The print was published on Monday 20th April. (visit print page)
On Tuesday 21st April special trains were organised by the Bluebell Railway Battle of Britain Locomotive Group to thank the 300+ Club members who have helped finance the restoration of No. 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair.
These were the first passenger trains hauled by the restored locomotive. I was able to travel on the specials selling the print to 300+ Club members through the day. The Bluebell Railway lived up to its name with a great display of bluebells and primroses on the banks and in the woods along the line.
Friday was the official re-naming of No. 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair at Horsted Keynes, Sussex. This was carried out by Viscount John Thurso MP, grandson of Sir Archibald Sinclair.
As part of the ceremony I presented Viscount Thurso with a framed print. This was the print number 1/450, which was why it was not offered in a draw. The invited guest then had luncheon on the Bluebell Railway's Golden Arrow Pullman, while being hauled by No. 34059.
The locomotive entered public service the next day.
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