TRAIN enthusiasts were thrilled to have the chance to see two iconic steam locomotives drive through Herefordshire today (Thursday).
Heading south through Herefordshire, 45231 The Sherwood Forester, a fully functional Black 5 train, took passengers on the Whistler tour of the Welsh Brands.
Picked up in Lancaster, Preston, Wigan, Warrington, Crewe and Shrewsbury, the iconic locomotive, built in 1936 for the London, Midland and Scottish Railway, traveled to Bristol via Ludlow, Leominster and Hereford stations.
The Sherwood Forester steam engine has passed Herefordshire and Shropshire. Image: David Mitchell
The Sherwood Forester steam engine has passed Herefordshire and Shropshire. Pictured: Nick Chapman
“We traverse the breathtaking beauty of the Welsh Brands Route and offer a totally unique day trip as we travel through the rolling hills of the pretty Shropshire countryside that separates England and Wales,” reads the Saphos Trains website.
“Along the Marken we pass the magnificent Stokesay Castle and the historic towns of Ludlow and Hereford.
“As you step into South Wales and Monmouthshire, you have a magnificent view of the Brecon Beacons as the Black Mountains tower over the train.
“In Newport we join the Great Western Main Line and travel through the Severn Tunnel to Bristol for an afternoon break.”
Behind 45231 was 46100 Royal Scot.
The Royal Scot was originally built in 1927 and was the flagship locomotive of the London, Midland and Scottish Railway (LMS).