Final Fling?
It had long been known that Colas wanted to retire its remaining Class 56s and by late 2025 most were out of traffic. One of the last workings of the year was when 56049 was hired to DCR to work the weekly sand train to Ravenhead Sidings on 13 December. The Grid is seen here passing Copleys Brook, west of Melton Mowbray, with 6M89, the 09:01 from Middleton Towers to Chaddesden Sidings. 60047, also hired in, would take over at Chaddesden.
PHOTO DATA FOR IMAGE 25-D-4109
camera : Nikon Z50ii
lens : 24-70mm f/4
focal length : 45.0 mm (67.5mm 35mm eq)
shutter : 1/800 sec
aperture : f/8.0
ISO : 220 ISO
original : Digital: 20MP NEF
camera on pole : Yes
SUBJECT DATA
Loco : 56.049
Train : 6M89, 09:01 Middleton Towers - Derby Chaddesden Sdgs sand
Location : Copleys Brook, W of Melton Mowbray Melton Mowbray
Line : 047 Peterborough - Nuneaton
Country : United Kingdom
Date & Time : 13/12/2025 12:59
