| Vintage Trains operated a pre-Christmas charter from Birmingham to Manchester and return, called the BBC WM 'Kidney Kids' Christmas Special. The charter was in the capable buffers of ex-Virgin 86259 Les Ross (whose owner of the same name, is a DJ from BBC Birmingham, and was onboard this charter), and 47773.
While in the area, the two locos operated a mini-tour from Manchester Piccadilly to Hadfield and return; the latter destination broke new ground for the class 86, as 86259 became the first of the 1960's built class to appear at the station, once part of the Woodhead line. A good short bash with the two locos, and with the reasonable return fare of £15 going towards a worthwhile cause. Thanks to the following who attended and bashed this tour: Aaron Roberts (Woolybak8), James Connor (TheXtremeEnthusiast), Stuart Jennion (badgerjennion), Nathan Bridge (StationEndGroup), Michael Atkinson (FlyingEnglishman), Alex Roberts and all other bashers in attendance. Hope you enjoy this festive collection! |
Tyseley based 47773 stands at Manchester Piccadilly, soon after arrival on the BBC WM 'Kidney Kids' Christmas special. |
One of the three Tyseley owned Metro Cammel Pullman vehicles stands empty at Manchester Piccadilly, having unloaded her lucky passengers who travelled up from Birmingham. |
Virgin 57309 Brains passes light engine through Manchester Piccadilly, heading towards Longsight. |
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Having completed her stint on the short run to Hadfield, 86259 Les Ross gets her admiration from her passengers. |
The old style British Railways silver crest on the bodyside of 86259 Les Ross. |
The nameplate of 86259, who was bought, restored and now owned by the BBC Birmingham DJ of the same name. |
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86259 Les Ross at Hadfield, now forming the back engine for the return run to Manchester Piccadilly. |
The headboard on the BBC WM Kidney Kids Christmas Special needs no explanation; all the proceeds from this tour were going towards a worthwhile cause. |
A last look at 86259 Les Ross at Hadfield, during the 10 minute layover. Please note that this shot was taken under legal circumstances. |
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Back at Manchester Piccadilly, 86259 Les Ross shows off her red nameplate again. |
86259 Les Ross stands at Manchester Piccadilly with the BBC WM 'Kidney Kids' Christmas Special. She would shortly head off to Longsight with the ECS for servicing. |
