Chasing the Class 455 farewell tour
On Sunday the 21st December 2025, South Western Railway ran two farewell tours for the Class 455 which were soon to be retired. They initially planned to only have one railtour but tickets for that sold out in 15 (fifteen!) seconds, so they ran a second service one hour behind it. This would be perfect for chasing. To make things even better, there was another 455 in passenger service that day, which I could ride. 09:47 - East Putney Station I arrive on the platform. Its a lot busier than I expect and I recognise some transport-related youtubers there. The best spot at the front of the platform has already been taken up by about 5 people, so I awkwardly try to slot myself into the emptiest section. Everyone's in quite a good, relaxed mood until we hear the tones as the 455 passes... Wandsworth town station. After a few minutes of silence (with the exception of District line trains), the train slowly rumbles round the corner, giving off some tones. After that, its a quick walk to Pu...