JL - 27.5.23 D345 1Z79 Appleby - Newcastle, Ormside

With 3 tours passing through Cumbria today there was much to go at. I prioritised the Class 40 hauled Northern Belle tour which covered ECML, Tyne Valley, WCML and S&C in one great day out. Starting at Darlington working north and across the Tyne Valley to access the WCML at Upperby Junc. From there it was south to Preston only to retrace its steps back north behind the beautifully turned out Brunswick green D345 (40145). Again, taking Upperby Junc and Petteril Bridge Junc for the S&C and a 1hr 45min break at Appleby. Enough time for the passengers to enjoy the county town of Westmoreland. Seen shortly after an on time departure from Appleby, on the return leg to Darlington via Leeds and York, D345 thunders over Ormisde Viaduct with the dark waters of the Eden flowing far below. Following this diagram today was a great way to spend a warm Spring Saturday.