Prototype High Speed Train Power Car 41001 and 125 Group’s matching Mk3 coaches are back at their operating base Ruddington on the Great Central Railway (Nottingham) after yesterday’s transit move from Derby. Thanks to East Midlands Trains Etches Park Depot for looking after our HST and to Rail Operations Group for helping to return home the best looking train in railway preservation!
The preserved HST will be working passenger trains at GCR(N) on Saturday 28th May. Services will depart from Ruddington station (sat-nav postcode NG11 6JS) at 1030, 1215, 1400 and 1545. Trains will operate top ‘n’ tail with 41001 at the south end of the Mk3 coaches. Tickets are available to buy on the day or on-line from www.gcrn.co.uk which has further information.
*** UPDATE *** Brush Type 4, class 47 number 47292 is now confirmed allocated to work the set at the north end.
The GCR(N) route is just under 10 miles long, after departing Ruddington trains reverse at Fifty Steps then run southbound calling at Rushcliffe Halt station, continuing through the scenic Nottinghamshire countryside to Loughborough Viaduct, which has no station but affords a great view over Brush Locomotive Works (with class 73s and 92s often visible) and the Midland Mainline. Ruddington station is the base for GCR(N) with many heritage transport exhibits, and regular bus links to Nottingham mainline station. Rushcliffe Country Park is also nearby.
‘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 our latest commemorative artwork and mugs featuring production power car 43002 ‘Sir Kenneth Grange’. We hope you can join us and experience the wonderful sounds and smells of 41001’s original Paxman Valenta engine!