Harry Potter Jacobite steam train breaks down on first day back in service
16 April 2024, 11:55 | Updated: 16 April 2024, 16:16
A steam train made famous by the Harry Potter films has broken down on its first day back in service.
The Jacobite train service through the Highlands was brought to a halt just outside of Glenfinnan on Monday due to poor weather conditions.
Operator West Coast Railways (WCR) said the team on board "did their best" to restart the service, but the train had to be rescued by another diesel engine.
The breakdown affected the rail network, with ScotRail unable to run trains between Fort William and Mallaig.
Services resumed later following the recovery of the Jacobite.
WCR apologised to the customers affected and said compensation would be offered.
Services are running as scheduled on Tuesday.
Train operating after earlier suspension
The Jacobite had only just kickstarted its 2024 season after being suspended pending a safety ruling last month.
WCR is currently awaiting a ruling from the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) on whether it can continue to run with hinged-door carriages.
The service had operated for more than 30 years under an exemption but in 2023, following an accident, rail authorities issued further safety advice to operators of carriages which are not centrally controlled or locked by train crew.
WCR has applied to renew the exemption, and made a request for temporary permission to operate its full heritage carriages while the ORR decided whether the Jacobite is safe.
Train now 'slightly shorter' and 'reduced capacity'
While it awaits a decision, a fleet of carriages which complies with the safety rules will be used to allow the service to continue.
However, the train will be "slightly shorter" and will run at a "reduced capacity", which could affect passengers who previously booked tickets on the famous service.
WCR previously said customers affected by the change will be contacted with available options, including the opportunity to re-book their trip.
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ORR had 'justifiable' approach
WCR lost a High Court challenge against the ORR over the safety of doors on its carriages in December.
The company had complained that the multimillion-pound cost of having to retrofit central locking could "destroy" its business and argued its door systems were just as safe.
However, a judge dismissed the operator's case and concluded the ORR had taken a "justifiable" approach.
The service takes tourists from Fort William to Mallaig, including over the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct.
The Jacobite train featured in the 2002 film Harry Potter And The Chamber Of Secrets as the Hogwarts Express.
The film was the second in the movie franchise inspired by JK Rowling's books about a young wizard and his years at a magical school in Scotland.
(c) Sky News 2024: Harry Potter Jacobite steam train breaks down on first day back in service
