This is a scenario for Just Trains’ Midland Mainline, requiring the Hope Valley, Sheffield to Derby, Erewash Valley & Derby, Nottingham Leicester addons.

In April 2015, the Grand National crowds heading to Aintree Racecourse led East Midlands Trains to strengthen one of their Liverpool – Norwich services, replacing the usual pair of Sprinters with a 7-car Class 222 “Meridian” to cope with the surge in race-day demand.

The honour fell to 222003 “TORNADO”, offering greater capacity and comfort for the busy cross-country run; however, due to the use of a Meridian, the service was curtailed to terminate at Nottingham rather than continue through to Norwich.

Having worked north earlier, the set now forms its return working and you take over at Manchester Piccadilly station. You’ll run via Stockport and the scenic Hope Valley to Sheffield station for a reversal, before heading south down the Erewash Valley amidst busy main line traffic, finishing your journey at Nottingham station.

Keep a close eye on signals and timings to ensure a smooth and punctual trip home for the race-day passengers.

Date: 11th April 2015

Essential Requirements:

• AP Class 66 EP 2.0
• AP Class 142
• AP Class 150/1 EP
• AP Class 156
• AP Class 158 EP Perkins & Cummins
• AP Class 222 EP
• AP HHA Wagon Pack 
• AP HST MTU
• ATS Arriva Northern Class 323
• ATS Class 185
• DTG Birmingham Cross City
• DTG WCML South
• Just Trains Class 220/221 Voyager
• MJW Class 390 Revamp

Non-Essential Requirements:

• AP HST VP185