,

Tyseley makes TOC debut with Birmingham ‘Polar Express’ festive trains

by

VINTAGE Trains (VT) was set to return to full main line steam charter operation as an independent train operating company on November 29 with the first of its new ‘Polar Express’ festive specials from Birmingham Moor Street.

The trains are based upon the 2004 film of the same name, and are scheduled to run four times a day on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, and five times on Sunday, every week up until December 23.The experience is described by VT as “full theatrical re-creations of the classic children’s tale”, with train scenes from the movie brought to life on board by a troop of actors, as dancing chefs and waiters serve cookies and hot chocolate to passengers.

At the ‘North Pole’ (Tyseley depot) the trains are greeted by Santa, who later joins the train and presents every child (and adult) with a special souvenir gift on the return run to Moor Street.

Article continues below…
Advert

Enjoy more Railway reading in the monthly magazine.
Click here to subscribe & save.

Tyseley-based ‘Hall’ 4-6-0 No. 4965 Rood Ashton Hall operated four outbound rehearsal trains on November 24, top-and-tailed with Class 50 No. 50007 Hercules, which VT says were a complete success.

The ‘Hoover’ was provided owing to there being no run-round provision at either end.

VT press officer Denis Chick said: “The whole team is very focused on making this a great success so that we can give it serious consideration for 2019.”

Article continues below…
Advert

Read more News and Features in the December issue of The RM – on sale now!


Advert
Subscribe to The Railway Magazine
Enjoy more of The Railway Magazine reading every month. Click here to subscribe.

Railway Reads

From the history of steam through to 21st century rail transport news, we have titles that cater for all rail enthusiasts. Covering diesels, modelling, steam and modern railways, check out our range of magazines and fantastic subscription offers.


About the Author