7.7.12 - 20308 & 20309 1Z20 Stratford - Carlisle, Smardale

It's quite amazing with modern photography that I can have this uploaded onto my site within 30 mins of taking the actual picture. With so much bad weather recently I've been tempted to get out for things that I may not normally have made an effort for, even when there's just a chance of some sun. As was the case today for the Pathfinder / Cheshire Cat railtour from Stratford to Carlisle via the S&C and returning via the Cumbrian coast route. It's not that the traction isn't interesting, after all, Class 20s have never really been regular performers over the S&C, it's the quality of mid-day Summer light which isn't particularly attractive. I went for a cross shot at Smardale where DRS 20308 and 20309 are seen coasting downgrade right on time with 1Z20 made up of a short and varied collection of stock.