Five Deltic Convoy Stuns Masses

A convoy of five “Deltic” locomotives has left many enthusiasts in awe, 30 years since the withdrawal of the type from front line service.

What a Sight

The movement, operating after the Deltic re-union event at the National Railway Museum’s Shildon northern outpost, took the iconic diesels to the East Lancashire Railway’s Deltic Gathering, meant that five active locomotives were all transferred at the same time.

Orthodox procedure is to move locomotives by road, but as D9000 “Royal Scots Grey” (the leading locomotive) is able to operate over the National Rail network, it was deemed best to move the other four locomotives (55002, 55019, D9009 and D9016) all in one.

The train operated via Darlington, York, Castleford, Wakefield Kirkgate, Huddersfield and onward to Heywood.

The convoy, and associated events, all coincide with the 50th anniversary of the rolling out of the Class 55 (or “Deltic”) locomotive.