Borders Railway

After many years of campaigning and hard work, the Borders railway line has reopened from Edinburgh to Tweedbank, reversing Dr Beeching's closure of the line in the 60's.

Work began on the 31 mile route in 2010 and opened for the first public train journey last month.

A4 class steam loco Union of South Africa has been creating a lot of interest in the railway and providing a welcome influx of visitors to the area. The steam tours are due to stop on 18th October.

Hopefully a deal can be reached to resume steam on the line next year.

Union of South Africa

The Forth Bridge is one of Scotland's most easily recognised icons. Up till today I had never photographed it.

When I saw that the Union of South Africa was scheduled to cross it on a circular tour of the Forth it was an opportunity which I could not resist.

I had a most enjoyable day capturing the A4 loco at various locations on the tour.

A4 class steam loco 6009 Union of South Africa

60009 passing alongside Culross coastal path

Union of South Africa passing under one of the Forth Bridge's arches

Union of South Africa at Culross

Stopped to take on water at Dalmeny

Approaching Polmont station

North Queensferry station