Donald Stirling's Photos http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/ 185 rows en-gb 60 Telfords Coaches http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1776218.html Spotted this operator in Hawick. More gen to follow..... Friday 30 October 2009: Spotted this operator in Hawick. More gen to follow.....

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]]> Fri Oct 30 2009 MacEwans http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1776214.html MacEwans are based in Amisfield and operate services in the South West and Borders, including the Dumfries - Edinburgh route. Friday 30 October 2009: MacEwans are based in Amisfield and operate services in the South West and Borders, including the Dumfries - Edinburgh route.

MacEwans SK52UTT shows as new to HAD Shotts, and a Dart is new on the route to my knowledge

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]]> Fri Oct 30 2009 Munros http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1776212.html Borders operator based in Jedburgh. Operates a mix of local and long distance services in the area. Tuesday 3 November 2009: Borders operator based in Jedburgh. Operates a mix of local and long distance services in the area.

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]]> Tue Nov 3 2009 City Circle http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1773828.html City Circle have a base in Bonnyrigg and operate a fleet of coaches which are a familiar sight around Edinburgh. Wednesday 23 September 2009: City Circle have a base in Bonnyrigg and operate a fleet of coaches which are a familiar sight around Edinburgh.

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]]> Wed Sep 23 2009 tctours2009 episode 4 - Trams, trains, a ferry and some buses http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1770963.html Episode 4 achieved all it set out to, with the exception of Starr Gate to Please Your Beech. What it didn't do was stay dry, have the appropriate number of staff on departure from Glasgow to provide the advertised breakfast service, ensure that all trams stopped at stops when I gave a clear signal to the driver, or have enough passengers waiting for E326MSG in Pressed on to allow me to run from the station and get a snap..... Fans may need to wait a while for Episode 5. It's more likely to be 2010 Episode 1. Wednesday 21 October 2009: Episode 4 achieved all it set out to, with the exception of Starr Gate to Please Your Beech. What it didn't do was stay dry, have the appropriate number of staff on departure from Glasgow to provide the advertised breakfast service, ensure that all trams stopped at stops when I gave a clear signal to the driver, or have enough passengers waiting for E326MSG in Pressed on to allow me to run from the station and get a snap..... Fans may need to wait a while for Episode 5. It's more likely to be 2010 Episode 1.

01 390018 awaits departure at Central with the 0840 Euston 02 The empty catering trolley is misleading 03 I reflect on the train info display..... 04 Gangway! 05 DR98904 awaits a path south at Preston 06 185134 and 185122 side by side at Preston 07 150147 waits at Preston for a Hazel Grove departure 08 Preston - my Blackpool South service is on time 09 142043 at Blackpool South 10 Blackpool South sign 11 285 approaches Waterloo Road 12 123 at the Royal Oak (so good they named twice???) 13 288 branded for the Lifestyle Line 14 52613 on an X61 CityConnect for Preston 15 328 northbound for Cleveleys 16 116 is on an 11 for Cleveleys 17 253 heels over in characteristic Solo style on a 5 18 813 waits as the Old Dears check about whether their passes are valid 19 813 approaches the photographer 20 It's a MAN, jim, but not as we know it.... Tuesday's winner of the 21 YR58RSZ is a Scania Omniwhatsit with Thompsons Tours 22 645 advertises Jet2 from Blackpool International (yeh, right) Airport 23 719 passes 645 with a classic Blackpool backdrop 24 719 interior 25 719 - note the twin stairwells 26 Training Vehicle southbound 27 719 turns at Fleetwood 28 Wyre Rose at Fleetwood 29 Wyre Rose interior 30 Wyre Rose at Knott End - looks a bit choppy 31 Wyre Rose at Knott End - are you getting on, then? 32 Wyre Rose closeup 36 339 positively glows at Fleetwood 33 Fleetwood ferry terminal 34 Knott End Ferry Optare Alero 37 709 in overall Sea Life livery at Fleetwood 38 709 on the rare bit of track at Fleetwood. Pax have to disembark whilst it moves round the corner. Bizarre. 35 Knott End Ferry Optare Alero 39 Fleetwood Lighthouse 40 25232 in Fleetwood 41 Cumfybus Solo MX09MJY is pursued by 402 42 402 northbound in Fleetwood 43 306 departs Fleetwood for Blackpool 44 Fleetwood. In spite of a clear hand signal this tram did not stop. I wasn't chuffed. 45 25232 has turned and is awaiting her run south 46 Cumfybus MX09MJY has a fair old run to Preston ahead 47 47482 is southbound in Fleetwood for Victoria Hospital 48 402 leads a three vehicle cavalcade as a Mini tries to squeeze in on the act 49 310 is on the frequent 14 service in Fleetwood 50 402 rear view shows the Promenade Route 1 branding

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]]> Wed Oct 21 2009 Glasgow Vintage Vehicle Trust Open Day October 2009 http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1767230.html Great day out! Loads of vehicles, plenty of shuttles and South Side Tours all thrown in for the £5 admission charge. Only disappointment for me was that I had limited time, and was unable to go on a tour. I'll be back..... Sunday 11 October 2009: Great day out! Loads of vehicles, plenty of shuttles and South Side Tours all thrown in for the _5 admission charge. Only disappointment for me was that I had limited time, and was unable to go on a tour. I'll be back.....

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]]> Sun Oct 11 2009 Warships in the Clyde http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1764222.html An exercise in the Clyde resulted in a number of ships gathering in the Gare Loch. Unable to cover the action, managed a few shots of the moored craft and the strong police presence Sunday 4 October 2009: An exercise in the Clyde resulted in a number of ships gathering in the Gare Loch. Unable to cover the action, managed a few shots of the moored craft and the strong police presence

HMS Illustrious HMS Illustrious - two Sea Harriers on view Police launch reflections 32 USS John L Hall 61 USS Ramage 67 USS Cole stern view Police inflatable at speed HMS Illustrious HMS Illustrious - the Sea King and crane give scale to the aircraft carrier Police keep an eye on the Sunday yachting set HMS Illustrious with a police cruiser Faslane from the hills HMS Illustrious Polaris submarine in the fog HMS Illustrious M106 Penzance leaves her moorings Sea King 623 passes overhead M106 Penzance putters away M106 Penzance and a tug pass HMS Illustrious with passing tug American fleet servicing boat - not sure waht it's all about, though Police inflatable at speed 32 USS John L Hall 61 USS Ramage 67 USS Cole port side view 32 USS John L Hall 61 USS Ramage 67 USS Cole 61 USS Ramage and 67 USS Cole gun detail

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]]> Sun Oct 4 2009 Megabus http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1762861.html Stagecoach brand for longer distance stuff. First snaps in the collection are of the 59 plate Van Hool Astromegas during their driver familiarisation period at Aberdeen. Others will move swiftly.... Thursday 1 October 2009: Stagecoach brand for longer distance stuff. First snaps in the collection are of the 59 plate Van Hool Astromegas during their driver familiarisation period at Aberdeen. Others will move swiftly....

SV56BVJ at Cammachmore northbound on the A90 54021 at Perth depot on a wet day 54015 at Kinross Park and Ride 52431 on a M90 for Edinburgh at Kinross Park and Ride 52386 inbound at Kinross Park and Ride 52386 catvhes the sun at Kinross Park and Ride SV56BWE operated by Parks northbound at Auchenkilns 50129 approaches broxden park and Ride with the Aberdeen - London M11 service 54022 waits at Broxden for the connecting M11 service which has arrived 54022 at Broxden 50129 trailer shot 50129 departs broxden park and Ride for Buchanan bus Station, Glasgow 50230 reversing at Guild Street 50230 waits at Guild Street 50228 at Aberdeen depot 50228 tail light detail 50228 lower deck interior 50228 lower deck table 50228 upper deck rear 50228 upper deck looking forward 50228 rear stairwe 50228 rear stairwell 50228 front stairwell 50228 front bulkhead 50228 looking to rear of upper deck 50228 lower deck interior 50230 about to turn off Old Wellington Road 50230 rear view

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]]> Thu Oct 1 2009 Dodds of Troon http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1761066.html Dodds are 100 years old next year. Ayr based these days, popped in to their depot whilst between parking surveys and grabbed some snaps. Monday 28 September 2009: Dodds are 100 years old next year. Ayr based these days, popped in to their depot whilst between parking surveys and grabbed some snaps.

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]]> Mon Sep 28 2009 Dundee Corporation Transport http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1757308.html The images in this gallery are from my collection of slides and were acquired more than 20 years ago - I'm afraid the slides did not have the photographer's name on them, so I am unable to acknowledge his excellent work. They depict scenes in Dundee from the mid to late 1960s, during a period when I was at primary school in the city, and bring back happy memories of that time. Particular favourites are the Cravens roofbox RTs and the new single deck fleetlines, whose bodywork sadly had to be replaced. Friday 1 January 1965: The images in this gallery are from my collection of slides and were acquired more than 20 years ago - I'm afraid the slides did not have the photographer's name on them, so I am unable to acknowledge his excellent work. They depict scenes in Dundee from the mid to late 1960s, during a period when I was at primary school in the city, and bring back happy memories of that time. Particular favourites are the Cravens roofbox RTs and the new single deck fleetlines, whose bodywork sadly had to be replaced.

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]]> Fri Jan 1 1965 Stagecoach Bluebird http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1754716.html First shots in this collection on a day trip to Peterhead. Mr Gardner deserves his own collection... Saturday 1 January 2000: First shots in this collection on a day trip to Peterhead. Mr Gardner deserves his own collection...

40134 at Asda, Portlethen on the 110 Portlethen Circular 22705 in Portlethen on the soon to be discontinued 109 Aberdeen - Portlethen service 40134 climbs towards Portlethen station with the 110 Portlethen circular 22361 heads for the city at Portlethen Station 47079 at Richmond Avenue, Peterhead with a 283 town service 40165 on A950 Longside Road, Peterhead with the rare 469 Fraserburgh service 50144 seems an odd choice for the 286 service, inbound for Peterhead on A950 Longside Road 47602 is southbound on Richmond Road, Peterhead at Fairhaven Terrace with the 283 Aalesund town service 47214 departs Peterhead Transport Interchange for Meethill on a 281 34028 departs Peterhead Transport Interchange with a 269 for Fraserburgh via Crimond 53210 arrives at Peterhead with a 260 for Aberdeen 53210 waits patiently as passengers board at Peterhead Transport Interchange 16153 arrives at Peterhead with a 260, but will go off service to the depot 47603 pulls in to Peterhead Transport Interchange with a 281 service 40041 at Peterhead Transport Interchange with a 261 service for Hatton Mill via Cruden bay 50144 outbound on A950 Longside Road, Peterhead on a 286 for Mintlaw. Unusual, I would say..... 53208 is Not In Service on A950 Longside Road, Peterhead 16526 is on a Schools Service on A982 North Road, Peterhead 52362 is the Peterhead trainer, setting out for the final session of the afternoon 47605 at Ellon Park and Ride 47605 awaits departure having arrived via Udny PO 53208 awaits her next duty at Ellon Park and Ride 53206 has a good load as she departs for Fraserburgh from Ellon Park and Ride 53206 rear view showing the 30-50-70 warning branding Ellon Park and Ride signage - check the old Stagey branding.... 22255 on Guild Street is northbound on the 59 city route 50144 is reversing to park at Guild Street 32368 arrives at Guild Street on a 215 16153 departs for Ellon 52294 looks very yellow at Guild Street 53205 waits at Guild Street SV59CHF on delivery at Aberdeen 20141 at Aberdeen depot 33906 at Aberdeen depot 16715 in the washer at Aberdeen depot 16715 in the washer at Aberdeen depot SV59CHF on delivery at Aberdeen SV59CHF on delivery at Aberdeen 22273 arrives at Aberdeen depot 20992 is seen heading for Aberdeen depot on Old Wellington Road - formerly a Manchester MagicBus 20951 on Union Street with an X17 for Elrick 33431 rear view showing Union Square overall advert 53308 is By Royal appointment on Union Street on a 202 for Lumphanan 53222 waits for the lights as Market Street stretches into the distance behind her 53209 on King Street as white lining is completed following earlier roadworks 22353 is diverted via West North Street as King Street is closed northbound due to roadworks 53208 is southbound on King Street at the Mounthooly junction 53218 is diverted along Mounthooly Road as a result of works on King Street 53216 inbound on a BUchan Link service on King Street 51063 may be on borrowed time as new Van Hools for Megabus and Oxford Tube free up double deck coach resource elsewhere. King Street inbound.

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]]> Sat Jan 1 2000 Leuchars Airshow 2009 http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1754411.html Vulcan to the Skies..... XH558 did the business this year in glorious weather. Huge crowds. Fantastic day!!!!! Saturday 12 September 2009: Vulcan to the Skies..... XH558 did the business this year in glorious weather. Huge crowds. Fantastic day!!!!!

Vulcan XH558 in the distance Vulcan XH558 Vulcan XH558 Vulcan XH558 Vulcan XH558 Vulcan XH558 Red Arrows escort a lone Typhoon Red Arrows go blue Red Arrows Red arrows smoke off in close formation Red Arrows cross at close range Red Arrows burst Red Arrrows - one aircraft goes against the flow Red Arrows

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]]> Sat Sep 12 2009 Airbus A380 comes to Edinburgh http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1751052.html Airbus Industries A380 F-WWOW visited Edinburgh Airport as part of a UK tour on Saturday 5th September 2009. She made a pass over the city and then out over the Forth Bridges before an "approach and go" at the main runway from east to west. Sunday 6 September 2009: Airbus Industries A380 F-WWOW visited Edinburgh Airport as part of a UK tour on Saturday 5th September 2009. She made a pass over the city and then out over the Forth Bridges before an "approach and go" at the main runway from east to west.

01 The crowds wait patiently 02 She is glimpsed through the clouds 03 Cars line the roads 04 She approaches the airport having made a pass over the city 05 06 Almost overhead 07 Turns to fly past the Bridges 08 strange route for a passenger aircraft 09 Surreal, almost 10 55012 drops his chicken roll in shock as she passes Inverkeithing 11 making the turn over Kirkcaldy 12 On finals now 13 Here she comes! 14 the Airbus livery is clearly seen here 15 Over the end of the runway - note the helicopter filming 16 Just about to start her climb 17 Up she goes - glad I was at the Turnhouse end! 18 Gear up and she's away 19 Huge crowds 20 Should have got a bigger camera, methinks!

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]]> Sun Sep 6 2009 University of West of Scotland New Ayr Campus http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1747289.html UWoS have finally reached the construction phase of their new Campus building at Craigie, Ayr in August 2009. As one of a number of Consultants who have been involved in the project for quite some time, I was favoured with an invitation to the Turf Cutting ceremony on 28th August. I hope to make this an ongoing record of the construction project as it progresses..... Friday 28 August 2009: UWoS have finally reached the construction phase of their new Campus building at Craigie, Ayr in August 2009. As one of a number of Consultants who have been involved in the project for quite some time, I was favoured with an invitation to the Turf Cutting ceremony on 28th August. I hope to make this an ongoing record of the construction project as it progresses.....

101 New sign on Beech Grove means no entry for Construction traffic 102 Turf Cutting this way 103 Looks lke we are over here 104 The crowds flock to the spot 105 UWS Seamus McDaid speaks to the assembled party 106 The Lady Provost says a few words 107 Marcus struggles with the shiny shovels 108 Here we go - only they didn't actually cut any turf 109 This hat will spoil my hair.... 110 The Bovis boys are in on the act 111 Finally the JCB goes full frame 112 Outgunned. Bah. 113 The root shredder waits her turn 114 The JCB gets in about the tree roots 115 Teamwork as the root shredder roars into action with her 550hp V8 116 The JCB moves out of the way 117 118 119 120 121 122 123 124 125 126 127 128 129 Looking west to the north of the Archive Centre

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]]> Fri Aug 28 2009 Open Top oddities http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1742839.html This may yet turn out to be a collection too far, but we shall see..... Wednesday 19 August 2009: This may yet turn out to be a collection too far, but we shall see.....

City Sightseeing E309MSG ex Lothian heads towards Union Street, Glasgow Open Top Festival Frolics 1 Open Top Festival Frolics 2 Open Top Festival Frolics 3

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]]> Wed Aug 19 2009 Daftest collection yet? http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1742773.html This collection was started as a damage limitation exercise on my part, the front panel on the dishwasher having become amost completely separated from the carcase. The carcase door had also developed an alignment problem. If my repair mission ended in failure, I wanted evidence of the existing damage in my defence.... Wednesday 15 July 2009: This collection was started as a damage limitation exercise on my part, the front panel on the dishwasher having become amost completely separated from the carcase. The carcase door had also developed an alignment problem. If my repair mission ended in failure, I wanted evidence of the existing damage in my defence....

01 Secure the connections to prevent losing them down the back of the sink 02 I take one screw out and this happens.... 03 The heatshield canny take it, Captain!! 04 The dodgy carcase door detail 05 The mounting plate has failed at all the screw head points bar one on the right hand side 06 Not in good shape, is it? 07 First mug of the day? 08 Left hand side repair. No Nails tape, Superglue and washers combined to repair this side 09 Almost finished. Time to refit. Niggled her on, and then had a fight with the door catch not catching. Repositioned the bracket holding the thing in place, and bingo. 10 Finished. Seemples...!

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]]> Wed Jul 15 2009 Edinburgh - photos normal people might take... http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1742659.html Edinburgh - photos normal people might take... Sunday 16 August 2009: Edinburgh - photos normal people might take...

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]]> Sun Aug 16 2009 McDade of Uddingston http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1742470.html McDade have taken several ex Lothian Olympians of late, but ironically I have only managed to snap them so far in Edinburgh.... Tuesday 18 August 2009: McDade have taken several ex Lothian Olympians of late, but ironically I have only managed to snap them so far in Edinburgh....

814 eastbound on George Street with 827 in pursuit 814 on U2 shuttle duties heads for St Andrew Square 827 on U2 shuttle duties. Not sure about the McDade uniform policy.....

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]]> Tue Aug 18 2009 Edinburgh Festival 2009 http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1739631.html As I work in edinburgh, it's only fair I snap the action. Captions will be provided. Probably. Wednesday 12 August 2009: As I work in edinburgh, it's only fair I snap the action. Captions will be provided. Probably.

Flora Cook deserves much more of an audience than just me.... Sounds yummy! Book Festival - Professor Edwin Thumboo has just finished a TV interview National Gallery performance viewed from the Scott Monument Book Festival - guess i'm in the shot, then.... Book Festival - camera records the action opposite the entrance Cyclists can't read #1 - it's 1700 and it's all about to kick off..... Cyclists can't read #2 - the removable racks are being removed Cyclists can't read #3 - Cyclists can't read #4 - all the racks are down and the other bike is free to go Cyclists can't read #5 - only the moped is left Cyclists can't read #6 - the moped gets bounced away

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]]> Wed Aug 12 2009 Brussels Holiday Snaps http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1739630.html July 2009 saw a return to Brussels for our Silver Wedding, having last visited a mere 25 years earlier on honeymoon. A jolly time was had. Apparently. Saturday 11 July 2009: July 2009 saw a return to Brussels for our Silver Wedding, having last visited a mere 25 years earlier on honeymoon. A jolly time was had. Apparently.

Grand Place Hotel Plaza - our room is seen on the 3rd floor Grand Place Grand Place Food pic Random statue Atomium Atomium closeup Japanese Villa Royal Palace Flags Grand Place Crikey - it's a cat on a bikey! On the day.... Tiled gable end treatment opposite the Horta Museum Horta Museum - highly recommended! Tiled gable end treatment opposite the Horta Museum

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]]> Sat Jul 11 2009 Redding Road Pedestrian Bridge Replacement http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1738559.html A three weekend project to replace the pedestrian footbridge across the Grahamston railway line at Redding. Week one sees the removal of the bulk of the old structure Saturday 8 August 2009: A three weekend project to replace the pedestrian footbridge across the Grahamston railway line at Redding. Week one sees the removal of the bulk of the old structure

201 202 203 101 looking south across the railway line 102 the removed section of bridge 103 general view of the worksite 104 a panel is lowered into the Falkirk Council truck 105 side view of the panel being loaded 106 the stop is clearly out of use 107 the side of the bridge is shown 108 cutting continues 109 110 a support lies discarded 111 the team appear to take a break 112 looking north east, the reamins of the bridge can be seen 113 looking south - the reamining section of bridge is fenced off 114 another view of the severed bridge 115 looking towards Laurieston and Falkirk Grahamston 116 looking north 117 campsite looks well set up 204 205 65752 about to turn from Redding Main Street into Woodburn Avenue. Threse cones are the limit of the traffic managment..... 206 65752 climbs the hill 118 Week 2 - South side abutment gets a little attention 119 North side abutment 120 Week two - little action at all 207 62354 still has a real screen, seen here making the turn into Woodburn Avenue 208 65702 inbound on Woodburn Avenue 209 65702 moves cautiously out at the bottom of Woodburn Avenue 121 Road closure goes in at 0730 122 The new bridge sections have arrived 123 Bridge sections viewed from the south 124 125 126 Temporary support is erected 127 Centre brackets to join the two sections 128 DAF tractor unit with the bridge in the background 129 Looing north west the new bridge sections are seen from Redding Main Street 130 DAF tractor unit with the bridge in the background 131 DAF tractor unit 132 Looking south across the Grahamston line 133 Panoramic view from School Road 134 South side warning notice 135 looking south from the east side of the bridge 136 The slots for the mounting plates have been drilled 137 East side closeup 138 Chain detail 139 The two sections are to be joined 140 Road closure signs 141 Stihl saw in action

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]]> Sat Aug 8 2009 tctours2009 episode 3 - erraglescabus, so it is! http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1738557.html The Edinburgh Transport Group decided to take up my offer of retrieving one of the few remaining Citybuses from Gala for their evening tour in August. Enlightened self interest - I was unlikely to be able to drive one in service otherwise. All the victims seemed to enjoy the spin - even Shoeman, after his early suggestion that a brake application had perhaps been "sherp". Many thanks to the man at First Scotland East who fixed it for me, along with the guys at Gala for a well turned out vehicle. Pure quality thrash, particularly on the way back to Gala at dark-o'clock...... Monday 10 August 2009: The Edinburgh Transport Group decided to take up my offer of retrieving one of the few remaining Citybuses from Gala for their evening tour in August. Enlightened self interest - I was unlikely to be able to drive one in service otherwise. All the victims seemed to enjoy the spin - even Shoeman, after his early suggestion that a brake application had perhaps been "sherp". Many thanks to the man at First Scotland East who fixed it for me, along with the guys at Gala for a well turned out vehicle. Pure quality thrash, particularly on the way back to Gala at dark-o'clock......

01 Arrival at Great King Street 02 Western Harbour 03 Western Harbour 04 Other Fat Bloke seems upset I have snapped him..... 05 Ocean Terminal. VV773 waves 06 VV773 seems well pleased with the thrash monster 07 Other Fat Bloke gets his own back 08 Edinburgh Park station - the 24 doesn't come here any more, so I could get away with blocking the turning circle 09 37025 realises her's been snapped 10 Last rays of sun at The Park 11 Potential new members? 12 Rainman gets the snap of the tramboard 13 Rainman hits the ground 14 Rainman seems a little in awe 15 I'm fed up now - he's in the picture again! 16 Sheriffhall Park and Ride 17 Galashiels. Dark o'clock. Pure thrash all the way back. Awesome....

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]]> Mon Aug 10 2009 Edinburgh Festival 2009 - Signspotting http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1736945.html Doug Lansky might be one of the world’s most respected travel writers, but he is better known as the orchestrator of The Signspotting Project, a longstanding mission to collect images of the world’s funniest road signs. This passionate quest for examples of unintentional roadside humour has been the subject of a nationally syndicated column in the US and three Lonely Planet books, the most recent of which has just been released in the UK. Now, Lansky’s project has evolved into a form of art – though he is reluctant to call it that – with The Signspotting Project exhibition taking place in Edinburgh’s Princes Mall throughout August. On its first UK outing in Edinburgh, the exhibition will be split into two, displaying some signs indoors at Princes Mall and others on the roof. With around 40,000 images in his bank, Lansky says that whittling down his catalogue to the 100 featured in the show was tough. ‘I started out with the ones I had in the first two books,’ he says. ‘There were a couple of hundred in each. Plus, there’s only so many that work well without their backdrop. Basically, the ones I chose were personal favourites that worked well universally. I tried to opt for those that had the least text and were more visual.’ All the above commentary is replicated from The Edinburgh Festival Guide website....... Thursday 6 August 2009: Doug Lansky might be one of the world_s most respected travel writers, but he is better known as the orchestrator of The Signspotting Project, a longstanding mission to collect images of the world_s funniest road signs. This passionate quest for examples of unintentional roadside humour has been the subject of a nationally syndicated column in the US and three Lonely Planet books, the most recent of which has just been released in the UK. Now, Lansky_s project has evolved into a form of art _ though he is reluctant to call it that _ with The Signspotting Project exhibition taking place in Edinburgh_s Princes Mall throughout August. On its first UK outing in Edinburgh, the exhibition will be split into two, displaying some signs indoors at Princes Mall and others on the roof. With around 40,000 images in his bank, Lansky says that whittling down his catalogue to the 100 featured in the show was tough. _I started out with the ones I had in the first two books,_ he says. _There were a couple of hundred in each. Plus, there_s only so many that work well without their backdrop. Basically, the ones I chose were personal favourites that worked well universally. I tried to opt for those that had the least text and were more visual._ All the above commentary is replicated from The Edinburgh Festival Guide website.......

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]]> Thu Aug 6 2009 Polmont Rail Disaster 1984 http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1733882.html The Polmont Rail Disaster took place on 30th July 1984 near redding, just west of Polmont. 13 people lost their lives and 61 were injured. A Memorial was unveiled on the 25th Anniversary of the Disaster at Polmont station. Our daughter Jayne took the photos of this sad event. Thursday 30 July 2009: The Polmont Rail Disaster took place on 30th July 1984 near redding, just west of Polmont. 13 people lost their lives and 61 were injured. A Memorial was unveiled on the 25th Anniversary of the Disaster at Polmont station. Our daughter Jayne took the photos of this sad event.

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]]> Thu Jul 30 2009 Brussels Royal Museum of the Army and Military History http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1733524.html The Royal Museum of the Army and Military History is located in one of the buildings of the Cinquantenaire Park and contains about one hundred thousand items. This collection makes the museum rank among the top military museums in the world. It's a top visit! Wednesday 15 July 2009: The Royal Museum of the Army and Military History is located in one of the buildings of the Cinquantenaire Park and contains about one hundred thousand items. This collection makes the museum rank among the top military museums in the world. It's a top visit!

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]]> Wed Jul 15 2009 tctours 2009 Episode 2 - the 25 year something.... http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1732849.html Our Silver Wedding rather crept up on me - it was only late January when I realised it was actually THIS year. Anyway, in a lavish reconstruction of the honeymoon we went back to Brussels. Eurostar beats a cross channel hovercraft any day, so that was hastily substituted along with flights to and fro London. These are just the to and fro shots, the trams, buses and other nonsense can be found elsewhere if you are tired enough of life to look. St Pancras was suitably impressive. And no, my dear wife ISN'T called Penny. (see episode 1). A jolly spin, but no way to value the thrash. Saturday 11 July 2009: Our Silver Wedding rather crept up on me - it was only late January when I realised it was actually THIS year. Anyway, in a lavish reconstruction of the honeymoon we went back to Brussels. Eurostar beats a cross channel hovercraft any day, so that was hastily substituted along with flights to and fro London. These are just the to and fro shots, the trams, buses and other nonsense can be found elsewhere if you are tired enough of life to look. St Pancras was suitably impressive. And no, my dear wife ISN'T called Penny. (see episode 1). A jolly spin, but no way to value the thrash.

01 360202 at Heathrow 02 360202 logo 03 St Pancras Champagne bar 04 St Pancras statue 05 St Pancras - big heels... 06 3223 and 3224 on the left are us 07 St Pancras - passenger info display 08 St Pancras - Sir John Betjeman statue 09 Security checkin approaches as we blag the business entrance 10 St Pancras International Passenger info displays 11 Brussels - we are coach 11 12 Brussels - I was waiting for the 13 A passenger bales on to bag the front droplight? 14 3020 at Brussels Midi 15 3020 and 3017 16 3020 Temple Mills depot sticker 17 Passengers queue patiently 18 Brussels Midi as staff stand guard 19 Leisure First Breakfast 20 St Pancras - in a hurry to get to the Champagne bar? 21 St Pancras overall roof. Boss looks fed up. 22 St Pancras clock

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]]> Sat Jul 11 2009 Edinburgh Coach Lines http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1732210.html Hitherto pretty much a coach operator, Edinburgh Coach Lines have burst onto mainstream stage carriage operation with two new Plaxton Centros for the 13 which they have taken over from Lothian and indeed over the full former 13 route from Lochend to Blackhall. ECL took over the contracted former Mac Tours 61 route last year, but this has now been withdrawn. Gary Forbes-Burns has been instrumental in the 13 contract, and the buses look good! Monday 27 July 2009: Hitherto pretty much a coach operator, Edinburgh Coach Lines have burst onto mainstream stage carriage operation with two new Plaxton Centros for the 13 which they have taken over from Lothian and indeed over the full former 13 route from Lochend to Blackhall. ECL took over the contracted former Mac Tours 61 route last year, but this has now been withdrawn. Gary Forbes-Burns has been instrumental in the 13 contract, and the buses look good!

Edinburgh Coach Lines PSU612 is the new order on the formerly MacTours route 60 in Nicholson Street. Service number and destination information is provided on a card in the windscreen.....

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]]> Mon Jul 27 2009 Dornoch Light Railway http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1731711.html The light railway between The Mound and Dornoch opened in 1902 and operated until 1960. Managed these pics whilst on holiday in Dornoch for a few days. Three intermediate stations at Embo, Skelbo and the delightfully named Cambusavie Platform were provided, and the line operated on the "one engine in steam" principle, with services connecting to the Inverness - Wick/Thurso line at The Mound. Sunday 26 July 2009: The light railway between The Mound and Dornoch opened in 1902 and operated until 1960. Managed these pics whilst on holiday in Dornoch for a few days. Three intermediate stations at Embo, Skelbo and the delightfully named Cambusavie Platform were provided, and the line operated on the "one engine in steam" principle, with services connecting to the Inverness - Wick/Thurso line at The Mound.

01: Dornoch Station building 02: Dornoch station platform 03: Dornoch station and platform looking south east 04: Dornoch station and platform looking south east 05: Dornoch station and platform looking south east 06: Dornoch station building looking south west 07: Dornoch Light Railway Information Board 08: Dornoch Light Railway Information Board detail 09: Embo station house 10: Embo looking north - the trees follw the line of route 11: Embo - the line was under the road 12: Embo cat walking the route 13: Embo looking south towards Dornoch 14: Skelbo station platform 15: Skelbo hut thing 16: Skelbo station looking north 17: Skelbo level crossing gate post 18: north of Skelbo looking north 19: north of Skelbo looking south the modest embankment can be seen 20: bothy between Skelbo and Cambusavie - looking north 21: bothy between Skelbo and Cambusavie with the tcmobile in the view 22: A Scotrail service climbs southbound towards the site of The Mound station which is beyond the road bridge 23: Cambusavie plaform shelter 24: Cambusavie Platform - the platform shelter has now moved 25: The Mound west bridge abutmnt can just be seen 26: The Mound - now the A9. the railway ran to the right of the road, now under tree cover 27: the south end of The Mound platform can just be seen 28: The Mound station building now in private owership 29: The Mound station closeup (taken from behind the 30: Dornoch - the former Station Hotel remains, now a Shearings owned facility and called simply The Dornoch Hotel

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]]> Sun Jul 26 2009 East Sutherland Rescue Association http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1731429.html What I thought was a single snap of ESRA facilities at Dornoch turned into an exciting series as the training exercise seemed to go off plan as a result of the first inflatable trailer becoming stuck in less than supportive beach, and the efforts to free this trailer resulted in the almost brand new JCB Groundhog 4x4 becoming stuck as well. A Suzuki Jimny proved to be inadequate as a tow vehicle, and eventually a Toyota truck was summoned to free the errant Groundhog. To my surprise, the Groundhog was coaxed into life and was able to retrieve the boat trailers and conclude the evening's practice. Well glad I had brought the camera along! Wednesday 22 July 2009: What I thought was a single snap of ESRA facilities at Dornoch turned into an exciting series as the training exercise seemed to go off plan as a result of the first inflatable trailer becoming stuck in less than supportive beach, and the efforts to free this trailer resulted in the almost brand new JCB Groundhog 4x4 becoming stuck as well. A Suzuki Jimny proved to be inadequate as a tow vehicle, and eventually a Toyota truck was summoned to free the errant Groundhog. To my surprise, the Groundhog was coaxed into life and was able to retrieve the boat trailers and conclude the evening's practice. Well glad I had brought the camera along!

01: Dornoch Rescue Centre 02: ESRA is Go! 03: first boat heads for the water 04: Groundhog returns light engine for the second trailer 05: first signs of trouble - the wheels look stuck 06: second boat on her way 07: all looks fine at this point 08: towrope attached 09: the plan fails so it's time to unload the second boat 10: this unload seems to be giong to plan 11: groundhog speeds out of the water 12: boat two seems fine. I suppose we will need to rescue boat 1.... 13: this is where it goes a bit wonky. Groundhog goes into deep water to try to free the trailer 14: incoming tide, anyone? 15: the tide at least allows boat 1 to be floated away and the trailer freed manually. Meanwhile.... 16: are you sure it's stuck? 17: It's stuck. time to go for help 18: Thunderbird 1 arrives - but doesn't look too confident 19: Thunderbird 1 retreats with a flourish. but no cigar! 20: Thunderbird 2 looks more up to the job 21: all of a sudden she's free 22: the tow rope is clearly seen 23: still concerned about getting stuck, the driver looks down 24: dryish land at last 25: will she start? 26: maximum thrash..... 27: Now where's my helmet? 28: how many people does it take to retract a hawser? 29: the second inflatable and trailer are brought home for the evening 30: Groundhog awaits the naughty step

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]]> Wed Jul 22 2009 Trams of Brussels http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1731416.html Brussels as a honeymoon and Silver Wedding holiday venue. Brave or what? Anyway, why I have only managed this many Tram snaps will be no mystery to anyone, least of all me. First dissent re photos was on the Heathrow Express the day before..... Sunday 12 July 2009: Brussels as a honeymoon and Silver Wedding holiday venue. Brave or what? Anyway, why I have only managed this many Tram snaps will be no mystery to anyone, least of all me. First dissent re photos was on the Heathrow Express the day before.....

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]]> Sun Jul 12 2009 Buses of Brussels http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1731412.html A return visit to Brussels in celebration of our Silver Wedding. Needed to be a bit circumspect with the camera thoughbut.... Sunday 12 July 2009: A return visit to Brussels in celebration of our Silver Wedding. Needed to be a bit circumspect with the camera thoughbut....

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]]> Sun Jul 12 2009 Trams for Edinburgh......Sherlock Holmes has to move http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1722976.html A statue of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's most famous character, Sherlock Holmes has been a fixture at Picardy Place, Edinburgh for nineteen years. Unfortunately he has to move to make way for the tram lines, and has been shipped off to storage for a while, until his new home can be made ready. A Time Capsule was located under the statue and one of the three individuals who know what the contents of the time capsule is was on hand to take it away for safe keeping meantime. Apologies to the hotel whose chair I used as an impromptu stepladder....and thanks to all those who put up with me pretending to be the press...! Tuesday 7 July 2009: A statue of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's most famous character, Sherlock Holmes has been a fixture at Picardy Place, Edinburgh for nineteen years. Unfortunately he has to move to make way for the tram lines, and has been shipped off to storage for a while, until his new home can be made ready. A Time Capsule was located under the statue and one of the three individuals who know what the contents of the time capsule is was on hand to take it away for safe keeping meantime. Apologies to the hotel whose chair I used as an impromptu stepladder....and thanks to all those who put up with me pretending to be the press...!

01 The crane catches my from York Place 02: Press posse #1 03: Final checks on the harness 04: Press posse #2 05: He's on the move now 06: The statue is visibly clear of the plinth 07: Higher, do you think? 08: The crane takes the strain 09: He's clear of the scaffold 10: Finally SH gets to look east down London Road 11: Time to find the Time Capsule? 12: looking west from the east end of the layby area 13: not an easy shot - SH rests on the ground 14: Wonder what the joke was? 15: The statue rests on the base of the case which will be formed around him 16: The cage is formed round the statue 17: Matching jackets 18: The Time Capsule is held aloft in triumph!

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]]> Tue Jul 7 2009 Fife Scottish http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1722245.html Red buses.... Tuesday 1 January 1980: Red buses....

FPE185 gleams on an X58 for Glenrothes FRF73 heads for Tummel Drive FRA32 with a long trip ahead in Kirkcaldy FPN8 hards for Kirkcaldy town centre FRA13 in kirkcaldy FRF7 on an 86 with a Morris Minor - am I really this old? FRN1 in Dunfermline FRA80 in Dunfermline

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]]> Tue Jan 1 1980 Glasgow Corporation Transport http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1720990.html This deserves a collection of its own! This will cover all operations up to the point at which First took over. Tuesday 1 January 1980: This deserves a collection of its own! This will cover all operations up to the point at which First took over.

Strathclyde MB6 at Bo'ness with little brother - wonder hat that switch does? LA1273 passes Queen Street in Trans Clyde livery A76 near Queen Street station A741RNS metroliner single deck on tour in the rain in Edinburgh LA1430 in Stepek between decks advertising livery

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]]> Tue Jan 1 1980 Buses of England and Wales http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1720987.html Yet another broad brush approach, but I think it's time for separate collections for other UK areas, and for Abroadshire to be on her own..... Tuesday 1 January 1980: Yet another broad brush approach, but I think it's time for separate collections for other UK areas, and for Abroadshire to be on her own.....

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]]> Tue Jan 1 1980 Kelvin Scottish http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1720984.html North Glasgow Midland operations became Kelvin at deregulation. Kelvin followed Clydesidedown the Routemaster path in the early days. Tuesday 1 January 1980: North Glasgow Midland operations became Kelvin at deregulation. Kelvin followed Clydesidedown the Routemaster path in the early days.

RN22 sparkles in Kelvin Scottish livery in george Square, Glasgow ECT Titan 777 in her new career as a trainer with Kelvin Scottish

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]]> Tue Jan 1 1980 A1 Service http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1720982.html A1 Service was a consortium of Ayrshire operators who were eventually taken over by Stagecoach. Tuesday 1 January 1980: A1 Service was a consortium of Ayrshire operators who were eventually taken over by Stagecoach.

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]]> Tue Jan 1 1980 Lowland Scottish http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1720981.html This will probably be a small collection, as I wasn't big on the borders at the time. Nevertheless, deserves a slot.... Tuesday 1 January 1980: This will probably be a small collection, as I wasn't big on the borders at the time. Nevertheless, deserves a slot....

D711CKS is a Reeve Burgess bodied Dodge for use on the Border Courier service

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]]> Tue Jan 1 1980 Clydeside Scottish http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1720980.html Time this had a home of its own. Paisley and environs would be the theory, but there appears a snap of an RM working the Glasgow - Ayr service 4..... Tuesday 1 January 1980: Time this had a home of its own. Paisley and environs would be the theory, but there appears a snap of an RM working the Glasgow - Ayr service 4.....

IS2937 heads east along Princes Street with an appropriate advertising livery J12 in overall livery for Glasgow - London with blanked out JS2554, ZS874, S628 and HH117 at Buchanan Bus Station

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]]> Tue Jan 1 1980 Stagecoach - the early years http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1720977.html Magicbus and Neoplans. Two things I remember. The best bit about Magicbus was the selection of ex everywhere kit....... Tuesday 1 January 1980: Magicbus and Neoplans. Two things I remember. The best bit about Magicbus was the selection of ex everywhere kit.......

Routemasters at Walnut Grove, Stagecoach Perth Routemaster symmetry at Walnut Grove Stagecoach Walnut Grove - Lodekkas and Routemasters

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]]> Tue Jan 1 1980 Strathtay Scottish http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1720976.html This will be the first of a number of collections featuring the deregulated Scottish operators which sprung up from the sitting nationalised tenants. Finding a big batch of Strathtay slides all at once finally convinced me of the way forward in this regard. Gems in here include the former MRA1 Tuesday 1 January 1980: This will be the first of a number of collections featuring the deregulated Scottish operators which sprung up from the sitting nationalised tenants. Finding a big batch of Strathtay slides all at once finally convinced me of the way forward in this regard. Gems in here include the former MRA1

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]]> Tue Jan 1 1980 Buses of Chester http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1720561.html Chester is quite an acceptable place to visit. Back in the day, she had a Corpy Bus Company, and I managed a good few piccies. It's my beloved First these days, but I haven't managed along so far. Thursday 1 January 2009: Chester is quite an acceptable place to visit. Back in the day, she had a Corpy Bus Company, and I managed a good few piccies. It's my beloved First these days, but I haven't managed along so far.

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]]> Thu Jan 1 2009 Arriva Scotland West http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1710273.html i give up. Too many collections, far too many options for displaying snaps.... Tuesday 1 January 2008: i give up. Too many collections, far too many options for displaying snaps....

Arriva 1432 in Renfrew on the 101 for Paisley Arriva 1432 in Paisley

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]]> Tue Jan 1 2008 Small butt, perfectly formed http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1708445.html Eats shoots, and leaves. Sort of. Have a look. If you get the idea, let me know. Then I can improve the title of the collection.... or not. Monday 1 June 2009: Eats shoots, and leaves. Sort of. Have a look. If you get the idea, let me know. Then I can improve the title of the collection.... or not.

CoEC Pavement gritter Applied Sweeper eastbound on George Street This car seems to have been designed by running it into a wall L Plates on a road roller! What's more, it's just been used for a test. Newtown St Boswells. Brussels - Glutton! Brussels Segwaytour 1 - looks fun! Brussels Segwaytour 2 - by the look of fear on her face, maybe she should ahve done up the chinstrap on her helmet...... Brussels - Segwaytour 3. Relief engine comes to the aid of a lady lacking traction knowledge. At least she's got her helmet on properly

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]]> Mon Jun 1 2009 Edinburgh Marathon 2009 http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1706909.html Second year on the shuttle buses. Fair bit of hanging about. One run to Port Seton, then two birls up from Musselburgh Racecourse in the afternoon. Head got a bit sunburnt.... Sunday 31 May 2009: Second year on the shuttle buses. Fair bit of hanging about. One run to Port Seton, then two birls up from Musselburgh Racecourse in the afternoon. Head got a bit sunburnt....

32570 heads the line of three white weddings 37272 - Robert has parked in the shade Runners seem baffled by the bus loading system. So were we. 32676 heads away for Musselburgh. Or maybe Port Seton. 729 on the Sunday extension of the 44 for Pencaitland Abbott Travel - three axles and horny. As it were 30833 - Paul gets far to close to my camera! His screens had not been updated for 2009 Unbelievable. This prat thinks he can drive along the pavement..... 37172 is pursued by 32580 as they head east 32587 thinks he's on a winner, following a local boy. Maybe not..... Where is the 26???? 32679 heads a mixed line of vehickles awaiting the call 31570 displays the inevitable Runners are overlooked by Cockenzie Power Station Runners - he could lose a bit of weight.... Runners - Loch Ness Monster?? Runners - You're in the Army now! Runners - looking east on Gosford Road B21DWA is named Hollie Runners dig in eastbound heading away from Cockenzie Power Station 37273 - and I'm stuck, having followed the provided route plan. No sign of the traffic management which should have sent me along Alder Road. Hm. A lone spectator encourages the tail enders. 40701 on a 110 for Elphinstone. In Port Seton. Snap. B19DWA of Allans escapes from Port Seton Runners head up High Street, Port Seton before turning west past Cockenzie Power Station for musselburgh Racecourse 31682 heads a mixed lineup of vehicles on Linkfield Road, Musselburgh as the return shuttle demand starts to build 32679 just about to burst 32679 - she'll no go! I rush to her aid and suggest heavy and continuous revving in neutral to bring up the air pressure..... 37138 gets the call forward and makes her way round 32679 37134 passes my steed, 37273 in Waterloo Place at the end of the day 69261 has been a VERY naughty person - presumably bound for Volvo at the Brox rather than Gala?

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]]> Sun May 31 2009 Buses of Preston http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1703705.html A "Grab and Go" session inbetween trains, but managed a few ex Preston Bus vehicles now with Stagecoach Monday 18 May 2009: A "Grab and Go" session inbetween trains, but managed a few ex Preston Bus vehicles now with Stagecoach

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]]> Mon May 18 2009 tctours 2009 Episode 1 - a day out with Penny http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1703702.html Late advice by Chief Executive left this agonisingly poorly planned, although the loss of updates to the Pocket PC Journeyplan application probably didn't help. Colne, Darwen and the Oldham Loop were on the most wanted list, and achieved. Cow Pie Pit will have to wait - partly because I misread a 6 as an 8 and watched the direct service to Rochdale depart.... Penny (sadly) was 390022. That's my story etc. Wednesday 27 May 2009: Late advice by Chief Executive left this agonisingly poorly planned, although the loss of updates to the Pocket PC Journeyplan application probably didn't help. Colne, Darwen and the Oldham Loop were on the most wanted list, and achieved. Cow Pie Pit will have to wait - partly because I misread a 6 as an 8 and watched the direct service to Rochdale depart.... Penny (sadly) was 390022. That's my story etc.

101: 92037 departs with 5S26 sleeper empties 102: 380 mockup remains on display 103: Penny the Pendolino! 104: 390022 awaits departure with the 0840 to Euston 105: A lone passenger boards 106: 390022 door display 107: all ready! 108: 156461 broadisde 109: 156461 at Preston 110: 57314 - tucked away out of sight on the parcels platforms - bah 111: Preston Platform 2 112: how many cameras can one station need? 113: reflections at preston.... 114: the Colne service arrives at Preston 115: 142004 on arrival at Colne 116: 142004 new branding detail 117: Colne station sign 118: there was loads more track to be had 119: Colne best view 120: Colne seems a nice place 121: Colne demonstrates DDA compliance (nearly, anyway) needn't involve loads of steelwork 122: Colne beer truck 123: 142004 awaits the return from Colne 124: 142004 awaits departure from Blackburn 125: 126: Blackburn station 127: 142004 pulls away from Blackburn for Preston 128: Blackburn Station car park infopoint 129: Blackburn station - looks smart, I have to say 130: 150139 arrives from the Clitheroe direction to head for Bolton and Manchester via Darwen 131: 4142007 at Manchester Victoria 132: 144021 having arrived at Rochdale via the direct route 133: 142011 in the bay platform at Roachdale with the Oldham Loop service 134: 142011 again at Rochdale 135: 142011 interior 136: Manchester Victoria 137: this I see after I have wasted 80p on a ticket. D'oh. 138: Shudehill closure 139: more closure nonsense.... 140: 323226 at Manchester Piccadilly 141: 323226 detail view 142: a passenger awaits at Piccadilly 143: journey's end for 185128 at Glasgow Central. A pendo it isn't, but it's bearable.

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]]> Wed May 27 2009 Buses of Blackburn http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1702457.html Buses of Blackburn Monday 18 May 2009: Buses of Blackburn

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]]> Mon May 18 2009 Edinburgh Transport Group http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1695710.html A select group of like minded individuHals who cngregate monthly to immerse themselves in (generally) buses of a certain age.... Thursday 1 January 2009: A select group of like minded individuHals who cngregate monthly to immerse themselves in (generally) buses of a certain age....

May09 01 - WJC AEC Reliance May09 02 Newcraighall May09 03 Rosewell May09 04 - it's all over Jun09 01 - the crowds gather Jun09 02 - these guys look like they mean business... Jun09 03 - anyone got membership forms handy?? Jun09 04 281 arrives with DW at the helm. Rainman moves in for a closeup. What of is anyone's guess.... Jun09 05 744 at Balerno Jun09 06 281 in all her glorty recreates past times at Balerno Jun09 07 281 sits at Balcarres Street Jun09 08 DW does Pilates? Jun09 09 - ah say, it's Mr Gunn.... Jun09 10 Gilmerton terminus Jun09 11 - wonder who did that? Jun09 12 - I can dream, presumably. Jun09 13 281 at Seton Sands Jun09 14 281 may not be the last madder vehicle at Seton Sands, but it is getting close... Jun09 15 Mr Magoo gets a closeup Jun09 16 - 281 looks normal from the nearside at Seaton Sands

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]]> Thu Jan 1 2009 Network Rail Test Trains http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1669256.html Yellow trains..... Thursday 1 January 2009: Yellow trains.....

NMT DB977986 NMT 999550 NMT DB977337 NMT BG 6264 NMT door detail NMT interior 37218 and 37607 approach Stirling with 2Q08 for Inverness 37218 and 37607 on rear pass through Stirling with 2Q08 for Inverness

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]]> Thu Jan 1 2009 Photters and Spotters http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1669255.html No anoraks, though.... An eclectic mix of camera chappies and other like minded individuHals Thursday 19 March 2009: No anoraks, though.... An eclectic mix of camera chappies and other like minded individuHals

Fat Bloke. Why he's grinng is anyone's guess. And where's his camera???? Sustainable snapper - the Canon bag gives us the clue! Fat Bloke. Supposed to be waiting for the diverted 61, appears to be more interested in seagulls on the roof of the High Court. Hasn't he learned anything? Trainee photographer on Princes Street - camera at an interesting angle..... Glasgow Central 1 - now where did I put my bag? Glasgow Central 2 - ah, yes, it's Mentor... Glasgow Central 3 - Bruce looks on as the wee man worries about being late back..... George Street, Edinburgh. Busorak. Where's yer picnic, mate?? Jonathan McGurk - 91125BOT is hidden..... Craws Nest Western Craws Nest Western: Bob Avery. Craws Nest Western - Steven checks out his snaps while Messrs Fish, McFarlane and McCulloch await the main event with D1015 Craws Nest Western Tony in the van has a jovial chat with Dave B whilst a driver camps it up! Gordon Stirling and Stuart Montgomery gaze in awe at 283 on the 98s. I think. Maybe it's a burd. Double Dave. Wilson and Ballantyne. Dunfermline Town - Robert Jacobs sets up for the Royal Scotsman. In vain...... George Street, Edinburgh. This lady seems intent on ignoring the sparking gem behind her and continues to take photos of three well dressed businessmen who seemed to find me taking their photographer's image funny..... Dean Bridge. T in the Park weekend. Fat Bloke seems distracted. Can't think why..... Rosemarkie - sealspotting. Or is it dolphins? Princes Mall, Edinburgh. A tourist taking photos. Odd.... Jayne looks out to see (or do I mean sea?) That's me snapped then....

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]]> Thu Mar 19 2009 Lothian Leylands 1919 - 2009 http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1667773.html So sayeth the Tramboards.... Lothian provided a tribute to the final Leylands in the main fleet by running on their final day with commemorative tramboards. All 6 (366-371) ran on the 15 during the day. 366, 367 and 371 were "spirited away" from the 15 (to be replaced by 3 Royales which were also in their final service day) to allow them to cover three 26 departures from Clerwood, the Tridents on these duties having run dead from Clerwood to Shandwick Place via Queensferry Road to beat the rugby crowds. A grand night out, but pretty sad at the end. The three buses ran part Route from Tranent in convoy to Charlotte Square, and I think I was the last fare paying passenger to step off a Lothian Leyland Olympian in normal service. Saturday 14 March 2009: So sayeth the Tramboards.... Lothian provided a tribute to the final Leylands in the main fleet by running on their final day with commemorative tramboards. All 6 (366-371) ran on the 15 during the day. 366, 367 and 371 were "spirited away" from the 15 (to be replaced by 3 Royales which were also in their final service day) to allow them to cover three 26 departures from Clerwood, the Tridents on these duties having run dead from Clerwood to Shandwick Place via Queensferry Road to beat the rugby crowds. A grand night out, but pretty sad at the end. The three buses ran part Route from Tranent in convoy to Charlotte Square, and I think I was the last fare paying passenger to step off a Lothian Leyland Olympian in normal service.

101: 367, 366 and 371 (in darkness) all at Clerwood 102: 367 just about to go with the 1843 for Tranent 103: Murrayfield Road diversion - the crowds spill out from (yet another) Scotland defeat. The 104: Interior Jowitt........ 105: stuck in heavy traffic at Roseburn 106: 367 having arrived at Tranent 107: 367 Photocall 108: 367 and 371 at Tranenet, being readied for the return Part Route 26 to the West End 109: 367 awaits departure 110: 367 screen detail 111: 367 commemorative tramboard 112: 367 upstairs looking forward 113: 367 interior upstairs looking back 114: 371 downstairs interior 115: 371 ready to go at Tranent. Mr Ritchie signs on 116: Three in a row.... 117: Ben poses for the small posse.... 118: 371 sits in darkness on George Street, her work for Lothian finally over, and the last vehicle to run in service 119: 367, 366 and 371 line up for the parade back to Marine off service 120: 367 heads the lineup as Mr O gets in the shot - again! 121: 366 screened for the last time 122: 366 tramboard 123: 367 blind box 124: 367 almost ready - the drivers seem distracted by the crowd.... 125: 367 fogs on! Time to go...

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]]> Sat Mar 14 2009 Steam in Scotland http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1663725.html The magnificent 60163 TORNADO opens the batting here..... Saturday 7 March 2009: The magnificent 60163 TORNADO opens the batting here.....

60163 TORNADO heads past Dolphingstone for York with the North Briton 60163 TORNADO heads past Dolphingstone for York with the North Briton 60163 TORNADO passes the camera at Dolphingstone heading for for York with the North Briton

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]]> Sat Mar 7 2009 Scottish Vintage Bus Museum http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1655377.html A wee collection of snaps taken at times I haven't hit the full Museum... Thursday 1 January 2009: A wee collection of snaps taken at times I haven't hit the full Museum...

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]]> Thu Jan 1 2009 Forth McFreighter http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1652044.html Edinburgh to Powderhall (nearly), North Berwick, South Leith (almost), Edinburgh, Benhar (no), Cadder reversal (not on the original plan) Greenhill Upper reversal (not on the revised plan), Grangemouth, Stirling, Alloa, Townhill and back to Edinburgh. Simple. Sunday 8 February 2009: Edinburgh to Powderhall (nearly), North Berwick, South Leith (almost), Edinburgh, Benhar (no), Cadder reversal (not on the original plan) Greenhill Upper reversal (not on the revised plan), Grangemouth, Stirling, Alloa, Townhill and back to Edinburgh. Simple.

101: Departure time awaits 102: 66201 arrived at North Berwick 103: Cycle? You can hardly swing a cat..... 104: 66201 and another shed at North Berwick 105: Bob's Books? catchy.... 106: North Berwick goes all tri-lingual 107: the boys appear in good spirits in spite of Powderhall being about Easter Road 108: 37712? and 37886 at Millerhill Wagon Works 109: Fat Bloke readies the shot as we blast south towards Monktonhall from Millerhill 110: New track at last. Monktonhall triangle attacked by 66201 as Bill peers out 111: Millerhill Wagon Works 112: Millerhill Wagon Works with the obligatory observer on the plot 113: is that the City Bypass ahead? A long way down the branch and IMO well worth the £68 on its' own. Maybe I should get a life. 114: must be summat interesting. A Jowitt, perchance? 115: Roy's Rolls - Cookie seems to be enjoying his one... 116: 09014 is a new arrival at Millerhill 117: 09014 and a smashing steel wagon at Millerhill 118: 66167 at Millerhill 119: jockeying for position at the window 120: Bill gets a clear shot of 67008 121: Right. Who 122: 08615 shunts a Porterbrook match vehicle at Craigentinny 123: Grangemouth this time. Oh that it were that easy..... 124: 66201 looks the part at platform 11 125: 66039 brings up the rear 126: 90036 stables at the east end 127: 67024 replaces TB2 128: Cadder - shouldn't we have a feather? 129: DRS wagons stored at Cadder Yard 130: Mileposts 5 - as it were 131: FD18 clear to allow us to cross to the departure side at Fouldubs 132: James and David reminisce about the old times 133: They think it's all over - it is now. 66201 awaits departure at the rear of the stock for Millerhill 134: A small posse take the view seen in pic 133

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]]> Sun Feb 8 2009 First Bus around the UK http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1648846.html A wee haven for those First vehicles which don't fit in elsewhere at the moment.... Thursday 1 January 2009: A wee haven for those First vehicles which don't fit in elsewhere at the moment....

60900 of First York at Poppleton

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]]> Thu Jan 1 2009 Barnstaple Whale Watch http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1630688.html A little sceptical on this prior to departure - a lot of dollars to be trapped on a boat in the middle of the ocean with hunners of people in the hope of seeing whales. I would have to say this was fantastic! The whales create turbulence in the water causing the fish to gather, and then break the surface to catch their prey. Seabirds flock to the whales and sometimes steal the fish out of the whale's mouth. Recommended! Friday 8 August 2008: A little sceptical on this prior to departure - a lot of dollars to be trapped on a boat in the middle of the ocean with hunners of people in the hope of seeing whales. I would have to say this was fantastic! The whales create turbulence in the water causing the fish to gather, and then break the surface to catch their prey. Seabirds flock to the whales and sometimes steal the fish out of the whale's mouth. Recommended!

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]]> Fri Aug 8 2008 Buses of Scotland http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1626233.html Time to group "other" Scottish fleets in the one place. Buses Around the World covers too many areas as it is..... Thursday 18 December 2008: Time to group "other" Scottish fleets in the one place. Buses Around the World covers too many areas as it is.....

Central Scottish leopard heads for Forth passing Carstairs station. This looks as if i have stepped out of the hotel to catch a train and the bus has bowled up! LV36 at fairmilehead at the 1999 Running day Central Scottish Ailsa under tow approaching George Square - I hope there are no low bridges en route! SN05FLR passes Bank of Scotland in Polmont - we used to live upstairs! Perrymans Optare MV55EEB on the 253 from Berwick upon Tweed SL54OSL heads for Clackmannan on service MA1 Deveron Coaches Optare MX06ABV has a layover at the old Aberdeen Guild Street bus station Aberdeenshire Council Mercedes T665BRS heads through Inverurie Bains Coaches BMC BX54VNV heads east from Oldmeldrum Waverley Travel service 63 enters the Gyle RBS shuttle enters the Gyle MAM Evolution on a car park shuttle at EDI Alexander Dennis Enviro200 demo on loan to Bryans working the E3 at the Davidsons Dart on callendar Road, Falkirk Mundole MX55EUD in Forres XBO121T Bristol VR Bankfoot Buses - short term dmo with Lothian for the 22?? McKindless JDZ2411 on Hope Street YR04CYX carries no legals and is likely to be an Armed Forces vehicle McKendry's OFV21X lines up against Lothian 709 at Castle Sreet Passenger Travel Dart J383GKH in Livingston heads for St Johns Prentice Westwood Enviro 200 KX08HMF at Bathgate Station Passenger Travel Dart VU52UEH on the tendered 484 at Bathgate Station 47500 on the Croy station circular enters Croy

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]]> Thu Dec 18 2008 West Coast Motors http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1623359.html Stylish livery and a significant penchant for registrations containing WCM clealy identify this operator, headquartered in Campbeltown but with interests along the rugged coastline of western Scotland. Well overdue! First pics in the collection as a result of a site visit to Oban. I will try to shift the others over ASAP. Getting to like this one.... Glasgow Citybus also a part of this group, and they now have some ex Lothian kit, including an R-Type Olympian! Monday 8 December 2008: Stylish livery and a significant penchant for registrations containing WCM clealy identify this operator, headquartered in Campbeltown but with interests along the rugged coastline of western Scotland. Well overdue! First pics in the collection as a result of a site visit to Oban. I will try to shift the others over ASAP. Getting to like this one.... Glasgow Citybus also a part of this group, and they now have some ex Lothian kit, including an R-Type Olympian!

V171EFS turns into Hope Street V175EFS disembarks passengers in Renfield Street, one of whom seems to have taken a distinct dislike to the City Sprinter.....

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]]> Mon Dec 8 2008 Newshound http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1607379.html Groups of people with cameras hanging about usually suggest something interesting is afoot, and tend to attract my attention. So the group might increase by one person. That person might simply be amusing himself taking pics of the photographers...... Thursday 6 November 2008: Groups of people with cameras hanging about usually suggest something interesting is afoot, and tend to attract my attention. So the group might increase by one person. That person might simply be amusing himself taking pics of the photographers......

536 passes in the distance as the cameraman misses the totally incorrect screens! Dr Jim Swire 103 - Radio Scotland van heads out Dr Jim Swire 104 - bound to get a good signal with these dishes.... Dr Jim Swire 105 - more hanging about Dr Jim Swire 101 - seems to be a lot of hanging about Dr Jim Swire 102 - a broadcaster prepares for a piece to camera Dr Jim Swire 106 - cameras are being readied Dr Jim Swire 107 - Reevel Alderson has a struggle with his coat Dr Jim Swire 108 - Dr Swire talks to the camera Dr Jim Swire 109 - hope I'm not on the TV.... Dr Jim Swire 110 - Dr Swire listens to a question from a newspaper reporter

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]]> Thu Nov 6 2008 SRPS Routes and Branches http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1604355.html The most recent rare(ish) track extravaganza round west central Scotland taking locos where they have rarely gone before. Helensburgh Central, Drumgelloch, Paisley Canal, Largs and Lark Hall all featured in the tour. The first shots in this gallery are all courtesy and copyright of my brother. Sunday 24 August 2008: The most recent rare(ish) track extravaganza round west central Scotland taking locos where they have rarely gone before. Helensburgh Central, Drumgelloch, Paisley Canal, Largs and Lark Hall all featured in the tour. The first shots in this gallery are all courtesy and copyright of my brother.

McCoffee Tours strike again.... 40145 on arrival at Queen Street from Bo'ness 55022 waits departure at Queen Street for Helensburgh central 55022 with the classic exhaust plumes at Queen Street 55022 at Queen Street. The top is ill advised. 55022 makes it to Helensburgh Central 55022 with 1Z40 at Helensburgh Central 55022 with a posse of snappers at Helensburgh Central 40145 awaits departure from Helensburgh Central for Drumgelloch Mr Cook takes a snap. I can't manage a Geordie accent in the caption, so you will just have to use your imagination. Hell in Helensburgh. 43100 annd 40062 pose for the snap. 40062 chaps the door as 43100 says The view from the City Union looking towards Bridge St Junction A track thing. Kilroy was here. 1 - City Union. 55022 at Paisley Canal 55022 at Paisley Canal Kilroy was here. 2 - Again. Pay Slay cAnal. Arriva 257 passes Paisley Canal station 55022 peeks through - the view from Platform 1 towards Paisley Canal The Cycle Route formerly known as the Kilmacolm line..... 55022 at Ayr 40145 at Ayr waiting to head for Ardrossan Harbour Ayr - the papparazi pounce.... 40145 at Ardrossan Harbour Are we there yet? is there more Deuchars?? (Tghe train was stopped at this point) 55022 on arrival at the Stripy Pole (sorry - I meant Larkhall) 55022 is 55022 at Lark Hall. Famous media personality onda view. Larkhall. Mr Glover. 55022 is seen in the ditance as we reverse in what i think is Shields West No 1 Line - No 2 seen to the right of the train 55022 at Anniesland 55022 in the branch platform at Annies Land. See what I mean about the top? Still no sign of Annie, never mind her Gunn..... 40145 passes a very appropriate sign at Anniesland 40145 at Springburn 40145 waits departure for Bo'ness. Little did we know what a momentous thrash was coming..... 55022 sits quietly at Queen Street 55022 peeks out from behind the departure screen at Queen Street 40145 at Polmont 40145 attracts the attention of a few diehard photographers at Polmont

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]]> Sun Aug 24 2008 Stagecoach in Cumberland http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1600818.html Not to be confused with Stagecoach in Cumbernauld....! A few snaps on a recent rail excursion in search of required branch lines kicks this one off. Saturday 25 October 2008: Not to be confused with Stagecoach in Cumbernauld....! A few snaps on a recent rail excursion in search of required branch lines kicks this one off.

11091 approaches Windermere station 10254 catches me on the hop at Windermere Station

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]]> Sat Oct 25 2008 National Express http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1593553.html Since I have Citylink, might as well have National Express! Saturday 11 October 2008: Since I have Citylink, might as well have National Express!

National Express Neoplan Skyliner arrives at Guild Street, Aberdeen LSK827 makes the turn at Guild Street 2006 Neoplan Skyliner upper deck interior 2006 Neoplan Skyliner lower deck interior forwards 2006 Neoplan Skyliner controls 2006 Neoplan Skyliner lower deck rear interior KSK819 Neoplan heads north on the A90 at Newtonhill FN04JZR Volvo B12M Jonckheere Mistral 50 at Inverness FN04JZR Volvo B12M Jonckheere Mistral - 76004 CN05DZJ Volvo B12B, Plaxton Panther C49FT approaching Buchanan Bus Station en route Cardiff

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]]> Sat Oct 11 2008 Leuchars Airshow 2008 http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1590036.html Highlight was the Vulcan, which sadly was unable to fly (along with most of the programme) due to the conditions. Weather was a disaster for the organisers..... There are a few shots, but mostly ground based. Even resorted to taking pictures of other photographers! If you are interested in the tugs used to position aircraft, there are a few shots of these. Sunday 5 October 2008: Highlight was the Vulcan, which sadly was unable to fly (along with most of the programme) due to the conditions. Weather was a disaster for the organisers..... There are a few shots, but mostly ground based. Even resorted to taking pictures of other photographers! If you are interested in the tugs used to position aircraft, there are a few shots of these.

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]]> Sun Oct 5 2008 Buses of America http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1578671.html A small selection of the variety to be found in New England, along with some golden oldies from other parts of the USA Sunday 14 September 2008: A small selection of the variety to be found in New England, along with some golden oldies from other parts of the USA

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]]> Sun Sep 14 2008 Boston Redsox - Fenway Park http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1572675.html Appears to be a "must do" but game tickets are more difficult to come by than advance notice of lottery numbers..... Saturday 2 August 2008: Appears to be a "must do" but game tickets are more difficult to come by than advance notice of lottery numbers.....

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]]> Sat Aug 2 2008 MBTA http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1572664.html Massachussets Bay Transportation Authority or MBTA for short. Operates a wide variety of trains, tubes, light rail and buses in the Boston area. The Charlie ticket was a huge bargain at $15 for a week unlimited travel! Saturday 2 August 2008: Massachussets Bay Transportation Authority or MBTA for short. Operates a wide variety of trains, tubes, light rail and buses in the Boston area. The Charlie ticket was a huge bargain at $15 for a week unlimited travel!

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]]> Sat Aug 2 2008 Edinburgh Bus Tours http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1553346.html A Lothian Buses subsidiary. Challenge is to present a full fleet without overdoing "The Princes Street Years". We shall see.... Tuesday 1 January 2008: A Lothian Buses subsidiary. Challenge is to present a full fleet without overdoing "The Princes Street Years". We shall see....

305 about to start the Doors Open Tour 2001 Mac 9 in Majestic livery at Ocean Terminal 313 turns out of Hanover Street 300 waits on Hanover Street 314 on the Edinburgh Tour opposite the now closed off Frederick Street 312 on the Edinburgh Tour in Princes St 310 on City Sightseeing Duties 305 passes the Scott Monument Mac 2 climbs Hanover Street 312 on the Edinburgh Tour in George Street 333 on the Majestic Tour turns onto Hanover Street 333 rear view 334 in fully open top configuration 334 on George Street Mac 1 on Heriot Row 311 westbound on Princes Street 32 trundles along Princes Street 302 westbound as the tourists snap the Castle 335 has almost completed her Majestic Tour as she approaches Waverley Bridge 338 on the Classic Tour in Elm Row 305 outside Deacon Brodies 312 in High Street 338 tours majestically up Elm Row, having acquired Volvo Olympian front wheels in the process of conversion 31 completing the short trip from Seafield to Marine 335 steams Majestically past Harburn Hobbies in Elm Row 336 at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Inverleith 310 pauses for the Castle Street lights 301 - nope, that's a tour bus. What is coming next? 307 westbound in low sun on Princes Street 309 westbound on Princes Street with the Museum in the background 309 about to turn toward St Andrew Square 310 squeezes through the gap between two broken down booses 311 at the Mound junction 875 heads up The Mound 307 about to turn into South St Andrew Street 357 looks like she has finished her day's work at Waverley Bridge 313 is pursued by a brace of Lothian Olympians 357 departs - the tourists seem keen to use the covered area of the top deck! 315 now has her fleetnumber - so the anonymous shot was indeed short lived! 308 looks very shiny in the sun 308 is part of a busy scene at the Scott Monument 311 is westbound at Castle Street 433 in her new guise for the Forth Bridges Cruise 502 in her new guise as a City Sightseeing vehicle - shortly to be joined by 501/503 433 broadside - what can I say! 433 rear view showing the excellent match the bus is for the leaflet 300 reappears for the 47 returns to service on the tour circuit 33 westbound on Princes Street 47 turns from George Street into Hanover Street

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]]> Tue Jan 1 2008 Phot of the Month http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1549870.html Struggling to find a collection for this picture, I decided to invent one! Plan is to add one pic a month I am particularly pleased with. The webmeister's decision is errrrr..... final! (Probably) Thursday 24 July 2008: Struggling to find a collection for this picture, I decided to invent one! Plan is to add one pic a month I am particularly pleased with. The webmeister's decision is errrrr..... final! (Probably)

Enviro500 for British Columbia (BC) Transit blasts along the Laurieston Bypass. Major decamp and panic leap to get the camera out of the boot in time..... Maddiston Primary School

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]]> Thu Jul 24 2008 Tour coaches in Edinburgh http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1549345.html Whilst I have a significant preference for stage carriage PCVs, from time to time I manage to snap the odd couch as I meander round the Capital. This collection may eventually achieve the aim of keeping all these random snaps in the one plaice..... Tuesday 22 July 2008: Whilst I have a significant preference for stage carriage PCVs, from time to time I manage to snap the odd couch as I meander round the Capital. This collection may eventually achieve the aim of keeping all these random snaps in the one plaice.....

YN06JXE Scania Irizar demonstrator turning into the Mound Lochs and Glens FJ07AED YN07LHH is a Scania Irizar of Harry Shaw - looking on fire....

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]]> Tue Jul 22 2008 Overturned at Lathallan http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1545398.html A Pollock artic loaded with insulation was caught by a gust of wind at Lathallan Roundabout, Polmont and was blown over onto a PT Cruiser. Neither driver was injured in the accident. Tuesday 15 July 2008: A Pollock artic loaded with insulation was caught by a gust of wind at Lathallan Roundabout, Polmont and was blown over onto a PT Cruiser. Neither driver was injured in the accident.

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]]> Tue Jul 15 2008 Kincardine Bridge http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1540837.html Views taken on the final ceremonial opening of the swing bridge on 31st January 1988. A driech day in more ways than one! Wednesday 1 January 1986: Views taken on the final ceremonial opening of the swing bridge on 31st January 1988. A driech day in more ways than one!

Modern sign advising of opening bridge Electronic sign - how the technology has changed Warning sign in need of a lick of paint 1936 Plaque Traffic builds up from the west The road barrier rises for the last time Looking east, the Police perform traffic control Heritage sign with bridge in background Green lights - but for how long before they are switched off? Signs just aren't the same these days The bridge fully rotated to allow water traffic Crowds are assembled to witness the final swing - the bridge fully rotated in the background Bridge deck almost back to normal Bridge deck mid swing Reds all the way Bridge deck above the river - looking south Red and amber for the final time

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]]> Wed Jan 1 1986 Lothian Optare Solo SR http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1530858.html The newest type in the fleet and indeed the first as far as I am aware to be MAN powered. The are being introduced to replace the Diddy Darts, and with the exception of Yellow Peril II will be in a MacTours variation of Hurley Quine livery. Thursday 19 June 2008: The newest type in the fleet and indeed the first as far as I am aware to be MAN powered. The are being introduced to replace the Diddy Darts, and with the exception of Yellow Peril II will be in a MacTours variation of Hurley Quine livery.

35 turns out of Marshall Street towards Forrest Road on her first day in service 35 heads for the Dumbiedykes terminus on Potterrow 35 heads away for Bristo Square 38 waits to turn onto Nicholson Street from West Richmond Street 38 ambles round Potterrow - many thnks to the driver for holding back so I could bag a snap! 40 hits the streets on her first day - unbranded as Standard Life haven't made up their minds about a livery! 40 speeds away with the Lawman at the wheel.... 40 crosses Queen Street heading for the driver change on Hanover Street 40 Mac Tours legals 40 at the driver change on Hanover Street 40 enters Princes Street 40 waits at the Hanover Street lights 40 pulls away from the lights on Hanover Street 38 is the first subbie on the 61 - possibly to allow the decals to be fitted to yellow 40 40 shows off her recently applied Standard Life branding 35 has a turn out on the 61 35 on the 60 turns out of Forrest Road and prepares to head back for Dumbiedykes 40 - The Lawman waits at The Caley 39 fills in on the 61 as 40 has a wee rest 36 makes a meal of a short turn in George Street 36 waits outside the Assembly Hall to take up her 13 having turned short 37 is the stand-in on the 61 seen here passing 36 on her newish duties on the 13 37 waits at the lights at Hanover Street in one of the few sunny spots in the city centre at this time of year 35 turns into Great King Street on the new truncated 13. Maybe there wew no old people in Lochend..... 40 heads west on Johnston Terrace in a grandiose rerouting of the 61 40 waits to head for Done Daz Street in Lawnmarket as service buses return to Johnston Terrace. All we need is a fleet liveried one! 40 heads down Johnston Terrace on diversion from her usual route as a result of a number of trainset related road closures.....

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]]> Thu Jun 19 2008 Published http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1513984.html From time to time, I succeed in persuading editors to actually subject unsuspecting readers to my pictures..... Please don't get the impression this is a huge source of income - I am still a long way away from recovering the cost of the camera, but the 170-500 is (as far as my good lady is concerned) well covered. Happy to settle for photo credit. One well known journal did however publish a photo (twice in fact) and woundn't even respond to my query in respect of payment. Given that it was in fact my first published photo, a little disappointing. Always happy to receive requests for use of pics. Tuesday 20 May 2008: From time to time, I succeed in persuading editors to actually subject unsuspecting readers to my pictures..... Please don't get the impression this is a huge source of income - I am still a long way away from recovering the cost of the camera, but the 170-500 is (as far as my good lady is concerned) well covered. Happy to settle for photo credit. One well known journal did however publish a photo (twice in fact) and woundn't even respond to my query in respect of payment. Given that it was in fact my first published photo, a little disappointing. Always happy to receive requests for use of pics.

Rail 592 P5 Rail 592 P52-53 Rail 592 P56 West Lothian Council May 2008 Bus and Rail Timetable front West Lothian Council May 2008 Bus and Rail Timetable rear

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]]> Tue May 20 2008 Keenan of Ayr http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1512628.html Quick stop on the way back from Ayr. Unfortunately traffic ruined my attempt to snap TMS407X en root..... Friday 16 May 2008: Quick stop on the way back from Ayr. Unfortunately traffic ruined my attempt to snap TMS407X en root.....

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]]> Fri May 16 2008 McGills Bus Services Ltd http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1510636.html Based in Port Glasgow, operate a network of services within and beyond the Inverclyde area. Smoothiecruiser is one of the key brands in use. Wednesday 14 May 2008: Based in Port Glasgow, operate a network of services within and beyond the Inverclyde area. Smoothiecruiser is one of the key brands in use.

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]]> Wed May 14 2008 Emergency Services http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1501942.html Photos will only be taken when it is appropriate! Tuesday 29 April 2008: Photos will only be taken when it is appropriate!

Lothian and Borders Scania P270 Emergency One based at Marionville British Transport Police vehicles at Glasgow Queen Street Vicar Street, Falkirk - fire at Greens the Hairdresser. The shot is taken before the hydraulic platform started to slide down the hill. Many thanks to Bruce who was on duty for the update on the caption! Ayr Fire Station SF06GCX - Cambridge Ladder 2 speeds down the hill approaching Lechmere T station Boston Fire Department Fire House 22 Engine 146 passes Copley Square Boston - the motorcycle motorcade is awaiting Barack Obama's reappearance from a restaurant nearby newport RI Fire Station Newport RI Engine 6 Sandwich Fire Station Sandwich Fire Station Sandwich Police - whatever will they think of next??? Sandwich Police. These American chappies maintain high standards..... North Conway Fire Department North Conway Fire Department hurtles into action Lothian and Borders P270 SN08COH attends a fire alarm at Boots on Princes Street Ayr, Burns Statue Square. Driver looks embarrassed because he's been caught by a horse. The lady seems intent on making sure there's no more rose fertiliser to be deposited..... F986NRV is a Volvo FL6 Angloco Extending ladder unit based i suspect at Lauriston Place - heritage kit and no mistake!

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]]> Tue Apr 29 2008 Lothian artics http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1501010.html Currently only one Scania which has been purchased for use on the X48 Park and Ride services. Pics of a previous demo which saw use on the 19 are included here. Monday 28 April 2008: Currently only one Scania which has been purchased for use on the X48 Park and Ride services. Pics of a previous demo which saw use on the 19 are included here.

888 on Princes Street on a 19 888 rear view heading for Granton 50 - closeup of the natty flags.... 50 rear view on Waverley Bridge prior to her invited guests only trip to Sheriffhall 50 waits for her dignitaries to board for the run to Sherrifhall for the photocall 50 pulls away for Sherrifhall photocall in a hailstorm 50 on driver familiarisation at the West End 50 passes the Royal Scottish Museum on the 0749 Sherrifhall - Ingliston 50 heads west for Ingliston 50 turns into George Street on her regular duty, the 0748 Sheriffhall - Ingliston

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]]> Mon Apr 28 2008 Buses of Shropshire http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1500605.html Easter holidays 2008 found us in Shropshire - and this is a selection of the snaps I managed to take whilst avoiding the inevitable grief... Sunday 30 March 2008: Easter holidays 2008 found us in Shropshire - and this is a selection of the snaps I managed to take whilst avoiding the inevitable grief...

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]]> Sun Mar 30 2008 Birds http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1500508.html Our daughter takes a keen interest in birds, and if I wasn't colour blind I might be better able to participate! Saturday 26 April 2008: Our daughter takes a keen interest in birds, and if I wasn't colour blind I might be better able to participate!

Sparrow hawk in our garden appears to have had afternoon tea of Blue Tit!

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]]> Sat Apr 26 2008 Scottish Infrastructure Renewals http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1479936.html There are many programmed infrastructure works across the network, and this collection will endeavour to provide a small flavour of these events as time and the patience of my dear wife will allow...... Sunday 23 March 2008: There are many programmed infrastructure works across the network, and this collection will endeavour to provide a small flavour of these events as time and the patience of my dear wife will allow......

Laurieston - looking west from Redding Larbert 1 Larbert 2 Larbert 3 Larbert 4 Larbert 5 Larbert 6 Larbert 7 Larbert 8 Larbert 9 Larbert 10 Larbert 11 Falkirk Grahamston 1 Falkirk Grahamston 2 Falkirk Grahamston 3 Falkirk Grahamston 4 Falkirk Grahamston 5 Falkirk Grahamston 6 Falkirk Grahamston 7 Falkirk Grahamston 8 Falkirk Grahamston 9 Falkirk Grahamston 10 Falkirk Grahamston 11 Falkirk Grahamston 12 Halbeath 1 Halbeath 2 Halbeath 3 Halbeath looking south Halbeath 4 Pointwork in transit #1 - A726 East Kilbride Expressway Pointwork in transit #2 - A726 East Kilbride Expressway Carmuirs East 1: 66174 from Camelon station footbridge Carmuirs East 2: looking west from Camelon station Carmuirs East 3: 66174 from the other side of Camelon station footbridge Carmuirs East 4: Looking west from Camelon station, the crane has moved west, and the crew seem to have decided it's time for a brew... Carmuirs East 5: 66174 from platform level at Camelon. I suspect three is more than sufficient views of 66174..... Carmuirs East 6: view from the Scottish Power Bridge Carmuirs East 7: how many people can you get in the cab of Hydrex Crane 3952? Carmuirs East 8: Kirow Crane stands by to do the honours Carmuirs East 9: None too convinced about the down relief..... Carmuirs East 10: hi ho, hi ho, it's off for a brew we go! Carmuirs East 11: Whitecross 01 - access road to permit embankment strengthening Whitecross 02 - access road closeup Whitecross 3 - view across the compound Whitecross 4 - lineside walkway Whitecross 5 - view from the gate Whitecross 6 - mind the signal Whitecross 7 Whitecross 8

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]]> Sun Mar 23 2008 Airdrie to Bathgate http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1468035.html A2B as it is colloquially known is the reinstatement of the rail connection between Drumgelloch and Bathgate. This link will allow through running of electic services from Helensburgh to Edinburgh (and beyond....). I will try to record works as they progress. Sunday 2 March 2008: A2B as it is colloquially known is the reinstatement of the rail connection between Drumgelloch and Bathgate. This link will allow through running of electic services from Helensburgh to Edinburgh (and beyond....). I will try to record works as they progress.

101 158782 approaching Livingston North with the 1448 Edinburgh to Bathgate service 102 158782 at Livingston North looking west on the 1448 Edinburgh - Bathgate service 103 158713 east of Livingston North looking west 104 158713 east of Livingston North looking east 105 43xxx at newbridge Junction with the Inverness - Kings Cross 106 158729 heads for bathgate ay Newbridge Junction 107 158716 at newbridge junction as the 1055 Bathgate - Newcraighall 108 158729 at Deer Park looking west from the A899 overbridge 109 158701 forms the 1155 for Newcraighall 110 Bathgate station mural...... 111 Drumgelloch - 320320 with the 1008 departure 112 Drumgelloch looking west 113 Drumgelloch station looking east from overbridge 114 Drumgelloch station - current end of line from Helensburgh 115 Drumgelloch - signs a-plenty 116 320320 heads west towards Airdrie 117 Airdrie seen in the distance 118 Airdrie - 320302 heads east for Drumgelloch 119 Airdrie - east of station (next to McDonalds....) as 320302 heads west 120 Plains looking east 121 Plains looking west - strangely, heavy equipment stored further along 122 Plains NCN75 sign 123 Plains looking east 124 Plains - not the most impressive park, sadly 125 Plains - further east, a private access, although this is a west facing view 126 Plains east, looking east 127 Overbridge between Plains and Caldercruix 128 Overbridge - note that only the south side of the decking remains 129 Caldercruix - western access point to NCN75 130 Caldercruix - west of village looking west 131 Caldercruix - west end NCN75 sign 132 Caldercruix - west end of village looking east 133 Caldercruix - sculptures..... 134 Caldercruix - overbridge at east end of village 135 Caldercruix - old station site which does not form part of cycle route 136 Caldercruix - NCN75 access point 137 Caldercruix - looking east NCN75 rejoins the trackbed 138 Caldercruix - NCN75 access point west of the old station site 139 Caldercruix - looking west at a point immediately west of old station site 140 Caldercruix - old station site looking east 141 Caldercruix - NCN75 sign west of old station 142 Caldercruix - location of proposed new station 143 Caldercruix - station access roundabout will be taken from here 144 Hillend Reservoir looking west 145 Hillend Reservoir looking east 146 Hillend Reservoir looking east NCN75 signage 147 Hillend Reservoir looking west with trackbed to left 148 Blackridge looking west 149 Blackridge looking east at a point west of old station 150 Blackridge - old station platform still in situ

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]]> Sun Mar 2 2008 Eddie Stobart http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1457850.html Perhaps the most well known road haulier in the UK - I suspect others* may well rue the day that I started this one (* wife, daughter, boss). Hehehe. Tuesday 1 January 2008: Perhaps the most well known road haulier in the UK - I suspect others* may well rue the day that I started this one (* wife, daughter, boss). Hehehe.

Michaela PX06CNC Scania R420 drawbar M74 south Stacey Jane PX07BWW Scania R420 M74 south Natasha Clare PX57DXS MAN princes Street, Edinburgh Alysia Paige PX57DXG on A725 Queensway in East Kilbride Taome PX57DWP MAN eastbound on A96 at Inverness Retail Business Park for Homebase Jayne Ruth PX57BOJ at the Malcolm Terminal in Grangemouth Jayne Ruth PX57BOJ leaves the Malcolm Terminal in Grangemouth Jayne Ruth PX57BOJ in profile as she pulls away for Livingston Mollie Elisa MX54RRO northbound at Auchenkilns Junction Delta PX58BUU southbound on the A90 at Admiralty Junction 2009 calendar June - will be sadly missed! 2009 calendar - August. Drastic action required.

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]]> Tue Jan 1 2008 Trams for Edinburgh....Connecting our Capital http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1439081.html 2007 saw preparatory works for the tram network commence. I will endeavour to take a few snaps documenting the construction phase of the project. I may even remember to take one of the big hole in the ground at Gogar! Tuesday 1 January 2008: 2007 saw preparatory works for the tram network commence. I will endeavour to take a few snaps documenting the construction phase of the project. I may even remember to take one of the big hole in the ground at Gogar!

101: Lothian and Stagecoach information for passengers at the Scott Monument stop which is temporarily out of use 102: 65720 waits in the remaining westound lane at the Scott Monument 103: Castle Street excavations looking west 104: a key feature of Princes Street over the years, the pedestrian island in the middle which used to be the tram boarding point back in the old days, is being removed 105: Castle Street - the cones provide little protection for pedestrians 106: Princes Street bus stop deserted and Lothian Road buses diverted, but no work started! 107: The centre of Princes Street is coned off pending the removal of the central island 108: Frederick Street junction looking west on Princes Street 109: Frederick Street junction looking east on Princes Street 110: Princes Street east of Frederick Street 111: Princes Street east of Hanover Street looking east 112: Princes Street looking west towards Hanover Street as the central island disappears 113: Princes Street looking east with barriers everywhere 114: Princes Street looking east using the National Gallery steps to gain height 115: Frederick Street with some serious earthworks going on 116: eastbound bus stop closure as the centre of the road is taken over 117: West End - heavy plant removing the pavements 118: lookink west towards West Maitland Street with Manor Place to the right 119: Coates Crescent looking east 120: Manor Place junction closed off - note the sign advising the Indian cavalry Club is still open (horses to be stabled to the rear....) 121: Shandwick Place looking west at Manor Place - the principal reason for the lane closure here is parking the works vans, but pic 120 is immediatley beyond this location so it doesn't make a lot of difference to traffic flows 122: West End - Queensferry Street in the background as the road closure put in many years ago is reversed 123: Princes Street looking east to Castle Street 124: time to fill up the hole west of Castle Street 125: barriers surround the remaining stretch of central island as the snow blows across 126: St Andrew Square east side 127: St Andrew Square east side 128: 129: 130: 131: 132: Princes Street looking east 133: new information signs are springing up.... 134: 135: 136: North St Andrew Street 137: North St Andrew St closed - the 44 goes 138: North St Andrew Street closure - buses route via North St David Street 139: North St Andrew Street 140:Waterloo Place - original cable tram tracks remain 141: 142: 143: Haymarket - Caley Ale House going going... 144: 145: 146: 147: 148: 149 150

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]]> Tue Jan 1 2008 Railways of Switzerland http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1436656.html Time to split up Eurpoean Tours. 1996 shots to open the batting here. Tuesday 1 January 2008: Time to split up Eurpoean Tours. 1996 shots to open the batting here.

BVZ 12 at Brig BLS 272 at Brig BVZ shunter at Visp Amazing how the train was framed in the mirror SBB 1233 at Brig When I remember where this is I will clarify the matter! Approaching Visp from Zermatt Visp station BVZ (Brig Visp Zermatt) service in the stylish trainshed at Zermatt

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]]> Tue Jan 1 2008 Buses of Greater Manchester http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1432622.html Plenty of scope here. All I need is a visit to Manchester... Tuesday 1 January 2008: Plenty of scope here. All I need is a visit to Manchester...

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]]> Tue Jan 1 2008 Scottish Rail Blue http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1431872.html Time to split BR from the privatised railway. The present Scottish Rail Scene will be reclassified once I move content across! Sunday 30 December 2007: Time to split BR from the privatised railway. The present Scottish Rail Scene will be reclassified once I move content across!

03064 at Berwick - the honorary Scottish 03 06005 and 06006 at Dundee A class 126 en route to Ayr from Glasgow at Edinburgh - lost I think! 20xxx Southbound at Kirkcaldy with a failed 27 and Dundee - Edinburgh in tow 25227 rescues 43096 at Dundee 26 awaits departure Platform 17 with a Dundee - 25 in the middle road How do you choose? 27055 and 27063 on the SRPS Class 27 Farewell at Inverness 090587 27108 awaits departure for Inverness with 2N22 at Aberdeen 20 February 303 001 at Coatbridge Sunnyside eastbound for Airdrie 55004 departs Berwick on Tweed with 0950 Edinburgh - Plymouth 55015 storms through Kirkcaldy with the DPS Deltic Salute 241081 en route from York to Aberdeen Grangemouth depot viewed from the pathfinder Scot 2 Those were the days I seem to be unnecessarily pleased considering it's a pair of 20s! Gutted - some leaps you just can't make! 55015 in poor light at Arbroath on 1A23 0855 Edinburgh - Aberdeen 55021 en route for Oban passing wrong line through Polmont with a DBSO set in tow 55009 at Stirling with the northbound Grampian Deltic 121281 55009 at Aberdeen with the return Grampian Deltic 121281 08754 on duty at Inverness 26042 at Inverness with the return 26 Farewell rarely is modernisation an improvement, but Largs was a bit of a dump! Interesting livery...... 55019 the centre of attention at Haymarket Open day 31438 at Haymarket Open Day 27052 having had a recent transfer 37090 at Haymarket Open Day 37114 Dunrobin Castle nameplate and number Cravens set en route for North Berwick at St Germains A Deltic storms north for Waverley at St Germains 116 xxx at East Kilbride 37051 on Engine Ears just east of Polmont 25226 20049 and friends in the gloom at Car Stairs 55021 does the honours on a return Blackpool - Edinburgh Mystex - the light has gone... Swindon Intercity Class 120 DMU awaiting attention at Glasgow Works 55004 Queens Own Highlander 26033 waits patiently in the headshunt at the east end of waverley 55004 heads south with 1V93 Deltic calling at Haymarket with an Aberdeen service 55019 Royal Highland Fusilier 27014 with 6V58 Glasgow parcels in the Klondyke siding opposite Platform 11 at Waverley 27016 passes waverley with coal hoppers 270581 55002 The Kings Own Yorkshire Light Infantry 55011 The Royal Northumberland Fusiliers 26010 makes a passable impersonation of a Deltic on a Dundee service in Princes Street Gardens 55022 Royal Scots Grey 08 441 at Kirkcaldy - note the black and white painted grab handles (Dunfermline Athletic colours!)

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]]> Sun Dec 30 2007 Fitzcharles of Grangemouth http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1429021.html Coach operator based in Grangemouth. Tours specialist, with a mainstay operaing the former Scottish Amicable services to Craigforth, which currently fly under the Prudential flag. Also retails cycles from their showroom next to the depot. Monday 24 December 2007: Coach operator based in Grangemouth. Tours specialist, with a mainstay operaing the former Scottish Amicable services to Craigforth, which currently fly under the Prudential flag. Also retails cycles from their showroom next to the depot.

Fitzcharles SL52 DGV on rail replacement services at Larbert Fitzcharles K15BUS at Larbert Station awaiting rail passengers

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]]> Mon Dec 24 2007 M-Line of Alloa http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1429011.html Well presented selection of buses and coaches at their depot at Kelliebank, Alloa opens this collection Sunday 23 December 2007: Well presented selection of buses and coaches at their depot at Kelliebank, Alloa opens this collection

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]]> Sun Dec 23 2007 Ice House Brae rail overbridge renewal http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1428971.html The bridge over the Grangemouth freight line at Ice House Brae is being renewed over Christmas 2007 - a few shots of the work Monday 24 December 2007: The bridge over the Grangemouth freight line at Ice House Brae is being renewed over Christmas 2007 - a few shots of the work

101: looking north 102: closeup view looking north 103: pedestrian bridge connecting the WH Malcolm sites seen to the right 104: looking south east from the Falkirk stadium path 105: looking towards Fouldubs Junction - little did I realise that the Stop board was about to be removed to let 4A66 through! 106: crane closeup on south side of line 107: time for a nap? 108: view looking south 109: view looking south of the temporary pedestrian bridge

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]]> Mon Dec 24 2007 Whitelaws Coaches http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1423540.html Stonehouse based operator, commenced operations in 1973. Now have a fleet of 24 buses and 14 coaches. Largest collection of Y-Type Leopards I have seen in a while! Thanks as always for permission to visit. Thursday 13 December 2007: Stonehouse based operator, commenced operations in 1973. Now have a fleet of 24 buses and 14 coaches. Largest collection of Y-Type Leopards I have seen in a while! Thanks as always for permission to visit.

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]]> Thu Dec 13 2007 Stagecoach on Arran http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1418439.html Stagecoach operate services on Arran with a modest fleet of vehicles based at the compact depot at Brodick, adjacent to the ferry terminal. The bus station is immediately adjacent to both of these, and appears to be the depot overspill as buses sit on stands for long periods of time! Monday 3 December 2007: Stagecoach operate services on Arran with a modest fleet of vehicles based at the compact depot at Brodick, adjacent to the ferry terminal. The bus station is immediately adjacent to both of these, and appears to be the depot overspill as buses sit on stands for long periods of time!

20524 heads west on the B880 String Road towards Blackwaterfoot 20538 and 52262 outside the depot at Brodick 20596 waits opposite Brodick Primary School 40606 waits between school duties 40630 provides good advice as she waits for her next duty at Brodick 20595 heads towards Blackwaterfoot via Lamlash and the south of the island 20524 about to switch stands at Brodick bus station 52328 appears dedicated to schools services, and was the only vehicle I saw with blinds. I suspect the Duplicate display was the only suitable one available! 20524 20538 and 20595 all await departure at Brodick 20524 heads for Blackwaterfoot via the String Road which bisects the island 47497 pulls away for Brodick School 52262 in her Island Tours livery doubles up on school duties 20539 receives attention in the compact depot at Brodick 40655 on the school run heads towards the centre of Brodick 20595 blasts past Lochranza ferry terminal as she heads south for Brodick

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]]> Mon Dec 3 2007 Lothian Volvo B7TL http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1412208.html Lothian has a small batch of Volvo B7TL Plaxton bodied Trident lookalikes - quite distinctive to the experienced observer. They are fitted with big fans and provide an immense thrash, particularly if they are needing some TLC. Were standard fare on the 4 for many a day, but will now appear from time to time on other Marine services. A bit rare on 26s though. Monday 1 January 2007: Lothian has a small batch of Volvo B7TL Plaxton bodied Trident lookalikes - quite distinctive to the experienced observer. They are fitted with big fans and provide an immense thrash, particularly if they are needing some TLC. Were standard fare on the 4 for many a day, but will now appear from time to time on other Marine services. A bit rare on 26s though.

294 seems very rare on a 12 295 on an X12 at Gogarburn - note the intermediate display showing calling points rather than Express or Limited Stop 297 on a 34 for Ocean Terminal 291 at home on the 4 295 eastbound on her regular duty on the 4 296 at home on the 4 291 birls round the roundabout at Elm Row heading for London Road 292 in Slateford Road eastbound for the Jewel 292 on an inbound (X)48 in the AM peak 295 on a morning X48 duty 297 on her normal duty - a 4 for Hill End 291 on a regular morning B7 turn on the X48 is caught in the act of screen changing with the intruiging Stoneybank destination 293 displays the grille over the big fan! 296 is not unusual on the 4 - but the service is terminating short at Fairmilehead due to roadworks at Hillend 295 is pretty usual on the 4 293 has a turn on the 19 293 - ligts seem different from the standard Try Dents - see 575 291 with replacement rear lighting units 292 on a Part Route 45 for Kings Road leaves York Place at the the tail end of the AM peak 295 seems a tad unusual on the 11 as she is based at M 296 a pleasant surprise on a 19 in the PM peak 295 is diverted along George Street as the result of a fire on Princes Street 297 is a surprise on a weekday 42 in Frederick Street 291 is unusual on a lunchtime 26 297 overhauls 291 on what appears to be a changeover on the 45 in Hanover Street 292 at the West end waits her turn for the lights 296 is a rareish Part Route 4 for Oxgangs 291 screens are on rotate as she is about to turn at Hanover Street

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]]> Mon Jan 1 2007 Rennies of Dunfermline http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1408038.html A long established operator based to the north west of Dunfermline. Recent tie-up with Stagecoach in respect of leasing of vehicles as I understand it - may be related to school contracts. All current fleet appears to be white based, as the ex LT Titans and Metros languish at the rear. **Stagecoach have now taken over the Rennies business, but it appears to be retaining the Rennies concept and to an extent livery.** Wednesday 14 November 2007: A long established operator based to the north west of Dunfermline. Recent tie-up with Stagecoach in respect of leasing of vehicles as I understand it - may be related to school contracts. All current fleet appears to be white based, as the ex LT Titans and Metros languish at the rear. **Stagecoach have now taken over the Rennies business, but it appears to be retaining the Rennies concept and to an extent livery.**

29862 trundles along Queen Street on a school contract - I was waiting for diverted 8/17 at the time and this was a bonus in the sub-zero conditions.....

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]]> Wed Nov 14 2007 First Linlithgow http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1404646.html An Eastern Scottish depot in the old days, became Midland for a time and now First Edinburgh. I will try to maintain a full pictorial record of all vehicles allocated to or used by the depot here. Thursday 1 November 2007: An Eastern Scottish depot in the old days, became Midland for a time and now First Edinburgh. I will try to maintain a full pictorial record of all vehicles allocated to or used by the depot here.

65695 on the 38 from Stirling to Edinburgh 65712 races away from 701 on Princes Street 62346 awaits departure for Bo'ness on a 45 at Linlithgow Cross 65713 on a 38 at Regent Centre, Linlithgow 40904 on the Linlithgow town service at Regent Centre 43843 having arrived from Bo'ness on a 46 at Linlithgow Cross 43843 enters the garage at Linithgow 65717 on a 38 at County Buildings, Linlithgow 62346 on a 38 heading east on Princes Street Linlithgow Cross reflected in the Eastern Scottish shop front Image crisis at Linlithgow? 65709 at Linlithgow depot about to go on service on a 38 for Edinburgh 62274 let loose on the principal service 38 for heading for Stirling at Linlithgow Cross 65709 at Regent Centre, Linlithgow en route Edinburgh 65711 on a terminating 38 approaching Regent Centre in Linlithgow 65712 in Shandwick Place on a 38B for Linlithgow 65698 at speed between Linlithgow Bridge and Polmont 40938 on the now withdrawn 401 Sunday town service in Springfield Road, Linlithgow 62326 with 65695 with a much more suitable 65713 approaches Torphichen Street 62274 still sees front line service on the 38 40938 provides excellent advice for visitors to Linlithgow - particularly those at the Four Marys! 65715 at Linlithgow Cross with a 475 for Livingston 40938 detail at the sheds 62273 and 62274 side by side in the depths of Linlithgow Depot 65709 and 65719 - not ethe more polite message on 65709!! 65719 and 65709 at Linlithgow depot 62346 amongst the wide selection of vehicles at Linlithgow 40901 sits as 65711 is fuelled at Linlithgow 36029 at Linlithgow depot 65715 and 31682 in the rear part of the shed at Linlithgow 65715 at Linlithgow depot 65663 and 62273 at Linlithgow Depot 62326 looks out of place in Barbie 1 with blinds at Linlithgow Linlithgow depot 40938 nearside detail 40938 nearside front detail 40901 at Linlithgow waits to return to Broxbun on the 484 62345 replaces a Solar on the 38 for Stirling at Linlithgow 40938 in action at Linlithgow Bridge - good wave! 36024 has a break at Linlithgow 43843 waits at the Four Marys in Linlithgow on the 48 to the Double Apostrophe! 40901 lays over having worked from Broxburn - the closed shed doors are the main event here.... 65719 captured with Chartered on the screen display

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]]> Thu Nov 1 2007 Stagecoach East Scotland http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1402814.html Perth - shots of the new Goldline Enviro 300s in service on their first day Monday 5 November 2007: Perth - shots of the new Goldline Enviro 300s in service on their first day

52250 westbound on Princes Street with an X54 for Dundee 22254 at Halbeath Retail park 16166 passes 34730 in Dunfermline 34730 awaits departure of a Dunfermline town service D6 34726on the long 78 from Falkirk to Dunfermline via the coast 34084 in Dunfermline 34084 apologises in Dunfermline 47229 looks smart on the Aberdour Road Dunfermline town service 22260 in Dunfermline on a 19 for Rosyth 22253 is one of two MAN ALX300s in Crimestoppers livery - seen here at the makeshift stances 34726 20337 is on the 78 in Dunfermline - not that you cn tell from the screen.... 52422 seems lacking in branding in Dunfermline 16154 in Dunfermline with a D9 for parkneuk while the bus station and Kingdom shopping centre gets a makeover 53258 speeds towards St Andrew Square as the shutter speed lets me down a bit - but I dare say I might get another chance to phot the bus.... 47183 at Glenrothes on a quiet Sunday morning

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]]> Mon Nov 5 2007 Driven http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1402090.html Will contain vehicles and locomotives driven by the webmeister. First pic is prior to starting my first Rail Replacement duty with 36026! Sunday 4 November 2007: Will contain vehicles and locomotives driven by the webmeister. First pic is prior to starting my first Rail Replacement duty with 36026!

801 at Bo'ness. If I look really happy, there isn't a finer bus to drive, and i just had! Cargo 3828 twin steer with a young slim yours truly in the pilot's seat 31632 or as I recall her VV187. This particular beast was hurled round Carronshore on trade plates by yours truly before she has been delivered to Eastern Scottish - I can confirm the tachograph was working fine! 595 - my first but hopefully not only AN68 drive 86 with VV773 in charge at the 2001 Running Day. I had a birl round at Lathalmond K66BUS Dennis Javelin of CTTS at Livingston Test Centre, with a newly licensed webmeister getting over the shock of a Pass! TB317 in the charge of a senior instructor is hotly pursued by 528 on Murrayburn Road. I had an assessment in 2004 but did not proceed further as I was off to Napier University! 20405 takes a break during my assessment drive next to Linlithgow Loch 50015 at Ramsbottom 20 March 2000 during my Driver Experience 50015 with the webmeister just about to have his run... D345 at Ramsbottom 20 March 2000 D345 with the webmeister at the helm! D345 and 50015 side by side at Ramsbottom 20 March 2000 36029 with me trying to suggest to my mother that she should get a move on with her photo - I am supposed to stick to the timetable! The HBOS branch was the one my father retired from as Manager - a real family phot... 900 as I head away from Western Harbour - pic courtesy of VV773, as was the chance to drive! 36026 awaits departure with my first Rail Replacement duty - early turn from Lw! 65711 being readied for her next 38 to Edinburgh after my first birl Linlithgow to Edinburgh collecting fares! 43843 - Peter takes the helm again after my routelearning drive on the 48 65713 - Duty 509 first leg - awaiting 1005 to Stirling, which on the day was a changeover with aonther vehicle at Linlithgow 65719 prior to departure with the 1305 Stirling service, which on Sunday Duty 509 is a full birl Lw - Edinburgh - Stirling - Lw 65709 on tour at Paisley Canal on a Glasgow Central duty Welsh Highland Railway at Porthmadog - little did I know that the 36029 awaits the 1045 to Falkirk Grahamston D7076 at Bo'ness with the webmeister at the controls - thanks to 55012 for the pic! 69289 turns off the West Approach Road on the Shandwick Place closure diversion. Didn't get a pic on Duty 501 on 110109 as weather and running times prevailed against me. Oh, and I forgot.... 32682 waits at Musselburgh Racecourse 32682 back at Dalkeith - screen display a winner! 37135 having arrived from Volvo at Broxburn 37135 reposes at Lw -strange screens... 32682 digital tachograph printout 69284 at Regent Road - the van behind was an Inspector who was monitoring services on the first day of Phase 2 Shandwick Place 62328 was the replacement for the unfortunate 69291 at Falkirk - took this to Stirling and back to Linlithgow 37273 on Cramond Road North awaiting the Rye tour participants who went for a 69284 waits for start of duty as the 0806 to Stirling 69291 heads for Edinburgh - just finished the mid shift Stirling birl 69294 after an Edinburgh birl on Saturday duty 315 37272 was my steed for the 2008 Edinburgh Marathon Shuttle - I was able to test out the screens whilst on layover at Musselburgh! 37269 waits for Fm30 to depart before reversing out to the main road 37269 gives a whole new meaning to Waverley -the 0935 bus is me.... Waverley smallboards are easier to read - and I'm top of the board!! 37269 is 0B00 0935 Edinburgh - Falkirk Grahamston 37269 is now more appropriately screened 77EF Falkirk Grahamston - I'm the 1129 departure for Edinburgh 69294 poses at bridgend prior to departure with the 0849 SuO to Stirling which is a 69286 heads for Stirling after an Edinburgh birl on Sunday Duty 507 DUKW - aye, aye Captain!! DUKW traction - had a go at this in the harbour. The man seemed confused as I used the mirrors... Dodge Charger - for once we get a better car than we booked, and i wasn't embarrassed to be seen in! Dodge Charger - 3.5 litres of pure power.

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]]> Sun Nov 4 2007 Rail replacement http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1392959.html An increasingly regular sight these days. First views of replacements on Edinburgh - Bathgate route. The Jays Olympian seems to feature strongly at Uphall for some reason! Saturday 20 October 2007: An increasingly regular sight these days. First views of replacements on Edinburgh - Bathgate route. The Jays Olympian seems to feature strongly at Uphall for some reason!

30828 at Falkirk High Halls provide the replacement 1740 to Glasgow Central at Waverley T509EUB on Brightons Main Street heading for Falkirk 36029 arriving at Polmont with the webmeister at the wheel.... Jays 359 at Uphall Jays ex Lothian 359 at Uphall Jays Olympian 359 at Uphall seems to have a change of duty 34076 eastbound at Polmont 31570 in Station Road, Polmont 31570 heads for Linlithgow as 62352 clags up the hill for Maddiston (Stance) 36026 at Falkirk Grahamston awaiting return to Edinburgh 65709 on return from Glasgow Central - Paisley duties at Linlithgow Depot 65709 additional passenger information..... 30828 waits at Stirling

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]]> Sat Oct 20 2007 Barcelona http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/c1392679.html A selection of snaps which could easily have been taken by a normal tourist...... Friday 12 October 2007: A selection of snaps which could easily have been taken by a normal tourist......