Is there a VIP on tonight?
Whilst myself and another chap were photographing AC Locomotive Group's Class 86/1, 86101 "Sir William A Stanier FRS" on the block at Euston, an elderly gent approached us and - noting our cameras - asked if there was a VIP on the service tonight. I pointed to the venerable 54-year old loco and said, "Yes, this old girl!"
Built at the English Electric Vulcan Foundry in 1965, the locomotive had worked in the Empty Coaching Stock (5S95) for the Caledonian Sleeper Down Highlander service (1S25). It would then run round to stable in the Middle Sidings ahead of working the ECS again in the morning.
I have it on good authority that whilst being the oldest engine in the current Sleeper traction fleet, she's also the most reliable!
Is there a VIP on tonight?
Whilst myself and another chap were photographing AC Locomotive Group's Class 86/1, 86101 "Sir William A Stanier FRS" on the block at Euston, an elderly gent approached us and - noting our cameras - asked if there was a VIP on the service tonight. I pointed to the venerable 54-year old loco and said, "Yes, this old girl!"
Built at the English Electric Vulcan Foundry in 1965, the locomotive had worked in the Empty Coaching Stock (5S95) for the Caledonian Sleeper Down Highlander service (1S25). It would then run round to stable in the Middle Sidings ahead of working the ECS again in the morning.
I have it on good authority that whilst being the oldest engine in the current Sleeper traction fleet, she's also the most reliable!