Railway enthusiasts and trainspotters are in for a treat when the first steam locomotive built in Britain since 1960 thunders through Clapham next month.
One of the world’s most luxurious trains, that was once part of the Orient Express group, called “Tornado,” will be hauled to Bournemouth and back.
The journey will commemorate the inaugural run of the famous Bournemouth Belle Express on July 5, 1931.
It is scheduled to pass through Clapham Junction at 9.01am on the outward journey from Victoria station and then at 9.52pm on the way back to London.
But while a train ticket to the South Coast cost a mere six shillings (or 30p in today’s money) back then, this time passengers will fork out £399.
Inside 1960s train, Tornado
However for that they will be welcomed on board with a glass of champagne and a three-course brunch on the way to Bournemouth.
On the way home, there will be more champagne reception followed by a five-course dinner with wine.
Despite the ticket price, fewer than 50 seats are left on the train which will depart London Victoria at 8.45am on July 5 and then pick up more passengers at Woking at 10.07am.
It took 14 years and around £3million of private donations to build the green-painted locomotive “Tornado” at Darlington.
Tornado stewardess outside train carriage
Northern Belle spokesman Howard Barclay said: “This coupling of Tornado and Northern Belle is a once-in-a-lifetime trip so we do expect it to be a sell-out.
“After all, miss this steam train to Bournemouth and you might have to wait another 90 years for the next one!” For more details see www.northernbelle.co.uk
No comments:
Post a Comment