Legendary Tornado steam train to visit East Lancashire Railway

The A1 60163 Tornado, built in 2008 following an original design by Arthur Peppercorn, will visit the East Lancashire Railway (ELR).

It will journey to the station for its third Legends of Steam event from April 10 to 12.

The Tornado is the only member of its class in existence.

Lee Kenny, general manager of the ELR, said: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome Tornado to the East Lancashire Railway for Legends of Steam.

“It is a truly iconic locomotive and one that always draws huge interest from enthusiasts and families alike.

“We are extremely grateful to the A1 Locomotive Trust for allowing this remarkable engine to visit and share in what promises to be a fantastic celebration of steam.

“We would also like to thank the Swanage Railway and Southern Locomotives Ltd for their support in allowing No. 34070 Manston to visit us.”

Tornado will be joined by fellow guest locomotive Battle of Britain class No. 34070 Manston, courtesy of the Swanage Railway and Southern Locomotives Ltd.

This will be alongside other mainstays from the ELR’s operational fleet.

Completed in 2008, Tornado was the first new-build steam locomotive for the British main line since 1960.

It serves as a tribute to the past while incorporating modern manufacturing techniques.

Visitors will have the opportunity to ride behind Tornado.

There will also be a limited number of seats available in the brake van for a more immersive experience.

You can book tickets here: https://www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk/events-activities/legends-of-steam