THE FURNESS RAILWAY TRUST

The oldest working steam locomotive in Britain kick started the Ribble Steam Railway's celebrations of the 2012 Preston Guild with a highly successful 3 month visit.

This was FR20's first stint at the FRT's new home base, where the Trust is establishing a workshop to overhaul  and maintain  its fleet of locomotives, historic carriages and wagons.

The 1863 veteran starred in the opening event of the RSR's Guild programme - the February gala which saw visitor numbers doubled compared to the same event 12 months before. 

FR2o was used alongside RSR resident locos "John Howe" and "Walkden" with differing combinations on the trains. The three carriages were full on all trips along the line which takes in the crossing of the swing bridge at the entrance to Preston Dock and a run alongside the River Ribble.

Preston Guild happens every twenty years, and the RSR had a full year of special events.

FR20 remained at the RSR to work Easter weekend and April Sunday services.