86259 'Les Ross/Peter Pan' makes a most welcome return to

the charter market after the COVID pandemic regulations have been eased by the government. It is seen here passing Victoria bridge in Northamptonshire just north of Hanslope Junction leading the outward leg of the 'Cumbrian Mountain Express'. Unfortunately, at the time the photograph was taken it was running almost exactly two hours late following a problem with the stock before it had even left its Acton base. However, all credit to those involved with pragmatic decision making meaning that the charter ran but with some amendments. The main one being that 86259 led the train all the way to Carlisle rather than the steam taking over at Carnforth. This will no doubt have disappointed those gathering to capture 35018 'British India Line' toiling up Shap but at least they will have had a second chance as it led the train southbound over the S & C later in the afternoon.