chrisleighphotography.com

Brand new LNER A1 pacific 60163 Tornado took a special train to Cardiff from Gloucester today, and I was there at the station early this morning to see it – along with crowds of other enthusiasts.  The last of the renowned Peppercorn class ‘A1′ steam locomotives was scrapped in 1966, but a brand new ‘A1′, No. 60163 Tornado, has been brought to life in Darlington.  Most steam engines have been restored from scrap condition, but this one was built from scratch, just from the original plans, and at a cost of around £3 million.  She made a wonderful sight in the early sunshine, and a tremendous noise of steam.  It was good to see such a large crowd – not just of older “anoraks” but also lots of younger people, and women as well as men.  There are more photos of Tornado on my flickr here.  DSC02217