TRAIN enthusiasts were thrilled as they got the chance to see two iconic steam engines pass through Shropshire today (Thursday).

Heading south through Herefordshire, 45231 The Sherwood Forester, a fully operational black 5 train, was taking passengers on the Welsh Marches Whistler tour.

Picking up in Lancaster, Preston, Wigan, Warrington, Crewe and Shrewsbury, the iconic engine, which was built in 1936 for the London, Midland and Scottish Railway, then passed through Ludlow, Leominster and Hereford stations on its way to Bristol.

Ludlow Advertiser: The Sherwood Forester steam engine has passed through Herefordshire and Shropshire. Picture: David Mitchell The Sherwood Forester steam engine has passed through Herefordshire and Shropshire. Picture: David Mitchell

Ludlow Advertiser: The Sherwood Forester steam engine has passed through Herefordshire and Shropshire. Picture: Nick Chapman The Sherwood Forester steam engine has passed through Herefordshire and Shropshire. Picture: Nick Chapman

"Traversing the breath-taking beauty of the Welsh Marches route we offer a totally unique day out as we travel through the rolling hills of the pretty Shropshire countryside dividing England and Wales," Saphos Trains' website said.

"Passing along the Marches we pass magnificent Stokesay Castle and the historic towns of Ludlow and Hereford.

"Entering South Wales and the county of Monmouthshire there are superb views of the Brecon Beacons as the black mountains tower above the train.

"At Newport we join the Great Western main line and travel through the Severn Tunnel to Bristol for an afternoon break."

Behind 45231 was 46100 Royal Scot.

Originally built in 1927, Royal Scot was the flagship engine of the London, Midland and Scottish Railway (LMS).