It was only when restoring this unusual view, taken in 1951 from the lofted signalbox at Manchester London Road Station that the identity of this approching 'Jubilee' became evident. It is the ill-fated 45637 'Windward Islands' that was to be destroyed (along with 112 lives) in the horrific crash at Harrow & Wealdstone on 8th October 1952. in happier days, it was passing ex-GCR Robinson 'C13' 4-4-2 Tank No. 67437 busily employed with station pilot duties.

© Raymond McCarthy. Eddie Johnson Archive.