The Steamy Affairs London to Holyhead charter arrives at Llandudno Junction bang on time at 11:01 on Saturday 13th November 1999 with 13 full coaches.
The Stanier Black 5 was one of the most successful British steam designs.
Over 800 were built, of which only four were dignified with names, even though
they were often used on express passenger trains as well as freight and semi-fasts.
45110 was for many years a Holyhead engine, bearing a 6J nameplate to commemorate
this, and must have passed this way hundred of times but had to wait until
retirement to receive any kind of adulation.
While a large crowd mobs the scrapyard survivor, an example of today's threatened
species, 37 429, arrives and departs almost unnoticed with the 11:16
Bangor to Birmingham New Street service.
After an hour's break for watering, 45110 leaves for the end of the line at
Holyhead. Conwy Castle is in the background.