Tributes paid to traction inspector Jim Smith
THEmain line steamscene is in mourningfollowing thepassing of Jim Smith, apopular traction inspector for DBCargo, on June 27.
Paying tribute on behalf of The A1 Steam LocomotiveTrust ( A1SLT), Graeme Bunker- James, said:“We have lost one of the key people in Tornado’s history and someone with a unique position in ensuring the locomotive’s success. The first main line test runs operated under Jim’s supervision, including the legendary run from Newcastle to York in 2008. He was alsowith us on a variety of trips after that, the length and breadth of the country and most happily in the north east. It was Jim who took charge of the 100mph run in April 2018, with many superb and memorable runs in between.
“Always referred to as ‘ Gentleman Jim’his kindness and generosity to the A1SLTwill be massively missed by all of us. He continued to guide those new to themain line in our team right up until operations were curtailed due to lockdown. Building confidence, tutoring firing technique or just an understanding of how the locomotiveworked, Jim was at his best when teaching and his legacy is a broad group of people who will carry main line steam forward.
“Wewill all miss him greatly and we extend our sympathies and kind wishes to his family and friends. God speed Jim, and thank you fromus all.”
TheMerchant Navy Locomotive Preservation Society ( MNLPS), owner of No. 35028 Clan Line, said in a statement:“We are saddened to hear of the passing of Jim Smith. A kind presencewith our locomotive on many of our trips over the years, his good humour and knowledge that he brought to the footplate will be sorely missed by all. The MNLPS sends out our condolences to Jim’s family, friends and colleagues at this extremely difficult time. RIP Jim – thank you for all the memories.”