Great Western Coffee Shop

0643 Penzance - Paddington had no driver at Exeter. Dosy dispatch didn't seem to have a clue and it wasn't until 20 minutes of waiting that the guard announced we were awaiting a driver off the Voyager that would overtake us.

Doesn't turn up. So magically we get a driver from somewhere after phoning Control (eek!) Left about 41 minutes late and I arrived at westbury some 45 late.

I missed the 1112 to Trowbridge and should technically have missed the 1138 meaning I catch the 1212 meaning im 60 minutes late eligible for a refund. I swear FGW do it on purpose but much to my joy the 1138 was 18 minutes late.

Thanks FGW for a great, extended journey on one of your awful refurbished HSTs.

I won't even start on the return journey.

Total delay minutes yesterday: 82.

We all eagerly await Part 2, The Return.

Was probably a spare driver at Exeter, just took control 41 minutes to answer the phone  ;)

Reminds me of the week when the Paignton line was shut and the morning Paignton to Paddington was starting Newton Abbot, was some rostering cock up so a Plymouth driver was sent to Newton Abbot to work the train, however the actual set for the service was on Laira so sending the driver to Newton Abbot was a bit stupid!!  ::)

Now, now, I'm sure they didn't have a clue, and not through dispatch fault!