Marcus' Model Railway Journey

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Stadler NS FLIRT train

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British stamps for 2026 announcement​

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Stranger Things​

January 13 2026
Commemorative

Concorde​

January 21 2026
Commemorative

Hornby Model Railways​

February 19 2026
Commemorative

Roses​

February 26 2026
Commemorative

The Lord of the Rings​

March 20 2026
Commemorative

Centenary of the Birth of Queen Elizabeth II​

April 21 2026
Commemorative

Castles​

May 21 2026
Commemorative

Waterfalls​

June 23 2026
Commemorative

Later in 2026: Music Giants (Slade) and Christmas themes are expected.
 
6th January, 2026

Steam locomotive 7802 Bradley Manor to visit Somerset for 2026 season​

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7802 Bradley Manor


The Erlestoke Manor Fund has announced that 7802 Bradley Manor will be visiting the West Somerset Railway for an extended period in 2026.

The visit of the Manor will be from the end of April until November 2026, but the EMF has stressed that this is a short-term agreement.

7802 will return to the Severn Valley Railway in time for the festive season.

The fund has stated this allows 7802 to be available for all offered steaming days at the Severn Valley Railway, including the Spring Gala, before heading to Somerset.

7802 of course joins sister loco 7812 Erlestoke Manor at the West Somerset Railway.

7812, which is also owned by the EMF, is on loan to the WSR until December 2027.


While 7802 Bradley Manor previously visited WSR in 2019, this occasion marks the first time it will operate alongside its stable companion, 7812 Erlestoke Manor, on WSR tracks. This unique event is anticipated to be of significant interest to EMF shareholders and supporters, who will welcome the opportunity to witness both our locomotives in action together.”

“This announcement illustrates the positive relationship that the EMF has with its host railway, the Severn Valley Railway, as well as other fully operational heritage railways such as WSR. This hire is to the mutual benefit of not only of the EMF, the WSR and the SVR but also shareholders and supporters who can
attend to see the two steam locomotives running in different surroundings.”

Jane Preece, Chair of the EMF
 
Wednesday 7 Jan 2026

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Network Rail and Transport for Wales prepare for Storm Goretti with planned service alterations​

Region & Route: Wales & Western: Wales & Borders

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Amber snow warning Wales Storm Goretti


Rail passengers are advised to expect alterations and cancellations on Thursday 8 January due to yellow and amber warnings for snow and wind across the Wales and Borders network.

While train services are planned to run as normal on Thursday morning, passengers are advised that from around 15:00 on Thursday and into Friday morning (8/9 January), Network Rail and Transport for Wales will introduce service alterations and will close parts of the rail network as weather conditions deteriorate, in order to keep passengers and staff safe.

Yellow and amber weather warnings for snow are in place across most of Wales from 15:00 on Thursday until 12:00 on Friday, with up 20-30cm of snow possible in some areas.

Strong winds of 40-50mph are also forecast, increasing the risk of fallen trees and additional disruption.

Snow may also turn to sleet or rain at times, bringing a risk of localised flooding.

Snow, ice and freezing temperatures can significantly affect the railway, particularly points, signalling equipment and track conditions.

Decisions on line closures will be made based on real-time weather conditions and safety assessments, with further updates issued as the situation develops.
 
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TfW train - snow


Service alterations​

The Cambrian Coast line (Machynlleth to Pwllheli) will be suspended from the start of service on Thursday.

From 15:00 on Thursday 8 January, no trains will be able to operate on the following routes:
  • Llandudno Junction to Llandudno - suspended.
  • Llandudno Junction to Blaenau Ffestiniog - suspended.
  • Wrexham to Bidston - suspended.
  • Craven Arms to Swansea service (via Heart of Wales Line) - suspended
  • Services west of Carmarthen - suspended
  • Maesteg and Ebbw services - suspended
  • Vale of Glamorgan and Barry line - suspended.
From 15:00 on Thursday 8 January, a reduced timetable will be introduced, with the following services operating:
  • 1 train per hour (tph) Carmarthen - Cardiff Central
  • 1 tph Cardiff Central - Crewe
  • 1 tph Shrewsbury - Holyhead
  • 1 train every two hours Shrewsbury - Aberystwyth
  • 1 train every two hours on the Shrewsbury to Crewe local service
  • 1 tph Birmingham International - Shrewsbury
  • 1 tph Cardiff Central - Gloucester
  • 1 tph Chester – Manchester
Core Valley Lines changes from 15:00 include 1tph between:
  • Treherbert - Cardiff Central
  • Merthyr Tydfil - Cardiff Central
  • Rhymney - Cardiff Central
A half hourly service between:
  • Coryton - Cardiff Bay
Rail replacement services will not be able to run during the closures due to road conditions.
 
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Network Rail teams clearing snow at Machynlleth Station this week


Network Rail teams are already taking a range of preventative measures ahead of the storm, including:
  • Inspecting key drainage sites to ensure they are clear
  • Checking points heating systems, as points can jam in snowy conditions
  • Organising additional runs of snow and ice treatment trains and snow ploughs
  • Arranging chainsaw teams to be on shift throughout the storm to respond quickly to fallen trees
Transport for Wales staff are also preparing for the weather by ensuring platforms are gritted, trains are ready for icy conditions, and by working closely with Network Rail to adapt service patterns as the storm develops.

Passengers are strongly advised to:
  • Check their journey before travelling and throughout the day
  • Allow extra time for their journeys
  • Take extra care when travelling to and from stations, as platforms, steps and car parks may be slippery
Passengers are strongly advised to check their journey before travelling and throughout the day and allow extra time for their journeys.

Rail tickets for Thursday 8 January can be used for travel up to Sunday 11 January.

Nick Millington, Route Director at Network Rail Wales and Borders said, “Storm Goretti is expected to bring challenging conditions from Thursday afternoon and overnight, including snow, ice and strong winds, which can have a significant impact on the railway. While services are expected to run as normal on Thursday morning, from mid-afternoon onwards we anticipate the need to close some lines to keep passengers and our colleagues safe.

“Safety is our number one priority, and our teams are working around the clock, alongside train operators, to prepare the network and respond quickly as conditions change. We’d urge passengers to check before they travel and plan ahead, particularly on Thursday night and Friday morning.”

Patrick Allinson, Head of Control Operations at Transport for Wales added, “We've already seen a lot of snow across our network at the start of this year, and with Storm Goretti forecast to bring further challenging conditions.

“We are working closely with Network Rail to monitor the situation across the network. We're asking passengers to take extra care when travelling to and from stations, as platforms, steps and car parks may be slippery.”

Passengers should check the latest travel information at nationalrail.co.uk and https://livemap.tfw.wales/
 
7th January, 2026

Shropshire-based Class 143s find new owner​

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Class 143 No. 143616


Heritage Traction Preservation has confirmed that they have purchased Class 143 units, No. 143601 and 143616.

Heritage Traction Preservation was set up to acquire and safeguard historically significant traction that may be lost.

Their aim is to see them actively used, enjoyed by the public and work with partners to ensure a longer future in use.

Both units are currently based at the Tanat Valley Light Railway and were recently put up for sale.
 
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Class 143 at the Tanat Valley Light Railway


However, HTP are now the owner of both units, and we have spoken with the group about early plans for the units.

It has been confirmed that both units will be kept at the Tanat Valley Light Railway in Shropshire.

Discussions are ongoing with other railways regarding new long-term arrangements, but nothing is fully confirmed yet.

143601 is the pioneer Class 143 and was one of the first units to operate on the mainline, as well as being the very last to operate.


The group says that they are keen to reflect their earlier years, with a potential return to a more retro appearance, but this is being kept under wraps for the time being.
 
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Onboard the Class 143


Moving on to 143616, a previous colour scheme is being considered as well, but may reflect the post-privatisation era.

Both units are currently operational. ‘616 is fully serviceable, whilst ‘601 has a battery issue but is thought to be straightforward to fix.

Once the necessary work has been completed, both units will return to full passenger service at their new home, wherever that may be.
 
7th January, 2026

Night time Direct Rail Services photoshoot raises money for Cumbrian Charity​

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Class 68 and JNA at the charity photoshoot


Last month, Direct Rail Services held a charity event just outside of Maryport.

A photoshoot featuring a Class 68 locomotive and its 25 JNA wagons took place on the 18th December 2025.

This type of night-time photoshoot on the main line has never been done before, and provided a unique opportunity to photograph from a private viewing point.

The train was stopped for 10 minutes and illuminated with floodlights to allow people to take photos.
 
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Class 68 and JNA at the charity photoshoot from the viewing location


The event was held to raise money for Eden Valley Hospice, which provided specialist care for adults in North Cumbria with life-limiting conditions.

The photoshoot was able to raise £580 for the charity.


“This was a fantastic opportunity to raise money for Eden Valley Hospice and also show off how brilliant our trains look at night.

“Many people thought it couldn’t be done, but everyone came together to make it such a success. I would like to thank Network Rail, the landowner, and all my DRS colleagues.”

Joseph Nicholson, DRS Operations Planner and organiser of the event
 
08 Jan 2026

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Transport for Wales and Network Rail prepare for Storm Goretti with planned service alterations.​

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Snow Llanelli


Rail passengers are advised to expect alterations and cancellations on Thursday due to a Yellow and Amber warning for snow and wind across the Wales and Borders network

While train services are planned to run as normal on Thursday morning, passengers are advised that from around 15:00 on Thursday and into Friday morning (8 / 9 January), Network Rail and Transport for Wales will introduce service alterations and will close parts of the railway network as weather conditions deteriorate, in order to keep passengers and staff safe.

A yellow weather warning for snow is in place from 15:00 on Thursday until 12:00 on Friday, with up to 20cm of snow possible in some areas.

Strong winds of 40-50mph are also forecast, increasing the risk of fallen trees and additional disruption.

Snow may also turn to sleet or rain at times, bringing a risk of localised flooding.

Snow, ice and freezing temperatures can significantly affect the railway, particularly points, signalling equipment and track conditions.

Decisions on line closures will be made based on real-time weather conditions and safety assessments, with further updates issued as the situation develops.

Service alterations​

The Cambrian Coast line (Machynlleth to Pwllheli) will be suspended from the start of service on Thursday.

From 15:00 on Thursday 8 January, no trains will be able to operate on the following routes:
  • Llandudno Junction to Llandudno - suspended.
  • Llandudno Junction to Blaenau Ffestiniog - suspended.
  • Wrexham to Bidston - suspended.
  • Craven Arms to Swansea service (via Heart of Wales Line) - suspended
  • Services west of Carmarthen - suspended
  • Maesteg and Ebbw services - suspended
  • Vale of Glamorgan and Barry line - suspended.
  • Cardiff to Penarth line - suspended
From 15:00 on Thursday 8 January, a reduced timetable will be introduced, with the following services operating:
  • 1 train per hour (tph) Carmarthen - Cardiff Central
  • 1 tph Cardiff Central - Crewe
  • 1 tph Shrewsbury - Holyhead
  • 1 train every two hours Shrewsbury - Aberystwyth
  • 1 train every two hours on the Shrewsbury to Crewe local service
  • 1 tph Birmingham International - Shrewsbury
  • 1 tph Cardiff Central - Gloucester
  • 1 tph Chester – Manchester
Core Valley Lines changes from 15:00 include 1tph between:
  • Treherbert - Cardiff Central
  • Merthyr Tydfil - Cardiff Central
  • Rhymney - Cardiff Central
A half hourly service between:
  • Coryton - Cardiff Bay
Rail replacement services will not be able to run during the closures due to road conditions.

Network Rail teams are already taking a range of preventative measures ahead of the storm, including:
  • Inspecting key drainage sites to ensure they are clear
  • Checking points heating systems, as points can jam in snowy conditions
  • Organising additional runs of snow and ice treatment trains and snow ploughs
  • Arranging chainsaw teams to be on shift throughout the storm to respond quickly to fallen trees
Transport for Wales colleagues are also preparing for the weather by ensuring platforms are gritted, trains are ready for icy conditions, and by working closely with Network Rail to adapt service patterns as the storm develops.

Passengers are strongly advised to check their journey before travelling and throughout the day and allow extra time for their journeys.

Rail tickets for Thursday, 8 January can be used for travel up to Sunday, 11 January.

Nick Millington, Route Director at Network Rail Wales and Borders said: “Storm Goretti is expected to bring challenging conditions from Thursday afternoon and overnight, including snow, ice and strong winds, which can have a significant impact on the railway.

“While services are expected to run as normal on Thursday morning, from mid-afternoon onwards we anticipate the need to close some lines to keep passengers and our colleagues safe.

“Our teams are working around the clock, alongside train operators, to prepare the network and respond quickly as conditions change. We’d urge passengers to check before they travel and plan ahead, particularly on Thursday night and Friday morning.”

Patrick Allinson, Head of Control Operations at Transport for Wales added: “We've already seen a lot of snow across our network at the start of this year, and with Storm Goretti forecast to bring further challenging conditions.

“We are working closely with Network Rail to monitor the situation across the network. We're asking passengers to take extra care when travelling to and from stations, as platforms, steps and car parks may be slippery.”

Passengers should check the latest travel information at https://www.nationalrail.co.uk/ and https://livemap.tfw.wales/

8482
 
08 Jan 2026

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Storm Goretti update: Check before travelling with rail service alterations in place as Transport for Wales and Network Rail prepare for Storm Goretti​

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View attachment 9100
TFW


Rail passengers are advised to check before travelling on Thursday 8 January and Friday 9 January as Storm Goretti brings severe weather warnings across the Wales and Borders network.

Up to date information on rail services can be found at https://tfw.wales/service-status/all-updates

Service alterations are already in place and will continue into Friday 9 January.

Network Rail and Transport for Wales will continue to introduce service alterations and will close parts of the railway network as weather conditions deteriorate, in order to keep passengers and staff safe.

A yellow weather warning for snow is in place from 15:00 on Thursday until 12:00 on Friday, with up to 20cm of snow possible in some areas.

Strong winds of 40-50mph are also forecast, increasing the risk of fallen trees and additional disruption.

Snow may also turn to sleet or rain at times, bringing a risk of localised flooding.

Snow, ice and freezing temperatures can significantly affect the railway, particularly points, signalling equipment and track conditions.

Rail replacement services will not be able to run during the closures due to road conditions.

Network Rail colleagues are already taking a range of preventative measures ahead of the storm, including:
  • · Inspecting key drainage sites to ensure they are clear
  • · Checking points heating systems, as points can jam in snowy conditions
  • · Organising additional runs of Snow and Ice Treatment Trains and snow ploughs
  • · Arranging chainsaw teams to be on shift throughout the storm to respond quickly to fallen trees
Transport for Wales colleagues are also preparing for the weather by ensuring platforms are gritted, trains are ready for icy conditions, and by working closely with Network Rail to adapt service patterns as the storm develops.

Passengers are strongly advised to:
  • · Check their journey before travelling and throughout the day
  • · Allow extra time for their journeys
  • · Take extra care when travelling to and from stations, as platforms, steps and car parks may be slippery
Rail tickets for Thursday 8 January can be used for travel up to Sunday 11 January.

Nick Millington, Route Director at Network Rail Wales and Borders said: “Storm Goretti is expected to bring challenging conditions from Thursday afternoon and overnight, including snow, ice and strong winds, which can have a significant impact on the railway.

"While services are expected to run as normal on Thursday morning, from mid-afternoon onwards we anticipate the need to close some lines to keep passengers and our colleagues safe.

“Safety is our number one priority, and our teams are working around the clock, alongside train operators, to prepare the network and respond quickly as conditions change. We’d urge passengers to check before they travel and plan ahead, particularly on Thursday night and Friday morning.”

Patrick Allinson, Head of Control Operations at Transport for Wales added: “We've already seen a lot of snow across our network at the start of this year, and with Storm Goretti forecast to bring further challenging conditions.

“We are working closely with Network Rail to monitor the situation across the network. We're asking passengers to take extra care when travelling to and from stations, as platforms, steps and car parks may be slippery.

"Most importantly, passengers should check before travelling for up to date information on rail services and routes.”

Passengers should check the latest travel information at: https://tfw.wales/service-status/all-updates

8482
 
Thursday 8 Jan 2026

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Storm Goretti update: Check before travelling with rail service alterations in place as Network Rail and Transport for Wales prepare for severe weather over next 24 hours​

Region & Route: Wales & Western: Wales & Borders

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Snow Plough Train


Rail passengers are advised to check before travelling on Thursday 8 January and Friday 9 January as Storm Goretti brings snow, ice, heavy rain and strong winds across the Wales and Borders network.

Up to date information on rail services can be found at www.tfw.wales.

Service alterations are already in place and will continue into Friday 9 January.

Network Rail and Transport for Wales will continue to introduce service alterations and will close parts of the railway network as weather conditions deteriorate, in order to keep passengers and staff safe.

A yellow weather warning for snow is in place from 15:00 on Thursday until 12:00 on Friday, with up to 30cm of snow possible in some areas.

Strong winds of 40-50mph are also forecast, increasing the risk of fallen trees and additional disruption.

Snow may also turn to sleet or rain at times, bringing a risk of localised flooding.

Snow, ice and freezing temperatures can significantly affect the railway, particularly points, signalling equipment and track conditions.

Rail replacement services will not be able to run during the closures due to road conditions.

Network Rail colleagues are already taking a range of preventative measures ahead of the storm, including:
  • Inspecting key drainage sites to ensure they are clear
  • Checking points heating systems, as points can jam in snowy conditions
  • Organising additional runs of Snow and Ice Treatment Trains and snow ploughs
  • Arranging chainsaw teams to be on shift throughout the storm to respond quickly to fallen trees
Transport for Wales colleagues are also preparing for the weather by ensuring platforms are gritted, trains are ready for icy conditions, and by working closely with Network Rail to adapt service patterns as the storm develops.

Passengers are strongly advised to:
  • Check their journey before travelling and throughout the day
  • Allow extra time for their journeys
  • Take extra care when travelling to and from stations, as platforms, steps and car parks may be slippery
Rail tickets for Thursday 8 January can be used for travel up to Sunday 11 January.

Nick Millington, Route Director at Network Rail Wales and Borders said, “Storm Goretti is expected to bring challenging conditions from Thursday afternoon and overnight, including snow, ice and strong winds, which can have a significant impact on the railway. From mid-afternoon Thursday and into Friday we anticipate the need to close some lines to keep passengers and our colleagues safe.

“Safety is our number one priority, and our teams are working around the clock, alongside train operators, to prepare the network and respond quickly as conditions change. We’d urge passengers to check before they travel."

Patrick Allinson, Head of Control Operations at Transport for Wales added, “We've already seen a lot of snow across our network at the start of this year, and with Storm Goretti forecast to bring further challenging conditions.

“We are working closely with Network Rail to monitor the situation across the network. We're asking passengers to take extra care when travelling to and from stations, as platforms, steps and car parks may be slippery. Most importantly, passengers should check before travelling for up to date information on rail services and routes.”

Passengers should check the latest travel information at:

nationalrail.co.uk

https://livemap.tfw.wales/

Buy train tickets | Cheap rail tickets - No booking fee | TfW
 
8th January, 2026

3 year contract awarded to Colas Rail​

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67023 leading the haulage of Infrastructure Monitoring Trains


A new contract has been signed between Colas Rail UK and Network Rail.

The contract includes the provision of ‘Thunderbird’ Rescue and Recovery Locomotives between London and Newcastle.

These will be used along the East Coast Main Line to rescue broken-down trains, both passenger and freight.

They will be operated by two Class 67 locomotives based at Newark Northgate Sidings.

The contract is set for an initial 3-year term starting this month, with the potential for extension.


“We are honoured and excited to work for Network Rail Eastern Region to provide dedicated and 24/7 rescue and recovery services on the busy East Coast Mainline, and between London and Newcastle.

“Our Class 67s and pool of drivers will be on hand to deploy promptly from Newark Northgate Siding when and if required, to support various FOCs and TOCs”

Freight Operations Director, Sep Semsarzadeh
 
8th January, 2026

Inspiration to visit locations on Greater Anglia network​

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Railway 200 Inspiration Train at Norwich station


The Railway 200 Inspiration Train is set to return to the Greater Anglia network at four locations.

Tickets have now been released for people to secure their visits at Cambridge, Colchester, Clacton-on-Sea, and Hertford East.

Visitors can walk through the interactive four-carriage train and experience Railway Firsts, Wonderlab on Wheels, Your Railway Future and Partner Zone.
 
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Inside Inspiration – bridge making exercise


The train will open at 10 am, with last entry at 4 pm.

Tickets must be booked before arrival and can be done so online.

If you miss out on these locations, further dates have been announced for this year.

If you are unable to visit in person, a virtual tour is also available.


“We are really looking forward to welcoming back Inspiration to East Anglia and continuing the celebrations linked to the 200th anniversary of the modern railway.

“Having the exhibition train visit Cambridge, Colchester, Clacton-on-Sea, and Hertford East stations in early 2026 will shine a spotlight on the past and present of the railway, while inspiring the next generation of railway talent.”

Martin Beable, Greater Anglia’s Managing Director
 
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8th January, 2026

Porterbrook acquires WMT/LNWR Class 730 and 196 trains​

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London Northwestern Railway Class 370 No.730220


A new deal has been made between Porterbrook and Corelink Rail Infrastructure Limited (Corelink).

The deal means that Porterbrook will acquire 404 vehicles owned by Corelink.

This includes the fleet of 324 Class 730 Aventra electric and 80 Class 196 diesel units.

The Aventras will be maintained at the Bletchley Train Maintenance Depot, with West Midlands Trains operating the units.


“West Midlands Trains has been one of our largest customers for over 15 years and this latest transaction solidifies that partnership for the future. It also completes a programme of more than £1bn of capital deployed during the last five years in new trains, fleet upgrades, traction innovation and rail infrastructure.”

Mary Grant, Porterbrook CEO
 
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