Following a busy 2016, USATC S160 no. 6046 is due to return home to the Churnet Valley Railway on 27th December ahead of operating the final trains of the operating season over the New Year's weekend.
Returned to traffic in February, following completion of cylinder repairs, 6046 proved the star attraction at the hugely succesful Winter Steam Gala that kicked off the CVR's operating seasons. She then performed throughout the Spring, including being the focal point of a 1940s Photography Day in March, before she departed the CVR in May to operate at the North Yorkshire Moors Railway and through Heartbeat countryside.After spending the main season on holiday here, she then made a debut visit to Telford where she has starred at the head of The Polar Express re-enactments throughout December.
Now returning home, she will operate two return trips on both New Year's Eve and New Year's Day between Froghall and Ipstones challenging the fearsome 1in45 4.5mile climb to Ipstones Loop. It will be a welcome sight for the CVR's volunteers and guests, and fitting end to the season that has seen the Churnet Valley Railway operate it's most succesful Santa & Steam specials ever.
To book your tickets to experience the sight and sound of 6046 working her way through the Staffordshire Moorlands, click >here<.