BLS to take a ‘37’ and ‘50’ to Whitby

JUST ahead of Halloween, the Branch Line Society is running a railtour from Derby to Whitby, the town which inspired Bram Stoker’s novel Dracula. With a projected 05.30 start from Derby, the ‘Whitby Endeavour’ on October 22 will pick up at Long Eaton, Alfreton & Mansfield Parkway, Chesterfield, Sheffield, Doncaster and York, running into Sheffield via Woodhouse and York via Knottingley and Church Fenton. There will be a photo stop at Battersby Junction on the Esk Valley line before a break of around 90 mins in Whitby. Returning towards Teesside, there’s a second photo stop at Battersby before the tour takes the former Stockton & Darlington route to Bishop Auckland, thence returning south to set down at the outward pick-up stations. There will also be a stop at Grosmont in both directions for passengers wanting to visit the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. Operated by SLC, traction will be Class 50 No. 50008 Thunderer in top-and-tail mode with a Loram Class 37. A buffet car will provide a wide range of hot and cold drinks, snacks and light refreshments – and a selection of draught ales and ciders will be available. There will be a charity raffle in aid of the Railway Benefit Fund. Fares are £170 first class, non-dining, however seats at a guaranteed table for two will be £195. Standard class fare is £115. Under 18s benefit from a £57.50 reduction on all fares. There is no surcharge for not being a BLS member. Bookings can be made online at www.branchline.uk