Saturday 4 June 2005. First main line steam visit for 2005 and not quite as expected!!

With King Edward I expected at around 1pm, all volunteers were primed and ready to go. Unfortunately the train (due to a fault with the trailing Class 31 diesel) was running well over a hour and a half late at this stage. It was decided to continue with steam direct to Weymouth instead of detaching at Yeovil Pen Mill. This view is of the train near 'Double Bridges', a popular viewing point in the age of steam as it gives views of both Waterloo-Exeter and Bristol-Weymouth lines.

The steamer eventually got back to Yeovil Junction at 5.25pm with the volunteers still ready to go!! The support coach was deposited in Platform 3 whilst the engine came onto site briefly before departing for much needed coal.

Re-coaled, 6024 returns to Platform 3......

and comes on site again unusally through the east end

A quick whirl round on the turntable......

and a Pit Stop. Unfortunately for the passengers 'Control' had decided (in view of the lateness) to return the train back to London via Bournemouth (with 2 x Class 31 diesels) so 6024 was to leave Yeovil light engine for Old Oak Common.

a spot of water.........(photo courtesy Roland Groom)

On its way to Yeovil the King is seen at Wyke Champflower (photo courtesy Roland Groom)

Giving up the token at Yeovil Junction signalbox (photo courtesy Roland Groom)

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