The thought of an LNER A4 Pacific working along the ECML in the year 2024 must seem absurd in the eyes of some, but its a sight that is still possible and on Saturday 2nd March 2024 A4 60007 'Sir Nigel Gresley' would head up the East Coast route with a Steam Dreams trip to York from London Kings Cross, this would be the first time in around 10 years since the southern portion of the ECML had last seen an A4 in BR Express Passenger Blue

Starting out on the outward leg of the journey that would prove a huge challenge with the weather forecasting rain the A4 heads its immaculate rake of 12 Crimson and Creams coaches over Digswell Viaduct, followed by a speedy pass by at Holme Lode south of Peterborough, continuing north in a rather terrible downpour 60007 picks up speed at Askham north of Newark and finally rushing pass Hensall on the final leg of the wettest northbound run

The weather would very luckily improve for the return run back to London, and with a reasonable time off York we first capture Sir Nigel Gresley at Colton Junction on the exit from York passing a crowd of enthusiasts at this popular location, as the train would be returning via Lincoln rather than the direct ECML route we catch up with the A4 back at Holme Lode by the level crossing as she storms through the darkness heading towards Connington Loop for water, finally 60007 is seen storming through Hatfield station after dropping off passengers at Welwyn Garden City, originally planned for the fast line it was changed last minute due to delays but that still didn't change a cracking show!

Thank you once again to Jack Pallister for his valuable assistance with the days chase

00:00 - Welwyn Viaduct
01:35 - Holme Loade
02:38 - Askham
03:42 - Hensall
05:06 - Colton Jc
06:24 - Holme Loade LC
07:16 - Hatfield