Wednesday 29/08/18
(Updated 30/08)
Another ‘Grid’ to EMDC – GBRf’s 56018 has been moved from Leicester LIP to the sidings at the East Midlands Distribution Centre (EMDC) in Castle Donington this afternoon, haulage being provided by Rail Operations Group using 37611. The Class 56 Group’s 56301 was also hauled ‘dead in train’ in the consist of the 5Z56 formation, along with just a single ex-Eurostar ‘Nightstar’ mk. 3 generator coach. 56018 joins stored GBRf classmates 56081, 098, 104 & 312 which are already on site, whereas 56301 is to be held in reserve here until a time where it is required for traffic. This is purely to free up space at Leicester Depot and The Class 56 Group would like to make it clear that the loco has NOT been sold.
Grids back on the logs – With the transfer of the tenth and final class 60 (60002) from Colas Rail to GBRf having now taken place, the utilisation of Colas 56s on other traffic flows is now starting to become more prominent. 56090 & 56113 have been deployed to the 6J37 Carlisle Yard – Chirk Kronospan & 6C37 return timber flow this week, making their debut yesterday and routed via the S&C. The duo are in use again today on this train and should be working it for the rest of the week.
General traffic notes – 56087 & 56094 worked the 6M32 Lindsey O.R. – Preston Docks (Ribble Rail) & 6E32 return yesterday and today and should replicate this for the remainder of the week. 56302 has worked the 6R46 Grangemouth Ineos – Prestwick Oil Terminal & 6N47 return today.