Last month, Direct Rail Services held a charity event just outside of Maryport.

A photoshoot featuring a Class 68 locomotive and its 25 JNA wagons took place on the 18th December 2025.

This type of night-time photoshoot on the main line has never been done before, and provided a unique opportunity to photograph from a private viewing point.

The train was stopped for 10 minutes and illuminated with floodlights to allow people to take photos.

The event was held to raise money for Eden Valley Hospice, which provided specialist care for adults in North Cumbria with life-limiting conditions.

The photoshoot was able to raise £580 for the charity.

“This was a fantastic opportunity to raise money for Eden Valley Hospice and also show off how brilliant our trains look at night.

“Many people thought it couldn’t be done, but everyone came together to make it such a success. I would like to thank Network Rail, the landowner, and all my DRS colleagues.”

Joseph Nicholson, DRS Operations Planner and organiser of the event