Due to a lack of servicable steam engines in the south of the country, 70013 'Oliver Cromwell' was used on the 'Dorset Coast Express' London to Weymouth and return. To facilitate this the return was diesel hauled from Weymouth to Southampton (with 70013 on the rear). Steam then took over and ran via Laverstock curve (near Salisbury) back to London.
(All photos courtesy Roland Groom)




70013 is seen at Dorchester South on the down journey.




After the passengers have disembarked, 70013 has pushed the train back into the sidings. South West Trains unit 444010 passes.




After detaching, 70013 moves forward and takes water while coal awaits.




Oiling round.




The return is behind a Class 47 diesel with 70013 marshalled at the rear.


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