CrossCountry is the latest train operator to retire its InterCity 125s, despite overcrowding issues on its core route and their popularity with passengers. On September 26, XC bade farewell to the trains with a charity special from Leeds to Swanage. Retro InterCity ‘Swift’ livery 43008 is the star of the show during a brief stop at Wareham.
BEN JONES
The Ffestiniog Railway’s new-build ‘Double Fairlie’ James Spooner made its public debut on October 6 and was due to be officially launched and named two weeks later. The 0-4-4-0T basks in the sunshine at Boston Lodge Works after the completion of painting and lining on October 6.
FFESTINIOG RAILWAY
The evolution of the trusty English Electric 350hp 0-6-0 shunter continues with Positive Traction’s fully electric ‘08e’ prototype, unveiled this month. Based on a design that can trace its origins back to 1932, the ‘08e’ replaces the EE 350hp diesel engine with rechargeable batteries and modern electronics, but retains standard running gear, traction motors, cab and driving desk.
BEN JONES