Best wishes for a successful op. Michael, followed by a full recovery and I wish the abeyance continues for SteveH and xbally. I used to have mine tested annually, when I went for my annual "MoT" test. However, after probably 10 years of tests, the surgery have decided that I don't need to have any more, for the time being!? No explanation? However, there is no history of prostate troubles in my family, just the cholesterol and the thyroid, for which I am taking the pills.
As for the "Flying Scotsman" she is a bonnie loco, as is "Tornado" and we have been fortunate to have travelled, with those loco's as the motive power several times between Edinburgh Waverley and Aberdeen return, also Edinburgh via Stirling, Aberdeen and return. Nothing compares to the beat of a Pacific compound louping along. Whilst my Dad was Southern Region daft, I have always preferred traction engines in all their forms, with a soft spot for Fowler ploughing engines. Any way, I attach an image from 12th, August 2019, of the "Flying Scotsman" waiting for the signal to allow the train to proceed from the Perth station platform of the main line, out alongside the River Tay to Dundee and then hugging the coast and passing through Arbroath, Montrose, Stonehaven and terminating at Aberdeen. The restoration just outside Aberdeen station of the Palmuir turntable, where the Ferryhill Motive Power depot used to be, now enables the engines to run forward both to and from Aberdeen.
Good health to you all for 2026 and beyond and keep riding the beasties, Bill
