Harvey On The Ballast - 1 (2000)

"R.H. Smyth" on the ballast. Here are some views of the RPSI involvement in the re-laying of the Bleach Green Junction - Antrim railway line over the summer of 2000. The photographs attempt to follow a typical day from steam-raising, to charging through the countryside, to our return to dispose of the engine. The contract lasted from 18th June until 25th November 2000.

Early morning and No.3 "R.H. Smyth" (Harvey) is being lit up in the mist.

Crossing the Airport Road level crossing (Kilmakee).

Steamraising at Templepatrick.

Taking water at Templepatrick.

Stabling in Templepatrick loop.

Stabling beside Templepatrick goods shed.

Looking towards Belfast from Templepatrick Loop - off we go for the day!

Crossing the M2 motorway.

Approaching Ballymartin level crossing.

Crossing Ballymartin level crossing.

Approaching Doagh.

Ballasting near Doagh.

Passing Doagh brick works, which is to the rear of the closed station.

Taking water at Kingsmoss level crossing.

At Kingsbog on a mid-shift service break, Nelson Poots ensures the tank is filled.

While the tank is being refilled there is time to view the state of the trackwork.

Time for a coal refill as well.

The coal is supplied in bags.

Back to work - Harvey in full flow.

Looking towards Belfast from Kingsmoss.

Loading up at the former Ballyclare Junction.

The loading shovel at Ballyclare Junction.

Loading up at Access 17 (between Mossley and Monkstown, beside Ulster Way).

Storming from Access 17 towards Mossley station.

Just on the edge of Bleach Green viaduct (the limit of travel for the contract).

The proud crew at Templepatrick after a hard day's work.

The sun sets after a successful day.

6/11/2020: No.3 and the ballast wagons, with the new Mossley West halt under construction. (J. Tilly)