Tornado works the Plandampf

For three days in February 2017 steam returned to the mainline, working regular timetabled passenger services from Skipton to Appleby, on the Settle & Carlisle Line.

As a preparation for the re-opening to Carlisle of the Settle-Carlisle line, this replacement for Northern Rail's regular daily workings of class 158 diesel multiple units, was a huge success carrying a reported 5,500 passengers over the three days – a 20-fold increase in usual passenger numbers.

The event drew remarkable media coverage from the BBC, national and local press, radio and TV.

60163 Tornado storms up to Ribblehead Station.

Peppercorn class A1 Pacific, 60163 Tornado, storms up to Hellifield Station with the 10:44 Skipton – Appleby service on Thursday 16th February.


For three days in February 2017 steam returned to the mainline, working regular timetabled passenger services from Skipton to Appleby, on the Settle & Carlisle Line.

As a preparation for the re-opening to Carlisle of the Settle-Carlisle line, this replacement for Northern Rail's regular daily workings of class 158 diesel multiple units, was a huge success carrying a reported 5,500 passengers over the three days – a 20-fold increase in usual passenger numbers.

The event drew remarkable media coverage from the BBC, national and local press, radio and TV.