Bradley Manor over Talerddig - DBLM Steam (archive content)

More archive content from 2004 and 2006. Hopefully a feast of main line 'Manor' magic from the last two runs of 7802 'Bradley Manor' along its former stamping ground - the Cambrian main line in mid-Wales.
For many the highlight has to be the fearsome 1/52 gradient on the western side of Talerddig although the whole line from Shrewsbury to Aberystywth is characterised by memorable scenery and the need for lively locomotive performance. The current 'advanced' signalling system has prevented steam along the Cambrian for several years - but we can but hope the future will hold some brighter prospects!
Whilst a good number of locations are included for each train, some equally memorable (if less dramatic and noisy) ones didn't make the cut.....including the train charging west towards Abermule with sheep scattering frantically in the fields and the mist descending off the hills.......and the trail of smoke and steam left hanging in the Severn Valley between Moat Lane and Newtown as dusk fell. And there's film from the car as Bradley Manor climbs past Cemmaes Road and on towards Commins Coch and up the long straight towards Llanbrynmair. Traffic noise and vegetation precludes use - but the memory of witnessing most of the climb remains as clear today as fifteen years ago! Choosing a location near the summit is always a last-minute gamble for me, dependant on road traffic and the train's performance on the day.
Filmed in pre-digital days so apologies for the liberties taken over some of the sound and particularly the visuals. Many more videos available on the DBLM Steam collection, accessible via the Landscape Moments website
www.landscapemoments.co.uk and via the Dave Benjamin channel on Youtube. Many thanks for viewing - and please share with others who might be interested in former GW steam over the Cambrian.