Paddington starring role for Tornado

New-build ‘A1’ No. 60163 is to play a starring role in the upcoming Paddington 2, set to be released on November 10.


‘A1’ No. 60163 Tornado, star of the upcoming Paddington 2, races through Hungerford with the ‘Belmond British Pullman’ on May 11. TONY BARTLETT/A1SLT

The Peppercorn ‘Pacific’ will feature in the sequel to the popular 2014 family film, which followed the adventures of the famous eponymous character, who was the brainchild of author Michael Bond. No. 60163 took part in filming at Paddington station and at Leavesden Studios in December last year and January 2017.

Graeme Bunker-James, Trustee and Operations Director, The A1 Steam Locomotive Trust, commented: “We were delighted to be asked to provide No. 60163 Tornado for the filming of Paddington 2 alongside Belmond British Pullman – even more so as the locomotive stars as itself in the movie and is central to the plot.

“We don’t want to give anything away and ruin any surprises, but suffice to say that Paddington gets into a number of sticky situations involving Tornado.”

To coincide the with release of the film, No. 60163 Tornado is to haul two Paddington Afternoon Tea journeys aboard Belmond British Pullman. Departing from London Victoria on December 2 2017 and February 16 2018, the luxurious 1920s and 1930s carriages will take families on a Paddington-inspired journey of a lifetime.

Suitable for small and grown up bears, the Afternoon Tea menu includes sweet treats and marmalade sandwiches. Paddington-inspired activities are also available on-board for families throughout the journey to fully immerse themselves in the world of Paddington.

Mr Bunker-James added: “Paddington – and Tornado – fans of all ages can experience some of the magic of the film for themselves by travelling on one of the Paddington Afternoon Tea journeys aboard Belmond British Pullman hauled by No. 60163 on either December 2 2017 and February 16 2018. And the Trust has its very own club – the Tornado Team - for younger Tornado fans aged from five to fifteen.”

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