Fire risk stops loco in it’s tracks

Britain’s poshest train has run out of steam for a slap-up trip from Telford this weekend over the picturesque Settle-Carlisle line.

An historic locomotive called Tangmere should have operated the 1930s Pullman-style Northern Belle over the route.

But the unusually dry weather this spring has led to Network Rail banning steam engines from pulling trains in many parts of the countryside.

There are fears that sparks from the chimneys could set light to parched vegetation next to the track and cause huge moorland fires.

A spokesman for the Northern Belle said: “Obviously we apologise for not running a steam engine and realise that some passengers will be disappointed.

“But we have to think of the environment in this dry weather. 

“So instead the train will be hauled by a heritage diesel locomotive and, of course, we will still be serving the same magnificent meals, accompanied by the finest wines and champagne.”

Actor Bill Nighy described the Northern Belle as “the Grand Dame of luxury travel” when the same Settle-Carlisle trip featured on Channel 5 TV.

And the prestigious magazine Condé Nast Traveller magazine said it was “all about the food” when readers voted it among the best trains in the world.

One of the world’s top chefs Brian Clark, who has cooked for the King as well pop music royalty like Madonna and Sir Rid Stewart, recently joined as Director of Food and Beverages.

The train will leave Telford at 7.35am on Saturday before picking up more passengers at Shrewsbury at 8am and Wrexham at 8.45.

Passengers will be handed their first glass of champagne as they board over a red carpet on the station platform before tucking into a three-course brunch during the journey to Carlisle.

Then after a sightseeing break there, they will be welcomed back on board with more champagne before a sumptuous six-course banquet is served on the return journey.

Pic: Northern Belle