STEAMING BACK!
Half a century on, rail firm to run whistle-stop service on the mainline
IT was one of the last steam engines to be decommissioned by British Rail in 1968.
Now half a century later, the 7029 Clun Castle is preparing to chug back into regular service on the railways.
Its owner, Vintage Trains Ltd, has been granted a licence by the Office of Rail and Road which will allow it to run scheduled express services across the main rail network.
The engine will feature on timetables running the 50 miles between Stratford-upon-avon and Birmingham’s Snow Hill.
It will stop at stations along the route allowing passengers to hop on and off. Ultimately the company, which is funded by 750 enthusiasts, aims to expand its services around the country – including to York, Chester, Bristol and London.
a public share issue has so far raised £850,000, but the aim is to raise £3million so the age of steam can be brought back around the UK. as well as Clun Castle, five other locomotives will eventually run at the relatively sedate top speed of 75mph, compared to the 140mph limit of more modern trains. But Vintage stress their trains are designed for comfort, not speed – and are geared towards families wanting to enjoy a day out rather than commuters.
Old Pullman carriages have been restored for passengers who want to dine in style, with three-course meals available.
Those who simply want a seat will travel on some of the earlier British Rail coaches.
Prices are expected to start at around £20 – and go up to as much as £200 for the VIP service.
Vintage Trains is being led by two rail industry veterans adrian Shooter and Cath Bellamy.
Miss Bellamy said: ‘I am absolutely delighted that we have now been awarded our licence, which represents a major achievement.
‘Without fail, steam travel brings a smile to people’s faces and I really can’t wait to introduce it to new passengers of all ages and backgrounds throughout the country. But we also need to ensure it has a future for many years to come.’