Legendary steam and diesel locomotives have begun departing Alstom’s historic Derby Litchurch Lane Works, following the conclusion of the world’s largest-ever gathering of historic and modern trains.
The Greatest Gathering took place over three days, 1-3 August, with over 40,000 rail enthusiasts in attendance at Alstom’s Derby factory.
The event formed part of Railway 200, a year-long celebration of the birth of the modern railway in 1825.
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It also marked the first time in almost 50 years that the Derby factory had opened its doors to the public.
On Tuesday morning, an unprecedented spectacle saw four steam locomotives leave the factory towards Derby railway station for Carnforth. SR Merchant Navy Class No. 35018 British India Line, LMS Jubilee Class No. 46115 Scots Guardsman, LMS Jubilee Class No. 45627 Sierra Leone and LMS Stanier Class 5 No. 44932 appeared at The Greatest Gathering courtesy of West Coast Railways
Minutes later, Alstom colleagues also waved off an InterCity 125, or High Speed Train, one of the most distinctive items of rolling stock from the British Rail era. Comprising of power cars No. 43159 Rio Warrior – the world’s fastest diesel – and No. 43060, its Mark 3 carriages were built at Derby Litchurch Lane Works. The train appeared at The Greatest Gathering courtesy of 125 Group.
Rob Whyte, Managing Director UK and Ireland, Alstom said: “The Greatest Gathering is a once-in-a-generation celebration of Britain’s railway heritage and future, and it simply wouldn’t have been possible without the extraordinary support of so many. Together, we’ve created the world’s largest gathering of historic and modern railway vehicles, and a truly unforgettable experience for tens of thousands of visitors, alongside those watching online at home.”
