FACEBOOK FEEDBACK

To celebrate the 80th anniversary of Mallard’s record-setting speed run on July 3 1938, we asked Steam Railway’s online community whether they thought its record would ever be beaten, and if No. 4468 should ever return to steam.

Jordan Shingler

I think Mallard should be restored to full working order again for its 100th anniversary in 2038.

Mark Coultas

I can’t see Mallard running again. There’s too much material that would need replacing, and Mallard is irreplaceable. Also, what would we gain? ‘Gresley’ will be back in service soon and Bittern will follow in due course. Yes, we will lose ‘Number Nine’ next year, but the future is still bright for seeing an ‘A4’ in operation.

John Hand

Take into account the fact that Union of South Africa is soon to be a dust magnet in a museum, and that Bittern is probably four or five years from the start of an overhaul, that leaves Sir Nigel Gresley, which is still in bits at York. Perhaps it’s time to consider getting Mallard back in steam.

Simon Donald

No, they shouldn’t ever go for the record but yes, she should be overhauled. The ‘A4s’ were the pinnacle of traction and we will soon have just one of them in service. It’s such a shame. Duchess of Hamilton should be returned to main line service too.

David Bassett

If she could be returned to full steam, then yes she should, but not to try and break her own record.

Pete King

While I personally would love to see Mallard in steam, my heart disagrees. As such an important part of our heritage, she’s too valuable.