Steam Loco’s Trip Through The Surrey Countryside May Not Be Seen Again

Published on: 4 Feb, 2019
Updated on: 5 Feb, 2019

The visit through Surrey of a preserved steam locomotive on Saturday (February 2) was probably the last time she will be seen hauling a passenger train on the main line in this area.

A4 Pacific 6009 ‘Union of South Africa’ passes between the two tunnels and the Ferry Lane bridge at St Catherine’s. All pictures by Mike Bennett ©. Click pictures to enlarge in a new window.

Built at the London & North Eastern Railway’s works at Doncaster in 1937, A4 class Pacific, 60009, “Union of South Africa”, did not operate in this area for the LNER or British Railways. Its motive power depots being in Edinburgh and Aberdeen.

“Number 9”, as she is known to railway fans, was withdrawn from BR service in 1966 and was bought for preservation. Since 1989 the loco has worked rail tours throughout the UK as well as visiting heritage railways.

The loco at Shalford station. Picture: Mike Bennett ©.

In 2017, her owner, John Cameron, announced that 60009 and his other locomotive, K4 class 61994, ‘The Great Marquess’, were to be withdrawn at the end of 60009’s boiler ticket in 2019 and placed at the Farming and Railway Visiting Centre in Fife.

A woman on the footplate can be seen waving! Picture Mike Bennett ©.

Plenty of people turned out to see Number 9 on Saturday. The loco was hauling the Belmond British Pullman rail tour. It ran to and from London Victoria station via Staines, Guildford and Redhill, with a stop locally at Shalford.

The next scheduled Belmond British Pullman excursion over the same route will be on Friday, March 8. The locomotive is rostered to be Merchant Navy Class Pacific 35028 “Clan Line”, built for the Southern Railway at its Eastleigh works in 1948, and a true “southern loco”.

Photographers galore at Shalford. Picture by Mike Bennett ©.

Tickets for the trip start from £380 per passenger. The blurb on the Belmond British Pullman’s website reads: “Take photographs of the immaculate, gleaming steam locomotive while it is stationary at London Victoria Station.

“Then it is time to board the famous Belmond British Pullman train for a fine-dining experience like no other. Your liveried steward will help settle you at your table, which is set with fine linen and bespoke tableware.

“Take time to admire the magnificent marquetry and art deco flourishes of your vintage carriage. As your gastronomic journey through the Surrey Hills begins, your steward will take care of all your needs.

“Sip champagne, marvelling at the ever-changing views through the window and the plumes of steam trailing through the sky. Read about the train’s history and imagine the famous passengers who once enjoyed its opulent interiors. Before long, the first delicious course of chef’s seasonal lunch is served, which is sure to bring an even bigger smile to your face.”