On Thursday 13th February six members of FOGS were kindly invited to visit the Alstom Train Care Centre at Longsight, Manchester. The visit had come about from Neil congratulating Alstom in a letter on winning a deserved Silver Spanner award in the annual Modern Railways' Competition for their improved reliability of the popular Class 323 trains - the electric units used on the Glossop line. Taking part were Penny, Eric, Chris, John K, John LeG and Neil. Chris Mennie, Commercial Manager for Alstom, had kindly arranged the visit and FOGS' personnel were much looking forward to an insight into the world of maintenance! A presentation was given by Chris along with Pete - Alstom
and Jeff from Northern. The history of the class was given from its inception in the 90's, one of the first products of rail privatisation. Accidents that had befallen the 17 strong fleet over the years were described along with the steps taken to restore them to full use. Graphs showing the increase in reliability especially following the recent C6 overhauls were presented. A real tribute to the hard work and dedication of the Alstom team who have looked after them all their lives to date! Following a question and answer session - John LeG in his element here! - Chris and Pete took us on an outside tour to view a 323 underging a C4 Overhaul and to have the extensive track and depot layout explained ie where the Pendolinos came in..... It was strange to see such a quiet 323 not at a platform! Again there were lots of opportunities to ask questions which Chris and Pete answered with skill and good humour! We all gained huge insights as to how these trains are maintained on a daily basis. Also evident the passon and pride in Chris and Pete as they explained what went on at Alstom. The visit, a first for FOGS was a real privilege and we thank Alstom and Chris, in particular, for allowing us to visit.
and Jeff from Northern. The history of the class was given from its inception in the 90's, one of the first products of rail privatisation. Accidents that had befallen the 17 strong fleet over the years were described along with the steps taken to restore them to full use. Graphs showing the increase in reliability especially following the recent C6 overhauls were presented. A real tribute to the hard work and dedication of the Alstom team who have looked after them all their lives to date! Following a question and answer session - John LeG in his element here! - Chris and Pete took us on an outside tour to view a 323 underging a C4 Overhaul and to have the extensive track and depot layout explained ie where the Pendolinos came in..... It was strange to see such a quiet 323 not at a platform! Again there were lots of opportunities to ask questions which Chris and Pete answered with skill and good humour! We all gained huge insights as to how these trains are maintained on a daily basis. Also evident the passon and pride in Chris and Pete as they explained what went on at Alstom. The visit, a first for FOGS was a real privilege and we thank Alstom and Chris, in particular, for allowing us to visit.
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