The East Coast Main Line is the natural stomping ground for LNER Pacifics, in particular, the Gresley A4s. Desigedin 1935, these graceful yet imposing machines were the epitome of luxury, prestige and speed, symbolising everything great about Art Deco rail travel. Six engines survive into preservation, with four having retraced the route at some point over the last fifty years. As of 2024, only one 'Streak' is operation, being the namesake of her designer, 60007 'Sir Nigel Gresley'.

The locomotive's first duty of the year was to haul a Steam Dreams excursion from London King's Cross to York and return on Saturday 2nd March. Thankfully, timings for the tour worked out very well, so much so that I had planned to capture the engine at four separate locations. However, the day would not be without its challenges, especially the weather forecast, with grey gloomy skies and frequent rainfall forecast across most of the country. Nevertheless, I ventured out to see 'Sir Nigel Gresley' back doing what she does best.

Our day begins at Newark Northgate, where 60007 makes a fantastic first impression speeding through at 70mph, with a great blast on the iconic chime whistle. Despite another photter looming into the frame, the day had gotten off to a promising start. A water stop at Babworth Loop near Retford allowed me to leapfrog the train to Doncaster. By now the rain was at its worst, platforms were packed and eyelines were tight (station staff were also doing their best to deter further enthusiasts from crossing the yellow line, despite the tour avoiding the platform). I couldn't find a decent vantage point anywhere, so I had to settle for the centre of platform four, with hoards of people leaning out to take photographs.

Onwards to York! My service train north was due to arrive at exactly the same time 60007 was scheduled to depart with the empty coaching stock. If I wanted to get another shot, I would have to be extremely lucky. As it happened, it paid off! My train was one minute early and the 'Streak' was one minute late. I ran to the end of platform nine to capture a timeless scene, as an A4 Pacific bursts out from underneath York's roof with the eminent Principal Hotel dominating the skyline.

The return journey would be much more relaxed. I decided to head to Copmanthorpe, around three miles south of York, as its foot crossing offers excellent views from either direction. Apart from two other enthusiasts, I had the place to myself! What's more, the rain had finally relented and blue skies began to make an appearance. 'Sir Nigel Gresley''s modern-day counterpart, an LNER Azuma unit passed by seconds beforehand as 60007 accelerated away south towards Doncaster and beyond.

I hope you all enjoy the video. Despite the difficulties regarding the weather and the crowds, I had a good day chasing the A4 and was thrilled to achieve all of my desired shots. Special thanks to Locomotive Services Ltd and the Sir Nigel Gresley Locomotive Trust for their co-operation on this tour. Congratulations also to the member of the crew who got engaged by the engine at York! Follow our official Instagram page at   / secondvalvesteam   for more and feel free to comment and subscribe!