This 73 mile railway across the roof of England contains a remarkable mix of viaducts, tunnels, steep gradients and fine scenery. It has long provided a backdrop to a fine varied collection of motive power. In Volume One we look at the railway in the 1960s with steam & diesel traction and explore the changes that took place right through to the 1980s.
The Railway Explored. The history of the railway and an overview of the line and its gradients and engineering features.
The Age of Steam. A journey along the line in the 1960s looking at freight and passenger traffic at a number of vantage points including Ribblehead Viaduct, Blea Moor, Dentdale and Ais Gill. Britannias, Jubilees, Black 5s and Stanier 8Fs all feature. Also includes the ‘Last Steam Train’ of August 1968.
The Preservation Era. The return of steam over the railway in 1978 and into the 1980s featuring a range of power including A4 ‘Sir Nigel Gresley’, 46229 ‘Duchess of Hamilton’, Black 5 4507, 777 ‘Sir Lamiel’ and 850 ‘Lord Nelson.
Diesel Traction in the 1960s with ‘Peaks’, Brush Type 2s and English Electric Type 4s.
The 1970s. The motive power scene with Class 40s, 47s, 25s, 45s and 31s on freight and passenger traffic.
The Threat of Closure. The run down of the railway and the announced closure and decline of traffic with the last freights and declining passenger service.
Over the Fells in Winter. Views from the 1970s and 1980s in deep snow.
Produced by - Transport Video Publishing
Running time - 85 minutes
DVD only
Released - January 2022
