The horse is oblivious as a crowd of admirers watch ‘Princess Royal’ No.46204 Princess Louise sweep through Lichfield with the Up ‘Merseyside Express’ in September 1955. It had been painted in green during an overhaul completed in June 1952 but ended its career in crimson lake, initially with British Railways orange/black lining and then with LMS style yellow/black lining.

As it's September it might still be school holiday time , or possibly a Saturday , as there are no school blazers or caps in evidence amonst the mass of enthusiasts with even a girl right down on the extreme left , outnumbered by at least twenty to one , together with possibly a mum keeping things in order .
This gathering of enthusiasts was such a common sight in those carefree days so long ago , with so much interest being displayed by each and everyone here as 46204 " Princess Louise " heads past on the main line .
Happy days !