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Marcus' Model Railway Journey
- Thread starter Marcus Antonius
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28 Nov 2025
Bus Repowering
Transport for Wales (TfW) and Edwards Coaches have taken a step towards building a greener public transport network across Wales by converting two existing diesel buses into fully electric vehicles.
With trials underway, the bus repowering project represents a significant step forward in building a more sustainable, reliable, and efficient public transport network across Wales.
Bus repowering involves removing the diesel engine and fuel system from a bus and replacing them with a modern electric drivetrain and battery system.
By choosing to repower rather than replace, TfW is extending the lifespan of buses and reducing waste, making the programme both environmentally and economically responsible.
These trials have initially been conducted without passengers on board, while carefully evaluating performance, reliability, and efficiency.
There are plans for the vehicles to enter service for trials to continue with passengers onboard under real world operating conditions.
Connor Young, Project Manager for Bus Decarbonisation at Transport for Wales, said: “It’s been great to see the repowered buses out and about during the trial.
"It has been an incredibly important project to help us reach the 2035 goal set by Welsh Government for the bus fleet to be zero emission.”
Simon Ingham from Edwards Coaches added: “We’re proud to partner with TfW to refurbish and test repowered electric buses – the first of their kind in Wales.
"The results are encouraging, and we’re committed to supporting practical, scalable solutions that cut emissions while maintaining reliable services. It’s been really exciting for the team to be involved as we celebrate 100 years of business.”
The collaboration between TfW and Edwards Coaches highlights the shared commitment to innovation and sustainability in Welsh transport.
Together, they’re helping to deliver cleaner, quieter, and more efficient journeys, supporting the Welsh Government’s ambition for a fully zero-emission bus fleet by 2035.
Two buses have been repowered so far by different suppliers Magtec and Equipmake, and then transferred to Edwards Coaches in Llantrisant for road trials.
Transport for Wales and Edwards Coaches drive forward bus repowering trials
Bus Repowering
Transport for Wales (TfW) and Edwards Coaches have taken a step towards building a greener public transport network across Wales by converting two existing diesel buses into fully electric vehicles.
With trials underway, the bus repowering project represents a significant step forward in building a more sustainable, reliable, and efficient public transport network across Wales.
Bus repowering involves removing the diesel engine and fuel system from a bus and replacing them with a modern electric drivetrain and battery system.
By choosing to repower rather than replace, TfW is extending the lifespan of buses and reducing waste, making the programme both environmentally and economically responsible.
These trials have initially been conducted without passengers on board, while carefully evaluating performance, reliability, and efficiency.
There are plans for the vehicles to enter service for trials to continue with passengers onboard under real world operating conditions.
Connor Young, Project Manager for Bus Decarbonisation at Transport for Wales, said: “It’s been great to see the repowered buses out and about during the trial.
"It has been an incredibly important project to help us reach the 2035 goal set by Welsh Government for the bus fleet to be zero emission.”
Simon Ingham from Edwards Coaches added: “We’re proud to partner with TfW to refurbish and test repowered electric buses – the first of their kind in Wales.
"The results are encouraging, and we’re committed to supporting practical, scalable solutions that cut emissions while maintaining reliable services
The collaboration between TfW and Edwards Coaches highlights the shared commitment to innovation and sustainability in Welsh transport.
Together, they’re helping to deliver cleaner, quieter, and more efficient journeys, supporting the Welsh Government’s ambition for a fully zero-emission bus fleet by 2035.
Two buses have been repowered so far by different suppliers Magtec and Equipmake, and then transferred to Edwards Coaches in Llantrisant for road trials.
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28th November, 2025
No. 7 partially stripped down
The Corris Railway has released a short update on its Tattoo locomotive, No. 7.
No. 7 entered service in 2005 and has proved a reliable locomotive, completing 3,978.5 miles in its last 10-year ticket.
The Tattoo locomotive is a modern version of the Talyllyn Railway’s No. 4 Edward Thomas, and whilst most of the mileage above was on the Corris line, some mileage was completed at the Talyllyn Railway.
The only major failure came in 2018 when the locomotive failed while working the Santa trains.
This issue required help from the Vale of Rheidol Railway, but the locomotive returned in time to work a photo charter and passenger trains in 2019.
2025 is the 20th anniversary of the locomotive, and the overhaul is well underway.
Volunteers stripped down the locomotive last year, and the same team are returning between Christmas and New Year to start putting the locomotive back together.
The boiler was retubed and repainted at Maespoeth in the summer and has now passed hydraulic testing.
Hot testing will take place when the boiler is back in the frames.
Speaking of the frames, these were cleaned and repainted.
Alan Keef has reprofiled the wheels and fitted new crank pins, as well as supplying a new smokebox for the locomotive.
It is hoped that the locomotive will be back in service in time for Easter 2026.
Corris Railway release update on Tattoo steam locomotive No. 7
No. 7 partially stripped down
The Corris Railway has released a short update on its Tattoo locomotive, No. 7.
No. 7 entered service in 2005 and has proved a reliable locomotive, completing 3,978.5 miles in its last 10-year ticket.
The Tattoo locomotive is a modern version of the Talyllyn Railway’s No. 4 Edward Thomas, and whilst most of the mileage above was on the Corris line, some mileage was completed at the Talyllyn Railway.
The only major failure came in 2018 when the locomotive failed while working the Santa trains.
This issue required help from the Vale of Rheidol Railway, but the locomotive returned in time to work a photo charter and passenger trains in 2019.
2025 is the 20th anniversary of the locomotive, and the overhaul is well underway.
Volunteers stripped down the locomotive last year, and the same team are returning between Christmas and New Year to start putting the locomotive back together.
The boiler was retubed and repainted at Maespoeth in the summer and has now passed hydraulic testing.
Hot testing will take place when the boiler is back in the frames.
Speaking of the frames, these were cleaned and repainted.
Alan Keef has reprofiled the wheels and fitted new crank pins, as well as supplying a new smokebox for the locomotive.
It is hoped that the locomotive will be back in service in time for Easter 2026.
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28th November, 2025
99003 and 99004 at the Bristol Port Company’s Royal Portbury Dock
GB Railfreight has announced that another two Class 99 locomotives have arrived in the UK.
On Thursday, 27th November, 99003 and 99004 arrived at Bristol Port Company’s Royal Portbury Dock.
Both locomotives, which were built in Valencia, will undergo testing in the coming weeks.
They will join 99001 and 99002, which are almost ready to enter service early in 2026.
“As we prepare for the 99s to enter service in the new year, it was nice to receive an early Christmas gift from Valencia.
The Class 99s delivers performance and environmental benefits for our customers, and will herald a rail freight revolution in 2026.”
Alex Kirk, Commercial Director, GB Railfreight
More Class 99 locomotives arrive into Bristol
99003 and 99004 at the Bristol Port Company’s Royal Portbury Dock
GB Railfreight has announced that another two Class 99 locomotives have arrived in the UK.
On Thursday, 27th November, 99003 and 99004 arrived at Bristol Port Company’s Royal Portbury Dock.
Both locomotives, which were built in Valencia, will undergo testing in the coming weeks.
They will join 99001 and 99002, which are almost ready to enter service early in 2026.
“As we prepare for the 99s to enter service in the new year, it was nice to receive an early Christmas gift from Valencia.
The Class 99s delivers performance and environmental benefits for our customers, and will herald a rail freight revolution in 2026.”
Alex Kirk, Commercial Director, GB Railfreight
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28th November, 2025
The Polar Express train on platform 16 at Euston station - November 2025
As announced earlier this year, the Polar Express will run from London Euston this Christmas, and it has now arrived at the station ahead of its first outing tomorrow.
This is the second time that the Polar Express charter train will operate from Euston, with Network Rail describing last year’s debut as “a roaring success” and an “immersive adventure”.
It aims to recreate the experience of the film ‘The Polar Express’, which will particularly appeal to families with children.
The Polar Express will run on fourteen dates between Saturday 29 November (tomorrow) to and the day before Christmas Eve (Tuesday 23 December).
London Euston welcomes arrival of The Polar Express with steam locomotive 44871
The Polar Express train on platform 16 at Euston station - November 2025
As announced earlier this year, the Polar Express will run from London Euston this Christmas, and it has now arrived at the station ahead of its first outing tomorrow.
This is the second time that the Polar Express charter train will operate from Euston, with Network Rail describing last year’s debut as “a roaring success” and an “immersive adventure”.
It aims to recreate the experience of the film ‘The Polar Express’, which will particularly appeal to families with children.
The Polar Express will run on fourteen dates between Saturday 29 November (tomorrow) to and the day before Christmas Eve (Tuesday 23 December).
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The Polar Express at Euston
Passengers on the steam-hauled train will have the opportunity to enjoy festive musical and theatrical performances. , as well as a cosy treat of hot chocolate and a sweet delight.
And Santa Claus is expected to put in an appearance onboard the train to spread some Christmas magic and cheer.
This year, the Polar Express service will raise funds for the WorldWide Fund for Nature (WWF), in particular in its work to protect polar bears, which are in danger from melting ice caps and other issues.
As well as running from London Euston, the Polar Express will also run at three heritage railways: Wensleydale Railway in the Yorkshire Dales, where it also ran in 2021, the Spa Valley Railway in Kent, and South Devon Railway.
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The Polar Express at Euston
Tickets and more information about the Polar Express Train Ride are available here.
“We’re thrilled to be bringing The Polar Express™ Train Ride back to London, sharing the timeless message of belief and the magic of Christmas with families once again. Each year, the experience creates moments of pure wonder, and we’re excited to welcome guests aboard for a festive journey that inspires joy, togetherness, and a renewed sense of Christmas spirit. Once again, we’d like to thank the team at Network Rail and Euston station for welcoming us back as we work together to bring this cherished Christmas tradition to life for even more families.”
Mark Haynes, marketing manager for PNP Events
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LNER Azuma on a wintry route
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LNER Azuma enters Clayhills depot in Aberdeen
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ScotRail HST
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Avanti West Coast Pendolino
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Avanti West Coast Pride Train, 2020
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‘Together We Roll’ train crossing Dutton viaduct
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30th November, 2025
71000 Duke of Gloucester
This Tuesday, 2nd December, 71000 Duke of Gloucester is to visit Bath with The Bath Christmas Market Express.
The tour starts at Rugby with an LSL Diesel / Electric locomotive.
The train will depart at 05:57 and will pass through Long Buckby (06:10), Northampton (06:25), Milton Keynes Central (06:47), Leighton Buzzard (07:22), Hemel Hempstead (07:40), Watford Junction (08:18), Acton Main Line (08:57) and Hanwell Bridge Loop at 09:36.
Here, 71000 Duke of Gloucester will be attached to the train.
Departing the loop at 10:20, the train will pass through Slough (10:35), Reading (10:59), Newbury Racecourse (11:25), Pewsey (12:21) and Bath Spa at 13:17.
After time in Bath, 71000 Duke of Gloucester will depart at 16:55 and will head back via Chippenham (17:11), Didcot Parkway (18:56), Reading (19:16), and Southall at 19:57, before being taken off the train at Hanwell Bridge Loop.
An LSL Diesel / Electric locomotive will take the train back to Rugby via Acton Main Line (21:06), Watford Junction (21:54), Hemel Hempstead (22:05), Tring (22:18), Leighton Buzzard (22:39), Milton Keynes Central (22:52), Northampton (23:15), Long Buckby (23:32) and Rugby at 23:45.
Steam locomotive 71000 Duke of Gloucester to visit Somerset this Tuesday
71000 Duke of Gloucester
This Tuesday, 2nd December, 71000 Duke of Gloucester is to visit Bath with The Bath Christmas Market Express.
The tour starts at Rugby with an LSL Diesel / Electric locomotive.
The train will depart at 05:57 and will pass through Long Buckby (06:10), Northampton (06:25), Milton Keynes Central (06:47), Leighton Buzzard (07:22), Hemel Hempstead (07:40), Watford Junction (08:18), Acton Main Line (08:57) and Hanwell Bridge Loop at 09:36.
Here, 71000 Duke of Gloucester will be attached to the train.
Departing the loop at 10:20, the train will pass through Slough (10:35), Reading (10:59), Newbury Racecourse (11:25), Pewsey (12:21) and Bath Spa at 13:17.
After time in Bath, 71000 Duke of Gloucester will depart at 16:55 and will head back via Chippenham (17:11), Didcot Parkway (18:56), Reading (19:16), and Southall at 19:57, before being taken off the train at Hanwell Bridge Loop.
An LSL Diesel / Electric locomotive will take the train back to Rugby via Acton Main Line (21:06), Watford Junction (21:54), Hemel Hempstead (22:05), Tring (22:18), Leighton Buzzard (22:39), Milton Keynes Central (22:52), Northampton (23:15), Long Buckby (23:32) and Rugby at 23:45.
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Austerity-0-6-0ST-no.-15-Earl-David
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Festive fun at the Talyllyn Railway
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1st December, 2025
2555 Centenary
To commemorate Sir Nigel Gresley’s 150th anniversary, a historic nameplate from Gresley A3 Class Pacific No. 2555 Centenary has been loaned by The Gresley Society to the Danum Gallery in Doncaster.
Founded in 1963, The Gresley Society Trust dedicates itself to honouring the life and works of the great locomotive designer.
During the society’s Annual General Meeting, Centenary’s nameplate was presented to Doncaster’s Civic Mayor, Councillor Tim Needham.
Historic A3 locomotive nameplate loaned to Yorkshire gallery
2555 Centenary
To commemorate Sir Nigel Gresley’s 150th anniversary, a historic nameplate from Gresley A3 Class Pacific No. 2555 Centenary has been loaned by The Gresley Society to the Danum Gallery in Doncaster.
Founded in 1963, The Gresley Society Trust dedicates itself to honouring the life and works of the great locomotive designer.
During the society’s Annual General Meeting, Centenary’s nameplate was presented to Doncaster’s Civic Mayor, Councillor Tim Needham.
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2555 Centenary
Among the many famous locomotives that Gresley designed are the iconic Flying Scotsman, the steam locomotive world speed record holder Mallard, and Cock O’ The North.
Centenary was a classmate of Flying Scotsman, and the society has preserved its nameplate to commemorate the centenary of the Stockton and Darlington Railway in 1925, which is the same year that Centenary was built at Doncaster Works for the London & North Eastern Railway.
During its career, Centenary saw service on the East Coast Main Line from, among others, Doncaster, Grantham, and King’s Cross sheds, and travelled 1,867,962 miles before being withdrawn on 13th May 1963.
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2555 Centenary at York
The Gresley Society acquired Centenary’s nameplate through a bequest from the late Stuart Nichols, a longstanding member from North London who passed away in 2016.
As well as owning a nameplate from Centenary, The Gresley Society owns the oldest surviving locomotive designed by Sir Nigel Gresley, N2 Class No. 1744, which is currently at the North Norfolk Railway, nearing the end of a major overhaul.
The society also owns the only surviving vehicle that Gresley designed for the 1938 ‘Flying Scotsman’ train, Buffet Lounge Car No. 1852, which is soon to be the subject of a Heritage Fund bid for restoration.
Other efforts by the trust include placing plaques commemorating Sir Nigel Gresley at Doncaster and Edinburgh Waverley stations, and a statue of Sir Nigel at London King’s Cross station.
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2555 Centenary being scrapped in 1963
“This loan precedes our major celebrations for the 150th anniversary of Sir Nigel Gresley’s birth in 2026. By placing the Centenary nameplate in the Danum Gallery’s Rail Heritage Centre, we honour Doncaster’s pivotal role in Gresley’s designs and invite visitors to connect with our shared past.”
Philip Benham MBE, FCILT, Chairman of The Gresley Society Trust
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1st December, 2025
35028 Clan Line is to pass through Wiltshire this Wednesday (3rd December) as it hauls The Sherborne Christmas Carol.
Departing London Victoria at 08:44, the locomotive will pass through Brentford (09:14), Staines (09:33), Woking (10:05), Winchfield (10:29), Basingstoke (10:47), Salisbury (11:36), Gillingham (Dorset) (12:44) and Sherborne at 13:14 before going to Yeovil Junction Heritage Platform at 13:27.
After time here, the train will depart at 16:40 and will return to the capital via Sherborne (16:50), Gillingham (Dorset) (17:14), Salisbury (17:55), Basingstoke (19:16), Woking (19:43), Staines (20:16), Clapham Junction (21:00) and London Victoria at 21:36
Steam locomotive 35028 Clan Line to pass through Wiltshire this Wednesday
35028 Clan Line is to pass through Wiltshire this Wednesday (3rd December) as it hauls The Sherborne Christmas Carol.
Departing London Victoria at 08:44, the locomotive will pass through Brentford (09:14), Staines (09:33), Woking (10:05), Winchfield (10:29), Basingstoke (10:47), Salisbury (11:36), Gillingham (Dorset) (12:44) and Sherborne at 13:14 before going to Yeovil Junction Heritage Platform at 13:27.
After time here, the train will depart at 16:40 and will return to the capital via Sherborne (16:50), Gillingham (Dorset) (17:14), Salisbury (17:55), Basingstoke (19:16), Woking (19:43), Staines (20:16), Clapham Junction (21:00) and London Victoria at 21:36
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A DMU on the Great Central Railway (Nottingham)
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1 Dec 2025
T2 Bangor
Transport for Wales (TfW) is making festive travel more affordable this December with a special £1 evening fare offer on selected TrawsCymru bus routes.
From 1 December 2025 until 2 January 2026, passengers can travel for just £1 on single journeys after 5pm, helping families, friends and communities come together over the Christmas period.
Whether you’re heading to a Christmas party, doing late-night shopping, or simply making your way home from work, this offer means you can spend less on travel and more on the things that matter this season.Routes included in the offer:
Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales Ken Skates said: “In the run up to Christmas with shopping and social events, having affordable and reliable public transport is more important than ever.
"I’m pleased to see the introduction of a £1 fare for selected TrawsCymru evening services during this period which I’m sure will be welcomed by many as they visit friends and family this festive period.”
Huw Morgan, Head of Integrated Transport and Bus Network Development at Transport for Wales said: “At just £1 per journey, we're making it easier and more affordable for people right across Wales to enjoy everything December has to offer.
“Whether it's visiting family, catching a Christmas market, or simply getting home from work, our TrawsCymru network will keep Wales connected this December.”
For more details on terms & conditions, festive events and service changes, visit - £1 bus tickets after 5pm this December - Transport for Wales
This offer runs from 1 December 2025 until 2 January 2026, excluding Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day when no services operate.
£1 evening bus fares across Wales this December
T2 Bangor
Transport for Wales (TfW) is making festive travel more affordable this December with a special £1 evening fare offer on selected TrawsCymru bus routes.
From 1 December 2025 until 2 January 2026, passengers can travel for just £1 on single journeys after 5pm, helping families, friends and communities come together over the Christmas period.
Whether you’re heading to a Christmas party, doing late-night shopping, or simply making your way home from work, this offer means you can spend less on travel and more on the things that matter this season.Routes included in the offer:
- T1: Aberystwyth – Carmarthen
- T2: Bangor – Aberystwyth
- T3/T3C: Wrexham – Barmouth
- T4: Newtown – Merthyr Tydfil
- T5: Aberystwyth – Haverfordwest
- T6: Brecon – Swansea
- T8: Corwen to Chester
- T10: Bangor – Corwen
- T22: Caernarfon – Blaenau Ffestiniog
- T28: Machynlleth – Aberystwyth
Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales Ken Skates said: “In the run up to Christmas with shopping and social events, having affordable and reliable public transport is more important than ever.
"I’m pleased to see the introduction of a £1 fare for selected TrawsCymru evening services during this period which I’m sure will be welcomed by many as they visit friends and family this festive period.”
Huw Morgan, Head of Integrated Transport and Bus Network Development at Transport for Wales said: “At just £1 per journey, we're making it easier and more affordable for people right across Wales to enjoy everything December has to offer.
“Whether it's visiting family, catching a Christmas market, or simply getting home from work, our TrawsCymru network will keep Wales connected this December.”
For more details on terms & conditions, festive events and service changes, visit - £1 bus tickets after 5pm this December - Transport for Wales
This offer runs from 1 December 2025 until 2 January 2026, excluding Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day when no services operate.
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Avanti West Coast train at Manchester Piccadilly on RMT strike day December 2022
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A Thameslink train crosses the soon-to-be-upgraded Meldreth Road level crossing
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2nd December, 2025
60163 Tornado and 5043 Earl of Mount Edgcumbe will pass through Yorkshire and Derbyshire this Wednesday (3rd December) as they haul The Christmas White Rose.
The tour will depart Birmingham New Street at 08:56 with 5043 Earl of Mount Edgcumbe and will pass through Coleshill Parkway (09:13), Tamworth (09:36), Burton-on-Trent (09:54), Derby (10:13), Chesterfield (10:44), Swinton (South Yorkshire) (11:08), Church Fenton (12:06) and York at 12:26.
After time in York, and with 60163 Tornado joining the train, both locomotives will head back to Birmingham.
Departing York at 16:15, the locomotives will pass through Doncaster (16:52), Mexborough (17:21), Chesterfield (18:37), Derby (19:15), Burton-on-Trent (19:34), Tamworth (20:14), Coleshill Parkway (20:43) and Birmingham New Street at 21:02.
Two steam locomotives to pass through Yorkshire and Derbyshire this Wednesday
60163 Tornado and 5043 Earl of Mount Edgcumbe will pass through Yorkshire and Derbyshire this Wednesday (3rd December) as they haul The Christmas White Rose.
The tour will depart Birmingham New Street at 08:56 with 5043 Earl of Mount Edgcumbe and will pass through Coleshill Parkway (09:13), Tamworth (09:36), Burton-on-Trent (09:54), Derby (10:13), Chesterfield (10:44), Swinton (South Yorkshire) (11:08), Church Fenton (12:06) and York at 12:26.
After time in York, and with 60163 Tornado joining the train, both locomotives will head back to Birmingham.
Departing York at 16:15, the locomotives will pass through Doncaster (16:52), Mexborough (17:21), Chesterfield (18:37), Derby (19:15), Burton-on-Trent (19:34), Tamworth (20:14), Coleshill Parkway (20:43) and Birmingham New Street at 21:02.
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5043 Earl of Mount Edgcumbe
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A Northumberland Line service crossing the North Seaton Viaduct
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Loco 4566 pulling away from Lowertown Viaduct, near Helston, in the early 1960s.
The painting was commissioned by the lovely heritage Helston Railway and hopefully in the not-too-distant future their trains will be passing over the viaduct once more.
The painting was commissioned by the lovely heritage Helston Railway and hopefully in the not-too-distant future their trains will be passing over the viaduct once more.
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75069 on the Boogie Lights Express
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2 Dec 2025
OLE Rhymney Line
Transport for Wales has taken another major step towards completing the electrification of the South Wales Valley lines, as the overhead wires across the Rhymney railway line are switched on.
This major step in the electrification of the South Wales Metro network follows the completion of engineering work on the 25km stretch between Caerphilly and Rhymney.
The final section along the Cardiff Bay line is due to be electrified in early 2026.
Electrifying the upper Rhymney line enables TfW to introduce tri-mode trains (capable of running on electric, diesel, and battery power) replacing the last of the legacy diesel rolling stock currently operating on across the line.
Dan Tipper, Chief Infrastructure Officer at Transport for Wales said:
“The electrification of the Upper Rhymney line has been made possible by eight months of intensive work by our infrastructure teams, including installing 903 steel structures supporting over 33km of overhead wires and laying 30km of high-voltage cable. I’d like to thank our teams for working around the clock to achieve this major project milestone”
“We would also like to thank our local communities for their patience as this transformation work was carried out through the day and night, as well as during disruptive railway closures over the Easter and Summer holidays.”
As the electrification of the Rhymney line marks another milestone for the South Wales Metro project, TfW reminds the public that trespassing on the railway line is illegal and poses serious risks, especially on electrified lines, as they carry 25,000 volts.
Due to the increased dangers of electrocution, no one should attempt to trespass onto the railway.
Through its No Second Chances safety campaign, TfW is continuing to highlight the risks of trespass with young people across the Valleys.
With the help of its education provider Bollo, over 42,000 students would have received a session on railway safety by the end of 2025.
TfW is also encouraging the public to remain vigilant due to a recent rise in cable theft attempts along the Rhymney line.
Whilst enhanced security patrols are now in place, any suspicious activity, including anyone attempting to access the railway, should be reported to the British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40 or text 61016. For emergencies, call 999.
We're going live on the Rhymney line
OLE Rhymney Line
Transport for Wales has taken another major step towards completing the electrification of the South Wales Valley lines, as the overhead wires across the Rhymney railway line are switched on.
This major step in the electrification of the South Wales Metro network follows the completion of engineering work on the 25km stretch between Caerphilly and Rhymney.
The final section along the Cardiff Bay line is due to be electrified in early 2026.
Electrifying the upper Rhymney line enables TfW to introduce tri-mode trains (capable of running on electric, diesel, and battery power) replacing the last of the legacy diesel rolling stock currently operating on across the line.
Dan Tipper, Chief Infrastructure Officer at Transport for Wales said:
“The electrification of the Upper Rhymney line has been made possible by eight months of intensive work by our infrastructure teams, including installing 903 steel structures supporting over 33km of overhead wires and laying 30km of high-voltage cable. I’d like to thank our teams for working around the clock to achieve this major project milestone”
“We would also like to thank our local communities for their patience as this transformation work was carried out through the day and night, as well as during disruptive railway closures over the Easter and Summer holidays.”
As the electrification of the Rhymney line marks another milestone for the South Wales Metro project, TfW reminds the public that trespassing on the railway line is illegal and poses serious risks, especially on electrified lines, as they carry 25,000 volts.
Due to the increased dangers of electrocution, no one should attempt to trespass onto the railway.
Through its No Second Chances safety campaign, TfW is continuing to highlight the risks of trespass with young people across the Valleys.
With the help of its education provider Bollo, over 42,000 students would have received a session on railway safety by the end of 2025.
TfW is also encouraging the public to remain vigilant due to a recent rise in cable theft attempts along the Rhymney line.
Whilst enhanced security patrols are now in place, any suspicious activity, including anyone attempting to access the railway, should be reported to the British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40 or text 61016. For emergencies, call 999.
- Rhymney line will be closed between Rhymney and Cardiff Queen Street on Saturday 6 December and Sunday 7 December. During this rail closure, all railway stations, station footbridges, and level crossings from Rhymney to Caerphilly will be closed.
- Rail replacement services will be in operation during the closure.
- To avoid the Christmas shopping traffic in the city centre, on Saturday 6 December, TfW will run buses from Cardiff Central to Bargoed (not stopping at Cardiff Queen Street) and from Cardiff Queen Street to Rhymney.
- On Sunday 7 December, rail replacement services will depart from Cardiff Central as normal, stopping at Cardiff Queen Street.
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2nd December, 2025
Class 455 No. 455868 at Hook
Tickets for the upcoming Class 455 Farewell Tour sold out in just 15 seconds, with more than 9,000 enthusiasts waiting for 400 tickets.
The tour will take place on the 21st December and tickets were priced at £45.50.
The Branch Line Society and South Western Railway are now holding a second train and tickets for this, which will also run on the same day, are on sale now.
The first train will leave London Waterloo at 0932, followed by the second train at 1035. Both trains will weave their way around the SWR network, taking in familiar locations such as Guildford and Kingston, along with some special routes and stops for Class 455s, including the District Line’s branch from East Putney to Wimbledon, and Haslemere on the Portsmouth Direct Line.
“We’ve been amazed at the level of interest in our Class 455 Farewell tour and are thrilled to raise so much money for Macmillan, The Alex Wardle Foundation and Railway Children, three charities that have a special significance to our colleagues.
“Knowing there are so many more enthusiasts out there who want to be part of this special occasion, we’re pleased to run a second train on Sunday 21 December. Doing so will raise even more money for our chosen charities and give some lucky enthusiasts an early Christmas present!”
Lawrence Bowman, Managing Director of South Western Railway and Network Rail Wessex Route
Class 455 farewell train sells out in 15 seconds as second tour announced
Class 455 No. 455868 at Hook
Tickets for the upcoming Class 455 Farewell Tour sold out in just 15 seconds, with more than 9,000 enthusiasts waiting for 400 tickets.
The tour will take place on the 21st December and tickets were priced at £45.50.
The Branch Line Society and South Western Railway are now holding a second train and tickets for this, which will also run on the same day, are on sale now.
The first train will leave London Waterloo at 0932, followed by the second train at 1035. Both trains will weave their way around the SWR network, taking in familiar locations such as Guildford and Kingston, along with some special routes and stops for Class 455s, including the District Line’s branch from East Putney to Wimbledon, and Haslemere on the Portsmouth Direct Line.
“We’ve been amazed at the level of interest in our Class 455 Farewell tour and are thrilled to raise so much money for Macmillan, The Alex Wardle Foundation and Railway Children, three charities that have a special significance to our colleagues.
“Knowing there are so many more enthusiasts out there who want to be part of this special occasion, we’re pleased to run a second train on Sunday 21 December. Doing so will raise even more money for our chosen charities and give some lucky enthusiasts an early Christmas present!”
Lawrence Bowman, Managing Director of South Western Railway and Network Rail Wessex Route
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