Second farm fire near rail tracks (BBC News)

[RF News]

A second fire has broken out on farm land running alongside a steam train track two months after a similar incident.

More from BBC News...

[Western SMT]

In 1955 a relatives house with thatched roof was close to a railway line and cinders from a train set the house on fire, insurance paid and the contractors had it rebuilt in 19 days. The males of the house lived in the shed until the house was finished and the only items saved from the fire was a desk from the kitchen with all the paperwork and a 10 bob note, the jackets from the back door coat hook, the sheets and blankets from one bed, a Tilley lamp and a pet blackbird with one wing.

[jay]

Its not just heritage lines were steam loco's are blamed for starting fires.
Last year, during a light engine movement, 62005 was trundling along behind a freight train, when the crew saw smoke in the distance in some farm land near to the track. A quick thinking support crew member grabbed his camera and took some photo's as they approached the scene. When they arrived at their destination, they where approached by a network rail employee, who then proceded to tell them that they had started a trackside fire. When shown the pictures he was abit confused to say the least, and went to speak to his bosses. It was later found that sticking brakes on the previosly mentioned goods train had sparked, causeing the fire.

[bramleyman]

Has this farmer any evidence to back his claims that it WAS started by the ashes from a steam loco? Further, what proof has he that the smoke damaged fencing will cost as much as HE claims? I feel a Good breakdown in his estimate is MUCH needed, or is he an MP on the side?

[Gandalf]

Three Km of fencing seems a long fence ? Was it all the way round his property?
John (G)