4 - 6 September 2011 (Sunday to Monday) One of the eagerly anticipated events in 2011 was the running of Atlantic Coast Express by Steam Dreams from London Waterloo to Salisbury/Westbury/Exeter and Newquay on Sunday with 30777 'Sir Lamiel' running as far as Westbury when 34067 'Tangmere' and 70000 'Britannia were to take over. The return was to feature the two engines as far as Exeter with 'Britannia' continuing to Okehampton whilst 'Tangmere' was to run to Yeovil Junction. Unfortunately 'Sir Lamiel' never made it to the beginning and 'Tangmere' and 'Britannia' left London doubleheaded with the train rerouted after Westbury to run via Bristol. A further failure occured at Taunton with 'Tangmere' having to retire. Happily 'Britannia' managed to complete its duties without further incident with the train diesel hauled from Okehampton to London throughout.

34067 'Tangmere' and 70000 'Britannia' head the down 'ACE' near Bridgwater. (Photo courtesy Bob Tucker)

Shortly before 'Tangmere' is failed the train is seen at Creech St. Michael. (Photo courtesy Roland Groom)

Diesel 47500 leads the train into Yeovil Junction on the return from Okehampton to London.

The ACE waits for a following up South West Trains unit to overtake. This was originally planned for 'Tangmere' to be re-attached to the train. Note the new style of station sign, recently erected.

BACK