On Saturday I enjoyed an all too brief visit to the Great Central Railway's winter gala. What a spectacle. A constant stream of trains on the double track main line section with a good mix of passenger, freight and TPO workings. Gorgeous sunshine and snow lying on the ground made for great photographic conditions. I am sure those who are lucky enough to have a lineside pass enjoyed the show, especially those who positioned themselves around Swithland Sidings. Here trains were looped for others to overtake and, in the case of the TPO, were terminated here. I certainly enjoyed watching the Swithland action whilst sat in the looped DMU. Just a shame a couple of grumpy old men behind me didn't stop complaining throughout the time we were stationary. According to them the DMU was looped due to late running and the timetable was well behind. Shame they hadn't read their timetable booklet as the train was actually running on time and the stop at Swithland was planned!

The GCR put out a number of locos on the day - star of the show was the blue King 6023 "King Edward II", looking immaculate. It was joined by visiting GWR 2-8-0 3802. From the home fleet there was:

King Arthur 777 "Sir Lamiel"

Standard 2 78019

Ivatt 2 46521

Red 8F 48624

Jinty 47406

N2 1744

That is 8 steam locos and a DMU. A pretty good show!

Just a shame I couldn't stop long. But here are some pictures from the day.

Ivatt 2 46521 waits on the Mountsorrel Branch.

Red liveried 8F 48624 waits to depart Loughborough Central with a short freight.

The King at Quorn.

6023 departs Quorn.