Home»All my photos»2009 Railway Photographs»Tornado's first main line passenger run 31 January 2009

Today was the long-awaited day when Tornado took its first fare-paying passengers on the main line from York to Newcastle and back. There was bright sun and a cold breeze at York as Tornado backed onto her 13 coach train, showing the public her apple green livery for the first time in daylight. The outward run was brisk, with the Peppercorn Pioneer reaching 60 at Overton Grange, 70 at Tollerton and 75 just after Thirsk. Speed remained well over 70 until past Durham, and the fastest yet steam schedule in preservation was only exceeded by seconds. The huge crowds at Newcastle were matched by crush barriers and high- profile events patrols, limiting photographic opportunities. The return run was less dramatic, with the train running slow line from Northallerton to York, but it was a great day out. A magnificent achievement for all in the A1 Trust to have got Tornado this far, with the promise of much more to come!