Back in the earlier days of Virgin Trains, the fabled Thunderbirds were scattered at strategic locations up and down the WCML. Wearing their distinctive red liveries and named after the characters from the 1960s British science fiction television series created by Gerry and Sylvia Anderson these converted Class 47s were designed, rather than performing spectacular 2060 rescues in space, to recover failed Virgin Pendolinos and Voyagers. Sadly, they have lost their distinctive identities now that the contract is handled by DRS. Formally named 'Gordon Tracy' 57304 is now named 'Pride of Cheshire' and is seen stabled at Rugby station in the early morning sunshine.
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