Named after the Kings of England the most powerful and heaviest 4-6-0s ever built in Britain ruled until 1962... but for No. 6024 the story was certainly not over, and since 1990 King Edward I has become one of the most prolific steam locomotives out on Britain's main lines.
This programme is a lineside appreciation, a 'snapshot' of some of the more interesting 'Royal appointments' as King Edward I steamed towards 1.6 million miles of service.
For example, this DVD includes extensive coverage of the Wessex Royale train as it follows a winding route from Stratford-upon-Avon to Weymouth, a glimpse of the King "under the wires" on the East Coast main line and passing through Melton Mowbray, whilst more familiar lines such as the Welsh Marches and those through Oxford, Kemble and to Worcester also feature.
But it is 'homeground' for the King in the West Country with shots on the sea wall, spectacular climbs over Dainton, Rattery, towards Churston and through Torre, and a rare visit into Cornwall that sets the seal on this presentation.
The narrative provides the story line, but if the King demands to be heard the narrator isn't talking, so there is little to intrude upon your enjoyment of the sights and sounds as King Edward I makes a splendid Royal progress.
