03/07/1999 – 11/07/1999 East Lancashire Railway

Following our successful visit the previous year , it wasn’t long before we were back ! After the usual pre-gala exam , a RES Class 47 moved us to Bury one week earlier than originally planned which luckily enabled 5580 to work the 5 trips Saturday diesel turn on 3rd July in lieu of poorly Crompton 33117. Commencing on the 0900 departure from Bury to Rawtenstall , thankfully all trains were completed without any trouble . Even though it was July , we took the decision to start up the boiler and heat the morning trains….it just had to be done…..and why not ?..!

The Gala took place the following weekend over Friday 9th July , Saturday 10th July & Sunday 11th July . Over the 3 days , we managed to perform 8 round trips of the line , mostly on our own although 24054 , 33117 , D832 & Immingham stablemate 47402 worked with us on various trains. On a run with 33117 , the multiple working was coupled from Bury – Rawtenstall and worked a treat although they wouldn’t ‘ talk’ to each other after being recoupled following the run-round at the destination. They were therefore operated in tandem back to Bury.

Another superb time at the ELR , and nice to see the lads there again….!! 5580 was moved direct from Bury to Barrow Hill for another appearance there by 37350. Following the BH event 5580 would appear at the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway.