Multi-day ‘Tractor’ and ‘Shed’ haulage to aid charities
THE Branch Line Society (BLS) is offering opportunities to travel on the main line behind Class 37s, affectionately known as ‘Tractors’, and Class 66s, which are nicknamed ‘Sheds’, in the coming months – to help support good causes.
The BLS will be acting as booking agent on behalf of Railway Children for this summer’s ‘Three Peaks from a Seat 2021’ trip, which is due to run from Thursday, June 10 to Saturday, June 12.
Each year, the charity operates a fundraising event, sponsored by Porterbrook, to transport walkers by rail between the mountains of Snowdon, Scafell and Ben Nevis.
Until now, there has been insufficient capacity to transport enthusiasts on the train.
Due to the postponement of the main event to September, however, the charity train’s itinerary has been amended, allowing more than 1200 miles of double-headed Locomotive Services Limited (LSL) Class 37 haulage from the comfort of a Mk.3 Inter-City liveried first class carriage.
Variety
On July 2 to July 5, ‘The Summer Syphons’ will raise valuable funds for Martin House Hospice, which provides family-led care for children with life-shortening conditions.
Operated by DB Cargo using SRPS Mk.1 coaching stock, the special train will feature across the weekend Class 66s provided by DB Cargo and Class 37s provided by Direct Rail Services.
Over the four days, the train will take in destinations as diverse as Glasgow, Worksop, Leeds and Hartlepool.
Another type of heritage diesel traction is expected to be on offer on July 31, when ‘The Thanet Thunderer’ will arrive in Margate. The BLS is acting as booking agent for Hanson & Hall Rail Services Solutions, and the trip features two Class 50 ‘Hoovers’ in a mix of top-and-tail and double-headed formation, including No. 50008 Thunderer.
For the track enthusiast, a highlight is the use of Bramdean Sidings at Grove Park on the return journey, the Up Lee Spur at Hither Green, and the slow lines through Wymington. A photo stop is expected at Dumpton Park on the return journey, and double-heading will occur between Bramdean and Leicester. Profits from the buffet car will be donated to the Railway Children.
Full itinerary details can be found at www.branchline.uk