British Rail had been slow to realize the potential of using Deltics on railtours, very few were used prior to 1978, though with the introduction of HST sets the locomotives became available for more varied duties. On Sunday February 19th 1978 55018 (D9018) "BALLYMOSS" was provided to work the 1Z15 08:15 Paddington - Paignton RPPR 'Deltic Ranger' railtour from London Paddington. The train was expected to reach Paignton, however, adverse weather saw the train terminated at Bristol Temple Meads...

...A wintry feel at Bristol as 55018 waits with the RPPR "Deltic Ranger" railtour on 19th February 1978...

...55018 again at Bristol with the 1Z15 12:25 return service for Paddington. 55003 (D9003) "MELD" had the honour of hauling the re-run on Sunday 5th March 1978. A photo of 55003 on the 5th March can be seen by clicking here.

__________  Picture Reference  __________
	19/02/78 - 1Z15 08:15 Paddington - Paignton, "Deltic Ranger" to Bristol (terminated). Deltic Deadline No.46: Page 13.
	19/02/78 - 1Z15 08:15 Paddington - Paignton, "Deltic Ranger" to Bristol (terminated). Deltic Deadline No.56: cover.
	19/02/78 - 1Z15 12:25 Bristol Temple Meads - Paddington, "Deltic Ranger". Deltics at Work: Page 116.
	19/02/78 - 1Z15 12:25 Bristol Temple Meads - Paddington, "Deltic Ranger". Deltic Deadline No.68: Page .13.
	19/02/78 - 1Z15 12:25 Bristol Temple Meads - Paddington, "Deltic Ranger". Tribute to the Deltics: Page 45.

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