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'Oliver Cromwell' is one of 55 Britannia-class locomotives that were built at Crewe Works. The locomotive was initially allocated to Norwich depot on the Eastern Region of British Railways and from there hauled London to Norwich expresses. When diesel-electric locomotives began to replace steam locomotives, 70013 remained at Norwich until 1961, then transferred to March Motive Power Depot. Later the locomotive became part of the National Railway Museum, retiring into the Bressingham Steam museum in the 1980s. In 2004 the restoration commenced in preparation for the 40th anniversary of the end of steam.

'Oliver Cromwell' hauled British Rail's very last steam train on August 11, 1968. After 46 years it was the first steam locomotive to run from London to the North Norfolk market town of Holt, taking part in the opening celebration of the new crossing in Sheringham, which links British Rail with the North Norfolk Railway. Thousands of spectators were out in the streets in Sheringham to witness the historic event which connects Sheringham's heritage Poppy Line (from Sheringham to Holt) with the National Rail's Bittern line (from Sheringham to Norwich). The newly restored tramway-style crossing aims to bring 12 chartered steam trains from across the country to Sheringham each year.

All along the way railway enthusiasts could be seen at their favourite vantage points, waiting patiently for the passing of the train on foot > Link and roadbridges by the roadside, beside the railway line, in fields and, of course, in all the stations the train passed. Somewhat of a crowd of perhaps 30 people was gathered at the small station at Worstead > Link. Sheringham and Weybourne were absolutely packed and Holt station was closed to the public for the day. Cars were parked by the roadside and in the adjoining field by the bridge over the A149 Coast Road, a favourite spot for train watchers, and when the train approached all cars stopped on the road to view the spectacle.

Created: Fri, 12 Mar 2010, Updated: Sat, 11 Feb 2012