7029 ‘Clun Castle’ has been the flagship of Tyseley Locomotive Works since its inception. Purchased by Patrick Whitehouse in 1966, she became a roving ambassador for Birmingham Railway Museum during its formative years, going on to become one of the most recognisable western engines on the mainline. Supported in later decades by her sisters 5043 ‘Earl Of Mount Edgecumbe’ and 5080 ‘Defiant’, 7029 has travelled far and wide across the country, but never before has she ventured to the Yorkshire Coast.

All that was to change on Saturday 6th July, when Vintage Trains ran an excursion from Birmingham to Scarborough and return. Despite having made a few trips to York in the past, this would be the first time in history that ‘Clun Castle’ would traverse the Scarborough branch, usually the domain of West Coast Railways’ fleet in charge of ‘The Scarborough Spa Express’ specials. This would also be Vintage Trains’ first tour to the seaside resort in thirteen years, the last run having been with ‘Earl Of Mount Edgecumbe’ at the helm back in 2013. Therefore, the chance to see a ‘Castle’ so far from home attracted hundreds of enthusiasts to the lineside; myself included!

I had initially hoped to capture the tour at Swinton Interchange near Rotherham, although due to timetable conflicts this wasn't achievable. I decided to head to York Station which, while risky due to the large crowds and diligent staff, would present a magnificent photo opportunity with the locomotive pausing under the roof on platform five. Unfortunately, a last-minute diversion rerouted the tour into platform four, to the annoyance of the spectators present. I did manage to hotfoot it the short distance to Scarborough Bridge to capture the departure, but with dull light and a cluttered view, the shot isn’t featured here.

As for the return journey, I had a few locations in mind, but ultimately opted for the picturesque hamlet of Kirkham Abbey, around fifteen miles east of York. Famed for its sharp curves and traditional semaphore signals still in situ, I was hoping to capture ‘Clun Castle’ working hard deep in the Howardian Hills. However, it was only when arrived in the village that I discovered 7029 was due to pass a TransPennine Express service at the same time, potentially ruining the scene. The diesel unit came and went, just missing the 'Castle’ by seconds. Even a lucky pocket of sunlight shone down following a heavy downpour minutes beforehand.

I hope you all enjoy the video. After disappointing results in the morning, I was very happy with my footage at Kirkham. Thanks to the team at Vintage Trains for organising a great railtour. Check out our official Instagram page at [ Ссылка ] for behind-the-scenes updates, photos and more. Feel free to comment and subscribe!

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