Extra HST Dates for Half Term at GCR(N)

Prototype HST Power Car 41001 will be operating extra running days over the next two weekends at Great Central Railway (Nottingham), accompanied for the first time by our freshly repainted Mk3 coaches. The dates are Saturday 13th / Sunday 14th and Saturday 20th / Sunday 21st February, trains depart Ruddington at 1100, 1300 and 1500. The High Speed Train will be operating over these Half Term weekends while resident 8F steam locomotive 8274 is undergoing winter maintenance. Class 73 locomotive E6016 (73110) is planned to be at the other end of the train.

41001 & Mk3s (before repainting) crossing the River Soar on GCR(N) ©’43054′

These will be the first workings of the historic power car and coaches together in matching 1970s livery, recreating the overall look of the original prototype HST. The 125 Group Sales Stand will be open on-board along with Buffet 125 selling teas, coffees & snacks. For more details and to book tickets see the GCR(N) website www.gcrn.co.uk

Our MkIII coaches 11074, 10206 and 12092 are planned to leave Kilmarnock Works this week, and be hauled south to Ruddington GCR(N) under the care of Rail Operations Group. We will try to provide details of the special movement in advance on the 125 Group web site, facebook page and on our twitter account. Thanks to Wabtec Rail Scotland and ROG for their timely assistance!
www.125group.org.uk

EMT Power Cars to visit GCRN for ‘HSTs at 40’

This year is the 40th Anniversary of the introduction of the Inter-City 125 and to celebrate we are holding a ‘HST40’ event at Great Central Railway (Nottingham) on Saturday 19th November, featuring our own Prototype 41001, matching Mk3 coaches and visiting Production Power Cars courtesy of East Midlands Trains.

Passenger services will operate to a special timetable (to be advised), featuring both Paxman Valenta and VP185 power. Tickets are available on-line or on-board, reduced fares apply for 125 Group members on production of a valid membership card, 1st Class Upgrade available on the day, see www.gcrn.co.uk for further information.

‘Buffet 125’ on-board our Mk3 coach 10206 will be serving hot bacon rolls and burgers, hot and cold beverages plus alcoholic drinks including bottled beer. The 125 Group sales stand will also be open on the train, selling HST40 badges, artwork and other 125 merchandise. Thanks to EMT for their kind support. We hope you can join us and celebrate 40 years of the UK’s most successful train!