Brief Overview
For the 49th IMLEC, the competition stayed "up-north" and was held at Southport for the second time. Personally I have some regret over this IMLEC, it is the only IMLEC I have not attended in my lifetime (since my first at 4 weeks old). So my only knowledge of this years competition is from the ME report and conversations I have had with those that did attend.
As in recent years, the competition was held over 3 days, starting with seven runs on the Friday. At the close of the competition a serial "runner-up" Paul Tompkins, had finally climbed to the top step of the podium driving the Britannia "Coeur-de-lion". Diane Carney tells us more:
"Paul Tompkins: BR Britannia (5 inch gauge) This was a much anticipated run, especially by the regular
IMLEC contenders. So many times we have seen Paul finish near the top of the board but he has never won. The locomotive itself has a similar history, having come second twice, although it did win once in 1997 at Llanelli driven by its owner, Len Steel from Guildford. It was built by Lionel Flippance in 1984 and he came second with it at Urmston in 1985. Following extensive mechanical work the engine was tip-top condition today, with carefully balanced coupled wheels, and Paul made an impressive and confident start with his 19 passengers. The run was faultless and Paul's driving technique was highly professional; coal consumption was well under 2 pounds giving a good specific fuel consumption figure of just 9.363 lb/HP/hr. He went straight to the top of the table and there he stayed!"
Interesting Facts
Paul "Runner-up" Tompkins finally got his hands on the Martin Evans Challenge Trophy on his 17th attempt. Paul had previously finished 2nd four times and 3rd twice.