67014 Overthorpe 28 January 2011

There was sad news for the rail industry in late January 2011 with the sudden announcement that Wrexham & Shropshire Railways would cease trading. Trains ceased running just a few days after the announcement was made. A high quality operation, both in terms of coaching stock and reliability, unfortunately passengers numbers were not high, and the company lost £2.8 million in 2010 as a result. It was fairly obvious from the start that it wouldn't be viable, but even I was surprised by the sudden end. There must be numerous towns that would like a direct connection to London, and why Wrexham was highlighted is a mystery. Nevertheless, my best wishes for the future to all the staff. Despite the gloomy conditions, I went out for the last day, as I had photographed the first train in 2008. 67014 Thomas Telford is seen passing under the M40 motorway near Overthorpe with the final 1P03 07:23 Wrexham General to Marylebone service on 28 January 2011.