The Ruby Rover Railtour
Sunday 23rd May 2010
© copyright photographs by Colin Duff
| Tonbridge |
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A spirited but smooth run along the "Old Road" ensued and we became the first passengers to reach Tonbridge by a class 442 unit, which was our next reversal. Despite this stock being middle aged in rolling stock terms, and the traction equipment even older, these really are superb units. In my opinion they are the best mainline Southern Electric units ever. In terms of comfort and ride, newer units are a backward step. |
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Activity in the interior of the 1st class saloon of 442413 speeding between Tonbridge and Redhill. Southern Electric Group Vice President Greg Beecroft is on litter duty whilst Chairman Peter Staveley (bottom right) chats to passengers. The Southern Electric Group office and sales stand was in the 1st class saloon of 442406. A second reversal at Redhill ensued, this time in platform 1. |
| Lewes |
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At the rather picturesque and interesting station of Lewes we had a 16 minute photo stop in platform 1. I was a little nervous about taking pictures as during the last diagrammed slam door run on 19th August 2005 I was shouted at by station staff here for trying to taking photos from the footbridge between platforms 1 and 2. However, there was no problem this time despite - or because of - a 10 car train disgorging photographers! Plus there is a difference between a quiet Sunday afternoon in 2010 and a Friday evening peak in 2005. |
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A picture from the footbridge between platforms 1 & 2 , showing the signalbox (just in front of the train) and in the distance the chalky South Downs. Note the roof of the second vehicle from the left - the motor brake composite. With the removal of the buffet the roof vents have been modified. |
| Eastbourne |
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Our next stop (and reversal) was at Eastbourne where we had a 64 minute late lunch break. Next to us in platform 2 was a stabled 377 unit which wanted to keep its identity a secret - note no unit number is displayed. A quick check of the car number revealed it to be 377414. What can I say about Eastbourne on a radiant Sunday afternoon? It was sleepy and appeared mostly to be closed, but we did find some suitable hostelries open to partake of refreshment! |
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This picture shows 442413 at the London end with the rather splendid signalbox. Despite other reversals in the interim the formation had not been turned since London Bridge. Upon our departure, right time at 16:05, the train became the 1Z42 Eastbourne to London Victoria (Central) working. Next stop Brighton, via the east Coastway route. |