Visitors to the North Norfolk Railway today, Saturday, 19th February, will have the chance to drive the line's flagship steam locomotive, No 92203 Black Prince, at Sheringham station.
The event is part of a day showcasing the powerful engine and raising money for her upkeep. The locomotive, which dates from 1959, worked the line's half-term services earlier this week, while visitors to the railway on Sunday, 20th February, will have the chance to see the 140-ton engine as she will be hauling a private train for the railway's friends' group.
For families with children, there will be the chance to visit the footplate of the engine at Sheringham Station. The engine will be on show from 10.40 until 3.00.
Other trains on Sunday will be worked by the railway's oldest working locomotive No 564, now 110 years old.
Steam and heritage diesel trains will operate along 5½ miles of restored track from Sheringham to Weybourne and Holt between 10.00 am and 3.00 pm every day until Sunday, with tickets valid for unlimited travel all day. Children will receive an activity booklet while, for adults, there is a passenger information sheet highlighting items of interest and things to discover at the line's three stations.
Full details including times and how to book can be found at www.nnrailway.co.uk and passengers booking in advance will enjoy special, discounted fares.
Black Prince is one of five magnificent, restored steam engines currently in working order at the railway. After this wweek,it will be hauling services throughout the 2022 season. During March, trains run at weekends only until 1st April when trains run daily until 30th October.
The railway stages several special events throughout the year, including the annual 1940s Weekend, the Norfolk Lights Express, and Santa Specials. Other activities include luxury dining aboard The North Norfolkman. The railway is mainly run by a team of dedicated volunteers and is supported by The Midland & Great Northern Joint Railway Society – a registered charity.
Mark Powley, Promoter of the Friends of Black Prince, the engine's own supporters' club, is expecting the driving tasters tomorrow to be particularly popular. He said “It's not often that you get the chance to drive a heavyweight steam engine.
“Participants must be aged 18 or over and we ask for a donation of at least £5, which will go towards the cost of her next overhaul which is due in a couple of years and may cost well over £250,000.”
