THE IPCRESS FILE

GB
1965
1hr 49mins
Dir: Sidney Furie
Starring: Michael Caine and Nigel Green

An intelligence man attempts to trace a missing scientist

Based on Len Deighton’s 1962 novel of the same name, this famous espionage film features an opening scene whereby the scientist disappears from a train leaving London. This scene was filmed at Marylebone station with a steam-hauled service departing. The rolling stock is made up of BR maroon-liveried Mk1’s, with SK vehicle No.25430 prominent, and although the loco is not completely identifiable due to the way in which it is edited, it looks to be an ex-LMS Class 5MT ‘Black Five’ 4-6-0. The film was the first of a trio of Harry Palmer spy features based on Len Deighton’s novels.

London Marylebone with BR maroon-liveried Mk.1’s in the platform
As the train pulls out we see the wheels and motion of an ex-LMS ‘Black Five’
And from platform level SK vehicle 25430 passes the camera. This coach went on to be converted into an Overhead Line Maintenance Coach and, incredibly, after its departmental career ended was preserved. It currently resides on the Keith & Dufftown Railway as a static catering vehicle.