Marcus' Model Railway Journey

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Bournemouth Belle Pullman cars, BR (2009)​

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20th February, 2026

Essex railway to welcome electric steam locomotive in UK first​

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Fully electric steam locomotive (interpretation)


The Audley End Enchanted Railway has a brand new addition to its fleet for 2026.

They are introducing a fully electric steam outline locomotive to join Electra, their other electric locomotive.

Following Electra’s introduction in 2024, journeys on the railway have been quieter, more reliable and cleaner.

This encouraged them to take another step towards sustainability.

The new locomotive, which the railway says is first of its kind in the UK, looks and sounds like a steam locomotive, but runs fully on electricity.

With their two electric locomotives, they can reduce their footprint and emissions and protect the surrounding forest environment.

The new loco also doesn’t have a name yet and is taking suggestions on their social media.
 
20th February, 2026

Ride on steam locomotive 60103 Flying Scotsman in Hampshire​

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This March, Flying Scotsman will be steaming into Hampshire for a spectacular stay at the Watercress Line, giving visitors a rare chance to get up close to the world’s most famous locomotive.

From 10 to 21 March 2026, the iconic engine, visiting courtesy of the National Railway Museum, will take centre stage in a packed programme of special events.

More than 100 years after it first came to public attention, Flying Scotsman continues to captivate generations with its power, elegance, and enduring legacy.

A range of experiences are on offer during the locomotive’s visit to the Watercress Line.

This includes first-class dining on 13-15 and 20-21 March, passengers can travel in style with exclusive Breakfast and Afternoon Tea experiences.

Along with dining in restored first-class carriages, visitors can also enjoy the “Day Out With Flying Scotsman” trips (13-15 and 20-21 March), which offer a scenic return journey through the Hampshire countryside.

There will be opportunities to see Flying Scotsman up close during static display days, with the chance to climb onto the footplate itself (10-12 and 17-19 March).

Photography evenings will also take place on 10 and 11 March to allow photographers the opportunity to capture the Flying Scotsman on camera, up-close and personal.
 
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60103 Flying Scotsman


“We are delighted to welcome the legendary Flying Scotsman to The Watercress Line this March, giving visitors the chance to get up close to this magnificent locomotive. Tickets for these special dates are selling fast, so book now to avoid disappointment.

“Events like this really capture the magic of steam travel and the lasting passion it inspires.”

Rebecca Dalley, CEO of The Watercress Line.
 
20th February, 2026

How to help City of Peterborough steam locomotive return to steam​

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73050, 'City of Peterborough'


Nene Valley Railway have launched an appeal to help restore Standard Class 5 No. 73050, ‘City of Peterborough’.

Constructed in 1954 as a British Rail Standard Class 5, the locomotive was acquired directly from British Rail in 1968 by the Peterborough Railway Society (later becoming the Nene Valley Railway) at the close of the mainline steam era.

In 1973, Rev. Richard Paten formally donated the engine to the city, giving it the name ‘City of Peterborough’.

Over the decades, 73050 has evolved into the railway’s flagship locomotive, playing a role in many of the most significant milestones in the Nene Valley Railway’s history.

Thanks to generous contributions from private individuals and the Peterborough City Council, the overhaul of 73050 has progressed well.

However, the lasting effects of the Covid-19 pandemic have had an impact on costs, progress, and funding.


The total completion cost is marked in excess of £500,000, with current funds standing near the halfway mark.
 
21st February, 2026

Llangollen Railway celebrating St David’s Day in style​

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Llangollen and Corwen Railway's volunteers will be taught some Welsh Phrases as part of the plan


The Llangollen and Corwen Railway are hosting a festival ahead of St David’s Day on Sunday, 1 March 2026, promising a vibrant celebration of Welsh heritage, music, and rail travel.

Three steam-hauled return journeys from Llangollen to Corwen will carry passengers through the Dee Valley behind a historic locomotive proudly displaying a special commemorative headboard, The Saint David.

The event also marks the first full-line services of 2026, following major track renewal work in the 689-yard Berwyn Tunnel.

Festivities continue off the rails as Llangollen Silver Band performs at noon on Platform 1 before travelling to Corwen for a 13:00 encore, filling the afternoon with rousing melodies.

Welsh-language station announcements, daffodil giveaways and a special menu at the Station Café add to the national flavour.

The day will also see the launch of a new volunteer group dedicated to promoting the Welsh language across the railway, ensuring it remains at the heart of this much-loved line.
 
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Llangollen Railway Volunteer Paul Evans has made several headboards; he is proud of his latest


“St David’s Day means a great deal to us, and it’s wonderful to see the railway embracing Welsh language and culture in such a visible way. The Dee Valley has a rich heritage, and celebrating that through music, language and community really brings the railway to life. I’m especially pleased to see the new Welsh language volunteers’ group being launched, which will help keep the language visible and spoken across the railway for years to come.”

Joel Whittaker, a railway volunteer, paramedic, and member of the Froncysyllte Male Voice Choir.
 
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