Ex-LMS Stanier 'Jubilee' class 4-6-0 No. 45679 'Armada'. Built at Crewe in December 1935 as LMS No. 5679 and withdrawn in December 1962.

A superb scene captured in August 1962 by the camera of the late Paul Claxton at Farington Curve Junction just south of Preston. Fitted with a 3500 gallon narrow tender, 'Armada' is sporting a 1P17 headcode. She has barely a whisper of exhaust from her chimney, but her safety valves have lifted at just the right moment to give a perfect 'punch' to this lovely photograph. Completing the scene, a lone 'spotter' stands in precarious admiration on the bridge parapet - perfection!

© Steve Armitage Archive