeared, in fact he received untold grief off one woman who will be using her car in future - well done Central Trains! A scan of the television screens at Derby revealed that the Plymouth - Leeds service was also well late, so it was resolved that it was a good idea to travel on the dog box (153 383). As is the norm the day ended in the Brunswick with four rather well oiled individuals in attendance.
Phrases of The Day.
Ar Werth = For Sale
Cerbyd Hurio Preifat = Private Hire Vehicle (Posh Tacsi!)
Wednesday 10th - Friday 12th February 1999.
Welcome to our latest review of our super day trips to Bangor (and in this case beyond!). The official day trip took place on Friday 12th February when various members of the Roadshow were available for traffic. Before this Mr Bennett availed himself of an additional two days along 'The Coast' owing to an outbreak of annual leave. Here we go then with an account of all three days.
10th February 1999.
Departure from Derby was by means of the 08:40 for Bristol, one of very few locomotive hauled turns passing through these days. 47806 was in charge. Off for an intake of tea and toast in Birmingham's Victoria Sandwich Bar before returning to New Street station for the 10:07 departure. This left 15 minutes late with 37401. Just before Wolverhampton the communication cord was pulled in one of the toilets in the rear Mark One vehicle. No doubt as this had not happened for many moons on said vehicle there was some great difficulty in fully releasing the brakes. 401 dragged the train into Wolverhampton. Several Virgin Trains 'Redcoats' were to be seen running around rather like chickens bereft of their heads. The upshot of this was the cancellation of the train and everyone being advised to board a Liverpool service and change at Crewe. All bar three of us did. Eventually the brakes were sorted (as chaos reigned supreme owing to trains 'stacking up' outside the station!). A call by the traincrew to control saw the instruction 'run as booked' decreed and thus the 10:07 rode again, leaving Wolverhampton 50 minutes late with a compliment of three passengers! Amusingly all those who were directed to change at Crewe were indeed waiting as the train rolled in!
No time whatsoever was recovered owing to a trainee driver being in control under the watchful eye of a Traction Inspector, much textbook driving occurred! On arrival in Bangor a fast Tacsi was immediately taken to the Tap & Spile. Round to see John in the Union where, unfortunately, there were no vacant rooms for the night. A return visit to the Tap & Spile saw room 6 being booked at a cost of £15 which did not include breakfast, a sum of £20 was payable if breakfast was required.
After a rather rapid walk back to the Station 37401 was taken to Rhyl on the 15:22 departure, after a short wait it was 37426 all the way to Holyhead. The rake of four coaches consisted of three Mark One vehicles including the celebrity Brake Corridor Second, which was solely occupied by Mr Bennett and the 'gripper' on leaving Bangor! The Edinburgh Castle was duly visited for trial purposes and failed spectacularly, the bland Tetley Bitter was disgraceful. Still the ITN news at 5:40 was viewed not that the stories were very cheery! Back on 37426, the BSK leading for the journey to Chester. The 18:18 off Holyhead runs non-stop between Llandudno Junction and Chester allowing a lively performance. After around 20 minutes in Chester the 17:30 Euston - Holyhead careered in with 47844 in charge. The venerable type 4 was in top form and gave a superb run back to Bangor, the turbocharger chirping away quite merrily.
The day rounded off with a session in The Harp, an amazing family like atmosphere prevailed as patrons came and went, greeting Betty in the process. Indeed jacket potatoes were issued to one and all during the evening as a pool match had taken place. The walk back to the Tap & Spile included viewing the aftermath of a collision between a Tacsi and another car. The local Heddlu attended in some force. By the looks of the Tacsi the scrapping code of R/TWO seemed appropriate!
Room 6 can be reported as being totally no heat, obviously a freight room!
11th February 1999.
Mr Bennett's recently acquired 'bat phone' went off at around 08:20 and the day's locomotive gen was duly received. The 09:05 off Bangor was in the hands of 37420, which was taken to Llandudno Junction to make the 08:19 Crewe - Holyhead. At the appointed time the appointed locomotive, 37408, rolled in. Much to Mr Bennett's great delight (and no doubt everyone else) the 'Loch Rannoch' nameplates are once again fitted to the locomotive. After many phots at Holyhead it was 408 back to Colwyn Bay for a visit to the Wings Club where the 31.35 per 20 fl oz Lees Bitter was, as ever, in tip top form. The 10:07 New Street - Holyhead rolled into the station in the care of "The Chester Spare" better known as 37415. Evidently 422 was removed from the train at Chester. Not bad going though, as it was only 4 minutes adrift. The front coach was locked out of use due to 'defective doors'. The train was taken to it's destination. Here the revenue boosting appliance was caned in, there is an option of Welsh or English; the latter was selected for safety reasons despite the regular collection of words and phrases of the day! Next it was 37426 to Bangor on the 13:54 for Birmingham. A preserved section of the old tubular railway bridge which crossed the Menai straits was noted on a plinth on the Bangor side of the new bridge (right hand side travelling towards Bangor). The tubular bridge was destroyed by fire many years ago.
A couple of infrequently visited venues in Bangor, the Albion Hotel and the Fat Cat Café/Bar, rather nice Belgian white beer in the latter. The mini session ended in the Harp where the new moggie had rather a spectacular fight with Mr Bennett's drivers' bag !!! The 17:18 off Bangor was in the hands of 37420 which duly hossed all the way to New Street. Here the 19:44 departure for Leeds was made (on paper), a suitable outburst of expletives occurred as the doors locked at the moment Mr Bennett reached the foot of the stairs, and more so as the train was Class 47 hauled instead of the booked High Speed train.
The Main Event - Friday 12th February 1999.
Today sees the auspicious occasion of Mr Shaw's first Bangor outing since he relocated to Doncaster in the People's Republic of South Yorkshire. A Midland Mainline HST to Sheffield for an easy connection into 47817 on the Bristol train. Meanwhile Messrs Bennett, Blanksby and Harburn had assembled (Mr Harburn went to hide in the buffet). At approximately 08:33 there was no sign of Mr Hargreaves. Mr Blanksby duly telephoned Hargreaves Towers and learnt he was en-route to the station, not bad having got out of bed at 08:31 for the 08:40 train! Indeed Mr Hargreaves was observed lacing his boots up once on bard the train. He also showed the party his latest acquisitions from 'The Pound Shop' in the form of a camera and a video camera, both of which fire water at the subject in the viewfinder! The considerable food cargo included a "Thousands of Yoghurt Workers Made Redundant Yoghurt" (you know one of those where the consumer does the factory's work for them by having to add the flavouring!).
The standard visit to the Victoria Sandwich Bar took place. The party returned to New Street for the 10:07. All were horrified to discover that the train had been cancelled. The contingency plan was that there isn't a plan as one has never been needed. After a stunned silence, blocking the stairs, it was off onto the platform to work out an alternative move. Mr Harburn seemed to think that we should have been on the station before 10:00 hours then we'd have heard any announcements, there were none between 10:02 and 10:07, don't we all wish we had a degree in "After the Event" studies.
Information was obtained to the effect that 37401 failed at Holyhead earlier in the shift. As the inbound working for the 10:07 was running very late it terminated at Stafford and the 10:07 started from there on time.
Eventually 87012 was taken to Wolverhampton for 86226 forward to Stafford. Someone's 'whingeometer' just about went off the scale and infuriated the others in the party. Mr Dave Bugg of Peak bashing fame had joined us at Birmingham. By Stafford we had convinced him enough to join us on our Day Trip to Bangor. Whilst at Stafford the Bird in Hand was visited, a super little pub. Back to the station for the 11:58 Birmingham - Holyhead with 37426, which would also be the return motive power. A nice one for Mr Bennett as this sees 426 above the magical 1000 miles figure.
Once in Bangor a pair of Tacsi was hired to the Hogshead and the party was then on time! From here it was round to the Harp with Messrs Blanksby, Hargreaves and Shaw operating via Threshers. In the Harp one and all were presented with a Marston's promotional pint glass and also purchased a charity beer badge. The standard sing along to Day Trip to Bangor took place. The chip order was mentioned at which point Mr Harburn promptly left the building to go and buy his own. Sadly the statutory 14 weeks notice of a shipping order had not been furnished. Messrs Bugg and Shaw duly performed the honours, indeed they only just made the 17:18!
No doubt entirely due to the vast intake of beers 426 sounded far better on the return run. Indeed there was quite a scene really as Mr Shaw managed half a bottle of wine before shutting down. A rendition of Lily The Pink also took place (well the first couple of lines or so), with Mr "Know The Words" Blanksby adding the next lines. Mr Bugg left us at Stafford, as it was easier to return to Loughborough from there. Indeed there was a major farce approaching Stafford as 90xxx had given up for the day in Platform 1. On arrival in New Street all were suitably awake and thirsty again, Mr Harburn caught the 20:25 service whilst the remainder of the party visited the Bridge Bar for some "Crap Beer" before the 20:57 services to Derby.
Nominated Words & Phrases.
Cwch = Ships.
Pergyl = Danger.
Fford Allan = Way Out (as in exit).
Report for the Trip™ on Friday 12th March 1999.
Welcome to our latest report of our super day trips to Bangor ™.
Quite a respectable roadshow had assembled by Crewe and our special guest of honour was Lisa, or 'Mrs Squadron Leader' who hails from Waco which is in Texas which is in the USA. Of course Waco was placed firmly upon the map of the world following the antics of a certain sect type of thing. Therefore this report, in true US fashion will have to contain a plethora of ©, ®, and ™! Also present were Messrs Bennett, Blanksby, Harburn, Hargreaves and Shaw (Mr Shaw and Lisa joined us at Crewe having operated from Doncaster via the slightly foggy Hopeless Valley route.
The 10:07 Birmingham - Holyhead was in the hands of "Chester Spare" ® or 37415 if you like. The locomotive was performing very well arriving in Bangor some three minutes early. Lisa seemed slightly miffed that we were not seated in the Smoking Car ™!
A brace of fast Tacsi © were chartered to convey the party to the Tap & Spile ™ where some fine Tomintoul ™ beer was available, most quaffable it was too. Here we were enthralled at one or two Texan Words of the Day ® which appear below. The next stop was The Union ™ to see John ® and the Burtonwood ™ Bitter ® was, as ever, on good form. The heritage Space Invaders ™ machine was put to use by members of the party during the visit. Another brace of fast Tacsi © were ordered and duly conveyed the party to the Hogshead ™ where Mr Bennett was ever so impressed at the availability of some super Caledonian ™ beer.
The final port of call was to see Aunty Betty in the Harp Inn ® with Messrs Hargreaves, Blanksby and Shaw operating via Threshers ™ to procure some liquid refreshment for the journey home. The head brewers choice ™ was in it's usual tip top form, and probably the best rendition ever of Day Trip to Bangor © occurred, very loud and funny!
The chip shipping order ® duty was allocated to Mr Bennett. The 17:18 off Bangor was absolutely wedged, more than likely owing to the late running of the shipping vessel from Ireland. We were permitted to occupy the front compartment. 37408 "Loch Rannoch" © was in charge and put in a very good run (but the thing is locomotives always sound better after loads of beer has been consumed by it's audience!). Lisa, Messrs Hargreaves, Shaw left the train at Crewe, when the 'right away' had been given Mr Blanksby also decided to alight. On arrival at Stafford one of the infamous Virgin Trains ™ Redcoats boarded and entered the compartment asking "Are you friends of Mark Bennett" to which a rather taken aback Mr Bennett replied "Er, yes mate". It transpired that Mr Blanksby's amnesia had struck once again and he had left his rather expensive camera on the luggage rack. Mr Bennett duly took it into custody.
On arrival in Birmingham Mr Harburn did his usual move to Derby on the 20:25 departure whilst Mr Bennett waited for the 20:57 HST. This he duly boarded and promptly fell into what can only be described as a drunken coma. Mr Bennett succeeded in alighting from the train at Wakefield Westgate!!!!!! Fortunately there was a train back to Sheffield at 23:24; unfortunately today is not Friday 28th May when there is a 23:08 departure for Derby! On arrival at Sheffield Mr Bennett hired a fast taxi to convey him to Derby where arrival at his home depot was achieved at 01:45 with Mr Bennett financially constrained in the sum of £35 sterling - Ouch!
Nominated Words and Phrases of the Day ®
Do Hickey = Thingy, whatsit etc.
Barf up = Throw up, chunder, be sick
Whore Dogging = Looking at Women
Report For The Trip on 7th April 1999
Once again a rather depleted roadshow, MoanHead appears to be upon the verge of being c**t struck and so did not attend (Good!) meanwhile Messrs Bennett and Hunt (aka Deep Hole Borer or simply Bully which is short for "Bullbridge") duly convened outside Sarah's Cafe for 07:59. Indeed Mr Bennett alighted from none other than MTV 311W, which is non other than one of only 8 surviving "Fleetline" buses in Derby.
After a suitably nourishing full English breakfast it was off to the station for the 08:40 departures which arrived with 47841 in command. This was taken to Birmingham where it was discovered all was far from well with the locomotive. There were engine fumes in the driver's cab and quite a bad external fuel leak. It carried on after a suitable 'battering' but by about 17:00 reports had arrived on Mr Bennett's bat phone that the appropriate diagram was currently in the hands of one 47722 which used to be the rather undesirable 47558 and once named 'Mayflower'.
The 10:07 arrived with 37426 in charge. During the journey Mr Bennett became increasingly infuriated with the noisy antics of two brats, although nothing was said. It was thought to be a good idea to abandon '426 at Bae Colwyn for two hours in the Wings Club. However (!) an outbreak of sheer incompetence had occurred and Mr Bennett was not in possession of one single timetable. The 11:58 off Birmingham (which was known to be 37408) is not shown on the main timetable on Bae Colwyn station, only the Saturday version is. Enquiries to the booking clerk led to, well, bugger all really so Mr Bennett put his finger in the dial and spoke to Squadron Leader for a while.
The result of this was the concrete gen that 37408 was booked to storm through at 14:15!! Rather fortunately the Euston - Holyhead was rather late and appeared with a very dead 43198 leading a very active & hot 43102, this was taken to Bangor.
Actual arrival in the Tap & Spile was only 30 odd minutes later than normal. After a swift pint of Landlord (as in the Timothy Taylor's brew and not the proprietor!) it was, as ever, round to see John in the Union. Here a PROPER steak & kidney pie together with chips and peas were duly consumed. After all a wonderful handwritten sign proclaims the availability of same outside!
Messrs Bennett and 'Unt were given the highly mathematical and technical theory of just how far away the horizon is together with some wonderful snippets on sailing in general. The next and final port of call was to see Betty in The Harp where Mr 'Unt was duly presented with his very own Marstons promo glass.
The 17:18 off Bangor was in the hands of 37408, rather cheers for Mr Bennett as arrival at Birmingham gives him 994.75 miles off it!
After a swift beer in the nearby Newt & Cucumber 1E40 was duly boarded, this was powered by 43062 and 43193. Just by way of a change Mr Bennett actually managed to alight from 1E40 at Derby rather than Wakefield Westgate!!!!
Report For The Trip On 15th May 1999
Welcome to our first illustrated report, today's event was way back on the 15th May, your scribe has been a touch busy and things you see!
The object of the exercise was to say cheerio to the current timetable. Unfortunately from the 'new' one there will be less locomotive hauled turns.
Messrs Bennett and Hargreaves convened at Derby for an intake of snacks before boarding the 08:40 departure with 47702 at the sharp end. Mr Marsden had hinted at the possibility of his first appearance on our super day trips, however there was no sign as we rolled out of Derby. Once in Birmingham Mr Hargreaves made a beeline for the nearby bargain book shop in a bid to acquire further cheap and cheerful novelties.
Much to Mr Bennett's great delight he found an English/Welsh dictionary, crammed with thousands of 'words of the day' and priced at two pounds and ninety-nine new pence. Needless to say Mr Bennett acquired a copy right away!
And so on to the station for our 'farewell' run on the 1007 departure to Holyhead which becomes a diesel unit. This appeared with 37421 in charge. Indeed this very locomotive caused the now well known diesel gala on the coast after bits of it's bogie fell off.
Much to our surprise Mr Marsden was in evidence at Crewe armed with his quite novel digital camera, the results of which appear on this page.
We alighted at Colwyn Bay to pay the mandatory visit to the Wings Club to sample their marvellous Lees Bitter. Roughly an hour later we continued to Bangor with 37401 performing the honours.
37401 drifts into Colwyn Bay.
And awaits the 'tip' at Bangor.
Photos courtesy of A Marsden.
The usual fast tacsi to the Tap & Spile, then to see John in The Union. He was most fascinated by Mr Bennett's newly acquired dictionary and placed a request for his very own copy!!!
Mr Bennett consults his newly acquired dictionary in The Union as Mr Hargreaves looks on. John can be seen performing behind the bar.
Photo by A Marsden
The 17:18 off Bangor was in the hands of 37418, which was taken to its destination, Birmingham for 43197 and 43006 back to Derby.
At the time of writing (4th July) Mr Hargreaves is 'in works' with a broken ankle, a speedy recovery and best wishes are in order here.
Report for the unexpected Trip of 3rd July 1999
A quite unexpected event, with only Mr Bennett in attendance. The day had started at 03:30 and the original plan had been to travel to Newport on a railtour hauled by 33103. Unfortunately the speedo was deemed to be broken and the '33' was replaced by one of those horrible new '66s' - Absolutely cheers at 0545!!! In the words of a current popular song - hear them in real audio by clicking HERE! During the wait for the tour's (late) arrival the northbound sleeper for Fort William, Aberdeen and Inverness came absolutely hammering through the station, a mere FIVE hours late!!!! According to the timetable it should have been pulling out of Stirling!
Spectacular thunderstorms the previous night had wreaked havoc with the signalling tackle just down the road at Norton Bridge.
So, back home. Mr Bennett then reported back to Derby Station and after an intake of grease caught the 08:32 for Manchester Airport. This was formed of a single 153 and was absolutely wedged to the gunwales, a total disgrace. One has to wonder if all those holidaymakers will choose the train next year if this is the best Central Trains can offer.
Chaos still reigned at Crewe, the 10:18 was in with 37058 in charge, and a well battle scarred hero! Meanwhile the 08:07 off Birmingham was running well late due to the lightning fiasco and with 37298 hauling it. 37058 was taken to Bangor as it was considered that '298 would be terminated and turned round thus achieving right time running on the return leg. Annoyingly it followed '058 and arrived in Bangor some 10 minutes later.
Beers took priority this time though (there was an out & back visit to Colwyn Bay on 5th June for 37698 and no beers). The usual establishments were whacked in, with John being presented with his very own English/Welsh dictionary. Due to the changed workings the 15:22 was taken from Bangor with 37426 in charge. Mr Bennett showed his 'extension ticket' (return from Llandudno Junction to Bangor) to the gripper and then had a short snooze. The rather efficient gripper ended said snooze with the words "Your stop mate". Mr Bennett duly thanked the man and alighted in a bit of a comatose state and watched '426 leave, bother! Should have been the next stop. Fortunately a Manchester service arrived almost immediately and was taken to the intended stop of Colwyn Bay for just under an hour in the Wings Club, which, most fortunately, is now open all day on a Saturday. Back to the station for the 16:22 Bangor - Crewe again with the rather wild 37058 in charge.
A change of driver took place as booked at Chester. Our 'new' man must have though he was in a 37/4 as the handle was whacked right back. An overload of monumental proportions ensued as we all ground to a halt with the carriages banging furiously against one another - no thrash collector either! The same happened again but 058 just stood still revving furiously before shutting down - oh dear! A few minutes later we left a little more cautiously and arrival in Crewe where the excellent 'Clacton' unit (309 617) was made with ease A spirited run to Birmingham for 43155 and 43196 to Derby.
Phrases of The Day
Adran Trysorydd = Treasurer's Department.
Gwasanaethu Cofrestru = Registrars Service.
Uned Archwilio = Inspection Unit.
Safle Bws = Bus Stop.
Report for the Trip on Saturday 12th February 2000.
Welcome to the first report of the Century as well as the New Year!
Today sees just Mr & ‘Mrs’ B in attendance, although the event was actually planned at extremely short notice!! Due to various scenes of carnage (better known in this case as “Engineering Work”) affecting the North East/South West services it was decided to travel via Crewe.
The 0934 departure from Derby appeared some 11 minutes adrift formed of a brand new Central trains Class 170 unit type of thing in CT’s rather garish green based livery. All was reasonably well until the Uttoxeter area whereupon Mrs B became so unimpressed both with the livery and general stuffiness of the interior a bout of morning sickness ensued, Mrs B reporting the bog being of a very ‘high tech’ nature!
Arrival at Crewe was within good time to make the 1115 departure for Holyhead which arrived with 37426 in charge. A most lively and loud run to Bangor was had, one or two sound samples can be heard below.
For the first time in ages the Ffeasant & Firkin was visited, mainly for an intake of solid nourishment, the most dire and bland “Greene King IPA” being on sale. Next came a visit to the Hogshead before and extremely lengthy visit to The Harp, where Banks' products have appeared including the horrid 'creamflow' bitter. naturally proper ale is still available though. The reason for the appearance of Banks' is due to them owning quite a bit of Marstons (unfortunately!). Departure from Bangor came at 1850 with and old favourite, 37429 “Gloria Estefan & The Miami Thrash Machine” performing the honours. The train terminated at Crewe from where 158 848 conveyed the party back to Derby
Sounds of the Day.
These are Real Media files which will play on Real Player version 5.0 or greater. Click HERE for a free download.
The 1007 Birmingham - Holyhead with 37426 in charge
Leaving Bangor (recorded from the platform)
The 1822 Holyhead - Crewe with 37429 in charge
(1) Leaving Bangor
One from last week - 37401 leaving Birmingham New Street with the 1007 for Holyhead
Phrase of the Day
Ysgol Gwyddorau Biolegol = School of Biological Science
Report for the trip of 11th March 2000.
With time fast running out for loco hauled turns along the Coast & major engineering works at home (i.e. decorating!!!) the opportunity was siezed by Mr Bennett for another impromptu flail.
The day started on the 0841 departure from Derby with 47701 in charge. The locomotive was not really in top form requiring a full power start in order for it to move, well spectacular stuff though! Once in Birmingham a visit to the Victoria Sandwich Bar for tea & toast before reporting for the 1007 departure for Holyhead. The famed "Chester Spare" or 37415 was in charge just as it was exactly one year before, indeed on that very same day one year ago Mr Bennett overdossed on the 2057 off Birmingham and ended up in Wakefield!
415 gave a lively run to Chester where a beer interlude in the Mill Hotel was held. In the many moons since it was last visited there have been considerable alterations and the venue is now a most pleasant place in which to drink. The Cains Bitter at £1.40 per imperial pint was on top form.
Back at the station the 1220 Crewe - Holyhead rolled in with that old Coast hero 37429 performing the honours. Known by the roadshow as "Gloria Estefan & The Miami Thrash Machine" (at one time this was drunkenly derived from the real name of Eisteddfod Genedlaethol!!) the sound effects were far from disappointing on the run to Bangor. 'Gloria' looks most shabby these days, that said, it is some time now since she emerged resplendent in Regional Railways livery after her final overhaul at Doncaster. (See the Ex Works Page!!).
A minor riot occurred on arrival as a passenger saw fit to abandon their mobile telephone when alighting. Mr Bennett duly took the device into custody. It duly rang in the Tap & Spile (now absorbed by Bass but complete with a juke box) the greeting was "I've left my phone on a train" (!!). Arrangements were put in hand and phone + owner were duly re-united.
After an intake of solids the next stop was the Union to see John. Mr Bennett was noted as almost falling to the floor as the superb Caledonian Deuchars IPA was available. Burtonwood seem to have taken over where Marstons were forced to leave off (after Banks' took them over) by providing a guest beer at given times of the year. (Marstons used to have their "Head Brewers Choice" you see). It must be reported that said "Caley" was in well top form.
The next calling point was the Hogshead where, once again, a delay in service caused a walk-out. Onward to the Albion, a recent Good Beer Guide inclusion where the so called beer was more akin to a helping of Sarson's vinegar (words will be had with that CAMRA lot!).
Oh well on to the Harp, a tragic victim of the Banks' take-over where the Banks' Wolf Ale (sickeningly appropriate given that they have just 'wolfed' Mansfield Brewery) duly received yet another Sarson's award - oh dear! It was duly returnd to the bar and a locomotive change ensued in favour of Marstons Pedigree, oh well!!
And so back to the station calling at the hellfire soggy roll and cornish nasty emporium before 37426 on the 1850 departure for Crewe. Poor old 426, it always seems to be the target of full power starts and the like, limited though they were as the train is only booked to call at Rhyl and Chester so much storming was noted!
The final run of the day was the 2042 departure from Crewe formed of a Class 158 unit with 2xClass 153 units (which, once upon a time would have been a single Class 155 unit the single 153s being spawned therefrom). Perhaps the appearance of such devices is rapidly becoming a heritage affair given the appearance of those new Class 170 'Turdostar' efforts in foul green livery, but then again perhaps not (!!!!!!)
Nominated Words & Phrases of The Day
Dim mwy na 2 dunnell ymhen 300 llath = Weight limit 2 tons 300 yards ahead.
Cerddwyr = Pedestrians
Llys Yr Ynadon = Magistrates Court.
Heddlu Gogledd Cymru = North Wales Police
Llyfrgelll = Library
Report for the trip of 23rd May 2000.
The main purpose of today's outing is to celebrate of five years of fun packed Day Trips to Bangor. Although accounts only started to appear on the site from 1998 the first recorded outing was in December 1994 which featured 'Concrete Bob' in grey livery!
The Summer timetable will see the end of locomotive hauled trains operated by First North Western although the actual date of this happening is not currently known. The company very commendably supported a series of farewell outings in line with this.
A most respectable roadshow had assembled in time for the 10:07 departure from Birmingham; Mr Hargreaves Mr Bennett, Mrs B (carrying junior 'B' who is expected into traffic in August), Mr Blanksby and Sharon (of barmaid fame in a Derby hostelry). All assembled in a quality breakfast emporium on Midland Road in the Derby before departing for Birmingham on 47853.
Squadron Leader Shaw along with Mrs Squadron Leader (who you may recall hails from Waco in Texas) followed on the 09:06 departure from Burton-Upon-The-Booze.
The 10:07 for Holyhead arrived with 37429 "Gloria Estafan & The Miami Thrash Machine" in charge much to Mrs B's delight as she quite likes our "Gloria". Indeed Gloria lived up to her roadshow name with rather spectacular sound effects and some quantities of clag. On the approach to Crewe Mr Bennett was most pleased to observe D7659 (25309) parked alongside the carriage sheds. Upon leaving we roared by the Heritage Centre where Mr Hargreaves cast an eye upon 314xx and declared it to be 'doing a man out of a good shave' - marvellous!!
Mr Bullbridge put in an appearance at Rhyl but opted out of a day in Bangor although we were joined by a distinguished guest who planned to return to Sheffield early in the afternoon.
Upon arrival in Bangor we were greeted by very heavy rain. A brace of fast Tacsi whisked us to the Tap & Spile. A rather misleading price list was noted. Apparently the revenue stated is only extractable at the times given at the bottom of the list. Squadron Leader Shaw very nearly went into 'flame mode' but this was reserved for his soon to be former mobile telephone company some minutes later!
Since good old Bass took the T&S chain over the range of beers is, to say the least, very disappointing. Still snacks were had with Mrs B having a chip and coleslaw stottie (huge cob) or "Chip Butty" as she pointed out in her bestest Leicester to Mrs Squadron Leader who had become most intrigued at the spectacle of French Fries with coleslaw!
As ever the next halt was The Union. John was on 'rest day' whilst the Burtonwood Bitter was as excellent as ever. Lunns Tacsis were telephoned and very kindly provided a mini-bus to convey the party to the Hogshead thus optimising drinking time. A recent re-vamp has occurred here, the speed of service being commendably admirable.
Our merry band then departed, interested parties called into Threshers for a consignment of 'fortified apple juice' (Cider to you and I!!) while Mr Bennett gleefully noted many words and phrases from the nearby building society premises (see below!). It can be reported that our distinguished guest had not departed by this time - he must have been most impressed and stayed on!
And so it was onward to our final hostelry of the day, The Harp. It was a great pleasure to see Aunty Betty officiating. The roadshow provided superb renditions of 'Day Trip to Bangor', 'Hit Me With Your Rythm Stick' and 'There An 'Arf Been Some Clever B******s' during the visit.
As ever it was all too soon for departure time so all set off to board the 18:20 service for Crewe. A visit to the super newsagents to obtain warm pies and sausage rolls. 37412 was in charge and gave a spirited run to Crewe calling at one or two 'shacks' (a taste of things to come unfortunately). After a short wait at Crewe 37420 'The Scottish Hosser' duly arrived and was sampled to Stafford. The 'G' man didn't seem to pleased wondering if we were going "the long way round" There is minimal difference between Crewe - Derby via Stoke or via Stafford and Tamworth.
Once at Stafford 90013 appeared on the relevant service which was taken to Tamworth where the 3 minute connection with the Plymouth - Leeds was made with great ease. 43063 and 43008 were providing the power. Mr & Mrs Squadron Leader left us at Burton-We've Had Lots of It-on Trent whilst our distinguished guest had left us some time beforehand at Chester by the way.
Back in Derby another couple of 'shandies' brought this most excellent day to a close.
So what now?
Obviously after so many day trips the roadshow have made many friends on their travels. Purely as a day out Bangor cannot be faulted. It is fully intended to hold future 'events' albeit not quite the same in the sad absence of thrash but a jolly good day out nonetheless. At least Virgin Trains can be used for around another 18 months or so which means the trip along the coast will not be 100% plastic!
It will be intriguing to see first hand how the new diesel units cope with loadings (or don't) as the case may be!
Nominated Words & Phrases of The Day.
Ymholiadau - All Enquiries. Gwarchod Siopau - Shopwatch.
Y Gath Dew - The Fat Cat. Prifysgol - University.
Morgeisi - Mortgages. Llyfrau Siec - Cheque Books.
Benthyciadau - Loans. Yswirant - Insurance.
Y Shwriel - Litter. 30 Minud - 30 Minutes.
Neuadd y Dref - Town Hall. Eglwys Gaderiol - Cathedral.
Cymorth Cristinogol - Christian Aid.
Sounds of The Day.
(Real Player Required to Listen)
37412 leaves Shotton ..............................37429 leaves Rhyl
Report for the trip of 20/12/00.
A later than planned start for your
scribe after "overdossing". The original plan had been to go and view
the once legendary 10:07 Birmingham - Holyhead.
A swift move from Derby to Crewe to head it off ensued. Arrival saw the old friend "Gloria Estefan & The Miami Thrash Machine" on the receiving end of a "seeing to" involving making one good windscreen wiper out of two. The 10:07 Ex Birmingham was duly viewed and was a 158 unit - somehow the grim reality begins to sink in; in just a few days 37s down the coast will be no more - a great shame after 6 fun packed years of Day Trips to Bangor. Naturally these will continue although perhaps not as frequently as before!
The
station fitter prepares to 'rob' some bits from 37429s second-man's wiper in a
bid to repair the defective drivers side wiper. The train eventually left Crewe
for Birmingham 18 minutes late.
Eventually the Euston - Holyhead
appeared with 43161+063 in charge, new wave heritage traction perhaps? After all
HSTs were introduced in 1976 and the newest Class 25s finished after only 19
years in traffic; just a thought!!
A lively run to Colwyn Bay was followed
by an intake of snacks and the first pint of the day (milk!). The recently
re-decorated and still superb Wings Club was then visited, the Lees Bitter was
in the usual impeccable form at £1.45 per Imperial pint.
Once back on the station the 12:07 New
St. - Holyhead was, quite predictably, late with our 'Gloria' at the sharp end.
Arrival at Bangor saw the completion of the day's roadshow when Mr Jakeway (The Vicar) duly alighted.
A
well weathered old friend, "Gloria" awaits the tip from Bangor with
the 12:07 Birmingham - Holyhead. The last official working came just three days
later, appropriately enough "Gloria" was arranged to haul it.
The first calling point was the Tap
& Spile; the range of beers here is somewhat disappointing after the Bass
group absorbed the chain. Next the Union to see John and of course sample his
fine Burtonwood Bitter. Here we learnt of retirement plans - possibly next year,
added to this it has also been gleaned that Aunty Betty is also hoping to retire
in the next year. Rather ironic really as the loco hauled services are also
retiring!!
Next it was the Hogshead emporium where,
much to Mr Bennett's great delight, a brace of Scottish beer was available. A
Harviestoun seasonal brew and the ever superb Caledonian Deuchars IPA.
The
final hostelry was of course The Harp to see Aunty Betty. Ultimately this would
turn out to be the final beer of the day! All too soon it was time to return to
the station for the 18:52 departure for Birmingham. This appeared with 37401 in
charge and left the fine City on time.
We decided that subject to timekeeping
401 would be taken 'all the way' which it was. Arrival in Birmingham was just
late enough to miss the 21:33 to Derby. Fortunately the 22:05 was running and
had 47805 in charge. At 22:05 the 'right away' was given. An excellent rounding
off to the day we thought. By 22:30 all was far from well as the brakes would
not release. Numerous staff were adamant it was 805s fault, attempts at
rectifying the fault included the rather unhealthy and potentially dangerous
option of applying lots of power for 30 seconds or more. In the end we were
advised to board the 22:45 departure which nicely misses all last buses home.
The saga with 805 was the only real farce of an otherwise excellent day trip - a remarkable achievement given the perilous state of the railway network.
Report
for the Trip on 28th December 2000
Including
today there are (officially!) only three operational days remaining for
locomotive hauled services along 'The Coast'
Following
on from last week's trip it was decided at the most drunken level to hold a
grand finale.
All
was very well until the night before the event saw copious quantities of snow on
a nationwide basis.
In
this modern age of 'blame culture' virtually every organisation seems to spend
more time fannying around in a bid to identify who should do what in relation to
a job that has never changed - clearing the snow up. Of course very little
happens and the Nation grinds to a halt once again. The nice knock on effect is
of course yet more of this unproductive culture.......
And
so on to the Day Trip to wherever then!!
Messrs
Hargreaves, Blanksby, Bennett, Jakeway, MG Mick duly assembled at Derby for the
10:12 for Birmingham. Of course this was nowhere to be seen, the 09:10 was
expected at 10:45! In the end it was decided to board a Central Trains affair in
the form of 170 506. Arrival at Birmingham saw a farce out of all proportions in
the making. Initial reports suggested that nothing was operating west of
Chester. Also the 12:07 would more than likely start from Wolverhampton.
47737
arrived with a rather late service for Manchester so we all clambered aboard.
Moments later the train was cancelled. A diverted Euston - Manchester service
then appeared with 87016. We boarded this and alighted at Stafford, purely a
'safety' move. Here it was learnt that 37421 had operated to Birmingham and was
around 40 late. 47737 appeared running driver only empty cars. Obviously the
booked 'G' man had either called in sick (not that we can blame him/her!) or had
been delayed on an inbound working.
Never
mind, one or two nice pictures were obtained, meanwhile Mr H endeavoured to
operate his nice new tripod, which was eventually achieved after only the
mildest bout of 'phutting and blasting'. Indeed we are pleased to record the
fact that the vast quantities of snow served to keep Mr H's supply of cider
cooled in the 'Bag Bar'!
Eventually
421 appeared with a rake of 5 Choccy and Cream vehicles in tow (4902, 4963,
W17056, 5029, 5025); a potential waste given the high possibility of 'clown'
antics on the forthcoming final day.
The
original plan was 421 to Bangor then back to Colwyn Bay for a stint in the Wings
Club before some unit forward. Given the fact that the railway departments were
in utter turmoil earlier in the day it was thought to be a rather wise manoeuvre
in taking 421 all the way to Crewe thus providing a slightly stronger position
than we would be in had we been at Colwyn Bay!
After
one or two nice snowy views we toddled off towards the Hogshead. To our immense
horror it was noted The Harp was closed, so much for a swift pint in there. Much
of the range of ale in the Hogshead had gone off, nevertheless the Titanic [tm]
offering was deemed to be of sufficient quality.
All
were soon back at the station for 421 which was taken through to Crewe. After a
rather reasonable run (and a nice chat with Charlie Hulme!) 158859 arrived
almost immediately bound for Derby - marvellous. An executive decision was taken
to leave the train at Kidsgrove in order to sample a Beer Guide listed hostelry
- nice to find it was all closed at 19:12!
After
a fairly reasonable beer near the station the entourage reported back to the
station for the '1951' departure. During the wait Mr Bennett drew a BR double
arrow logo in the snow whilst MG Mick scribed "RailCrap" in a similar
fashion!!
156
410 arrived and we were greeted with news of a points failure. The appropriate
'cavalry' appeared quite soon thereafter and some 30 minutes of attention from
an old BR 2 pound hammer and a blow-torch saw us on our way home.
It
is amusing to record the on-train announcement as we approached Derby –
“Ladies
and Gentlemen, we are now approaching Derby Station. We hope you have had a
pleasant journey and enjoyed your Central Trains experience!”
All
in all the day rated quite highly as far as educational value was concerned for
the simple fact we witnessed first hand the total shambles into which our once
proud railway system has fallen………..
Report
For The Trip on Tuesday 16th January 2001
Following
the official demise of locomotive hauled services along the Coast one set of
coaches plus a 37/4 are currently retained on a "spot hire" basis. The
gist of this situation is that the set will see use on an as required basis.
The
few workings so far this year are (apparently) due to the fact that Virgin
Trains haven't been bothering with their Euston - Holyhead service mainly as a
result of the infamous chaos on the railway system.
Subject
to appropriate gen it was decided to attempt a day trip today. A suitable
telegram arrived on your scribe's pooter to the effect that 37415 was out
playing. One fast bus (YAU 126Y) later it was discovered that the 09:50 for
Swansea was sufficiently late to be taken to Birmingham to have a look at the
12:07 Holyhead.
Having
lost another 15 minutes arrival in Birmingham was at 11:56; the 12:07 was
announced as "meeting with delay" and duly appeared at 12:15 with
37415 in command - marvellous!!! The standby set of coaches consist of hired in
vehicles in chocolate & cream livery; quite fitting that three out of the
four vehicles in the formation are Mark 1s as the type was introduced 50 years
ago in 1951! For the record the vehicles were 4902, 17056 (once 14056), 4963 and
5025. The ever growing scrap lines on the approaches to Crewe include at least
4917, an old Coast favourite looking as though it will never run again. Indeed
there is quite a collection of withdrawn motive power on display at Crewe, far
removed from the lines of withdrawn Class 24s visible in the late 1970s.
It
was slightly interesting to see that one of First North Western's recent
television stars is now employed by another railway company, perhaps creating
such public (though enjoyable) thrash harms one's career prospects (?)
The
run to Bangor was on a par with those of time gone by, no problem sitting in the
front coach at all.
415
caused quite a dilemma; on arrival at Crewe after the return leg from Bangor the
princely sum of 973 miles will be your scribe's total. Not to worry, those days
of desperation ended in the 80s when the Class 25s retired; the decision was
taken to sample a beer or three in Bangor seeing as this is the time honoured
tradition. It must be pointed out that this tradition has shown for some years
now that a good day can be had, drinks can be had without ANY problems at
all for our fellow passengers. Quite a shame other individuals cannot operate in
such a sociable fashion really.
Once
415 had deposited your scribe in Bangor there remained some 90 minutes Valuable
Drinking Time (VDT). It was noted that the Harp was open for business; a quick
check with Aunty Betty confirmed this. Off to the Hogshead emporium, which
happens to be opposite the cathedral after which a Class 47 has been named in
recent times. 40 fluid ounces later it was back to the Harp where a swift 20
floz was consumed before returning to the station for 415 to Crewe.
A
couple of developments to record; the former car showroom is soon to be a
super-market. Some of the adjacent hillside is being hacked away to make room
for the mandatory car parking area, another case of machinery against nature -
let's see who ultimately wins this battle!!
The
other development is the increasingly infamous J.D.Wetherspoon chain who has
leased a former church a few yards away from The Harp. Of course this will be
the death knell of this wonderful pub, there is absolutely no way a proper
licensee can compete with these beer superstores (although JDW claim they are
pubs - what bunkum!).
The
Wetherspoon chain set out with credible objectives in that real ale became
available in keg beer deserts. Now this former champion is becoming nothing more
than a murderer of the traditional local pub by savagely undercutting prices,
offering the same old corporate drivel at each of their retail outlets. Shoving
selected wares out at 99p per pint attracts undesirables, little wonder the chap
at JDW's despised Colwyn Bay branch nearly had his licence revoked because of
all the trouble there. It is high time those who campaign for traditional pubs
woke up to the reality of this hidden mass murder and threw this chain out of
their proverbial bed.
Ahem!
Forthright views aside then - 415's train was rather busier than it was on the
outward leg, the additional loading was mainly enthusiast based, no problems
whatsoever to report
Our
regular readers may recall that we at the Day Trip to Bangor used to refer to
37415 as being the "Chester Spare" on account of the locomotive being
viewed parked at Chester on a regular basis!
A
swift switch into 'retro' mode gives the following on (nearly) this day in years
gone by.
Wednesday
14/1/98 saw 37422 and 37419 featuring whilst Thursday 14/1/99 saw 37415 (!) 426
and 420 in action.
All
interesting stuff eh??!!
Back
to today, 415 gave a most pleasant run to Crewe, it remains to be seen if the
locomotive comes out to play tomorrow as Birmingham - Crewe will see the 1000
miles achieved!
Unffordd
= One Way
Fferyllfa
= Chemist
The
next journey was Crewe - Birmingham by means of the 14:40 Ex Edinburgh, once
upon a time the Class 309 unit would have been taken for a beer en-route. Alas
the 309s have most definitely gone - the service was a 158. The Midland Scot
arrived a very credible 9 minutes late with a good old 'AL6' in charge, 86256.
By no means spring chickens the type is now some 35 or 36 years old! Thus
continues the heritage theme of the day!
A
pleasant run to Birmingham gave a nice +15 onto the 20:00 for Leeds which
arrived with 47827. Before long the locomotive was shut down and the chap armed
with a torch and large hammer duly produced and proclaimed 827 to be a complete
failure as "one of the traction motors has broken down on the way into
Birmingham" or so the guard told us all anyway - full marks for honesty
there!
The
train eventually departed 36 minutes late with 47845.After a further helping of
falling down water of the Caledonian variety the last bus conveyed your scribe
back to home depot.
The
following day saw a leap to Birmingham in an attempt to obtain at least the
required 27 miles off 37415. The move was authorised following a gen flash from
the relevant department at 01:47!
As
with yesterday the 12:07 Holyhead was running slightly late. Happily the train
appeared with 415 and was taken to Crewe thus dealing with yesterday's minor
mileage crisis!!!!!