Huge update on future of ‘Hogwarts Express’ Jacobite Steam Train

THE SCOTTISH steam train known as 'Hogwarts Express' has given a huge update on its future after it was forced to suspend all services over safety concerns.

Jacobite operators West Coast Railways[1] announced last month that an issue with the popular train's hinged door has caused it to axe all its passenger services[2].

The Jacobite Steam Train, also known as the Harry Potter train

2

The Jacobite Steam Train, also known as the Harry Potter train The train travels over the Glenfinnan Viaduct in the scene from the films

2

The train travels over the Glenfinnan Viaduct in the scene from the films

The steamie attracts thousands of visitors each year, especially from Potterheads who flock to enjoy a trip over the iconic Glenfinnan viaduct[3] which the Hogwarts Express travelled over in the hit series starring Daniel Radcliffe[4].

It takes passengers between Fort William and Mallaig in Invernesshire as it passes over the Viaduct in the 84-mile journey.

It is frequently described as the “greatest journey in the world” and anyone lucky enough to get a seat on the train has to make bookings months in advance.

But safety inspectors highlighted issues with the train's secondary door locks[5] after it found that passengers were at risk of falling out of carriages or being hit while leaning out windows.

And now the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) has announced that the popular service can now run until the end of November.

According to BBC News[6], the steamie has been granted a temporary exemption to a safety rule by the ORR.

And as a result, the board is happy for it to return after new safety arrangements.

In a statement obtained by BBC News, the ORR said: "Following an inspection of West Coast Railway Company Limited's (WCRCL) proposed safety arrangements for the Jacobite service on 8 August, ORR has granted it a new exemption certificate which will allow the Jacobite to recommence operation.

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"This exemption certificate is required for all train operators who want to use hinged door carriages without central door locking fitted.

"WCRCL's exemption certificate is granted for a timebound period from 8 August to 30 November to enable it to honour its bookings and reflects the interests of its employees whilst its claim for judicial review is determined."

It costs around £57 for an adult ticket on the Harry Potter[7] train and a compartment, which holds up to six passengers, costs £365.

Relieved customers flocked to social media[8] to share their excitement at the return of the service.

One person said: "Great news!" with a grinning emoji.

Another added: "Wahoo!!" with clapping hands emoji.

While a third chipped in: "yaaaayyy".

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References

  1. ^ Railways (www.thescottishsun.co.uk)
  2. ^ caused it to axe all its passenger services (www.thescottishsun.co.uk)
  3. ^ Glenfinnan viaduct (www.thesun.co.uk)
  4. ^ Daniel Radcliffe (www.thescottishsun.co.uk)
  5. ^ highlighted issues with the train's secondary door locks (www.thescottishsun.co.uk)
  6. ^ BBC News (www.bbc.co.uk)
  7. ^ Harry Potter (www.thescottishsun.co.uk)
  8. ^ social media (www.thescottishsun.co.uk)
  9. ^ [email protected]  (www.thescottishsun.co.uk)

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