'Nine' at Chelford this evening

Following 'The Great Gathering' of A4 Pacific locomotives at the National Railway Museum, York, (see http://vinchad.blogspot.co.uk/2013/07/the-great-gathering-york.html on this blog) the 'Streaks' have dispersed. 'Bittern' has run 'specials' on the main line, and 60009 'Union of South Africa' today returned from the NRM to to its home at Crewe Heritage Centre.

60009 (known simply as 'Nine') was due through Chelford at about 18:40 this evening on that homeward journey, being held in the Up Loop at Chelford for about twenty minutes for following service trains to pass. However, she was slightly early and running well, so the signallers gave her a clear road through Chelford, and omitted the scheduled loop stop.

Malc and me arranged to ride our 'steppers' (small motorcycles - C90 and Townmate) the short distance to Chelford to witness the locomotive's passing. Mike drove there and met us, and afterwards we retired to 'The Bollin Fee' in Wilmslow where we were joined by Ivan for a pint and a bite to eat.

No. 60009 A4 Pacific 'Union of South Africa' and its support coach approach Chelford en route from the NRM to Crewe at about 18:40 this evening

A closer look at 'Nine' as she approaches Chelford

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