This DVD was prompted by the many young people (and parents) who visit the railway and take a great interest in the famous Thomas the Tank troublesome trucks scenarios. The DVD is to show how the development of railways was driven by freight, and our first scenes are at the 'Riot of Steam' event held at the Manchester Museum. The many years of history are explained through to the recent dieselisation. The railways without doubt were instrumental in war time Britain ferrying vast quantities of armaments and supplies.

These harsh but romantic times are shown in all weathers with a vast range of locomotives up and down the Irwell valley. The locomotives include Clun Castle, 5552 Silver Jubilee, Mars, Amethyst, 7828 Odney Manor, 42765, 52322, 68030, 80136, 76079, 44422, 48773, 46441, 92212, 62005, 61572, and 5690. Diesel locos are also seen working on engineering trains, and D8087 even helped out in our 1940’s weekend. The use of shunters for moving the crane around to allow for engineering works makes a stirring site not often seen on preserved railways. The crane is also seen as part of a train for a photo charter behind 45337 and 42765.

A detailed view of the freight structures present in the 1960’s is seen through the front window of a local DMU, and the remaining structures are detailed as they stand today. This is a unique view of some of the finest engines working in an environment which has no all but disappeared. The programme is both instructive and educational, but also shows freight and the ELR at its best.

Approximate Running Time - 180 Minutes