Tornado - the world’s fastest preserved steam engine and star of 2017 movie hit, Paddington 2 - is pulling in to the East Lancashire Railway in Bury along with the Flying Scotsman this Easter weekend.
It will be the first time that the iconic engine will be reunited with LMS Hughes Fowler ‘Crab’ 2-6-0 No. 13065 (a regular East Lancashire Railway engine), since both engines were used in the popular 2017 film where Paddington climbs a ladder between two diverging trains travelling at high speeds.
There will be plenty of great photo opportunities and visitors will be able to see up close just what makes this super steamer so special, before sitting back and feeling the pull of the massive engine along the 12-mile track through the scenic Irwell Valley.
Faster than Flying Scotsman and capable of reaching top speeds of 100mph, the engine will be taking it a little slower, giving passengers time to take in the beautiful scenery aboard the restored carriages of the East Lancashire Railway (ELR).
Mike Kelly, Chairman of East Lancashire Railway, says: “Tornado is Britain’s fastest and newest locomotive - created because, as a nation, we have a real passion for steam.
“Paddington 2 saw both Tornado and our very own ELR engine, The Crab, take a starring role, introducing a whole new generation to steam trains.
“The team of enthusiasts and volunteers here are ready to welcome aboard old and new fans of steam engines as they experience what life on a living, breathing steam railway is all about.”
Just 20 minutes from Manchester by Metrolink tram, the East Lancashire Railway begins in Bury and spans a 12-mile route through the Irwell Valley.
This is the first time since 2010, that the North West has hosted Tornado and the legendary locomotive will only be on site at the East Lancashire Railway for five days, departing at various times from 29th March to 2nd April. Prices are just £20 for adults and £10 for children.
Tickets include a full line return trip on Tornado and unlimited travel on other standard services throughout the day. Tickets must be booked in advance. There is also a Tornado Dining with Distinction experience available.
In addition to this; the world’s most famous engine, Flying Scotsman, will also be on static display throughout the event and visitors will even be able to climb aboard the cab and walk through the locomotive’s famed corridor tender for an additional fee. The iconic locomotive last appeared here back in 2016 and proved quite a hit with the public.
For full information and to book your steam-fuelled adventure, visit www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk
