From the guard's van

The introduction of Trans Pennine Express' new trains must be getting nearer as the class 68s are appearing in pairs now, are getting dirtier and the depot is being rebuilt to accommodate them.  Here are today's pair standing in platform 2. 68023 is named "Achilles" and is getting oil stained.  This is 68027 which is named "Endeavour".

There is a fine selection of early diesels on display too.  The original class 20... or English Electric Type 1 as it was when first introduced. I had a Hornby Dublo model of this back in 1957 - the first mainline diesel loco produced by them.  A Western Hydraulic, a Deltic and a class 40 stand in the corner of the Great Hall.  The Deltic proudly carries this "Flying Scotsman" thistle headboard. 

A quick visit to NRM this morning revealed progress on Sir Nigel Gresley... now over the wheel drop and has the bogie and leading driving wheels in place.  Sir Nigel has now moved forward to the wheel drop... ...and has bogie and leading driving wheels fitted in place.