THE first steam train built in Britain for 50 years is preparing to tackle one of the UK’s toughest locomotive challenges.

Tornado, which was built in Darlington, will tackle the highest point on the West Coast Main Line – Shap Summit – as it hauls passengers from Crewe to Carlisle and back again.

The Border Raider journey will begin at 7.10am at London Euston on Saturday, July 5 where a Class 90 electric locomotive will haul passengers to Crewe, where Tornado will then take over.

Once in Carlisle, passengers will have more than two hours to explore the city before making the return journey.

Mark Allatt, chairman of the charity which built Tornado, the A1 Steam Locomotive Trust, said: “Shap Bank is seen by many railway enthusiasts as one of the toughest challenges in the UK for a steam locomotive.

“The trust is therefore delighted to be taking Tornado from Crewe to Carlisle again with The Border Raider and hope that as many people as possible will join us for this historic day with profits going to keep Tornado on the main line.”

Standard class tickets are £99 for adults and £89 for juniors. First class dining costs £225 per person.

To book call 01438-715050 or visit ukrailtours.com or a1steam.com