Created 11-Nov-25
24 photos
The last Shakespeare Express in 2025 ran on Sunday 9th November, starting from Worcester Shrub Hill. Steam motive power was BR(WR) Castle Class 7P 4-6-0 7029 CLUN CASTLE, making one of its final runs before it is withdrawn from service for overhaul. The way it performed on this day’s excursion suggested that there can be little major work required. It was superb, both in performance and appearance. Support was available from Brush Type 4 Co-Co diesel electric D1755 / 47 773 which had little to do except lead the train from Hatton to Stratford-upon-Avon on the outward run. It was the second weekend since we reverted to GMT in 2025 and, as the train was booked to return from Stratford 35 minutes later than the equivalent train in 2024, I decided to return home early. The weather did not encourage me to stay either as light rain had started to fall soon after lunch and it had been very dull almost all day.
© DAVID ARMITAGE