Just Another Day…

It is very pleasing to report that 32678 has seen some action throughout the main school holiday period although the P-class has also taken its turn on the B-set. On some days, No.19 Norwegian has, however, been the choice, especially when Footplate Tasters have been organised. Many thanks to Chris Wood for this information.

It has also been reported that 32678 was, thankfully, in service for this year’s Hoppers Weekend just past, an event I was regretfully unable to attend.

So, no thanks to a combination of circumstances, the only time I’ve been able to see 32678 since high summer, and only the fourth time in 2005, was on the very last Friday of daily running. One thing that always strikes me about the Terrier is its seeming lack of mechanical noise, in contrast to the USA tanks. But there was no mistaking the whistle and exhaust beat sounding from the direction of Cranbrook Road crossing as the little engine made its way up the hill towards Tenterden Town on 02 September.

Having coupled to the Vintage set and propelled the coaches into the platform road, 32678 ran round to take its place at the head of the 1145 to Bodiam. I wanted a ride but two factors dissuaded from a full round trip. Firstly the sunshine – it seemed sensible to try and get some facing pictures between Bodiam and Tenterden Town. Secondly, the Woolwich coach was formed at the Bodiam end of the set with the balcony-ended ex-LNWR Inspection Saloon at the Tenterden end. Previous experience, notably on a run last year behind No.753 has proved that the alternative marshalling of the latter at the head of the Vintage train out of Tenterden is much more exciting and photogenic.