47971 was acting as a standby engine when photographed at Duddeston on the morning of Saturday 30th March 1991. As far as I can recall
engineering work was taking place at Proof House Jct, reducing the capacity of the busy lines at the east end of Birmingham New St. 47971
was apparently provided to effect a quick rescue to any train that embarrassed itself in the vicinity. My notes tell me that it was also
present on Friday 29th, but not whether it was needed. The loco is standing alongside Duddeston Wagon Works, still in use at that time.
Duddeston stabling point once stood on the other side of the bridge, accessed via the line on which the 47 is standing.
