Steam: The Ultimate Dream

This book recounts the life story of David Court, a railway man through and through with a passion for steam locomotives. Joining British Railways in 1961 as an engine cleaner, he worked his way up through the ranks to be an engine driver. He went on to fire Flying Scotsman through its journey on a British Trade Mission to the United States in October 1969 and subsequently drove that locomotive on many journeys after Sir William McAlpine BT brought it home to the UK.


David worked at several BR depots and drove many types and classes of engines, but his favourites have always been steam locomotives. A well-known character in the railway world, his career has been rich and varied, including driving the royal train on many occasions. He has been involved with the National Railway Museum and was engaged in the building of the new steam locomotive Tornado. He was the test driver of this loco before it was finally passed fit to run on the main line and has since driven it many times.


Through personal testimony and fascinating images, David Court and Jill Roberts offer a unique and captivating insight into the world of the train driver.