With thanks to Avanti West Coast, DRS and Alstom, we are pleased to present the opportunity to join us for a very special trip in advance of ‘The Greatest Gathering’ 'event taking place in Derby's Litchurch Lane Works.
As the famous saying goes, “Thunderbirds are Go”, with this trip presenting a very rare opportunity to travel on a Class 57 hauled Class 390 in planned passenger service. And not just any normal WCML drag; this train will cover the very rare connection into the Works where you will be able to alight. We are expecting the formation of this train to be formed by 57307 hauling 390119, subject to operational availability.
As Lady Penelope tells us “Isn't life fun sometimes?"…well it certainly will be on Thursday 31st July! Join us on board and be a key part of the Railway 200 story. On board there will be a buffet car serving drinks, snacks and light refreshments, an on-board raffle, and you will be issued with a souvenir brochure and ticket. If Thunderbird 1 (First Class) is your preferred method of travel, please book this quickly as this is limited. However don’t panic, as Thunderbird 2 (Standard Class) is plentiful and is awaiting your booking.
Not only does your ticket allow you to cover the connection into Derby Litchurch Lane Works, but you will also be able to benefit from early bird access to the Alstom site before the main event opens to the public the following day! This gives you a guided access all event areas following the arrival of the train on Thursday evening when there will be less people on site…ideal for those memorable photographs you will be able to take. Oh, and that’s not all, your ticket also includes a ride on the Works’ 1.6km-long test track.
So to conclude, there really is nothing else you need to do other than book of course…in true Thunderbird style….F-A-B (for those of you who don’t watch Thunderbirds…that is the International Rescue's radio code for "message received and understood"!)
This charter will be raising funds for the Railway 200 charities.
All times and routing are indicative until confirmed by Network Rail. Final routing and timings are usually confirmed by Network Rail five days before travel and will be enclosed with your e-ticket.
Crewe P12 (PU 14:50) - Stafford UFL - Lichfield North Jn - Lichfield Trent Valley Jn - Wichnor Jn - North Stafford Jn - Derby P3 (30 minute break) - Derby Litchurch Lane Works (SD 17:15)
You may also like the following events from Branch Line Society:
Also check out other
Workshops in Bristol,
Nonprofit events in Bristol.
