Chaos would ensue on the SWML as Black 5 44871 took charge of Railway Touring Companies “Swanage Belle” from London Victoria to Swanage. With an amber fire severity across the south after a few weeks of no rain and endless sunshine, it was almost a surprise to see the Five let out on the mainline, but ever the optimists, a chase was made.

With perfect sunshine forecast for the day, there would be no missing capturing the engine glinting in the sun, beginning at Egham where 44871 powers away from the Staines pickup. However, this wouldn’t last, with the engine starting a lineside fire near Fleet. The next shot, coming from Totters Ln, sees the train getting away from the Winchfield water stop, during which it had been requested by Network Rail that 44871 would not provide power from hereon. It was therefore no surprise to see the engine glide past with the Class 47 on the rear at full power.

Heading into the new forest, we next capture the train through Ashurst New Forest station, now nearly an hour late from the late departure from the Winchfield water stop and being held at Millbrook to allow service trains to pass. The final shot comes from Corfe Common on the Swanage Railway, where 44871 continues to take it easy.

With 34053 Sir Keith Park working the Swanage Railway services, we head to Dickers Crossing to capture her shortly after 44871 had arrived at Swanage. While we were waiting, news came through that 44871, despite not providing the power, had started another lineside fire near Hilton Admiral, which had ended up destroying vital signalling cables, resulting in the SWML between Brockenhurst and Weymouth coming to a complete stand. Following this, it was confirmed that 44871 would not be returning with the charter.

We next head to the viewing area at Swanage to see the grounded Black 5, before capturing 34053 departing on her next service. After a few more stills of both 44871 and the WCRC consist sitting in the platform, we head to New Barn to see 47826 hauling the returning charter, minus the Black 5. Around 15 minutes later, 34053 passes with her last service of the day.

The original plan would’ve seen the Class 47 take the train as far as Southampton, where 44871 would regain control to take the train back via Dean & Andover, but with no need to reverse, and to make up time, the train headed directly up the SWML. To say it was a challenging day for all involved, would be an understatement.

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