Susan Calman of Channel 5’s ‘Grand Days Out’ has unveiled the new name for the well-loved locomotive at the Cambrian Heritage Railways

Whilst out filming in Shropshire for the latest series of Channel 5’s ‘Grand Days Out’ Susan Calman visited Cambrian Heritage Railway.

Arriving at Weston Wharf, which is close to Oswestry, in her well-known campervan which she affectionately calls ‘Helen Mirren’, Susan enjoyed a good chat with members and volunteers of the heritage railway.

Next, Susan rededicated the former British Railways class 73 locomotive ‘City of Winchester’ during a break in filming on the railway’s two-mile line.

Andy Green, CHR General Manager said ”The locomotive arrived at Oswestry in 2021 and has since become a firm favourite operating on the newly opened heritage line between Oswestry and Weston Wharf.

“The nameplates have only recently been fitted to the locomotive after an absence of many years and Susan Calman arrived just at the right time to officially do the honours and unveil our star attraction.”

Built in 1966 by English Electric at the Vulcan Foundry in Newton-le-Willows, the locomotive was originally numbered E6036 but a number of years later was renumbered 73129. The locomotive now carries both its original numbers and brand-new nameplates.

Cambrian Heritage Railway held a Grand Opening weekend for passenger services between Oswestry and Weston Wharf for the first time in over 50 years earlier this year following a vast restoration project after falling victim to Beechings cuts. 

Susan Calman’s ‘Grand Days Out’ will screen its new season from Shropshire on Channel Five on the 11th of November.