Latest News

07/02/12 - "The West Highland Way" 04-05/02/12

Following last weekends trip, we take this opportunity to thank all those involved in making the trip happen.

 Especially to the people that booked with us and stuck with us - your continuing support of our trips is very much appreciated.

16/01/12 - "The West Highland Way" 04-05/02/12

Following lengthy discussions with our Train Operating Company, it has been decided that the trip will not be visiting Oban during the return journey on Sunday. Please accept our apologies for any disappointment that this may cause and thank you for your patience and understanding.

01/12/11 - "The Scotsman & The Royal Scots Tay Mini-tour"

Following Tuesdays tour, we take this opportunity to thank all those involved in making the excursion happen. Our thanks go to West Coast Railway Company, Beaver Sports & the Gravy Train Catering Company for all their help and support and special thanks to Network Rail Train Planning for their advice and assistance with the planning of the tour but most importantly "thank you" to the people that booked with us - your continuing support of our trips is very much appreciated.

28/11/11 - "Yuletide York & The Scarborough Flyer Mini-tour"

Following Saturdays tour, we take this opportunity to thank all those involved in making the excursion happen. Our thanks go to East Midlands Trains & Network Rail for all their help and support in making the charter happen - especially to the on-board team for all their hard work. Finally, and most importantly "thank you" to the people that booked with us - your continuing support of our trips is very much appreciated.

21/11/11 - "The Edinburgh Explorer II" 19/11/11

Following Saturdays tour, we take this opportunity to thank all those involved in making excursion happen. Our thanks go to The Class 50 Alliance for the use of their splendid locomotives, West Coast Railway Company, Network Rail & the Gravy Train Catering Company but most importantly "thank you" to the people that booked with us and stuck with us - your continuing support of our trips is very much appreciated.

Thank you!

16/11/11 - "The Lowland Growler III & Perth Panther Mini-tour"

It is with regret we have taken the decision to cancel this excursion as Network Rail have been unable to meet our requested specification or provide us with a commercially viable alternative. Please accept our apologies for the obvious disappointment and inconvenience that this cancellation may cause. All customers booked on the train will be contacted in due course.

08/11/11 - "The Jorvic Explorer III"

Following Saturdays tour, we take this opportunity to thank all those involved in making the excursion happen. Our thanks go to West Coast Railway Company, Network Rail & the Gravy Train Catering Company but most importantly "thank you" to the people that booked with us - your continuing support of our trips is very much appreciated.

28/10/11 - "The Sand Blower Mini-tour" - CANCELLED

Due to "performance issues" We have been advised by our Train Operating Company that they can no longer facilitate this mini-tour despite accepting the train specification. Alternative destinations were suggested for a mini-tour but sadly at this late notice West Coast Railway Company have decided they will not operate the Jorvic Explorer III any further than York and we are left with no option but to cancel this mini-tour. Please accept our apologies for the cancellation and any inconvenience and disappointment it may cause, we hope you can appreciate that this is a situation that is completely out of our direct control.

24/10/11 - "The R'n'B 3 & R'n'B 3.14" 22/10/11

Following Saturdays tour, we take this opportunity to thank all those involved in making the excursion happen. Our thanks go to West Coast Railway Company & Network Rail for all their help and support in running this type of trip.

Finally, a special thank you to all those who booked with us and stuck with us, your continuing support  is very much appreciated - Thank you...!

21/09/11 - The Jorvic Explorer III / The Sandblower - REVISED DATE

With regard to our Jorvic Explorer III / Sandblower Mini-tour on Saturday 15th October due to rolling stock & Traincrew procurement issues our Train Operating Company have advised us they can no longer facilitate our trip on these dates and have given us a new date of Saturday 5th November for the Jorvic Explorer III & Sandblower Mini-tour. There will be a positioning tour on Friday 4th November from Preston to Taunton.

Please accept our apologies for any inconvenience and disappointment that this postponement may cause.

21/09/11 - The Exe Tractor - CANCELLED

Please note that due to engineering work on Sunday 6th November affecting the main part of our Exe Tractor tour we have taken the sad decision to cancel the Sunday Exe Tractor tour. There will be a positioning tour returning direct to Preston from Taunton on Sunday 6th November, please see here for details.

Please accept our apologies for any inconvenience and disappointment that this cancellation may cause.

19/09/11 - The Cumbrian Crusader IV - 17/09/11

Following Saturdays tour, We take this opportunity to thank all those who made it happen. Special thanks go to DRS the use of their traction and a huge thank you to West Coast Railways for all their help and support in running the tour. Thanks also to Holly in the buffet for keeping us all fed and watered.

Finally, a special thank you to all those who booked with us, your continuing support is very much appreciated - Thank you...!

15/09/11 - "The Lochs & Glens Napier"

Following Yesterdays tour, we take this opportunity to thank all those involved in making the excursion happen. Our thanks go to West Coast Railway Company, Beaver Sports & the Gravy Train Catering Company for all their help and support and special thanks to Network Rail Train Planning for their advice and assistance with the planning of the tour but most importantly "thank you" to the people that booked with us - your continuing support of our trips is very much appreciated.

09/09/11 - "The Lochs & Glens Napier"

We have received notice from Network Rail that due to pathing issues the tour cannot be pathed to Fort William as previously advertised and the tour will now visit Oban for our afternoon "leg stretch" break. Please accept our apologies for any disappointment that this late change may cause and for the confirmed timings for the tour please see the tour page here.

30/08/11- "The Exe Tractor 16/10/11"

We have been advised that due to operational issues the tour can no longer visit Barnstaple as previously advertised. The routing was originally accepted with Network Rail subject to another mainline TOC and Local Operations Department agreement, sadly due to various issues this agreement has not been forthcoming. We are currently looking at alternative destinations in the West Country and will update this website as soon as confirmation is received. Please accept our apologies for any disappointment that the change in itinerary will cause.

27/07/11 - "The Lochs & Glens Napier"

The new date for the Lochs & Glens Napier will be Wednesday 14th September 2011. Once again, please accept our apologies for any inconvenience and disappointment that this postponement has caused.

26/07/11 - "The Lochs & Glens Napier" & "The Edinburgh Explorer II"

We have been advised by our Train Operating Company that they do not have rolling stock available for these tours, so we have no alternative but to postpone the Lochs & Glens Napier to a date shortly to be confirmed and the Edinburgh Explorer II to Saturday 19th November 2011. Please be assured that various efforts were made to source alternative rolling stock but sadly we have not been successful. Please accept our apologies for any disappointment and inconvenience that this postponement may cause and all those booked on both tours will be advised by post.

18/07/11 - "The Cambrian Coast Express + Positioning Tours" 15,16,17/07/11

Following this weekends excursions, we take this opportunity to thank all those involved in making it happen. Our special thanks go to Direct Rail Services, West Coast Railway Company, Network Rail for all their help and support. Special thanks to Holly in the buffet for keeping us fed and watered but most importantly "thank you" to the people that booked with us - your continuing support of our trips is very much appreciated.

18/07/11 - "The R'n'B I" 15/07/11

Following Fridays tour, we take this opportunity to thank all those involved in making the excursion happen. Our thanks go to West Coast Railway Company & Network Rail for all their help and support in running this type of trip.

Finally, a special thank you to all those who booked with us and stuck with us, your continuing support  is very much appreciated - Thank you...!

12/07/11 - "The Devonian" 09/07/11

Following Saturdays tour, we take this opportunity to thank all those involved in making excursion happen. Our thanks go to West Coast Railway Company, Network Rail, Beaver Sports & the Gravy Train Catering Company but most importantly "thank you" to the people that booked with us - your continuing support of our trips is very much appreciated.

27/06/11 - "The Kernow Voyager & The Kernow Explorer III" 25/06/11

Following Saturdays tours, we take this opportunity to thank all those involved in making the excursions happen. Our special thanks go to Direct Rail Services, West Coast Railway Company, Network Rail & the Gravy Train Catering Company but most importantly "thank you" to the people that booked with us - your continuing support of our trips is very much appreciated.

02/06/11 - "The Settle & Carlisle Flyer" 01/06/11

Following yesterdays tour, we take this opportunity to thank all those involved in making the excursion happen. Our thanks go to West Coast Railway Company & Network Rail for all their help and support in running this trip and to Gravy Train for keeping us fed and watered.

Finally, a special thank you to all those who booked with us, your continuing support  is very much appreciated - Thank you...!

30/05/11 - The Salopian Viking 28/05/11

Following Saturdays tour, We take this opportunity to thank all those who made it happen. Special thanks go to DRS the use of their traction and a huge thank you to West Coast Railways for all their help and support in running the tour. Thanks also to Gravy Train for keeping us all fed and watered.

Finally, a special thank you to all those who booked with us, your continuing support is very much appreciated - Thank you...!

01/05/11 - "The Welshman"

Following yesterdays tour, We take this opportunity to thank all those who made it happen. Special thanks go to DRS and West Coast Railways for their help and support. Thank you to Network Rail especially for their assistance on the day. Thanks also to Gravy Train for keeping us all fed and watered.

A special thank you to all those who booked with us and stuck with us, your continuing support  is very much appreciated - Thank you...!

Finally, A very special thank you to the volunteers at the Gwili Railway, who arranged for us to visit and made us all feel so welcome - Thank you...!

28/04/11 - "The Welshman" Saturday 30th April 2011

We have been advised by our Train Operating Company that due to a shortage of train crew we are no longer able to visit our advertised destination of Tenby. The train will now traverse the Heart of Wales line and stop at Carmarthen for a 3 hour break instead.

Please accept our apologies for any disappointment that this late notice alteration may cause.

03/04/11 - "The R'n'B2"

Following yesterdays tour, we take this opportunity to thank all those involved in making the excursion happen. Our thanks go to West Coast Railway Company & Network Rail for all their help and support in running this type of trip.

Finally, a special thank you to all those who booked with us, your continuing support  is very much appreciated - Thank you...!

28/03/11 - "The Holy Oakes"

Following Saturdays tour, we take this opportunity to thank all those involved in making the excursion happen. Our thanks go to West Coast Railway Company, Network Rail & the Gravy Train Catering Company but most importantly "thank you" to the people that booked with us - your continuing support of our trips is very much appreciated.

22/03/11 - "The Holy Oakes Mini-tour"

We have been advised by Network Rail that due to problems in the Heaton Norris area we can no longer be pathed to call at Manchester Victoria on the outward journey. A number of alternatives were looked at regarding the routing of this tour but unfortunately these were not possible due to pathing issues. The tour will now call at Manchester Piccadilly instead of Manchester Victoria on the outward journey. The train will now reverse at Manchester Piccadilly and take the route through Stockport and Northwich to Chester. The timings can be found here.

Our apologies for any inconvenience that this late notice change may cause and thank you for your understanding.

16/03/11 - "The R'n'B 1 & 2"

07/03/11 - "The Royal Scots Grey"

Following the weekend excursions, we take this opportunity to thank all those involved in making the weekend the success that it was. Our thanks go to West Coast Railway Company, Network Rail, Beaver Sports & the Gravy Train Catering Company but most importantly "thank you" to the people that booked with us - your continuing support of our trips is very much appreciated.

22/02/10 - The Cumbrian Crusader IV - 19/02/11

Following Saturdays tour, We take this opportunity to thank all those who made it happen. Special thanks go to DRS the use of their traction and a huge thank you to West Coast Railways for all their help and support in running the tour. Thanks also to Gravy Train for keeping us all fed and watered.

The RNLI collection on board raised £335.25

Finally, a special thank you to all those who booked with us, your continuing support is very much appreciated - Thank you...!

05/12/10 - "The Edinburgh Explorer & Royal Scots Tay Mini-tour"

Following yesterdays tour, we take this opportunity to thank all those involved in making this tour the success that it was. Our thanks go to West Coast Railway Company, Network Rail, Beaver Sports & the Gravy Train Catering Company but most importantly "thank you" to the people that booked with us - your continuing support of our trips is very much appreciated.

30/11/10 - "The Lowland Growler II & Poppy Mini-tour"

Following our fundraising efforts on the two tours with your help we have donated over a £1000 to the Help for Heroes and British Legion charities.

A huge thank you to all who supported us.

08/11/10 - "The Lowland Growler II & Poppy Mini-tour"

Thank you to everyone involved in making a little bit of history on Saturday. Special thanks go to West Coast Railway Company for all their help and support and to Network Rail for their usual input. Thanks to Gravy Train Catering for keeping us all fed and watered - just! Lastly, thank you to all those who booked and stuck with us, your continuing support of our trips is very much appreciated.

There will be an update to follow shortly regarding the total money raised on the day. Once again, thank you to those who supported our fundraising efforts on the train.

01/11/10 - "Yuletide York II & The Growling Geordie II Mini-tour"

With reference to the above tour, it is with regret that we have no alternative but to cancel this tour. Today, Network Rail have advised us that due to late notice engineering works in the Cosford Area they are unable to path the train with our requested stops on both the outward and return journey and therefore we are left with no alternative but to cancel the trip.

Please accept our apologies for any inconvenience that this late notice cancellation may cause you and we hope you appreciate that this is beyond our control. All those booked on the tour have been contacted direct regarding refunds.

01/11/10 - "The Jorvic Explorer II & Saltburn Smuggler Mini-tour"

Thank you to all those involved in making Saturdays tour a great day out. Special thanks go to DRS for providing the traction on the day and West Coast Railway Company for providing their usual support and assistance. Thanks also go to Network Rail for their input and to Gravy Train Catering for keeping us fed and watered. Finally, a huge thank you to all those who parted with their money and booked with us, your continuing support for our tours is very much appreciated.

14/09/10 - "The Norseman"

Following Saturdays tour, we take this opportunity to thank all those involved in making this tour the success that it was. Our thanks go to West Coast Railway Company, Network Rail, Beaver Sports & the Gravy Train Catering Company but most importantly "thank you" to the people that booked with us - your continuing support of our trips is very much appreciated.

25/08/10 - The Jorvic Explorer II / Saltburn Smuggler REVISED DATE

With regard to our Jorvic Explorer II / Saltburn Smuggler tour on Saturday 2^nd October 2010, due to Traincrew procurement issues our Train Operating Company have advised us they can no longer facilitate our trip this date and have given us a new date of Saturday 30^th October 2010. The tour will run with the same calling points and destination now on Saturday 30^th October. Please accept our apologies for any inconvenience that this may cause.

15/08/10 - Closed for Summer Holiday

For your information, the office is closed next week (Monday 16th to Friday 20th August) for our Summer holiday but the answer phone, email and mobile text line will be checked regularly so please to do not hesitate to get in touch should you have any queries and we will respond as soon as we can.

Email: joanne@spitfirerailtours.co.uk

Call: 0870 879 3675

Text: 07528275750

01/08/10 - The Cumbrian Crusader III - Saturday 31st July 2010

Following yesterdays tour, We take this opportunity to thank all those who made it happen. Special thanks go to DRS for the use of their traction and a huge thank you to West Coast Railways for all their help and support in running the tour. Thanks also to Gravy Train for keeping us all fed and watered.

Finally, a special thank you to all those who booked with us, your continuing support  is very much appreciated - Thank you...!

21/07/10 - The Cumbrian Crusader III - Saturday 31st July 2010

Please note it is with regret that our friends at DRS have today advised us that further remedial work is required on 20308 and as a result they are no longer in a position to confirm any class 20 availability for our Cumbrian Crusader III tour on Saturday 31st July 2010. As a consequence of this, our tour will now be hauled by 2 x DRS class 37's between Sheffield and Carlisle. Please accept our apologies for this late notice alteration and for any disappointment this may cause.

13/07/10 - The Kernow Explorer Charity Raffle - 26/06/10

A short note to let you know that the we have donated £600 to the Cornwall Air Ambulance which was money raised from the on-board raffle on our Kernow Explorer tour and donations from our Helicopter Pleasure fight.

Thank you to all those who supported us that day.

12/07/10 - The Whitby Jet - 10th July 2010

Following Saturdays trip to Whitby, we take this opportunity to thank West Coast Railway Company for their help, support and assistance in running the trip and thank you to the customers who travelled with us.

Finally a special "thank you" to Alison & Chris from Coastal & Country Coaches for entertaining us on their open-top yellow bus around Whitby.

29/06/10 - The Kernow Explorer - 26th June 2010

Thank you to all those involved in making our Kernow Explorer tour a great day out. Special thanks go to DRS for providing the traction on the day and West Coast Railway Company for providing the Crew, rolling stock and their usual support and assistance. Thanks also go to Gravy Train Catering for keeping us fed and watered and The Growler Group for their support too. Finally, a huge thank you to all those who parted with their money and booked with us, your continuing support for our tours is very much appreciated.

An update on the Raffle that was held for the Devon & Cornwall Air Ambulance will follow soon.

22/06/10 - The Highlander - 18th-21st June 2010

Following a rather enjoyable trip to Inverness, Kyle and the "far north", We take this opportunity to thank all those who made it possible. Thanks go to DRS, West Coast Railways and Network Rail for all their help and support in running the excursion. Thanks also to Gravy Train for keeping us all fed and watered.

Finally, a special thank you to all those who booked and stuck with us, your continuing support  is very much appreciated - Thank you...!

10/06/10 - The Highlander - 18th-21st June 2010

03/06/10 - The Prisoner - 29/05/10

Following last Saturdays tour, We take this opportunity to thank all those who made it possible. Thanks go to DRS, West Coast Railways and Network Rail for all their help and support in running the tour. Thanks also to Gravy Train for keeping us all fed and watered.

Finally, a special thank you to all those who booked and stuck with us, your continuing support  is very much appreciated - Thank you...!

12/05/10 - The Prisoner - 29/05/10

We have been advised by Network Rail that due to the delay in the installation of the ERTMS Signalling, their 97/3's will not be available to haul any charters (until ERTMS is commissioned). The train will now be 2 x WCRC class 37 Preston to Shrewsbury and 2 x DRS class 37 from Shrewsbury forward. Thanks go to our Train Operating Company for their short notice assistance in ensuring 4 x class 37's are available for this charter.

26/04/10 - The Broadsman - 24/04/10

We take this opportunity to thank all those who made our Broadsman tour the success it was. Thanks go to DRS, West Coast Railways and Network Rail for all their help and support in running the tour. Thanks also to Gravy Train for keeping us all fed and watered and  special thanks to the North Norfolk Railway for allowing us to visit!

Finally, a special thank you to all those who booked with us, your continuing support  is very much appreciated - Thank you...!

27/03/10 - The Cumbrian Crusader II Charity Raffle - 20/03/10

A short note to let you know that the Charity raffle in aid of the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance that was held on our Cumbrian Crusader II tour raised a massive £700. Congratulations to all those who won a prize and huge a thank you to the many preserved railways and loco groups who very kindly donated prizes.

Finally, thank you to all those who took part - your generosity is very much appreciated.

21/03/10 - The Cumbrian Crusader II - 20/03/10

Following yesterdays tour, We take this opportunity to thank all those who made it happen. Special thanks go to DRS & Colas Rail for the use of their traction and a huge thank you to West Coast Railways for all their help and support in running the tour. Thanks also to Gravy Train for keeping us all fed and watered.

Finally, a special thank you to all those who booked with us, your continuing support  is very much appreciated - Thank you...!

01/03/10 - The White Rose - 27/02/10

Following Saturdays tour, We take this opportunity to thank all those who made it happen. Thanks to West Coast Railways, DRS & Gravy Train Catering for all their usual support and assistance and a huge thank you to the staff at the Weardale Railway for their help and assistance and hospitality.

Finally, a special thank you to all those who booked with us, your continuing support of our tours is very much appreciated - Thank you...!

14/12/09 - HF Railtours - The Borders Express - 19/12/09

We have been informed that due to exceptionally low bookings, HF Railtours have taken the reluctant decision to cancel their "Borders Express" tour this Saturday. Please accept our apologies for any inconvenience that this may cause and please be advised that all those who have booked through us will have their cheques returned shortly.

01/12/09 - The Yuletide York - 28/11/09

We take this opportunity to thank all those involved in making our Yuletide York tour happen. Special thanks go to Direct Rail Services Ltd for providing the traction for the day, West Coast Railway Company for the rolling stock and their usual support and assistance. Thanks also go to Gravy Train Catering for keeping us fed and watered and finally a huge thank you to all those who booked with us - your continuing support is very much appreciated.

Thank you!

25/11/09 - The Lowland Growler - 21/11/09

We take this opportunity to thank all those involved in making our Lowland Growler the success it was - despite the weather! Special thanks go to West Coast Railway Company for providing the traction and rolling stock. Thanks also go to Gravy Train Catering for keeping us fed and watered and finally a huge thank you to all those who booked with us - especially our Scottish based supporters - your continuing support in these financially testing times is very much appreciated.

23/10/09 - The Lowland Growler & Yuletide York - 21/11/09 & 28/11/09

With reference to the above mentioned tours, we have been advised by DRS that due to commitments with Network Rail on the Cambrian Line, they have a requirement for up to FIVE class 37's for the weekend of 21st November. Therefore they have requested we amend our tours to have a PAIR of West Coast Class 37's for our Edinburgh trip on the 21st and a PAIR of DRS class 37's for our York/Newcastle trip on the 28th.

Our apologies for any disappointment that this enforced change may cause.

18/10/09 - The Jorvic Growler - 17/10/09

Thank you to all those who booked and stuck with us on Saturdays tour. The day was not without its problems and we are sorry for any inconvenience and disappointment that you may have experienced. Your continuing support, patience and understanding is very much appreciated.

Thank you!

14/10/09 - The Lowland Growler - 21/11/09

We are now in receipt of the confirmed timings from Network Rail for this tour and unfortunately the train is unable to be pathed to stop at Stalybridge and Leeds on the outward journey. The tour will stop at these stations on the return if this should be required. All those who booked to date who have nominated these two stations as their boarding station have been contacted direct and we apologise for any inconvenience that may be caused by this alteration. Thank you for your understanding

05/10/09 - The Witch Way - 03/10/09

We take this opportunity to thank all those involved in Saturday's tour. Thanks to West Coast and Network Rail for all their usual support and advice. Thank you for Gravy Train for keeping us fed and watered. Thank you to the excellent footplate crew whose efforts were certainly appreciated by those on board and finally, thank you to all those who supported the tour. It was a fitting farewell that couldn't have run without your continuing support.

27/09/09 - The Purbeck Growler - 26/09/09

Following last Saturday's tour, we take this opportunity to thank all those involved in making the day the success it was. Special thanks go to the Swanage Railway for allowing us the opportunity to visit their railway, also thanks go to West Coast Railway Company for providing their staff, rolling stock and traction for the day. Thanks go to Gravy Train Catering for keeping us fed and watered and finally a huge thank you to all those who booked with us, your continuing support is very much appreciated.

Thank you!

14/09/09 - The Cumbrian Coaster - 12/09/09

Following Saturdays tour, We take this opportunity to thank all those who made it happen. Thanks to West Coast Railways, DRS & Gravy Train Catering for all their usual support and assistance.

Finally, a special thank you to all those who booked with us, your continuing support, patience and understanding is very much appreciated - Thank you...!

01/09/09 - The Eastleigh 100 Works Charity Open Day raises over £50,000

The Eastleigh Railway Works Centenary Open Day, held over the weekend of May 23-25, has raised £50,000 for charity.

More than 19,000 people visited the three-day event, organised by Knights Rail Services with media partner The Railway Magazine, who were raising money for the Teenage Cancer Trust, Naomi House Children’s Hospice and the PSP Association. Each charity has received total donations of £16,300.

Although the cheques presented by the Mayor of Eastleigh is Coun. Mrs Pamela Holden-Brown to the each charity at the railway works on August 12 were for £10,000, this represents just the proceeds from the entrance tickets.

Over the event weekend, each charity took home £2,400 which was the money accumulated from cream teas on the Queen of Scots Pullman train, and three daily raffles.

A further £1,875 was donated during June to each charity from the ‘Money Cant Buy’ auction of special railway memorabilia items and experiences – including nameplate and a cab ride from London to York -  generously donated by several railway companies.

However, it was a surprise donation of £6,000 from Spitfire Railtours, split three ways, that gave the charities a final extra boost. This money was the proceeds from a special train that ran from Crewe to Eastleigh carrying 500 visitors to the open day event.

A donation by Knights Rail to the Mayor of Eastleigh’s charity fund has taken the total amount raised to the magical £50,000 figure.

Knights Rail services managing director Bruce Knights said: “I couldn’t be more pleased with the amount raised which will make a real contribution to these three excellent charities. Eastleigh Works has always been a central to its community and the fact that so many local people were able to visit the Works whilst helping us to raise this fantastic sum for charity is all we could have asked for. Who would have given you odds on this when the Works was “closed” in 2006 that we’d have the Mayor of Eastleigh presenting the cheques to Charity in 2009 in front of the latest loco to be overhauled at the Works is a dream come true. Now we’ve just got to find a way to top this in the future!”

Nick Pigott, Editor of The Railway Magazine said: "Raising money for charity is in the finest traditions of the great railway open days of the past and I'm therefore absolutely delighted by the success of the Eastleigh fundraising.
"The amounts presented reflect the high quality nature of the event and the hard work put into it by all concerned."

03/08/09 - The Cumbrian Crusader 01/08/09

We take this opportunity to thank to all those who made this tour happen and the subsequent alterations that became necessary during the day, thanks to DRS (for providing the locomotives and a Driver for the additional locomotive move), WCRC (for being TOC, providing excellent train crew for us, providing a loco + staff to prep it at the last minute to help out and finally arranging the road coaches to get us back to Wolverhampton which worked out very well), Network Rail (for the timing set, then subsequent alterations and the staff at New St who were there to direct us all to the waiting road vehicles) and Gravy Train catering (for keeping us all fed and watered).

As for the final thank you, this goes to everybody onboard, who without, this tour would not have taken place. Your continuing support, patience and understanding is why we keep running the tours...
 

Thank you!

23/07/09 - The Cumbrian Crusader 01/08/09

We are now in receipt of the validated timings from Network Rail for this tour, unfortunately not all of our requests could be met and therefore we have the following alterations to the originally advertised itinerary.

The tour will no longer call at the DERBY or CHESTERFIELD in either direction

The tour will no longer be calling at PRESTON or LEEDS on the return

We have an additional stop on both the outward and the return at ALFRETON

We also have an additional stop on the outward at WAKEFIELD WESTGATE and

on the return at WAKEFIELD KIRKGATE.

Please accept our apologies for any inconvenience that the changes to the itinerary may cause you and we  thank you for your patience and understanding.

For the confirmed timings please see our tours page

20/07/09 - The West Highlander 17th & 18th July 2009

Thank you to all those involved in making our West Highlander tour possible. Special thanks go to DRS for providing the traction and on the day assistance and West Coast Railway Company for providing the rolling stock and their usual support. Thanks also go to Gravy Train Catering for keeping us fed and watered for the two days. Finally, a huge thank you to all those who parted with their money and booked with us, your continuing support for our tours makes them possible.

13/07/09 - The Electric Scot 11/07/09

A massive thank you to all those who joined us for a third attempt at running the Electric Scot to Glasgow. Special thanks to West Coast Railway Company for supporting the venture and to the ACLG for providing the iconic locomotive for the job. also thanks for Gravy Train Catering for keeping us fed and watered throughout the day and also to DRS for providing an alternative destination to Glasgow by allowing us Kingmoor Open Day tickets. We raised a total of £621 for their chosen charities, with donations and raffle combined - so thank you for that too!

29/06/09 - The Kernow Growler 27/06/09

Thank you to all those involved in making our Kernow Growler tour a great day out. Special thanks go to DRS for providing the superb traction on the day and West Coast Railway Company for providing the rolling stock and their usual support and assistance. Thanks also go to Gravy Train Catering for keeping us fed and watered and The Growler Group for their support too. Finally, a huge thank you to all those who parted with their money and booked with us, your continuing support for our tours is very much appreciated.

23/06/09 - The Kernow Growler 27/06/09

We are now in possession of the validated timings for the Kernow Growler tour - these were received from Network Rail yesterday afternoon. They have advised us that, unfortunately,  they were unable to meet our request of a stop at Barnt Green and therefore we are no longer able to offer this station as a pick-up/set-down. All those booked who advised us that this was their boarding station, have been notified personally of this change to the itinerary.

Also, please be advised that the timings we are given have not met our request of a 4 hour break in Penzance either and we have been given a little over 2½ hours instead due to train pathing issues, Please accept our apologies for any inconvenience that the itinerary change may cause but we hope you can appreciate that it is beyond our immediate control.

26/05/09  - The Wessexman 23/05/09

We use this opportunity to thank all those involved in making our Wessexman tour the success it was. Special thanks go to DRS for providing the superb traction and West Coast Railway Company for providing the rolling stock and their usual support and assistance. Thanks also go to Gravy Train Catering for keeping us fed and watered and finally a huge thank you to all those who booked with us, your continuing support during these testing financial times is very much appreciated.

We still yet to have a firm figure on how much money we have raised from the tour itself but we can advise you that the raffle raised an impressive £636 and a massive "thank you" must go to DRS, Ian Allan, The Growler Group, The Class 37 Locomotive Group, Railway Magazine, Todays Railways UK, Modern Locomotives Illustrated, Traction Magazine, Rail Express, Railways Illustrated, the South Devon Railway & the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway for donating prizes for the raffle, we couldn't have done it without you!

Finally, a big thank you to all those who visited our trade stand at the Eastleigh 100 event, it was lovely to see some familiar faces and meet some new ones too!

12/05/09  - The Cambrian Mountaineer - A "thank you"

13/04/09  - The Wessexman 23/05/09

Due to the overwhelming interest we have received for this tour, we are pleased to announce that the Crewe to Eastleigh section is now full. However, we do still have spaces available on the Eastleigh to Weymouth section of the tour, see Future Tours for details.

All profits from the Wessexman tour will be donated to the Eastleigh 100 Event Committee chosen charities.

A huge thank you to those who have supported the tour.

20/03/09  - The Cambrian Mountaineer revised routing

We have been advised by the organiser that due a minor pathing issue the Cambrian Mountaineer tour will now start at Bristol Temple Meads and will call at Bath Spa, Chippenham and Swindon and now offers  additional pick-ups at Oxford, Tame Bridge Parkway & Wolverhampton. (see the tour page for more details)

We apologise on behalf of the organiser for any disappointment this change of route may cause.

10/03/09  - Kingmoor Open Day via The Electric Scot

 We have been fortunate to secure a limited number of Kingmoor Open Day tickets from Direct Rail Services Ltd. These tickets are available to our Electric Scot customers and will guarantee admission to the Kingmoor Open Day event. Thanks go to our friends at DRS for making this possible, please see here for more information.

08/03/09 - The Celtic Growler

We take this opportunity to thank all those involved in making our Celtic Growler the success it was. Special thanks go to West Coast Railway Company for providing the traction and rolling stock. Thanks also go to Gravy Train Catering for keeping us fed and watered and finally a huge thank you to all those who booked with us - especially our new found Scottish based supporters - your continuing support in these financially testing times is very much appreciated.

02/03/09 - The Cambrian Mountaineer 09/05/09

We are pleased to announce the we will be acting as booking agents for the "The Cambrian Mountaineer". The tour is organised by two teams of Network Rail employees based in Bristol Panel Box and Swindon Integrated Control Centre. The tour will feature a Class 50 Alliance locomotive and a Network Rail class 97/3 and all proceeds from the tour will go to the Railway Children's Charity, which supports street children across the world. We are acting as solely as booking agents, so please support the tour and help raise money for this worthy cause. Please see here for the full tour details.

09/02/09 - The Fellsman Chopper 07/02/09

We use this opportunity to thank all those involved in making our Fellsman Chopper tour the success it was. Special thanks go to DRS for providing the superb traction and West Coast Railway Company for providing the rolling stock and their usual support and assistance. Thanks also go to Gravy Train Catering for keeping us fed and watered and finally a huge thank you to all those who booked with us, your continuing support during these testing financial times is very much appreciated.

01/02/09 - The Fellsman Chopper 07/02/09

We have been advised by Network Rail that there has been a re-timing of our train. The tour will now leave Birmingham International at 07:43 and Birmingham New Street at 08:08 for the full timings please see our tour page here

19/01/09 - The Celtic Growler 07/03/09

Unfortunately due to platforming and pathing issues, we are unable to offer the original advertised itinerary for our Fife Circle Mini-tour. The tour will now depart Edinburgh and head to Perth - outward via Kirkcaldy and return via Cowdenbeath. We apologise if this causes any disappointment and those who have booked this part of the tour will be contacted direct.

02/12/08 - The Christmas Cracker

We take this opportunity to thank all those involved in making our Christmas Cracker a "cracker" of a tour. Special thanks go to West Coast Railway Company for providing the traction and rolling stock. Thanks also go to Gravy Train Catering for keeping us fed and watered and finally a huge thank you to all those who booked with us, your continuing support is very much appreciated.

17/11/08 - The Capital Whistler

Following last Saturday's tour, we take this opportunity to thank all those involved in making the day the success it was. Special thanks go to West Coast Railway Company, the CFPS and Martin Walker. Thanks also go to Gravy Train Catering for keeping us fed and watered and finally a huge thank you to all those who booked with us, your continuing support and understanding is very much appreciated.

Doing our bit for the BBC's "Children in Need" Appeal, we raffled an Iced "Pudsey" Cake which raised a fantastic £150 for the charity, Thank you to all our customers in First Dining and First class who bought raffle tickets.

Thank you also to those who took part in the CFPS/Deltic 22 Raffle, this raised just over £1000 for the groups. Thank you to those who donated prizes too.

19/10/08 - The Christmas Cracker 29/11/08

We have been informed by Network Rail that this tour cannot be routed to York and Newcastle due to operational issues. The final destination of the tour will now be Blackpool North offering a set-down at Manchester where there is one of the largest Christmas Markets in Britain and Europe. We are in the process of contacting all those booked on the tour to advise of this change. Please accept our apologies for any inconvenience the change in routing may cause.

17/10/08 - The Electric Scot Tribute 15/10/08

We take this opportunity to thank all those involved in making the day the eventful day it was. Special thanks go to West Coast Railway Company for their support and assistance (especially later in the day) and thanks go to the AC Locomotive Group for providing 87002 for the first half the journey. Thanks also to Rail-Blue Charters for their input and rolling stock, and finally a huge thank you to all those who booked with us, your continuing support and understanding is very much appreciated.

08/10/08 - "The Capital Deltic" becomes "The Capital Whistler"

We are sad to announce that The Capital Deltic will no longer be hauled by 55022 "Royal Scots Grey" due to operational reasons. So not to disappoint the entire train of customers that have booked on the tour, We have been seeking suitable alternative traction to haul our train and after many days of rumour and speculation, we are pleased to confirm that the CFPS class 40 - 40145 will now be at the helm. For those who are not currently booked on the tour but are interested in travelling, please note this train is currently full and a reserve list has been created, if you would like to be added to that list please contact us with your request as soon as possible.

Finally, please accept our apologies for any inconvenience that this change of motive power will cause but we hope that you can appreciate that instances such as these are out of our direct control.

30/09/08 - Settle for Edinburgh

Following last Saturday's tour, we take this opportunity to thank all those involved in making the day the success it was. Special thanks go to West Coast Railway Company for providing their staff, rolling stock and traction for the day. Thanks go to Gravy Train Catering for keeping us fed and watered. Thanks to the members of the Class 56 Group who stuck with us to run the raffle and impromptu sales stand, and finally a huge thank you to all those who booked with us, your continuing support and understanding is very much appreciated.

22/09/08 - Settle for Edinburgh - an update.

Unfortunately the Settle for Edinburgh tour will no longer be hauled by a Fastline class 56 as advertised. We have finally received notification from Fastline Freight Managing Director that they can longer provide us with the traction we booked due to a lack of operational locomotives. Please be assured that we have worked tirelessly to secure a class 56 for this tour from, asking our friends at DRS to assist Fastline to enable the release of 56303 through to contacting Hanson/RVEL regarding the possible use of 56311. Sadly all our efforts have been in vain as the locomotives have competency issues or commercial commitments elsewhere. 

Due to the short-notice of this advice, we have been told by our TOC that the tour can only now be hauled by class 37’s x 2. We acknowledge the disappointment that a lack of a class 56 for this tour may cause for some and we are sorry for this late notice enforced change of motive power.

08/09/08 - "The Dorset Dumpling"

Following another successful day out (apart from the weather!), we take this opportunity to thank all those involved in making the tour the success it was. Special thanks go to West Coast Railway Company for providing traction and rolling stock and the Class 73 Preservation Society for providing their class 73 - 73136. Thanks also go to the on-board catering team and to Richard and Derek of Steam Dreams for their support and assistance on the day. Finally, a huge thank you to all those who booked with us, your continuing support is appreciated.

18/08/08 - "The Meridian Mariner"

Once again, we use this opportunity to thank all those involved in making this tour the success that it was. Special thanks go to Direct Rail Services for providing the traction and rolling stock and for their support and assistance on the day. Thanks also go to the Cleethorpes Coast Light Railway and the Signal Box Inn for their hospitality. Our final thanks have to go to all the passengers booked with us, your continuing support is appreciated. 

12/08/08 - "THE ELECTRIC SCOT TRIBUTE" with 87002 - WEDNESDAY 15th October 2008

We are pleased to announce in conjunction with Rail-Blue Charters, the Electric Scot Tribute tour. Due to the ongoing West Coast route modernisation plan, we have taken the unusual step to run this tour on Wednesday 15th October from Birmingham International to Glasgow Central - following a similar path to the proposed Electric Scot Farewell tour last December.

All Customers booked on that tour will receive a priority booking form including "special fares" in the next few days. For the full tour details please see our Future Tours page.

08/08/08 - UPDATE: "Settle for Edinburgh" 27th September 2008

We have now received formal notification from Network Rail that due to an engineering blockade on the East Coast main line, the "Settle for Edinburgh" tour can no longer be routed direct to York on the return journey. Therefore, we have a requested an alteration to the original itinerary to return via Carlisle and the Tyne Valley to join the East Coast main line to avoid the blockade. It is anticipated this will give a little less time in Edinburgh and a slightly later arrival time back. Please accept our apologies for any inconvenience that this may cause and we will update this page when we have more news from Network Rail.

25/07/08 - "The Meridian Mariner" 16th August 2008

The confirmed route and timings are now available for this tour, please click here for details.

15/07/08 - "The Meridian Mariner" 16th August 2008

In light of the recent rumours that Stobart Railtours are ceasing to trade, we take this opportunity to assure our customers that the Meridian Mariner tour WILL run as we have advertised. The tour will operate with DRS acting as TOC, with their rolling stock and Spitfire Railtours acting as sole promoter. Our thanks go to DRS who have agreed to continue to run this tour with us.

14/07/08 - "The West Highlander"

We would like to say a big thank you to all those who supported yesterdays event at such short notice.

Most importantly thanks go to Direct Rail Services and Stobart Railtours for presenting us with this opportunity to take part.

08/07/08 - A new tour - "The Meridian Mariner" 16th August 2008

We are pleased to announce a late addition to our existing tour programme for 2008. Working in conjunction with Direct Rail Services Ltd, we have secured the use of their Class 37 locomotives for our “all first class” tour. It is our aim to provide a tour “with a little luxury” at an affordable price. The Meridian Mariner will depart Wolverhampton and take the unusual route via Shrewsbury and Chester to Manchester Victoria and head to Cleethorpes for an afternoon break. It will be the first time this class has been to this destination in nearly a decade. Please see our Future Tours page for more information.

01/07/08 - "The Jolly Fisherman" 12th July 2008 - Cancelled

With reference to the above, due to Network Rails' inability to path the train suitably, it is with regret that we are forced to cancel this charter train. Pathing problems exist with our picking up points at Warrington Central and Manchester Piccadilly on the outward journey and also between Boston and Skegness. This means our outward route would have been via Earlestown and Manchester Victoria, presenting just 2 hours in Skegness, not our requested 4 hour break. On the return journey the route was as requested, however this is not acceptable in light of the outward journey. 

Please accept our apologies for any inconvenience that this late notice cancellation may cause you and we hope you appreciate that this is beyond our control.

All Customers booked on the tour have been advised by telephone/email/post this evening.

Please note that despite rumours currently circulating from certain groups, this tour was NOT cancelled due to lack of bookings. We are proud to claim that we will never cancel a tour due to insufficient bookings.

We hope this reassures our future customers.

24/06/08 - "The Paignton Pudden & The Riviera Rat"

Once again, we take this opportunity to thank all those involved in making these tours the success that they were. Special thanks go to Direct Rail Services & West Coast Railway Company for providing the traction and rolling stock and for their support and assistance on the day for the Paignton Pudden tour. Thanks also go to the P&DSR for all their help with the Riviera Rat. Let's not forget The Gravy Train Catering Company for keeping us all fed and watered. Our final thanks have to go to all the passengers booked with us, your continuing support is appreciated. 

19/06/08 - The Fellsman Chopper 02/08/08 Update

 Due to the additional engineering works involved in the West Coast Route Modernisation Plan, we have been advised by Network Rail and our TOC that it is very unlikely we will be able to be pathed in the West Midlands and over “Shap” due to engineering blockades. As a result we are left with no alternative but postpone this tour to a later date. All those booked on the tour have been advised by post. We are sorry for the disappointment that the cancellation obviously causes but it is beyond our control.

21/04/08 - "The Wey-farer"

Once again, we take this opportunity to thank all those involved in making this tour the success that it was. Special thanks go to Direct Rail Services & West Coast Railway Company for providing the traction and rolling stock and for their support and assistance on the day and not forgetting The Gravy Train Catering Company for keeping us all fed and watered. Our final thanks have to go to all the passengers booked with us, your continuing support is appreciated. 

17/04/08 - "The Wey-farer 19/04/08"

We have been advised by our TOC that due to "operational issues" this weekends DRS class 20 tour will be hauled by two class 20's and WILL have electric train heat.

29/03/08 - "The Wey-farer 19/04/08"

We have received confirmation that this tour can be hauled by 3xDRS Class 20's (subject to the usual availability provisos). However, our decision to run with 3 locomotives depends on the weather, if a cold snap ensues heat may be essential - Weymouth is a limited load station, so cannot have 3x20's and an ETH providing device.
For your information, we still have seats available in both classes on this tour.
 

09/03/08 - "The Cumbrian Coast Explorer"

We take this opportunity to thank all those involved in making this tour the success that it was. Special thanks go to Direct Rail Services & West Coast Railway Company for providing the traction and rolling stock and for their support and assistance on the day. Thanks also go to all the passengers booked with us, your continuing support is appreciated.  

Finally, thanks to everyone who bought tickets for our on-board charity raffle and congratulations to those who won a prize. We raised £700, which goes to the Severn Valley Flood Appeal. Kind thanks go to, Mark Elderkin, Past-Time Rail, Compass Tours, Traction Magazine, Rail Express, Railways Illustrated, the West Somerset Railway & the Severn Valley Railway, who all generously donated prizes.

04/03/08 - "The Cumbrian Coast Explorer"

Information for customers who are considering to "pay on the day". Due to restricted clearance between Carlisle & Maryport, the vestibules cannot be occupied by passengers between these points. Therefore, "pay on the day" tickets will only be sold with a seat. Please note that there only a handful of standard class fares left. There is still availability in First class. If you wish to make a provisional booking please contact us.

24/02/08 - "The Deltic Pioneer"

We take this opportunity to thank all those involved in making this tour the success that it was. Our thanks go to West Coast Railway Company, Network Rail, Beaver Sports & the most importantly the 500+ people that booked with us.

05/02/08 - "The Royal Duchy" Tour cancelled

We have been advised by the DTG, owners of D1015 "Western Champion", that the locomotive has been booked in for maintenance during the months of June & July and therefore will no longer be available for our tour. Sadly, our request for an alternative date to run our tour has been declined by the DTG as there are no spaces in the locomotives current 2008 calendar for us to use.

Please accept our apologies for the disappointment and we hope that you appreciate that this is beyond our control and every effort on our part has been made to run a below "market prices" tour with this locomotive. The two coaches of passengers already booked on this tour, your payments are being returned this week.

30/01/08 - DRS class 20 tour  - "The Wey-farer"

We are pleased to announce a further tour using DRS traction. The tour date is Saturday 19th April 2008 and will run from Crewe to Weymouth. Please see our future tours page for more information.

Our thanks go to DRS for their support and assistance in providing traction for this tour.

18/01/08 - The Royal Duchy

We are pleased to announce a fantastic opportunity to travel to Penzance on Saturday 5th July 2008 behind a Western Region stalwart - D1015 "Western Champion".

Please see our Future Tours page for details.

11/01/08 - The Deltic Pioneer & The Cumbrian Coast Explorer - Confirmed Timings

We have updated our Future Tours page with the confirmed timings for these tours.

Please note that the Cumbrian Coast Explorer will no longer call at Manchester Piccadilly but will call at Manchester Victoria instead. The outward journey will be via Shap Summit and the return via the Cumbrian Coast.

07/01/08 - The Cumbrian Coast Explorer - Revised date

Unfortunately, due to circumstances beyond our control, we are forced to revise our Cumbrian Coast Explorer tour. The new tour date is Saturday 8th March 2008 and it will now be starting at Birmingham International but will no longer call at Tame Bridge Parkway, full details are available on our Future Tours page. Please accept our apologies for the inconvenience.

30/12/07 - Electric Scot Farewell Tour cancellation

Firstly, please accept our sincerest apologies for the cancellation of the tour. We are not fully aware of all the facts surrounding the reason for the cancellation but our Train Operating Company has launched a full investigation into yesterdays events  and will advise us accordingly of its findings. Naturally, We will advise you of these in due course.

Secondly, we will be contacting all the customers booked on the tour within the next 72 hours to discuss ticket refunds.

Finally, once again, please accept our apologies for the obvious disappointment and inconvenience that has been caused. No-one is more disappointed and frustrated than ourselves.

08/12/07 - Confirmed timings for The Electric Scot Farewell

Our Future Tours page has now been updated with confirmed timings for this tour.

07/12/07 - The Electric Scot Farewell

Please note that standard class accommodation is now fully booked and we have a limited number of First Class and First Dining seats available.

02/12/07 - Royal Scots Grey Tour announced

This tour is now available for booking. The "Deltic Pioneer" will depart from Liverpool Lime Street with a destination of Edinburgh via Leeds and York. Please see our Future Tours for full details of this trip.

09/11/07 -  DRS 37 Tour announced

We are pleased to announce that our second tour is available for booking. The Cumbrian Coast Explorer is on Saturday 1st March 2008 from Birmingham New Street to Carlisle with 2 x DRS Class 37 locomotives. Please see our Future Tours page for details.

05/11/07 -  February's Deltic Tour

Unfortunately due to operational reasons we are unable to progress with our planned tour with Royal Scots Grey from London Kings Cross to Edinburgh on Saturday 2nd February 2008.

We will make an announcement in the coming weeks regarding the use of Royal Scots Grey on a future tour.

12/10/07 - The Electric Scot Farewell

We are pleased to announce our trip from Birmingham International to Glasgow Central on Saturday 29th December 2007  as our farewell to the Class 87's. Please see our Future Tours page for more information.

Also we have a PROVISIONAL date for your diary,

Saturday 2nd February 2008 - an excursion with Deltic 55022 Royal Scots Grey from London Kings Cross to Edinburgh

We will have final confirmation of this tour and others in the coming weeks. So, please watch this space!

30/08/07 - The Deltic Pioneer Tour - CANCELLED

Due to the ongoing mechanical issues with 55022 - "Royal Scots Grey", the locomotive owners have decided to cancel their tour commitment with us, therefore, it is with deep regret that we have no alternative but to cancel our Deltic Pioneer Tour. We sincerely apologise for this cancellation and we will be in touch with all those who had booked with us in the next few days. Thank you for your continued support and understanding.