FAREWELL TO DRS CLASS 20s

The long special train writhes off the line from Blythe Bridge across the trailing Stoke Junction and, once the generator van at the rear of the train clears the 15mph restriction, the two single-cab Class 20 locomotives are permitted to accelerate to 30mph through Stoke-on-Trent station platforms.

Here is an excuse (if one was ever needed!) to put on a show – not only for the crowd of enthusiasts, armed with all manner of gadgets to record the scene, but also for the passengers awaiting trains to Euston and Crewe. The characteristic low-pitched growl of two 1,000hp engines leaping into life is accompanied by that descant of higher-pitched whistling that seems unique to English Electric 8 and 16SVT engines. Each special train creates unique memories, and Stoke-on-Trent was one of the, admittedly less likely, ones of this trip.

This class of loco dates back to British Railways in 1957, but today’s Nos. 20302 and 20305 are now owned by Direct Rail Services (DRS), which has been investing heavily in modern locomotives. So, sadly but inevitably, these first mass production Type 1s are probably on their last revenue-earning duty, but they are bowing out in style.

Railtours versus service trains are like à la carte compared to cafeteria grub. A successful railtour requires not just a menu but first a recipe. This one used Pathfinder’s organisational and marketing skills, Riviera’s passenger stock, a succession of DRS locomotives and the co-operation of Network Rail plus, of course, the indefatigable catering presence of ‘Frying Scotsman’. Apologies to flavourings not listed!