Settle - Carlisle Steam From Lineside to Footplate by Howard Routledge.

Howard Routledge viewed the running of 1T57 – the last steam-hauled train to run in regular service on British Rail. This momentous event took place on August 11th 1968 with the train running from Liverpool Lime Street to Carlisle and back over the S&C. At the time Howard considered this to be the end of his interest in railway photography. However, this interest was re-kindled with a chance encounter with a member of the support crew of ex L.M.S. Jubilee 5690 Leander when steam hauled specials made a welcome return to BR metals. Howard joined the support team and stayed with them until Leander was withdrawn from service. He then was given the opportunity to join the small team responsible for day-to-day running of locomotives such as Princess Margaret Rose and Duchess of Sutherland. This saw him work regularly on the footplate over the S&C and he also became responsible for planning many of the steam-hauled charter trains which appeared on the route.

This book takes a detailed look at steam operations on the S&C during the 30 year period following Green Arrow's ground-breaking venture in 1978 to return steam to the line. In addition to offering an insight as to how steam workings evolved during this period, the book also contains many behind the scenes images which the author was able to capture whilst working steam over the line. There are also chapters of text describing the gradual return of steam to the main line in 1971 after a total ban for three years; and also how the S&C began to feature steam workings - having not been included in the initial group of lines chosen. A chapter entitled 'Behind the Footplate' is perhaps self-explanatory and a chapter by Mike Notley describes how the unofficial 'Blue Riband' challenge developed amongst the crews and led to some fine loco running.

The 218 photos (both colour and monochrome) will engross any steam enthusiast and devotee of the Settle-Carlisle. Many will be amazed by the scenes at Ais Gill on August 11th 1978. Would such a thing be allowed in today's H&S culture?

Published by Peter K. Jordan. 128 pages. Softback (large size).