Well it's that time of year again, and after a year of non-stop steam locomotive action the various operators are gradually putting away their magnificent railway machines for winter overhaul. So with that in mind we look back at what has been a cracker of a year for steam on Britain's Railways!

Many thought that the collapse of the Sea Wall in February 2014 would have ruined everything, but thanks to the stellar efforts of the Network Rail team the wall was back up and running in 64 days and thus the steam season in the South West was truly spectacular, being host to a myriad of specials with power from 5029 'Nunney Castle', 34067 'Tangmere', and making the début steam tour after reopening of the route and her first ever visit to the South Devon Mainline, 60007 'Sir Nigel Gresley'.

But shots also come from other parts of the network, including the cold climbs of the North West and the bustling commuter network of Central London. The year has also included some astounding locomotive combinations, with pairings of engines such as 34046 'Braunton' and 5029 'Nunney Castle' and 61624 and 45407 'The Lancashire Fusilier.'

Apart from that it's the usual onslaught of steam, smoke, whistles, wheel-slips, breakneck speed, hissing safety valves, raw power and pollution, snarling pistons, flying driving rods and general fun for the whole family!

So let's get underway!

Enjoy!

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