The Dip
The westbound departure from Reigate is downhill, but, just east of Buckland, this changes to a climb to Betchworth summit. Gresley A4 60009 'Union of South Africa' thunders past the dip in the line on the bleak morning of 20 November 2018 with the 'Cathedrals Express' from West Brompton to Gloucester. Eastbound steam on this route is quite frequent (mostly the Belmond Pullman), but westbound is much less common. Over 5000hp (WCRC class 47 at the rear) has propelled the ten coach train to about 50mph from its Reigate stop already by this point, with the A4 being opened up as it hit the climb.
The white van just visible on the bridge had been crossing as 60009 approached and screeched to a halt!
The Dip
The westbound departure from Reigate is downhill, but, just east of Buckland, this changes to a climb to Betchworth summit. Gresley A4 60009 'Union of South Africa' thunders past the dip in the line on the bleak morning of 20 November 2018 with the 'Cathedrals Express' from West Brompton to Gloucester. Eastbound steam on this route is quite frequent (mostly the Belmond Pullman), but westbound is much less common. Over 5000hp (WCRC class 47 at the rear) has propelled the ten coach train to about 50mph from its Reigate stop already by this point, with the A4 being opened up as it hit the climb.
The white van just visible on the bridge had been crossing as 60009 approached and screeched to a halt!