CORNISH FREIGHT BOOST: A trial run of a proposed new flow of aggregates from Burngullow (Cornwall) to Longport (Stoke) took place on July 18, the 20-wagon train running in two portions over the South Devon Banks due to weight restrictions. No. 70801 hauled the first portion as the 6Z57/11.25 Burngullow-Exeter Riverside, the loco then returning light engine for the second half, the combined train then going forward form Exeter at 05.00 on July 19. A second train ran with No. 70811 on July 20, pictured at Burngullow while the wagons were being loaded as No. 66200 departs with four loaded JIA wagons as the 6C53 to St Blazey then later (coincidentally) to Stoke-on-Trent.
CRAIG MUNDAY
THE UK Research Partnership Investment Fund has (UKRPIF) given a £30million boost to plans for two new railway research and innovation centres involving the University of Birmingham.