Thanks John for reminding us of these fine photos of yours. Sadly I doubt that we will ever see a 9F back on the mainline unless they change the present set of rules!

Best wishes,

John H-T.

I think it's a shame, I'd love to see one at full cry on the mainline. Am I right in saying that Netwrok Rail won't let them run because of the flangeless pair of driving rails?

Yes Adam, that is correct. Also a 9F would be limited to about 50mph (I think) because of its 5 feet driving wheels.

As far as I know Carnforth's 8F is the only freight loco on the mainline at present. It is regularly use on the Cumbrian Coast Line so gets well used. (NELPG's NER 0-8-0 may be passed for use to Whitby)

I understand that the 8F is to get a fast track overhaul in the Autumn. Sadly this will slow down the return of Galatea!

Best wishes,

John H-T.

Groan. But will it still be limited to 50mph? :D:D

Yes but this will not be a problem on the routes it is used on. David Smith is no fool when it comes to making money!

My one sadness, as I said, is that it will slow down work on Galatea!