‘071s’ to the fore for RPSI’s branch line foray

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THE RPSI’s ‘Branchline Explorer’ railtour ran almost as planned on April 7, taking more than 300 passengers and three General Motors Class 071s over rare track and branches between Dublin, Waterford and Limerick.

Retro-liveried class pioneer No. 071 was in charge of the first leg, departing Dublin Connolly two minutes late at 08.47.

A brief respite from the prevailing overcast conditions at Limerick as ‘Big GM’ No. 086 shunts the RPSI’s Cravens set prior to servicing on April 7. CHRIS PLAYFAIR

The train ran non-stop to Kildare for a passenger pick-up, but left 10 minutes down at 09.45. Photo stops were made at Athy and Muine Bheag (Bagenalstown), by which time the deficit had been reduced to just three minutes.

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After a crew change at Ballyhale Loop, No. 071 took the train on to Waterford. Here, the loco was uncoupled and classmate No. 074, which had come down from Sally Park Yard, coupled on at the rear ready for the 12.15 departure for Limerick.

Further photo stops were made at Carrick-on-Suir and Clonmel, with a bonus stop at Cahir, before reaching Limerick Junction.

Read more in the May issue of The RM – on sale now!

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