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The NRM’s ‘King Arthur’ class locomotive, No. 30777 “Sir Lamiel” had been left at South West Trains’ depot at Clapham after her last trip, and because she needed to be at Southall in readiness for her next outing on Friday 9 July, Tom Tighe and Peter Maynard went to Clapham to prepare the loco for the short run to Southall. The most important thing was to get the fire lit, so Tom and Peter took it in turns to go into the firebox to inspect it and clean the grate. By ten o’clock they had a fire going and gradually Sir Lamiel made steam, reaching a comfortable 170 lb in readiness for departure at 15.39. While Tom oiled round and gave the engine a thorough check, Peter looked after the fire and made a start on the cleaning to make life easier for the other support crew who had gone directly to Southall. It was hot work on a close, humid day, but our activities pleased onlookers on the adjacent Clapham Junction platforms and made a welcome diversion for the SWT depot staff.
Tom oiling round in Clapham Yard
The West Coast crew for the move were Driver Dave Hewson and Fireman Les Perry. The run was uneventful until we got to Southall and found our usual entry route to the depot blocked by a freight... so we accessed the yard via a reversal in Hayes up loop. 
Our roving reporter wasn't on the actual trip; he just went down to get the engine moved to Southall so this report stops at Southall - I'll post more when the next reporter checks in!
By Info | Monday, July 12, 2010 | Tags : 30777