Loaded Test Run - Carnforth - Hellifield - 4 Feb 2020 - 60009

A loaded test run of LNER Class A4 60009 'Union of South Africa' took place on Tuesday 4th February 2020 between Carnforth and Hellifield via the Bentham line, returning to Carnforth via Blackburn and Preston.
There was a long break / water top at Hellifield.

[@williamwoolhouse3702]

I, like many others will mourn her retirement what a magnificent beast she is.I saw her on the Elizabethan many times in the late 50s.

[@CrossfellRailwayVideos]

You got the right place at the end of the platform there, Julian, for the departure. Well done.

[@JulianThurgood]

Thanks Alan - there were a lot of people there when she arrived, but a lot less when she left! I tried to find a good spot without getting in anyone's way, and hoping no-one would get in my way while i was filming, which often happens.

[@bobnweaver]

Superb scenes from Hellifield Julian and some fine close up shots. Regards, Jeff.

[@JulianThurgood]

Thanks Jeff - it may well be the last time I see no 9 - so worth the effort to get there and try and capture the event well.

[@nige7577]

Excellent Catch Julian, one of Sir Nigel's finest, she's going to be sadly missed, nige

[@JulianThurgood]

Thanks Nige - yes she will be missed. My first video several years ago was on a trip behind No9.

[@gordontaylor3489]

Excellent video, I would love to see her up close with a full head of steam. There is nothing to beat the sight and sounds of a steam locomotive thundering past.

[@TheCrazyhorse1876]

Fingers crossed for her that she came through it all and is ready for the mainline,very nice video well done you for being there

[@JulianThurgood]

Thanks Robert. Since she didn't return to East Lancs Railway - that implies she passed the test - so 3 charter tours hopefully to do before final retirement.

[@TheStephengthompson]

Cracking shots Julian, good to see and hear the A4 again. Always annoying at Hellifield as folk just stand right in front of you obliviously 🤬

[@JulianThurgood]

Thanks Steve - It was a lovely site. I guess there were lots at Hellifield for this final sighting - but a few were not too bothered about getting in other people's view!

[@lynnthrop7544]

Excellently captured Julian very emotional and atmospheric Wow!!!:-)

[@JulianThurgood]

Thanks Lynn. Glad you liked it.

[@tattoo1084]

great stuff there Julian, will be sad to see her go. hoping to see her in Nottingham in March. Thanks.

[@JulianThurgood]

Thanks David. Hope you get to see her on one of her final 3 trips.

[@allan5919]

A super video of the A4 Pacific Julian. I really enjoyed watching that. Cheers - Allan.

[@JulianThurgood]

Thanks Allan - glad you approve. It was probably the last time I will ever see this wonderful loco! (Unless I go to York on 15th Feb)

[@SimonTog]

Super nice Julian :)

[@JulianThurgood]

Thanks Simon.