Trainspotters welcomed for veteran Merseyrail fleet’s farewell tours
Train operator, Merseyrail, is helping rail enthusiasts bid farewell to the fleet that has served the region for more than 40 years, with two special events featuring the ageing rolling stock.
The Class 507 fleet has been in service across the region since 1978, but is being replaced by the new £500m Class 777 fleet, which began its first commercial service in January 2023.
Last week the operator announced that the first eight-car 777 trains will enter service from next week, marking the final phase of their introduction across the Northern and Wirral Line routes.
Merseyrail, and the Branch Line Society, will run two farewell tour services of the old fleet for train enthusiasts, from Merseyside and around the country, to mark the occasion of their retirement.
The first tour, called the Wirral Swan Song, will take place on Sunday, September 15, on the Wirral line.
Starting at Hooton at 9:20am, the special service will call at all destinations on the Wirral line, ending back at Hooton at 6pm. Lunch and breaks throughout the day will be scheduled.
The second and final farewell tour will take place later in the year. Details will be announced nearer to the time.
Sally Ralston, Head of Community & Engagement at Merseyrail, said: “These trains are much loved by people, not just from within the Liverpool City Region, but across the whole of the UK.
“The proceeds of the ticket sales will benefit Merseyrail’s current charity partners, Centre 56, Rescue Me Animal Sanctuary, Blackburne House and Parkinson’s Wirral.”
She added: “Onboard, there will be an opportunity to purchase souvenirs for the special trip including window decals. A charity raffle will give people the chance to win some fantastic prizes and further support the charities.”
The 507 fleet is currently leased from Angel Trains, which is also supporting the farewell tours.
David Jordan, Chief Operating Officer at Angel Trains, said: “We are proud to have supported passengers travelling across Liverpool and beyond for the past 30 years and the role that our fleet has played in creating jobs and sustaining businesses within the region.
“We would like to thank all those at Merseyrail and Merseytravel, who have worked with us to keep this fleet delivering for passengers for as long as it has.”
