Archive of Martin Ward's web page, recovered April 2025
Bulleid's SEmG Photos 1
All photos were taken during the SEmG Outing.
BR Standard class 9F 2-10-0 no. 92240 was our train engine for the day,
and is pictured at Horsted Keynes awaiting departure for Sheffield Park.
The Superb GNR Director's Saloon, which was the Group's accomodation
for the day, is seen next to the engine and is the only non-Southern
vehicle in the train. The locomotive was the most modern part of the
consist!
After arriving at Sheffield Park station, the 9F was uncoupled and is seen running round next to the GNR Director's Saloon. The next vehicle is a Southern Railway Maunsell-designed brake coach no. 6686. The footbridge makes for an excellent vantage point.
The large end windows of the GNR Director's Saloon provided an unrivalled view of the line, or of the business end of 92240. The sun streamed in making it a superb point to watch the countryside roll by. The high standard of restoration work can be clearly seen in the glorious woodwork and the highly polished varnish finish. Also notable is the recessed luggage compartment in the Maunsell brake coach.
Just visible underneath the right-hand buffer of the Director's Saloon is the electric horn, operated by a foot pedal inside. It's position is specifically designed to encourage quick coupling by the shunter.
Take things eeeaasyy! Being a fireman is a physically demanding job, requiring great skill and effort couple with strength and stamina. Often you will shovel 9 tons or more during a shift (well on lines with some hills), a great effort when that shift may be 12 hours long.
But it isn't ALWAYS like that...