These pictures were taken when I did a Diesel train driving experience at the Chinnor and Princes Risborough Railway on 15 October 2011.

I got to drive a class 37 diesel locomotive along the Icknield line from Chinnor station to Thame junction; part of the former branch line from Princes Risborough to Watlington. I drove the first leg from Chinnor station to Thame junction. Unfortunately after the locomotive ran around the rake of carriages and was recoupled to them ready for the return journey the brakes locked up and refused to release.

The second driver had to walk back to Chinnor station with the line token to unlock the signal box and allow the rescue locomotive (a class 08 Diesel shunter) to enter the line from the sidings at Chinnor station. The class 08 was then coupled to the front of the failed class 37, and used to haul the entire train back to Chinnor station. I was given the opportunity to drive the Shunter on this return journey.

The railway is staffed entirely by volunteers and everyone made us feel very welcome. A highly recommended day out.

http://www.chinnorrailway.co.uk/

[My return visit in August 2012 is here https://pbase.com/paulferguson/20120818_chinnor ]