For those like me who had to look up SLOA, it's........
"Steam Locomotive Operator's Association"

Thanks, Tim. I believe it might also be on Radio 3 this Saturday.

Edit:- Confirmed

https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002yy1v

It will be broadcast on BBC4 telly on Friday 24th July but only 2 hours against the radio's 3 hours

Quote from: eddief83 on July 13, 2026, 02:38:56 PMI have the full SLOA pullman set and want an intercity charter set similar to Mallard pulled in 1988 for the anniversary run.

What is your SLOA rake made up from? From the period photos I've seen the formation changed a little. My interpretation is made up of Mk1 Pullmans plus a RMB and some regular blue/grey or Intercity FO.

I've got the Pilkington set on my to-do list. All over green with light blue and red markings at the ends - possibly the worst livery every painted on a train.

Thank you for the reminder Mick, I believe the concert is now to be shown on BBC4 (not sure of date but might be next week) and will be on iPlayer/BBC Sounds. I will update ASAP.

Tim

Quote from: eddief83 on July 13, 2026, 02:38:56 PMAs someone who models the 1980's its much easier as support coaches didn't have much if any modifications then 

You raise an interesting point. When did the practice of a dedicated, customised support coach actually start, rather than simply attaching a reasonably standard BSK or BCK behind the locomotive?

In the early preservation era and railtour days, my impression is that the support vehicle was often little more than a convenient brake coach for the crew and equipment. The heavily modified support coaches we see today seem to have evolved gradually as main line operations became more professionalised, locomotives spent longer periods away from base, and support crews started carrying significantly more tools, spares and onboard facilities.

In theory I'm modelling the autumn of 1988, so a fairly standard BR Mk1 would probably be the correct answer. However, occasional bouts of time travel permit the appearance of a visiting locomotive, which is how I've ended up down the support coach rabbit hole!

very sad news.

Sam Neill died suddenly. Sorry about pic sideways.

Just a reminder the BBC Prog Rock prom is Saturday 18th July

Must admit laughed at that

Who remembers 66 and what happened then ?
Rattin sent off, Sir Geoff Hurst only goal. Ramsey branded the Argentinians as 'Animals'


1986 the infamous hand of Maradona and Lineker late gial

1998 lost on penalties Beckham sent off. Owen famous goal

2002 redemption