I asked Google AI where I'd be able to get a close up photo of a running steam train. It gave me directions to a public footpath that ran through a farmer's field. Top marks! You can't get much closer than this. Sadly, Google didn't know that the engine would be hitched on backwards, and the line is now closed for annual maintenance for at least a month.
First stop was a visit to the station - Medstead and Four Marks.
The Sidings ar Medstead & Four Marks.
The station was closed and wasn't due to open until the Halloween Special was due. I wanted to try for a trackside photo of a moving train, so I had to leave before the station opened.
It took 20 minutes to walk across the field to where the footpath crossed the line. The weather was beautiful and the scenery and views were very serene. Until the train arrived the only sound was the skylarks.
By now it was 12:30m and I'd had a lovely morning. Here's the shot! I'll go back next spring and try to get some different angles.
