The National Railway Museum’s Railfest extravaganza formed a fitting railway bonus to the spectacular celebrations of Her Majesty’s Diamond Jubilee.
An East Coast locomotive, 91110, was named ‘Battle of Britain Memorial Flight’ by TV star Carol Vorderman at the start of the nine-day celebration of Britain’s railways at the National Railway Museum in York. A Spitfire, Hurricane and Lancaster flew overhead as thousands joined the festivities.
91110, achieved a national speed record for electric trains at Stoke Bank, north of Peterborough, on 17 September 1989 – a record which stands to this day.
A number of other record breakers were on display at Railfest 2012. The line up of over 50 locomotives included the fastest steam locomotive at 126mph, Mallard, the first locomotive recorded to reach 100mph, Flying Scotsman, and the fastest post-war speed record holder, Sir Nigel Gresley.
Says Squadron Leader Ian Smith, Officer Commanding RAF BBMF and a former Red Arrows pilot, ‘Everyone associated with RAF BBMF is thrilled that Britain’s record-holding electric express locomotive has been named in honour of the Flight.
‘It will greatly help the RAF BBMF with one of its key messages: to recognise and commemorate the selfless acts of bravery of over 100,000 RAF airmen and airwomen who have defended our freedom over decades, many making the ultimate sacrifice.’
