The talented composer Lucy Pankhurst has been commissioned by Northern Rail to mark the 40th anniversary of the last steam locomotive running on British Rail’s tracks.

Last steam train

Northern Rail and the Royal Northern College of Music propose to celebrate this event with a performance by the RNCM Brass Band at Newton Heath’s Train Depot.

'Newton Heath Variations' utilises two brass bands, a steam train and diesel train to chronologically illustrate the journey through the life of the British railway and Newton Heath Depot4BR

Newton Heath Variations

It will include a programme of music inspired by rail travel and to include a newly commissioned work for brass band and extended brass forces, specially written for the occasion and venue.

Lucy's 'Newton Heath Variations' utilises two brass bands, a steam train and diesel train to chronologically illustrate the journey through the life of the British railway and Newton Heath Depot.