86259 Les Ross classic train spotted at Watford Junction

The preserved mainline heritage British Rail 86259 Les Ross stopped at Watford Junction on Saturday (August 22), being pictured in both the morning and evening.

The train at Watford Junction (Image: Henry Allum)

Pictures have been shared via the Watford Observer Camera Club.

The train ran from the 1960s until 2002, when it was retired from passenger use.

The train at Watford Junction (Image: Henry Allum)

It gets its current name from the radio DJ Les Ross who purchased the locomotive in around 2007 in order to preserve it in operational condition.

The train at Watford Junction (Image: Henry Allum)

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As a result it has returned to mainline use as part of various rail tours having been repainted in its original British Rail livery from the 1960s.

This year has seen several vintage trains pass through or pick up passengers from the town, with Watford Junction a frequent stop for classic train tours due to its close proximity with London Euston.

Trains spotted so far in 2026 include the Cumbrian Mountain Express, the Derby Express and the Fearless Express.

The train at Watford Junction (Image: Henry Allum)