 Contemporary advertising by the LB&SCR claimed that this was "... the most luxurious train in the world...".In 1908 this could be experienced for a special London Victoria to Brighton day return fare of 12 shillings, a premium rate at a time when average earnings were around £1 a week (or 20 shillings).The "Southern Belle" was steam hauled until 1 January 1933, when electric units were introduced.