First steam of 2024, Harringay station 0745 Sat 24 February

The return of last autumn's stalwart, the 'Black Five' no. 44871 on its way to York. The keen-eyed will notice that the carriages, though still maroon, are more modern-looking with (wow) airconditioning so no need for opening windows.

How civilised one would think - but the traditionalists on the train want opening windows (even in February) so they can better hear the engine working hard. Never satisfied, some folk.

Exact times here, more excursion info. here.

NEXT steam: 0805 Sat 2 March, engine 'Sir Nigel Gresley' (the streamlined one) in royal blue livery. Last here in November 2022, fresh out from an 8 year overhaul.