NRZ VALENTINES SPECIAL

Chas Rickwood reporting on zimrail:
“The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) ran a successful outing to Khami on 13 February to mark Valentines Day. The train left Bulawayo at 16:00 behind 4-6-2+2-6-4 15th class Garratt no 395. Both nos 416 and 611 were in steam on standby but fortunately were not called upon as 395 performed impeccably. The consist was twin diner 666/667 Zambezi; (just ex- shops); museum 1st class coach 1045; museum diner 646 Kariba; diner 660 and museum guard’s van 2602 . The train made a pretty picture with all coaches in RR livery. The 60-plus passengers enjoyed afternoon tea/coffee or something from the bar and most detrained at Khami in summer sunshine whilst 395 did the shunting. This involved moving 2602 to the end of the train for the return working. As there is no turning facility at Khami, 395 worked in reverse on the return trip. Arrival at Bulawayo was on time at 18:30, after which the train was shunted to the railway museum for dinner in the main hall. NRZ catering did well to serve a three-course meal. Each lady received a RailLeisure coffee mug containing chocolates and an edible red rose. A disco was laid on for dancing and the punters seemed to enjoy this Valentines function with a difference. Credit is due to NRZ for their enterprise and for keeping steam active for such events.”