Time for a new ‘King’?

ALONG with many others, the readers of The RM will have been saddened by the passing of our Queen, for most the only monarch they will have known during their lives. But may I offer a little light at the end of the tunnel? In September 1962, the Western Region withdrew 13 ‘King’ Class steam locomotives and diesel traction took over. No more regal haulages for our gang from Wolverhampton Low Level to enjoy a day on Snow Hill. Now we have a new king, how about an initiative involving private and public finance to return No. 6000 King George V (the King’s great grandfather) or either of Nos. 6023 King Edward II and 6024 King Edward I (“Spud 2” and “Spud 1”) to the main line for 10 years as No. 6030 King Charles III? With an 81A shedplate to honour the passing of Old Oak Common, I reckon this would be a fitting way to herald in the new era whilst not forgetting the past. Melvin Thorley Stockport