Yes there are HSTs between Cardiff and Newport, they work both Cardiff terminating and Swansea to London services.

Thanks Adam and Dave, I think I will have an early start next year and then in the Spring I will go to London and do some from there up the ECML. The travel lodge in Cardiff sounds just fine Dave.

Thanks again.

No problem Chris, I always like to be useful when I can.

The cars have been moved to Long Marston for store. Virgin have said something along the lines of four cars will need rebuilding, but this will not happen unless the DfT allow the extra cars anyway.

Thanks a lot Dave, I would love 033 to be put back on the rails then I can truly say I have had a run on every one. All the best.

I will be off to Cardiff in the next couple of weeks to start my HST bashing. This time I have got the family to sponsor me. I am looking forward to it and hope it will be a bit warmer than it is now. All the best.

Good luck with your challenge Chris:)
Did you look into the possibility of a ride on the Network Rail NMT?

Thanks John, I am looking forward to it. I have not heard from Shiny yet about the possibility of going on the NMT but I hope to do so soon, I hope he has not forgotten. Later in the Summer I will be going to London to do some more, I am hoping one of my son`s will come down with me. Thanks again John.

Good idea Chris. Probrably the best place to travel around. I went down to London a few weeks ago to do a transport project for my transport and business management course I am doing. So many places to look around, and you can get a travelcard for only 6 pounds (off peak) and go on all trains, trams and buses around.

Sounds good that David, I did`nt know that it only cost £6 for a travel card so that should save me a bob or two. Many thanks for the info David and good luck with your course.