Crewe Memories: Historic locomotives roll into town for reunion

By Crewe Chronicle on May 6, 09 10:56 AM in 2000 onwards

Visitors were all aboard at Crewe Heritage Centre for a reunion of three historic locomotives writes Will Harris.

The Vernon Way railway museum played host to a public display of the newly restored Royal Scot, alongside Duchess of Sutherland and Princess Elizabeth during the bank holiday weekend.

Princess Elizabeth was even doing demonstration runs in the yard, and all the engines had been repainted in classic 1930s 'crimson lake' colours.

It was the first time since 1962 that fully operational examples of each of these legendary classes of the steam age have been seen together, and spokesman Keith Wood was delighted at the public's response.

He said: "This is probably the first time in almost 70 years that such a memorable sight has occurred.

"It is marvellous that it is to happen at Crewe and is certainly one of the most significant events in the history of Crewe Heritage Centre.

"We are very grateful to the three locomotive owners for making it possible.

"The event seemed to capture the imagination and had people interested and keen to see what we had. The site was buzzing.

"We had 1,500 people for the classic bus day we ran last month. I think we're getting back into the community and showing we have a role to play."

The heritage centre team is eager to hear from volunteers.

Anyone interested can phone Rory Kenny on 07939 131490.

For more information on events at the centre, visit www.creweheritagecentre.co.uk.

The above picture shows Andy Kettle of Crewe Heritage Centre aboard classic locomotive Duchess of Sutherland.

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