Great Central Railway Recollections

This new title in the growing Recollections series takes us back through the years using archive pictures of The Great Central Railway, selected to show the line in day-to-day use, we see pre-preservation scenes and preserved era scenes along the route. The run-down of the Great Central route began in 1960, following transfer to the Midland region, with the withdrawal of the daytime Manchester-London expresses. Long stretches were closed altogether in 1966, and the remaining Nottingham-Rugby section in 1969. But also 1969, saw a group of enthusiasts deciding to recreate for future generations the magic and nostalgia of the great British age of steam. From small beginnings, the Great Central Railway is now one of the region's top tourist attractions, providing an unforgettable day out for all the family. Visitors can step back in time and enjoy the charm of steam travel as it once was. Loughborough Central Station is typical of the 1960's. Quorn & Woodhouse Station recreates the 1940's. And Rothley Station captures the Edwardian period.
The Great Central Railway now boasts over 20 steam locomotives and an extensive selection of rolling stock, passenger carriages, wagons, first class dining cars and kitchen/buffet vehicles. In fact, being a mainline railway means that the largest, heaviest and most impressive of British steam locomotives can be operated. In addition to the home-based fleet, famous guest locomotives visit the line on a regular basis. Double track is being re-laid from Rothley to Loughborough Central to allow the passing of trains and the re-creation of true main line operation. This latest volume in the growing series is once again aimed squarely at the tourist/general interest visitor as much as it is to the true railway enhusiast young or old!