Steam Special [Princess Elizabeth on the Lickey Incline]

Late arrivals jockey for position along the field edge, beyond which, polished rails reflect bright afternoon sunlight. Birdsong is interspersed with urgent murmurings about lenses, lighting and apertures. A normal service diesel unit clatters down the slope, past the expectant crowd and out of sight. From some distance, a shrill whistle pierces the air. Cameras and recorders, of every description, are lifted and poised. The watchers shuffle tensely. The regular, purposeful beat of a steam locomotive working hard uphill is unmistakable and almost upon us. All eyes are fixed on the curtain of trees. The show is about to begin.

Princess Elizabeth [not on the Lickey!]