WHAT THEY SAID ABOUT THE S&C ‘PLANDAMPF’...
“We are delighted that Northern’s faith in a steam locomotive to power some of our timetabled passenger trains was not misplaced. We set out to provide something really unique to say thank you to the communities up and down the line for their patience while the line has been closed, and I think that we delivered our objective exceptionally well. “It’s still early days, but we’re greatly encouraged by the overwhelmingly positive reaction to the ‘I LOVE S&C’ services and although I’m keen to stress that we’re not looking any further than February 16 at this stage, the operation of similar trains in future should not be ruled out.”
Graeme Bunker, A1 Steam Locomotive Trust
“We’re very happy. I’m really pleased that it’s been such a successful first day for all the partners concerned, and to see so many people enjoying it. “This is very different to anything we’ve done before. Not everyone can afford main line steam, but at normal fares it’s totally accessible. “What’s great is the way it’s put this railway back on the map - national news has spent five days on this. In terms of traditional media it’s gone big; Twitter has exploded! “We’re less than halfway, but steam has not embarrassed itself today, and it’s done a proper job for the real railway. The sheer amount of support from everyone has been phenomenal, and we’re really proud to be part of that.”
Richard Corser, DB Cargo
“We were delighted to collaborate with our industry colleagues on these momentous services
celebrating the restoration of the Settle-Carlisle line following last year’s landslip. “It is poignant that the last railway in Britain to be built by pick and shovel has now been restored through a significant project using modern engineering practices. “The steam services in February paid tribute to the line’s history and future and we were pleased to provide a highly experienced train crew for [No.] 60163 Tornado, with a combined experience of approximately 80 years’ working on steam locomotives.”
Nigel Harris, RAIL
“The ‘I LOVE S&C’ ‘Plandampf’ worked far better than any of those involved dreamed. It was a magnificent effort which brought joy to thousands of passengers. “But it was so much more. It showed how ground-level managerial integration can have spectacular results. “It gave lots of people lots of reasons to love the railway, and that’s worth thinking very seriously about. Because love it they did. “What can we do next?!”
Nick Brodrick, Steam Railway
“‘Plandampf’ is well and truly on the national radar. Main line steam can now look to more collaborations with the modern rail industry to ensure that the ‘I LOVE S&C’ timetabled trains weren’t the last of their kind. “The A1 Trust has tied its colours to the mast by declaring that the ‘Plandampf’ concept can be taken nationwide. Steam Railway, which first became convinced of the idea long ago, is fully supportive of making such ventures happen again.”