The 2nd October 1971 was a really important date for U.K. steam fans.That was the day that British Rail relaxed the ban on steam loco running on the main line - a ban that had been in force since August 1968.The train that broke the ban was a Hereford to Tyseley excursion,hauled by ex Great Western Railway "King" number 6000 "King George V".The train is seen here at Oxford station during a watering stop,and it is evident that it was a popular move,as can be seen from the hundreds of people crowding the station.Also visible on the loco is the bell she carries,presented to her when she visited the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Company in 1927.
