Both 124 and G617 were in action for a spot of shunting at Downpatrick on Saturday 31st January. Such was the activity that it felt a small diesel gala of sorts. We began by shuffling around carriages and locos in the station and yard.
Later in the day, 124 headed out light engine to the Loop Line to move some stored wagons (Downpatrick’s very own Troublesome Trucks) from there to Inch Abbey. This was so as to make way for hedge cutting work. This provided the unusual sight of 124 hauling a mixed goods train, which included hoppers, flats, vans and even a tanker. Not unlike the sort of loose-coupled consist it might have hauled in its early days.
Of course shunting is never simple, it seemed to take all day with one thing and another getting in the way (not least railcar 458 sitting down and needing to be rescued by a G class, for the ultimate drag of shame, never mind stopping for chips).
Naturally, our preserved 121 class loco is proving very popular with our drivers, who are enjoying not changing ends 100 times per shunt, plus being so high up they feel like they are on top of the world all the time.
It’s long and tiring work, yet also great fun. Fancy joining us? We’d love to hear from you. Find out more on our volunteering page.
Even if you’re not in a position to volunteer but would like to help out, we have a donations page. All amounts, small or large, are appreciated and are put towards maintaining our fleet of preserved Irish locomotives.
