A newly built steam locomotive ran alongside engines dating back to the 19th century during a three day rail event in Greater Manchester.
The East Lancashire Railway hosted its Legends of Steam III event from 10 to 12 April 2026, bringing together a mix of historic and modern locomotives for visitors.
The headline appearance came from A1 locomotive 60163 Tornado, built in 2008, which returned to the railway after a delayed visit due to maintenance and main line preparation work.
The engine previously visited in 2010 and 2018 and appeared this time in British Railways Brunswick Green livery, with additional detailing to reflect how similar locomotives operated in the 1960s. It hauled 21 wagon freight trains during the event, including early morning services where passengers travelled in the open veranda of a brake van. These experiences sold out ahead of the weekend.
The event also featured 34092 City of Wells, presented in a special finish marking 60 years since the closure of the Somerset and Dorset Railway in March 1966. The locomotive ran alongside 34070 Manston, visiting from the Swanage Railway, with both engines double heading selected services.
Organisers linked the display to the historic Pines Express service, which ran between Manchester and Bournemouth from 1910 to 1962 and was regularly hauled by similar locomotives.
Completing the line up was Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway saddle tank 11456, built in 1881, offering a contrast between Victorian engineering and modern steam construction.
Event organiser Liam Barnes said the locomotives had performed strongly across the weekend and praised the contribution of volunteers and partner organisations.
Chairman Mike Kelly said the annual series highlights the importance of preserving historic railway equipment but noted rising costs remain a challenge for future events.
A points failure at Bury Bolton Street station caused some disruption on the Saturday, with trains diverted to different platforms. Repairs were completed within days by volunteer engineers.
More than 200 volunteer shifts were required to operate the event, with the railway continuing to recruit support through organised tours of its facilities.
Further events are planned throughout the year, including visiting locomotives and seasonal galas.
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