Steam update and pond

LMS Class 5MT 4-6-0 no 45407 and 44871 will be hauling the Cathedrals Express excursion from Peterborough to Oxford via March on December 11^th with the train advertised to leave at 7:45am. On the same day The Railway Touring Company are planning The York Yultide Express between Norwich and York via Peterborough hauled by LNER Class A4 No 6009 Union of South Africa which will approach on the same line except from a different direction. It's due in Peterborough at 10:40am. We plan to view both expresses near Turvy so will be handy for some winter birding on the Nene Washes and of course the Big Chill is not far away for blow out breakfast

Late start at the pond this morning started with a quick chat with Keith then a walk to rainbow corner producing Great-spotted Woodpecker, 2 Little Egret, 2 Raven, female Pintail, 20 Goosander (6m), 25 Goldeneye, 7 Pochard, 30 Meadow Pipit and Kingfisher. Over 400 Redwing at Napton Reservoir and 3 Gadwall along with 6 juvenile Mute Swan.