A number of passionate train enthusiasts gathered at Hitchin station this weekend.

The reason so many made for our town's railway station on a freezing Saturday morning?

The beautifully evocative Black 5 No 44871 was passing through Hitchin of course.

As Nub News reported prior to the eagerly-awaited event, the historic steam train was due through Hitchin at 831am on Saturday (February 24) - and it didn't disappoint.

Renowned Hitchin photographer Simon Maddison witnessed the spectacular arrival.

Speaking to Nub News, Simon explained: "Some 30 train enthusiasts were at Hitchin Station on a cold frosty Saturday morning, gathering from 815am to be sure not to miss the Black 5 No 44871 steaming through at 831.

"Cameras and phones at the ready ,they had no time clap but just to enjoy the visual rush as the train raced out of the mist.

"Others unaware, just waiting for their trains were woken by the driver's whistle!

"Maybe as many were of course looking at their phones - they may also have got an image of the coaches going past when they raised their heads from their phones..."

Simon - who took his superb shot from the London bound platform - shared his wonderful photo with fellow Hitchin Camera Club members as well as Nub News readers.

Why not come and join Hitchin Camera Club Simon adds - details here