Tuesday 31st August and Black 5 No. 45379 passed its inspection today with flying colours! Aching to stretch her legs, the Black 5 team were waiting on the pit road for the service engines to return to shed as she shimmered in the autumn sunshine. The lighting really brought out the detail of the beautiful motion, as can be seen below.
As soon as the Std 5 and Wadebridge had returned to shed, the drain cocks were opened and she eased herself off the pit road for a light run to Alresford. A few runs were made from Ropley to Alresford where the engine performed exceptionally well. With around 40 miles put on the clock, only a few minor tweaks are required. The ride on the footplate is reported to be like riding in a coach, it's that smooth!
45379 will continue to be run in prior to our S&D event on the 10-12 September.
Elsewhere, Tornado was preparing to leave the MHR after undertaking 6 running days hauling packed trains. A photo shoot for the A1 Trust was underway, images of which could be used in their new book, available in November.