Syria 24.9.2008: The plates on the cabside of 2-8-2 No. 262. This locomotive very soon became Syrian Railways' only main line steam locomotive in working order; she was indeed the saviour of the tour group's steam-hauled trains. This was thanks entirely to the dedication and hard work of the engine and train crews, who literally had to work through the night, with what they could beg, steal or borrow, to keep their "grand old lady" in good running order! Sadly, the working futures of men and machine do not appear bright...
Roger Griffiths; roger.griffiths@hotmail.com