Created 26-Aug-16
Modified 26-Aug-16
Steam Dreams' The Coronation railtour was unique in planning to use the three working A4 streamlined locomotives designed by Sir Nigel Gresley, to commemorate the 70th anniversary of their classmate Mallard's achievement of the unbeaten record for steam traction of 126 mph in July 1938. In the event, though all three locomotives took part, one of them (No 60009) failed at Tyne Yard just south of Newcastle on the outward run, and could not continue to Edinburgh. No 60007 was quickly readied for a further stint the next day, but could only run from Tyne Yard. There were long stretches of running at or near the permitted maximum, demonstrating engines in the finest of mechanical condition and crews with the professionalism and enthusiasm to show what they could do. It was a thrilling way to commemorate Mallard's achievement, through it was ironic to note, as we passed at 77 mph the lineside board marking where the record was achieved, that Mallard had passed that point at a speed 65% faster, and that was 70 years ago! On each day, the National Railway Museum staged a special Great Reunion event in their car park, to display all the four A4s in the UK during the railtour's layovers.
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© Peter Hewitt's Transport Pictures