The GNR were generally spot on with design but the superheater experiments produced some horrors. I can’t repost here but have a look on the GNRI section of ‘Transports of Delight-Smugmug’.
Thanks Patrick. He must have been quite an age. A really prolific author on UK matters too, but he was an SLNC man at heart I think. His photos even graced the cover of the last SLNC public timetable, such was his relationship with the line.
My thoughts too Paul! I suspect most photographers visited the Point when the excursion traffic was on, which brought more locos in. As you say, the standard image of the castle is a dirty engine with green coaches behind….
Well what a pleasure that was yesterday - an afternoon at Narrow Gauge South, seeing @David Holmanand also @Andy Cundickin operation on his very fine Welsh NG (the 4’8.5” kind). Had a pleasant few hours trying not to mangle the operating sequence on Fintonagh. And here’s what may be the last train to leave Fintonagh….note that the auctioneer Mr Phair-Price has already moved in with his ladder to measure up for the sale catalogue…..
Moguls cost £5000-£6000 dependent on build year. They were trialled against an S on the GN main line in the 30s so not unfeasible that GSR could have arranged similar. Probably a bit small for Cork trains but could have done pretty much anything else - they did a lot of GN-region mileage at the end of their lives and could handle most things. The Jeeps interestingly did not do well on the Derry Road due to their limited braking capacity as opposed to tender locos. Mogul axle weight was slightly below that of a Jeep - 17 tons.
Fabulous. And of course we all know which magnificent 7 you are really referring to….Sir Henry, Enniskillen, Lough Gill, Lurganboy, Lissadell, Fermanagh, Hazelwood
Latest I heard is retrieval to Dublin by diesel. Shame - 131 is a cracking performer as that great video shows. Not the engine’s fault today apparently
Wonderful Ernie - have a great trip! As you say, JGD took several images at Manorhamilton in quick succession - there’s another similar one showing the driver oiling round. There’s a good head of steam for the climb to Glenfarne!