89001 passes Runcorn on a test run from Crewe to Speke on 22nd September 1987.

I presume I'd known about this test run through one of the special traffic notices that would have been in the box. This test run was one of many it had undertaken since the initial one in February 1987, although I can't remember too many to the Liverpool division. The shot shows the loco without its "Avocet" nameplates which were bestowed in January 1989.

The loco put out a massive 6,000hp and is currently undergoing restoration by the AC Locomotive Group.

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Built 1959-60 and formerly D5061, then 24061, it was withdrawn in 1974 . During 1975 it was acquired by the Research Centre at Derby
and initially numbered RDB 968007 but was given its Class 97 number in 1979 and was employed hauling various test-trains, mainly the Tribometer train. It was painted in RTC's distinctive red/blue livery and named "Experiment"and continued until retirement in 1988. After withdrawal it was preserved on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway reverting back to 24061.

97201 is seen at Derby propelling the tribometer test train. The slide was processed in October 1981.

www.derbysulzers.com/5061.html

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With the moon still shining bright in the pre dawn sky 43290 trails 1Q15 Derby R.T.C. to Swansea over the River Tame at Lea Marston.

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The next day we had hopes of catching this BNSF classic view at Sandpoint and the POVA Railroad. We were successful on both counts.

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Passing Findern 47778 `Irresistible' acts as rear gunner on a northbound test train. 18-12-2001.

Tags:   47778. Findern. 18-12-2001.

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