LUXURY IN THE VALLEY: The Severn Valley Railway (SVR) welcomed its first incoming main line charter train of the year on June 5. Formed of the prestigious VSOE Pullman cars, the outward leg from London Victoria was worked by GBRf Class 66 No. 66737 Lesia with Class 50 No. 50049 Defiance at the rear. The 'Hoover' was detached upon arrival on SVR metals, with the Class 66 continuing to Bridgnorth. The SVR's resident air-braked steam locomotive, SR West Country Pacific No. 34027 Tow Valley headed the train from Bridgnorth with a trailing load of 620 tons. Bedecked with the 'Golden Arrow' regalia, the Bulleid 4-6-2 makes an impressive sight as it crosses Oldbury viaduct.
No. 34027 Tow Valley was replaced by No. 50007 Hercules at Kidderminster, which hauled the train back to London, No. 66737 Lesia being attached to the rear.
JOHN TITLOW