Season 1

2004-09-26

Filmed on location across the UK, the one-time owner of the Flying Scotsman presents a four-part series examining the history of Britain's railways, starting with the mode of transport's early beginnings. This first show considers the first trains and railways in the nineteenth century, including Stephenson's Rocket and the building of the Forth Bridge. Looks at the impact and importance of railways during the Industrial Revolution and the growth in trade and industry.

2004-10-03

Filmed on location across the UK, the one-time owner of the Flying Scotsman presents the second in a four-part series examining the history of Britain's railways. He investigates the golden years of steam and the measures engineers took to ensure their locomotives were capable of setting world speed records. Looks at steam trains from the 1920s and 1930s, including their development in terms of design and speed, with new speed records being set, and also their style. Considers The Flying Scotsman, Mallard, and the Orient Express.

2004-10-10

The record producer looks at the crucial role the railway played during World War Two, transporting troops, carrying evacuated children to safety and hauling munitions. He meets a selection of people who were pivotal in ensuring this essential supply line remained open despite heavy bombardment from German forces

2004-10-17

The music producer concludes his four-part history of Britain's railways, focusing on the advent of diesel and electric services and the impact the notorious Beeching plan had on the map of the country's network. He also looks at what the future may hold with trains such as the Eurostar and Pendolino, and reminisces about his career on the tracks, from its beginnings in the year BR was formed to the train refurbishment company and fleet of locomotives he now owns