Churnet Valley Mk.1 progress

THE RESTORATION of Mk.1 TSO 3809 has been completed at the Churnet Valley Railway, this being the first of the additional coaches acquired to allow trains to be lengthened ahead of regular services commencing to Leek. Now finished in BR maroon, it made its debut on the festive Polar Express services. November 23 also saw the railway take delivery of Mk.1 BPOT 80457 for use as an additional stores coach. Previously at the Rushden, Higham and Wellingborough Railway, the coach is one of just three Travelling Post Office brakes to survive, and remains in unrestored condition.