Permanent Way Institute Charter (1985) - Whitehead Railway Museum

Some memories of a unique RPSI operation on 9th June 1985 - for railway professionals! The Permanent Way Institute held their annual conference at Portrush, and No.4 and No.171 powered a complex operation over 19 hours, involving a special train from Portrush to Cultra via the Antrim branch (then empty train to and from Bangor) and back in the evening. The two sets of engine crews involved were all ex-steam men: Inspector Frank Dunlop and drivers/firemen Tom Crymble, George Gaw, Davie McDonald, Barney McCrory, Andy Rushe, George Houston and Harry Ramsay. Much of the organisation and pre-planning was done by Denis Grimshaw. A unique and very high mileage day - never to be repeated! All photos by Joe Cassells, unless otherwise stated.

No.4 on the the empty train from Whitehead to Portrush at Shell Hill crossing on the Portrush branch.

No.4 entering Coleraine from Portrush with the loaded train.

At Antrim No.4 handed over to No.171, which took the train to Cultra then empty to Bangor. No.171 is at Tillysburn on the way to Bangor having run to Belfast CSD to turn.

No.171 is approacing its (empty) train at Bangor.

No.171 with the empty train at Helen's Bay (with the siding platform and buildings still in situ).

The train stopped at Cultra to pick up its passengers after their museum visit.

No.171 and train passing Sydenham.

Leaving Belfast Central (as was) and passing the Gasworks wall.

On the third line from Lisburn at Knockmore Halt, and heading for the Antrim branch.

The engine change at Antrim. No.4 had run to Whitehead for servicing having handed over to No.171 earlier in the day.

Back at Portrush and the end of the day (for the passengers). No.4 has run round its train and is preparing to haul the empty stock back to Whitehead.

No.4 taking water at Ballymena.