Bob,

I don't know about the operational status of the famous 9f, but I can comment about it ever being dirty.

In a departure from other 9fs, Evening Star was given a name, the special green paint job, and the copper-capped stack. I remember reading that the locomotive was a kept as a "pet" by the shed it was assigned to, and as a result was well taken care of. That, coupled to its occasional BR-service passenger days, being used for exhibitions, and being destined for the National Collection the day it left Swindon. It had a short, 5 year service life.

Well, I've seen many a dirty 9f as well, or at least photos of them. It may have had something to do with the drafting, or as you say, the quality (or lack thereof) of the coal they used.

My favorite aspect is that Hornby came out with a "dirty" 9f a few years ago, weathered to where you could barely read the number.

Nice piece on Bluebell Railway's (recently withdrawn) 9F, with good links and more information. Britain's version of super power.

http://www.bluebell-railway.co.uk/blueb ... 92240.html

A program for kids, 9-16 years old, to help with the railway. Interesting idea.

http://www.bluebell-railway.co.uk/bluebell/9f-club/

Info on 9F 92212, with link to some grainy but at speed video at the bottom of the page.

http://www.watercressline.co.uk/92212.htm