50049 Defiance & 50007 Hercules approach Banbury on 5 August 2018 with the GBRf Charity Railtours 1Z52 18:35 Birmingham International to Basingstoke 'Dub & Grub' railtour. This was definitely a proud day for Class 50 followers, but much less so for 47 enthusiasts, as originally this section of the tour was supposed to be hauled by 47749 & 47727. Unfortunately 47749 failed the previous day, and then 47727 failed whilst working the ECS, and the train had to be pushed into Birmingham by the 50s! Consequently the 50s had to unexpectedly work the train to Basingstoke. Disgraced 47727 Caisteal Dhun Eideann / Edinburgh Castle can be seen hanging on the rear. |