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| The Clun Castle |
A record breaking steam engine is to return to the mainline rail network.
The owner of the 7029 Clun Castle, Vintage Trains Ltd, has been awarded a licence to operate scheduled services by the Office of Rail and Road.
Trial services will begin by the end of the year, leading to regular timetabled runs between Stratford-upon-Avon and Birmingham Snow Hill.
The company eventually wants to expand across the country, to serve destinations such as London, York and Chester.
A public share issue has raised more than £850,000 but the aim is to reach £3 million to secure the “enjoyment of steam for years and generations to come”.
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Transport – Steam Locomotives – Breakers Yard – Swindon – 1963
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Clun Castle was built at the former Great Western Railway works at Swindon in 1950.
In 1964 it broke the record for the fastest steam-hauled train from Plymouth to Bristol.
Vintage Trains Ltd managing director Cath Bellamy said: “I am absolutely delighted that we have now been awarded our licence, which represents a major achievement.
“Without fail, steam travel brings a smile to people’s faces and I really can’t wait to introduce it to new passengers of all ages and backgrounds throughout the country.”
FILE video: Famous Steam Engine Returns To Scotland After Rail Row (Sky News)
