Due to engineering work on the mainline the Shakespeare Express returned to Birmingham along the North Warwickshire line this weekend. It provided me with a rare opportunity for a chimney first shot of the train as the driver opened the regulator again having passed through the station.
Comparison with the last time I used this location in 2013 shows that the new bridge is in place now that allows access to the island platform for disabled passengers via the lifts. The loco has also changed as a new smokebox door was fitted a few months ago that has not had a lamp bracket fitted above the locking mechanism. The Shakespeare Express headboard now has to fitted above the smokebox in a slightly less aesthetic location.
Peering at me from the left side window of the footplate is Tyseley's Chief Engineer Bob Meanley.
To answer any possible critics - This shot was taken from the bridge abutment - behind the fence on Bear Lane.