'The Last Hurrah' - Matted Print

'The Last Hurrah'

Having taken over the train at Edinburgh, Class 55 Deltic 55008 ‘The Green Howards’ stands at Newcastle Central station in the early hours of 30th December 1981 (02.45) with the Up ‘Night Aberdonian’.

This was the locomotive’s last revenue-earning service; it was withdrawn the following day with brake-block issues and flat batteries at Finsbury Park MPD. Three days after this photograph was taken, the remaining Deltics were withdrawn from BR service. Just 20 years after their introduction swept away the Gresley Pacifics, they were themselves replaced by High Speed Trains. This is probably one of the last photographs, if not the last, of this locomotive in British Rail Service.

Some BRUTEs and trollies can be seen further down the platform, as is the obligatory Gateshead-based Class 03 shunter next to some parcels carriages behind the loco. The shunter and the carriages were ever-present and became the stuff of 'Legends'!

What is a Matted Print

The Matted Print is a card-backed print with a cut-out window (mat or mount) that forms a border around the print itself. The mat acts as a protective layer, preventing the print surface from coming into direct contact with the frame's acrylic glazing. This separation is crucial to protect the artwork from potential damage caused by condensation, moisture, or sticking to the glazing over time.

The Matted Print is ready to be put into a frame of your choice. Further details can be found here.

All Matted Prints are sent via Royal Mail 48 Tracked service unless the order exceeds £75.00, in which case they are shipped via DPD courier.

Our Recommendation

Print finishes are always subjective, and everyone has their own personal taste. For Black and White prints, we would always recommend choosing a Fine Art paper. Our personal favourite is the Hahnemühle Photo Rag 308gsm paper. This paper always shows off contrast in Black and White photographs, and reduces glare from indirect light when displayed on a wall at home. If you prefer a "gloss" finish, then the Hahnemühle Fine Art Pearl 285gsm paper is the best choice.