A RAIL37 Churnet Valley Railway picture report

SANTA EXPRESS 16th December 2001

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Not having seen the Stanier Class 5 number 45337 in action I went along to Cheddleton to have a look at one of the "Santa Express" days. The event was, as usual, extremely well organised and the desired effect was achieved when small children were charging about ecstatic with train rides and father Christmas doling out pressies! Well can you think of anything better?

There was a Santa waiting at the entrance to greet everyone as they came in but, of course, it wasn't the REAL Santa was it boys?

The entrance to Santa's Grotto where unaccompanied adults were not allowed.

Ye Olde Chestnut seller complete with urchin.

A great big fat cheque would make a wonderful Christmas present - any takers?

The sound of a Stanier hooter heralded the arrival of the "Santa Express" and the sight and sound of a Class 5 in action was well worth the journey.

What a sight.

Tacked on the rear end was Class 33 diesel number 33102, this was to eliminate the runrounds and save time.

45337 stopped short of the station to take on water from the water tower. This gave me time to come out of the car park and into the station area and catch the "Black 5" head on.

After entering the station and discharging passengers, the empty train ran off to Leekbrook for cleaning and servicing. It later returned with the Class 33 in charge.

The entourage was pulled in to the platform where the train rapidly filled up again.

33102 set off down the valley with another sherry & mince pie special....

....closely followed by a piece of history.

Hey! - good looking!