East Grinstead Running Day

Sunday April 23rd 2006

Prepared by Ian Smith, 3rd May 2006



Part 3: 409: East Grinstead to Forest Row (and back) (FRM1)

FRM1 was prepared for the trip out to Forest Row on the 409. When ready we pulled round the corner of King Street, reversed back into the side road, and turned down King Street, so that we ended up opposite the War Memorial heading for Forest Row. That big engine at the back did sound beautifully fruity and mellow.

FRM1 in King Street FRM1 in King Street

We loaded up for the 409 trip, and set off along the main street. The big front window gave an excellent view forward from the front passenger seat behind the wheel arch. I was amused by the "No Notes" sign on the driver's door. It reminded me of an occasion when a conductor on the 94 was not amused when all I had for a 2d fare was a ten shilling note!

We headed for Ashurst Wood. Southdown Guy Arab PUF647 came roaring through the rain on route 92, today operating from Chelwood Gate (just beyond Forest Row), reminding us that we were trespassing beyond the London Transport boundary.

East Grinstead from FRM1 Southdown Arab on 92

FRM1 found Station Road in Forest Row, and headed down to the old station yard to turn. There were very many photos taken, from every angle, by a multitude of photographers and passengers. Rightly, too: it isn't very often that the Froutmaster comes out to play, and an appearance in service on a Country Area route is a rare treat indeed.

FRM1 at Forest Row Station FRM1 at Forest Row Station FRM1 at Forest Row Station

FRM1 at Forest Row Station FRM1 at Forest Row Station

Then it was all aboard for the return trip to East Grinstead. The mighty roar as we headed up the bank to Ashurst Wood was a delight, and a reminder that modern bus engines really are much quieter than those of previous generations.

I alighted at the War Memorial and consulted my timetable to plan a careful route taking in the Godstone Green offerings and the 494...

Part 4: 494, East Grinstead to Oxted (GS76)



All photos by Ian Smith. Click on most of them for a larger picture.


Back to Ian's Bus-stop Part 2 Part 4: GS76 on the 494