A new exhibition exploring the building of the now world-famous new steam locomotive Peppercorn class A1 60163 Tornado opens at the Head of Steam Museum in Darlington on Wednesday 5^th October. This is the first exhibition of its kind, examining the story of the first main line steam locomotive to be built in the UK since 1960.

The exhibition has been written by Mark Allatt , Chairman of The A1 Steam Locomotive Trust and the objects curated by David Elliott, the Trust’s Director of Engineering.

Mark Allatt commented, “It is a great honour for all of us who have been intimately involved in the Tornado story over the past 20 years to have this exhibition put on at Head of Steam in Darlington , just a stone’s throw from our own Darlington Locomotive Works where Tornado was assembled. Helping the team put together the exhibition material reminded me of the plaque on Tornado which really does sum up the spirit of the project  - This locomotive was build and paid for by people who shared a vision and were determined to turn it into reality. I do hope that this exhibition with inspire others to similar achievements.”

Dave Tetlow, Museum Manager, says, “This was an important story for the museum to tell. Local people are so proud that Tornado was built here and this exhibition goes some way to highlight the importance of our continuing involvement with the railways”.

The exhibition runs from Wednesday 5^th October until the 31^st March 2012. Head of Steam, Darlington Railway Museum ’s winter opening hours are Wednesdays to Sundays from 11am until 3.30pm. You can contact the museum by telephoning 01325 460532, visit the museum’s website at www.head-of-steam.co.uk or email headofsteam@darlington.gov.uk