ARKS & SPARKS
Join two of
First GBRf’s Class 73s for a fascinating cab ride across the southern
half of London. ‘The Caterham Corps’ charity train (which ran on 10th
October 2009 to help raise funds for ‘Help for Heroes’) took Class 73
locomotives 73 212 and 73 213 over a number of routes that rarely see a
loco-hauled train. The mind-boggling itinerary even included four normally
EMU-only branches!
The
journey begins with 73 212 tackling the stiff climb out of London Victoria
on its 600hp diesel engine as the train (formed of Hastings DEMU 1001)
heads for its first calling point at Bromley North. The train then
reverses to enable 73 213 to lead the tour on the next leg of its journey
to London Bridge – via the Lee Curve, the Crayford Spur and the North
Kent Line through Woolwich, Charlton and Greenwich. That’s followed by a
return trip from London Bridge to Hayes, the train traveling via New
Cross, Lewisham, New Beckenham and Elmers End. After returning to London
Bridge 73 212 sets off again – this time heading for Caterham in the
North Downs. The EDs and the DEMU then head back to Purley where, after
another reversal, they then head for the buffer stops at Tattenham Corner.
From there, 73 213 hauls the train across south west London to Clapham
Junction and onto the West London Line to Kensington Olympia. Now running
on just its diesel engine, the 73 continues to Willesden, Acton Wells and
the North London Line to Gunnersbury Junction..from where it travels over
London Underground’s District Line to Richmond. For the final stage of
the journey, we travel in the cab of the Hastings DEMU as the veteran unit
works under its own power back to London Victoria.
This
DVD features the highlights from a fascinating and complex trip across
London’s busy rail network. The superb views from the cab, filmed in
glorious autumn sunshine, are complemented by lineside views of this
bizarre and unique train formation.
Produced in association with First GB Railfreight 
Part of the proceeds from the production of this
programme have been donated to Help for Heroes.
