It was so long ago that we had visited GWS Didcot that the car parking arrangements have been transformed and I’d forgotten exactly where the underpass was that leads to the site. A thoughtfully positioned signpost at that point would have been helpful during a heavy squall, especially as it’s still a bit of a trek.
They have got an undeniably varied collection of GWR locos
and artefacts at Didcot. Gas turbine prototype No. 18000 was looking a bit
shabby and forlorn in the yard - as though it also would have appreciated a bit
more cover from the elements, and the elements were certainly doing their bit,
on and off, to make the point.
I had not seen No. 4079 Pendennis Castle since March 1967 when she came to Chester on a special train, so it was good to renew that acquaintance. The blue King is always a welcome sight, even when tucked up and stone cold, deep in the shed. But where was Lady of Legend, the new build Saint Class? We were informed that she was in the engineering workshop having her connecting rod put back on and therefore temporarily out of bounds to visitors. Nevertheless, an enthusiastic and obliging GWS volunteer negotiated safe passage for us to witness the event, which was accomplished with the help of a heavyweight jack and four strong men. It was a good example of old technology in action in an industry that gave employment to so many and was rewarded in turn by loyalty and a real sense of belonging. The GWS is doing a fine job in preserving GWR heritage and making it accessible to successive generations.
No comments:
Post a Comment