Created 7-Oct-25
24 photos
Wednesday 8th October 2025 was the day when71000 DUKE OF GLOUCESTER was expected finally to haul a train load of passengers, who had all contributed to the cost of rebuilding this famous locomotive, on the main-line. And it so nearly didn’t happen again! Reports of ‘cows on the line’ resulted in departure from Crewe 149 minutes late. Even more delays, due to running out of path, meant that the train reached Shrewsbury 162 minutes late. Departure from Shrewsbury was just one minute over two hours late but after Wolverhampton time recovery was impressive and the train reached Crewe just 102 minutes down. It should be noted that time loss was not due to the locomotive which looked superb throughout and gave no indication of any kind of problem whatsoever. Purists will complain over the headboard that read “THE IMPOSSIBLE DREAM”; but that was exactly what we saw this day, and long may this dream come true.
© DAVID ARMITAGE