'Palaces on wheels' at Railway Museum
Published on 21st August 2008 in Ents
Tony Filby of the NRM Paintshop is seen hand-painting painstakingly delicate detail on Valiant.
This September, champagne corks will be popping at the National Railway Museum (NRM) in York, for the launch of the newly acquired luxurious Pullman-style carriage, Valiant.
Once referred to as 'palaces on wheels', exquisite Pullman-style carriages are the epitome of luxury and style and the painstakingly refurbished Valiant is the latest addition to the NRM's extensive corporate hire facilities.
Finished externally in a nostalgic railway livery and furnished lavishly internally with period veneers, the carriage is ideal for those wishing to experience the ambience of the golden era of train travel. The carriage, which was built in 1956, has had a very diverse history. Starting life as a workaday vehicle, Valiant, a MK1 BG or Baggage Car, began carrying parcels and post all over the UK.
She then went on to act as a service coach, based at the famous Bulmers' cider works in Hereford and then, in a true rags to riches style, went on to serve under the Orient Express Northern Belle services carrying golfers to Gleneagles! Following retirement from mainline operation, Valiant was given a new lease of life by Railfilms Ltd., who restored the ambience and interior of the coach, making her well suited for high-class receptions, weddings and travelling exhibitions. Valiant was given her name in 1997, which reflected the long and valiant service she had provided throughout her years.
As a versatile design, the baggage car worked thousands of miles in use and was one of the unsung heroes of early British railway vehicle design. Rachel Fox, NMSI Events Manager North, said: "It is fantastic that we are now able to offer such a unique and exquisite corporate hire facility within the museum. With the fabulous décor and lovely station-platform setting, Valiant really is the perfect platform for drink receptions, small dinners and meetings."
Nick Dodson, of Railfilms Ltd, added: "We are delighted that the NRM will soon be able to add to Valiant's achievements, acting as a fabulous corporate hire facility for the museum. Now is it the perfect ending for Valiant, spending her remaining years at the NRM where she once acted as a VIP reception car for the 2004 Railfest celebrations."
From September, anyone looking for a unique and special venue can hire the newly restored carriage with its lavishly furbished interior and nostalgic livery. The carriage, which is split into two flexible open compartments will be well suited as a venue for that extra special meeting, reception or exhibition. For more information please call 01904 686226 or visit www.nrm.org.uk.