THE failure of GNR(I) ‘V’ No. 85 Merlin at Greystones on the return leg of the RPSI’s ‘Sea Breeze’ on August 8 blighted what was the first run for the Compound 4-4-0 over former Dublin & South Eastern Railway metals to Rosslare.
The train had left Connolly at 10.40, but a late departure from Avoca, after taking water, had a knock-on effect to timings from there southwards. A 21-minute deficit was reduced to 17 at Enniscorthy, with traffic coming to a stand in Wexford as the train worked along the quayside section through the street.
By the time No. 85 rolled into Rosslare Harbour station it was an hour behind time.
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Spirits remained high, however, and following turning and servicing, Merlin was retracing its steps, albeit 47 minutes late.
The delay increased to 55 minutes at Rosslare Strand, but had been reduced to 37 upon leaving Enniscorthy.
No. 85 was running well, but a signal check just outside Greystones saw events take a nose dive.
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