RTC White Rose with Tornado: 12/07/25

ECS for today's White Rose currently in Hanwell loop with an unknown issue.

EDIT: On the move 60 late

 

Let's hope they can make some time up on the run to York. Could be achievable due to the number of planned pathing slots.

 

On time into Kings Cross unsure if Tornado on/with the consist

 

It is. Saw the ECS at Finsbury. Diesel only at the rear. Wearing a White Rose headboard with Bill Monteith at the regulator.

 

I'm delighted to confirm it is! I got a quick glance at the ECS passing the Thameslink train I was on. Class 47 on the back. Didn't see another one in train but again I didn't see it for long so may be wrong but Tornado definitely there.

 

When was the last time a headboard of the titled train was adorned by a mainline steam locomotive, answers on a postcard

Tornado at Doncaster on The White Rose

 

Daily with The Jacobite?

 

Well, here's what's salvageable of my chase of the A1 today. Went into it with an open mind given the fire risk, but that turned out to be the least of my worries. With the A1 running early a service train at Gordon Hill was suddenly going to block everyone's view and as a result they all ran up to where I was, making the shot barely usable. At Grantham the A1 ended up costing through with the safety valves lifting having been on the tail of an Azuma (not worth including IMO), so a gamble was then made to Doncaster to try and make it all up. The A1 did provide an acoustic of whistles, but was barely audible over a late running GC service in the other platform. Can't win 'em all!

 

Work commitments today meant I could do no more than head out down the road to Bridge Road, just north of Stevenage, for the departure from the passenger pick up...
https://flic.kr/p/2rgfwUP

 

A short upload today for Tornado on The White Rose, captured at Watton at Stone & Doncaster

 

For those wondering what was so important about today's train, David Elliot's family were on board while his ashes were consigned to the firebox of the loco as it ascended Stoke Bank. A very fitting tribute to a man who was so instrumental in the whole amazing Tornado saga.

Peter

 

LNER A1 No.60163 'Tornado' passing Burn whilst heading north with 'The White Rose' - 12th July 2025.

 

I didn't know that. Thanks for letting us know. I've just spent a few quiet moments remembering David.