Marcus' Model Railway Journey

9th May, 2025

TfW to run free bike marking events across Wales and Borders this summer​

BTP Bike Marking Cardiff 2025


Transport for Wales (TfW) will once again host free bike marking events this summer, encouraging more people to walk, wheel and cycle as part of every-day journeys.

The events, now in their third year, are delivered in partnership with British Transport Police (BTP).

To date over 350 bikes have been security registered and over 400 responses to the TfW active travel survey have been received.

TfW is committed to helping make walking and cycling the preferred ways of getting around over shorter distances for the people of Wales and Borders.

Fewer people using private cars and more people walking or cycling, or combining them with use of public transport, is a behaviour change imperative in responding to the climate emergency.

Recognising bike security is a key barrier to behaviour change, TfW has invested in the Bike Register kits to offer this service free of charge at its stations and community events and locations over the summer.

The events will tour stations and locations across Wales and the English Borders until September.

TfW continues its work with local authorities and other key stakeholders to help deliver an integrated transport network across Wales, including providing support and advice to local authorities in the development and delivery of their active travel schemes.

TfW’s Head of Active Travel and Placemaking Matthew Gilbert said: " We want our future transport network to make it easier for you to make more sustainable travel choices and contribute to a reduction in vehicle emissions and we’re delighted to be delivering these events once again.

"It’s a great opportunity for us to showcase local active travel facilities across our network. Walking and cycling is at the heart of this so we also want to hear from you about how we – working with our partners – can make active travel your first choice for short journeys in your communities and would encourage you to take part in the active travel survey so we can understand the barriers to this in your area.”

Inspector Alun Derrick from British Transport Police said: “It is great to work with TfW again this summer, giving passengers the chance to get their bikes security marked. Alongside this they can meet with our officers for further crime prevention advice.

"I would also like to remind people to save 61016 in your phone, so you have the number to hand should you ever need us."

To find out more about the TfW Bike events 2025 visit: haveyoursay.tfw.wales/bike-events-2025 and for more information on how you can plan a journey by public transport and bike visit: Travel by bike | TfW and Taking bikes on trains | TfW

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Event Dates​

• Cardiff Central Station: 09:00-13:00 19 May 2025
• Shrewsbury Station: 10:00-14:00 23 June 2025
• Hereford Station: 09:00-13:00 09 July 2025
• Cwmbran station: 10:00-14:00 30 July 2025
• Pontypridd (Big Welsh Bite): 10:00-16:00 02 August 2025
• Shotton: 09:00-13:00 15 August 2025

9th May, 2025

Class 730 set for Greatest Gathering appearance​

LNWR Class 730 inside Derby Litchurch Lane Works


A bit more modern for the next Greatest Gathering announcement, as the team head to London Northwestern Railway.

One of the operator’s new Class 730 trains will be on display throughout the weekend, subject to operational requirements.

The event will take place at Alstom‘s Derby Litchurch Lane Works between the 1st and 3rd August.

The locomotives confirmed to attend are (Alstom have also noted that examples from the same class may substitute):

Steam

• LNER A4 No. 60007 Sir Nigel Gresley – courtesy of the Sir Nigel Gresley Locomotive Trust and Locomotive Services Group
• SR Merchant Navy No. 35018 British India Line – courtesy of West Coast Railways Co
• LMS 6P No. 46115 Scots Guardsman – courtesy of West Coast Railways Co.
• LMS Jubilee No. 45596 Bahamas – courtesy of the Bahamas Locomotive Society
• SR Merchant Navy No. 35028 Clan Line – courtesy of the Merchant Navy Locomotive Preservation Society
• LMS Black 5 (specific loco TBA) – courtesy of West Coast Railways Co.
• Furness Railway No. 20 – courtesy of The Furness Railway Trust
• Coal Tank No. 1054 – courtesy of the Bahamas Locomotive Society
• GWR Hall No. 4930 Hagley Hall – courtesy of the Severn Valley Railway
• LMS Stanier Mogul No. 13268 – courtesy of the Severn Valley Railway
• GWR King No. 6023 King Edward II – courtesy of the Didcot Railway Centre
• LMS No. 46203 ‘Princess Margaret Rose’ – courtesy of the Princess Royal Class Locomotive Trust
• BR Standard 5MT No. 73129 – courtesy of The Midland Railway – Butterley

Diesel

• BR Class 37 No. 37501 ‘Teesside Steelmaster’ – courtesy of Rail Operations Group
• Class 50 No. 50049 Defiance – courtesy of the Class 50 Alliance
• Class 57 – courtesy of Direct Rail Services
• Class 66 No. 66301 – courtesy of GB Railfreight
• Class 69 – courtesy of GB Railfreight
• Class 60 – courtesy of DCRail
• Class 108 DMU – courtesy of the Severn Valley Railway
• Class 47 – courtesy of West Coast Railways Co
• Class 50 No. 50033 ‘Glorious’ – courtesy of the Class 50 Alliance
• Class 35 D7076 – courtesy of the East Lancashire Railway and Bury Hydraulic Group
• Class 55 No. 55009 “Alycidon” – courtesy of Deltic Preservation Society
• Class 55 No. D9015 “Tulyar” – courtesy of Deltic Preservation Society
• Class 55 No. 55019 “Royal Highland Fusilier” – courtesy of Deltic Preservation Society
• Class 40 No. 40106 – courtesy of the Class 40 Preservation Society / Severn Valley Railway
• Class 43 No. 43159 (2+4 Formation – other powercar TBC) – courtesy of The 125 Group
• Class 33 No. 33012 – courtesy of 71A Locomotive Group
• Class 31 No. 31108 – courtesy of A1A Locomotives Ltd
• Class 57/0 – courtesy of West Coast Railways Co.
• Class 26 No. 26007 – courtesy of Victor Korzeniewicz
• Class 58 No. 58023 – courtesy of Edward Stevenson
• Class 20 No. 20007 – courtesy of Michael Owen
• Class 20 No. 20205 – courtesy of Michael Owen
• Class 70 No. 70008 – courtesy of Freightliner
• Class 42 No. D821 – courtesy of the Diesel Traction Group
• Class 47 No. 47715 – courtesy of Rail Engineering Solutions
• Class 67 No. 67005 ‘Kings Messenger’ – courtesy of DB Cargo UK
• Class 52 No. D1015 ‘Western Champion’ – courtesy of the Diesel Traction Group
• Class 66 No. 66004 – courtesy of DB Cargo UK
• Class 44 No. 44004 ‘Great Gable’ – courtesy of Peak Locomotive Company Ltd
• Class 66 – courtesy of Freightliner
• Class 37 – courtesy of West Coast Railways
• Class 23 No. D5910 – courtesy of The Baby Deltic Project

Electric

• Class 507001 – courtesy of the Class 507 Preservation Society
• Class 390 Pendolino No. 390119 in its Pride livery – courtesy of Avanti West Coast
• Class 91 No. 91110 Battle of Britain Memorial Flight – courtesy of London North Eastern Railway
• Class 331 – courtesy of Northern
• 4VEP No. 3417 – courtesy of the Bluebell Railway
• Class 91 No. 91101 Flying Scotsman – courtesy of London North Eastern Railway
• Class 465 No. 465908 James Green – courtesy of Southeastern
• Class 720 No. 720506 – courtesy of Greater Anglia
• No. 12 Sarah Siddons – courtesy of Transport for London
• Class 350 – courtesy of London Northwestern Railway
• Class 92 No. 92011 – courtesy of DB Cargo UK
• Class 323 No. 323221 – courtesy of Porterbrook
• Class 90 No. 90040 – courtesy of Freightliner
• Class 85 No. 85006 – courtesy of AC Locomotive Group
• Class 83 No. 83012 – courtesy of AC Locomotive Group
• Class 730 – courtesy of London Northwestern Railway

Bi-Mode

• Class 93 – courtesy of Rail Operations Group
• Class 755 – courtesy of Greater Anglia

Hydrogen Power

• Class 799 Hydroflex No. 799201 – courtesy of Porterbrook

Coaches / Wagons

• JNA-T Wagon – courtesy of DCRail and Cappagh Group
• Gold IIA-D wagon – courtesy of Drax Group
• Railway 200 Exhibition Train – courtesy of GBRTT / National Railway Museum / Railway 200 Team
• LMS Saloon No. 45029 – courtesy of Transport for London
• 4 car 4TC set – courtesy of Transport for London

9th May, 2025

Direct London – Switzerland train service takes step forward​

Eurostar


A new train service, linking London with Switzerland, has taken a step closer to becoming a reality with the signing of an agreement.

The Memorandum of Understanding was signed at London St Pancras today by Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, and Federal Councillor, Albert Rösti.

The agreement will lay the groundwork that could boost tourism to the UK as well as support jobs and businesses.

A joint working group will be established to bring governments and experts together to establish Channel Tunnel safety requirements, new security arrangements, and discuss options with train operators.

Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, said: This is an exciting and important milestone in our efforts to strengthen international rail connections and promote greener travel to Europe.

A direct rail link between the UK and Switzerland has the potential to boost tourism, grow our economy and bring people closer together – all while offering a greener option for passengers.

This is what our Plan for Change is about – breaking down international barriers and making bold, long-term decisions to better connect Britain and boost our economy.

Federal Councillor, Albert Rösti, said: A direct rail connection between Switzerland and the United Kingdom is an ambitious goal.

With today’s memorandum of understanding, we are establishing the basis to jointly examine concrete next steps. Such a connection would send a strong signal for international public transport.

9th May, 2025

Extra services to North Wales in Avanti West Coast May timetable​

Avanti West Coast Evero train at Llanfairfechan


From the start of the new timetable on Sunday, 18th May, Avanti West Coast will run extra services between London, Chester, and Holyhead.

On weekdays, there will be an extra service to and from London Euston and Holyhead, and an extra service from Holyhead to London Euston.

On Saturdays, there will be an additional service from London Euston to Chester, whilst on Sundays, there will be an extra service from London Euston to Chester and an extra service from Holyhead to London Euston.

Ken Skates MS on a visit to an Evero train


The additional services have been made possible through the greater use of Avanti West Coast’s new £350m fleet of Evero trains.

The additional weekday services from Holyhead will provide an early morning arrival into London before 9 am, and the additional service to Holyhead will have ten carriages as far as Chester.

On Sundays, the extra service from Holyhead is made possible by extending an existing service from Holyhead to London.

The new Evero fleet is being built by Hitachi at Newton Aycliffe in County Durham, and is quieter and roomier than the Voyager trains that previously served North Wales.

Additional features include wireless charging for electronic devices, improved Wi-Fi, more legroom, larger luggage racks, and extra real-time customer information screens that are easier to read.

Wheelchair spaces have an improved layout with contrasting carpets and a large accessibility symbol, accessible toilets have been upgraded, and seats feature Braille and large print labels.

Ken Skates MS on a visit to an Evero train


Ken Skates MS, Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales, expressed his delight at progress towards the restoration of services to their pre-COVID level.

Testing of Avanti West Coast’s new Evero trains started in July 2023.


“We’re delighted to be introducing more services between North Wales and London this summer by utilising our new Evero fleet. These additional services not only deliver on our commitment to improve connectivity to the regions we serve but also enhance the experience for our customers, which we hope will encourage more people to travel by train. This latest investment in our North Wales operations continues an exciting chapter for our employees and customers in the region, and we enjoyed marking the occasion by welcoming Ken Skates onboard.”

Nick Smith, Regional Growth Manager at Avanti West Coast

9th May, 2025

Update on steam locomotive 34028 Eddystone as mainline return edges closer​

Both sides of the cab have an electric bell, both linked to the TPWS


Southern Locomotives Ltd has released an update on the work taking place to prepare 34028 Eddystone for mainline running.

A number of tasks have now been completed, including overhauling the injectors, clack and safety valves.

Airbrake equipment has now been installed, and pipework has been completed.

Gauges have been calibrated, brake rigging overhauled, lubricators checked, and the pistons and valves have been examined.

Along with all of this, a lot of conduit has been installed for lighting and mainline equipment.

German-style lighting sockets will provide illumination along the frames.

The airpump that will be used on Eddystone has been donated by Chris Ellick, who is CME of Clan Line.

This has now been fitted and is ready for testing.

Eddystone’s support coach being overhauled


To run on the mainline, Eddystone needs a support coach.

Some months ago, the Swanage Railway gave an ex-London Transport Mark 1 to SLL on long-term loan, and this is now being repainted and fitted out with beds, a toilet, a kitchen, and everything needed to run on the mainline.

9th May, 2025

WATCH: Severn Valley Railway launches 60th Anniversary Film​

Jonathan 'Gus' Dunster, the SVR's managing director is also a volunteer heritage diesel driver


Ahead of its 60th anniversary, the Severn Valley Railway (SVR) has released a short promotional film, made by Tinker Taylor.

Also marking the Railway 200 celebrations, the film features numerous volunteers from the SVR.

It features original founding fathers, Columb Howell, and going all the way to Alex Cleall, who is a guard and ticket inspector and one of SVR’s youngest volunteers.

Severn Valley Railway will be celebrating its anniversary with a special Swinging Sixties weekend on the 26th and 27th July.

SVR founding father, Columb Howell


There will be fairground attractions with classic cars on display, live music and a real ale festival.

Both steam and diesel trains will run between Kidderminster and Hampton Loade, highlighting the changeover years on Britain’s railways.

WATCH VIDEO:




To celebrate Railway 200, they will be hosting a ‘Trains through the Ages’ event on the 5th and 6th of July.

The event will see numerous special guests, including 60163 ‘Tornado’ and HydroFLEX, which is the UK’s first hydrogen-ready train.

Alex Cleall is not only a travelling inspector but also passed as a guard within days of his 18th birthday last year


Additionally, the Railway 200 exhibition train ‘Inspiration’ will be at the SVR from the 27th June until the 6th July.

Tickets for this are free; however need to be pre-booked.

Further details on events and booking can be found on the Severn Valley Railway’s website.

Howard Bowling volunteers as both a signalman and guard on the SVR


Lesley Carr, Head of Communications at SVR, spoke about the short film:

‘The film showcases the depth of talent and skill across the Railway. Our volunteers talk about their passion for the SVR, and what makes it so special to them. We wanted to show people the amazing effort that goes into running a heritage railway, and hope they’ll want to come and visit us.'

‘It’s probably true to say that the original preservationists had no idea the SVR would ever become one of the country’s leading and award-winning heritage attractions. It’s because of their vision and determination that the SVR is the vibrant organisation it is today. We’re proud to showcase some of the volunteers who make it all happen in 2025, and who’ve lost none of that pioneering spirit.'

‘The film was very kindly made for us at no cost by Tinker Taylor, a Birmingham-based production company. They’ve done us proud!’

9th May, 2025

More Glastonbury Stars Take the ‘I Came By Train’ Pledge​

Shania Train to Glastonbury


Numerous musical stars will be travelling to the Glastonbury Festival by train to be more eco-friendly.

Several stars, including Sam Ryder and Nova Twins, have signed the ‘I came by train’ pledge, which has been promoted on social media.

Travelling by train is 67% less polluting than using a car, and festival goers can also take the pledge.

Last year, numerous festival goers were celebrated for attending Glastonbury by train.

The journey takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes from London Paddington to Castle Cary, where there will be a free bus service to Worthy Farm, where the festival is being held.

Glastonbury Sunset


Great Western Railway (GWR) is the main operator for Castle Cary and will be offering free ticket sales, exclusive to them, ensuring festival goers can get the best value for their ticket.

The festival site opens on the 25th June and ends on the 29th June.

The demand for trains will be high, so GWR requires all passengers to make a reservation in advance.

Great Western Railway IET train on the West of England main line


There may be a queuing system in place at London Paddington and Castle Cary to ensure the safety of passengers.

Trains on the way home will be on a first-come, first-served basis according to travel location.

Customers can opt for a Super Off Peak Return, which will cost £81.20, however, this ticket is only valid for trains after 10 am and before 3 pm.

Those wanting to head off sooner, after 9 am, can purchase an Off Peak Return ticket costing £108.40.

Valid Railcards can be used for these tickets, but you will need it with you for the day of travel.

Advance purchase tickets are available for purchase now.

For additional information on tickets, trains to Glastonbury, shuttle buses and luggage, customers can visit the GWR website.

9th May, 2025

Greater Anglia set to be nationalised​

Greater Anglia train at Lowestoft


From the 12th October 2025, Greater Anglia is set to be nationalised.

The Department for Transport and Greater Anglia are committed to establishing a smooth transition to public ownership.

They have plans in place and the expertise to work to ensure this.

Greater Anglia, for two years running, has been the most punctual operator in the UK and will continue to provide quality services for passengers.

Greater Anglia train at West Runton station


They are the fastest-growing operator and have continued to meet increased passenger demand across London and the South East.

Seeing around 82 million passenger journeys in 2024/2025, and have continuously improved and increased their services.

A £2 billion investment meant that Greater Anglia could upgrade through new train fleets and transform customer experience and performance.

Greater Anglia trains


Over the years, they have also worked with local communities and stakeholders to improve their impact on the environment and within communities.

During the transition, timetables, station facilities, and train services, including quality, will remain unaffected.

Employees will also remain unaffected and will transfer to being part of the publicly owned company.


“I am very proud of what we have achieved here in East Anglia over the past thirteen years, significantly improving standards, investing in a complete fleet of new trains, and working closely with the local community.

“As we transition to a publicly owned railway, we remain focussed on delivering outstanding levels of service for our passengers.”

Martin Beable, Managing Director at Greater Anglia,

9th May, 2025

Southern Locomotives gives progress report on engines​

Canopy over Norman's frames


Southern Locomotives Ltd (SLL) has issued updates on progress with several of its locomotives.

As well as issuing updates on 34028 Eddystone and 34010 Sidmouth, SLL has also reported on 34053 Squadron

34053 303 Squadron​

Locomotive 34053 runs as 303 Squadron, and has been operating for most of this year.

For three days next month, the locomotive will adopt a different, temporary identity, 34050 Royal Observer Corps, for the Spa Valley Railway‘s Cuckoo Line Gala.

Over the last weekend of next month, 303 Squadron will visit the Mid-Norfolk Railway at Dereham.

303 Squadron will be recommissioned as Sir Keith Park on 13 September.

SLL will provide further details nearer the time.

34053 303 Squadron is seen on 5th April. It bears a wreath in memory of Andy Cottenham, a long friend of the Spa Valley Railway

34058 Sir Frederick Pile​

SLL’s team is not currently working on “Sir Fred”, as they are busy working on another locomotive.

Work could restart on Sir Fred if volunteers were to come forward.

A volunteer who can use an angle grinder would be particularly welcome.

SLL may need to raise thirty thousand pounds for work on Sir Fred’s and Sidmouth’s boilers, and to renew all the tyres.

It appears that there are only two companies in the world which make the tyres, and obtaining them has been made more difficult by recent actions by US President Donald Trump.

34058 Sir Frederick Pile at Nine Elms, late July 1964, three months before withdrawal

34070 Manston​

Manston has been running well, and has operated on several occasions at the Swanage Railway.

34072 257 Squadron​

SSL reports that 257 has been running well, but will soon be due for significant maintenance work.

Over the late May Bank holiday, the locomotive will visit the Gloucester Warwickshire Railway, and will make visits to two further Railways later in the year.

35025 Brocklebank Line​

35025 is currently not being worked on.

Norman​

Work on Norman is the priority for SLL’s team over the next few months.

After difficulties with its restoration, SLL moved Norman to the East Lancashire Railway.

SLL will now strip the frames internally and externally and coat them with both Rustoleum and undercoat in preparation for reconstruction.

Lawrence Donaldson is working on the loco’s boiler, welding new palm stays to the base of the barrel.

Norman is to be re-wheeled at Sellindge.

80104​

80104 has had a new stretcher installed under its cab, its bunker floor repaired, and new steam pipes and piston rods manufactured.

The frames below its bunkers have been cleaned and painted.

From my book of 'British Railway Locomotives'
WR Castle Class 4-6-0 No.7012 [4073] "Barry Castle"

9th May, 2025

A view along the garden towards the shed, on the right you can see the entrance to the Train Shed.
One of my cats, Lulu, managed to get in the photo.

9th May, 2025

Our three cats Tess [left of the pot], Leia [right of the pot] and Lulu lying down watching the others.

9th May, 2025

Our Laburnum tree, it usually flowers around the time of Cleo's birthday.

9th May, 2025

The Mountain Ash tree next to the Train Shed

10th May, 2025

Class 142 to appear at The Greatest Gathering in Derby​

142013


Another announcement from The Greatest Gathering team, this time, Class 142No. 142013!

Appearing subject to operational requirements, 142013 will visit thanks to the Midland Railway – Butterley.

The event will take place at Alstom‘s Derby Litchurch Lane Works between the 1st and 3rd August.

The locomotives confirmed to attend are (Alstom have also noted that examples from the same class may substitute):

Steam

• LNER A4 No. 60007 Sir Nigel Gresley – courtesy of the Sir Nigel Gresley Locomotive Trust and Locomotive Services Group
• SR Merchant Navy No. 35018 British India Line – courtesy of West Coast Railways Co
• LMS 6P No. 46115 Scots Guardsman – courtesy of West Coast Railways Co.
• LMS Jubilee No. 45596 Bahamas – courtesy of the Bahamas Locomotive Society
• SR Merchant Navy No. 35028 Clan Line – courtesy of the Merchant Navy Locomotive Preservation Society
• LMS Black 5 (specific loco TBA) – courtesy of West Coast Railways Co.
• Furness Railway No. 20 – courtesy of The Furness Railway Trust
• Coal Tank No. 1054 – courtesy of the Bahamas Locomotive Society
• GWR Hall No. 4930 Hagley Hall – courtesy of the Severn Valley Railway
• LMS Stanier Mogul No. 13268 – courtesy of the Severn Valley Railway
• GWR King No. 6023 King Edward II – courtesy of the Didcot Railway Centre
• LMS No. 46203 ‘Princess Margaret Rose’ – courtesy of the Princess Royal Class Locomotive Trust
• BR Standard 5MT No. 73129 – courtesy of The Midland Railway – Butterley

Diesel

• BR Class 37 No. 37501 ‘Teesside Steelmaster’ – courtesy of Rail Operations Group
• Class 50 No. 50049 Defiance – courtesy of the Class 50 Alliance
• Class 57 – courtesy of Direct Rail Services
• Class 66 No. 66301 – courtesy of GB Railfreight
• Class 69 – courtesy of GB Railfreight
• Class 60 – courtesy of DCRail
• Class 108 DMU – courtesy of the Severn Valley Railway
• Class 47 – courtesy of West Coast Railways Co
• Class 50 No. 50033 ‘Glorious’ – courtesy of the Class 50 Alliance
• Class 35 D7076 – courtesy of the East Lancashire Railway and Bury Hydraulic Group
• Class 55 No. 55009 “Alycidon” – courtesy of Deltic Preservation Society
• Class 55 No. D9015 “Tulyar” – courtesy of Deltic Preservation Society
• Class 55 No. 55019 “Royal Highland Fusilier” – courtesy of Deltic Preservation Society
• Class 40 No. 40106 – courtesy of the Class 40 Preservation Society / Severn Valley Railway
• Class 43 No. 43159 (2+4 Formation – other powercar TBC) – courtesy of The 125 Group
• Class 33 No. 33012 – courtesy of 71A Locomotive Group
• Class 31 No. 31108 – courtesy of A1A Locomotives Ltd
• Class 57/0 – courtesy of West Coast Railways Co.
• Class 26 No. 26007 – courtesy of Victor Korzeniewicz
• Class 58 No. 58023 – courtesy of Edward Stevenson
• Class 20 No. 20007 – courtesy of Michael Owen
• Class 20 No. 20205 – courtesy of Michael Owen
• Class 70 No. 70008 – courtesy of Freightliner
• Class 42 No. D821 – courtesy of the Diesel Traction Group
• Class 47 No. 47715 – courtesy of Rail Engineering Solutions
• Class 67 No. 67005 ‘Kings Messenger’ – courtesy of DB Cargo UK
• Class 52 No. D1015 ‘Western Champion’ – courtesy of the Diesel Traction Group
• Class 66 No. 66004 – courtesy of DB Cargo UK
• Class 44 No. 44004 ‘Great Gable’ – courtesy of Peak Locomotive Company Ltd
• Class 66 – courtesy of Freightliner
• Class 37 – courtesy of West Coast Railways
• Class 23 No. D5910 – courtesy of The Baby Deltic Project
• Class 142 No. 142013 – courtesy of Midland Railway – Butterley

Electric

• Class 507001 – courtesy of the Class 507 Preservation Society
• Class 390 Pendolino No. 390119 in its Pride livery – courtesy of Avanti West Coast
• Class 91 No. 91110 Battle of Britain Memorial Flight – courtesy of London North Eastern Railway
• Class 331 – courtesy of Northern
• 4VEP No. 3417 – courtesy of the Bluebell Railway
• Class 91 No. 91101 Flying Scotsman – courtesy of London North Eastern Railway
• Class 465 No. 465908 James Green – courtesy of Southeastern
• Class 720 No. 720506 – courtesy of Greater Anglia
• No. 12 Sarah Siddons – courtesy of Transport for London
• Class 350 – courtesy of London Northwestern Railway
• Class 92 No. 92011 – courtesy of DB Cargo UK
• Class 323 No. 323221 – courtesy of Porterbrook
• Class 90 No. 90040 – courtesy of Freightliner
• Class 85 No. 85006 – courtesy of AC Locomotive Group
• Class 83 No. 83012 – courtesy of AC Locomotive Group
• Class 730 – courtesy of London Northwestern Railway

Bi-Mode

• Class 93 – courtesy of Rail Operations Group
• Class 755 – courtesy of Greater Anglia

Hydrogen Power

• Class 799 Hydroflex No. 799201 – courtesy of Porterbrook

Coaches / Wagons

• JNA-T Wagon – courtesy of DCRail and Cappagh Group
• Gold IIA-D wagon – courtesy of Drax Group
• Railway 200 Exhibition Train – courtesy of GBRTT / National Railway Museum / Railway 200 Team
• LMS Saloon No. 45029 – courtesy of Transport for London
• 4 car 4TC set – courtesy of Transport for London

10th May, 2025

Class 87 to visit The Greatest Gathering​

87002 hauling a Class 90


Class 87 No. 87002 will be visiting Derby for The Greatest Gathering in August and will be on display across all three days.

87002 will visit thanks to Locomotive Services Limited

The event will take place at Alstom‘s Derby Litchurch Lane Works between the 1st and 3rd August.

The locomotives confirmed to attend are (Alstom have also noted that examples from the same class may substitute):

Steam

• LNER A4 No. 60007 Sir Nigel Gresley – courtesy of the Sir Nigel Gresley Locomotive Trust and Locomotive Services Group
• SR Merchant Navy No. 35018 British India Line – courtesy of West Coast Railways Co
• LMS 6P No. 46115 Scots Guardsman – courtesy of West Coast Railways Co.
• LMS Jubilee No. 45596 Bahamas – courtesy of the Bahamas Locomotive Society
• SR Merchant Navy No. 35028 Clan Line – courtesy of the Merchant Navy Locomotive Preservation Society
• LMS Black 5 (specific loco TBA) – courtesy of West Coast Railways Co.
• Furness Railway No. 20 – courtesy of The Furness Railway Trust
• Coal Tank No. 1054 – courtesy of the Bahamas Locomotive Society
• GWR Hall No. 4930 Hagley Hall – courtesy of the Severn Valley Railway
• LMS Stanier Mogul No. 13268 – courtesy of the Severn Valley Railway
• GWR King No. 6023 King Edward II – courtesy of the Didcot Railway Centre
• LMS No. 46203 ‘Princess Margaret Rose’ – courtesy of the Princess Royal Class Locomotive Trust
• BR Standard 5MT No. 73129 – courtesy of The Midland Railway – Butterley

Diesel

• BR Class 37 No. 37501 ‘Teesside Steelmaster’ – courtesy of Rail Operations Group
• Class 50 No. 50049 Defiance – courtesy of the Class 50 Alliance
• Class 57 – courtesy of Direct Rail Services
• Class 66 No. 66301 – courtesy of GB Railfreight
• Class 69 – courtesy of GB Railfreight
• Class 60 – courtesy of DCRail
• Class 108 DMU – courtesy of the Severn Valley Railway
• Class 47 – courtesy of West Coast Railways Co
• Class 50 No. 50033 ‘Glorious’ – courtesy of the Class 50 Alliance
• Class 35 D7076 – courtesy of the East Lancashire Railway and Bury Hydraulic Group
• Class 55 No. 55009 “Alycidon” – courtesy of Deltic Preservation Society
• Class 55 No. D9015 “Tulyar” – courtesy of Deltic Preservation Society
• Class 55 No. 55019 “Royal Highland Fusilier” – courtesy of Deltic Preservation Society
• Class 40 No. 40106 – courtesy of the Class 40 Preservation Society / Severn Valley Railway
• Class 43 No. 43159 (2+4 Formation – other powercar TBC) – courtesy of The 125 Group
• Class 33 No. 33012 – courtesy of 71A Locomotive Group
• Class 31 No. 31108 – courtesy of A1A Locomotives Ltd
• Class 57/0 – courtesy of West Coast Railways Co.
• Class 26 No. 26007 – courtesy of Victor Korzeniewicz
• Class 58 No. 58023 – courtesy of Edward Stevenson
• Class 20 No. 20007 – courtesy of Michael Owen
• Class 20 No. 20205 – courtesy of Michael Owen
• Class 70 No. 70008 – courtesy of Freightliner
• Class 42 No. D821 – courtesy of the Diesel Traction Group
• Class 47 No. 47715 – courtesy of Rail Engineering Solutions
• Class 67 No. 67005 ‘Kings Messenger’ – courtesy of DB Cargo UK
• Class 52 No. D1015 ‘Western Champion’ – courtesy of the Diesel Traction Group
• Class 66 No. 66004 – courtesy of DB Cargo UK
• Class 44 No. 44004 ‘Great Gable’ – courtesy of Peak Locomotive Company Ltd
• Class 66 – courtesy of Freightliner
• Class 37 – courtesy of West Coast Railways
• Class 23 No. D5910 – courtesy of The Baby Deltic Project
• Class 142 No. 142013 – courtesy of Midland Railway – Butterley

Electric

• Class 507001 – courtesy of the Class 507 Preservation Society
• Class 390 Pendolino No. 390119 in its Pride livery – courtesy of Avanti West Coast
• Class 91 No. 91110 Battle of Britain Memorial Flight – courtesy of London North Eastern Railway
• Class 331 – courtesy of Northern
• 4VEP No. 3417 – courtesy of the Bluebell Railway
• Class 91 No. 91101 Flying Scotsman – courtesy of London North Eastern Railway
• Class 465 No. 465908 James Green – courtesy of Southeastern
• Class 720 No. 720506 – courtesy of Greater Anglia
• No. 12 Sarah Siddons – courtesy of Transport for London
• Class 350 – courtesy of London Northwestern Railway
• Class 92 No. 92011 – courtesy of DB Cargo UK
• Class 323 No. 323221 – courtesy of Porterbrook
• Class 90 No. 90040 – courtesy of Freightliner
• Class 85 No. 85006 – courtesy of AC Locomotive Group
• Class 83 No. 83012 – courtesy of AC Locomotive Group
• Class 730 – courtesy of London Northwestern Railway
• Class 87 No. 87002 – courtesy of Locomotive Services Ltd

Bi-Mode

• Class 93 – courtesy of Rail Operations Group
• Class 755 – courtesy of Greater Anglia

Hydrogen Power

• Class 799 Hydroflex No. 799201 – courtesy of Porterbrook

Coaches / Wagons

• JNA-T Wagon – courtesy of DCRail and Cappagh Group
• Gold IIA-D wagon – courtesy of Drax Group
• Railway 200 Exhibition Train – courtesy of GBRTT / National Railway Museum / Railway 200 Team
• LMS Saloon No. 45029 – courtesy of Transport for London
• 4 car 4TC set – courtesy of Transport for London

Washington and Caesar

12th May, 2025

April progress report on steam locomotive No. 30541​

New tender tank placed on the tender chassis


The Maunsell Locomotive Society has released its latest update on progress to overhaul Southern Railway Maunsell Q Class No. 541.

On 9th April, a new tender tank fabricated by the 4253 Locomotive Group was delivered to Sheffield Park on the Bluebell Railway in East Sussex.

On delivery, it was placed on the ground, but then moved inside the locomotive works, where it was lifted onto the chassis, ready for holes to be drilled for the holding down bolts.

Once all the holes have been drilled and a bit of fettling work completed, the new tank will be bolted to the chassis permanently.

Completed patch screws on the new outer wrapper


Meanwhile, volunteers from the Maunsell Locomotive Society have been cleaning and painting various parts of 541’s cladding and preparing the loco springs for testing by giving them a good clean.

Although largely unseen, as they are carried out ‘behind the scenes’, they are a vital part of the locomotive’s overhaul.

Work on the locomotive’s boiler and chassis is taking place at the workshops of Leaky Finders in Devon.

Over 300 new monel stays for the boiler needed machining, and that work is nearly complete, and new patch screws have also been fitted to the new outer wrapper boiler plate.

Completed copper and monel stays


Work has progressed on three areas of the chassis. Fitted bolts have been removed from the left-hand and right-hand side cylinder blocks, their holes reamed and countersunk, and new bolts fitted.

Reaming the main frame holes ready for reattaching the horns

On the main locomotive frames, work has been completed to reattach the leading and driving horns using new fitted bolts and nuts.

12 May 2025

May rail timetable changes - 70% of all Transport for Wales services on new trains​

Transport for Wales


Seventy percent of all Transport for Wales services will be operated on new trains following timetable changes this May.

Brand new Class 756 tri-mode trains will also be introduced onto the Coryton and Penarth lines later this summer, further increasing the number of new trains providing services on the Wales and Borders network.

Rail customers across Wales and the Borders are being urged to check their journey details prior to travel with a new rail timetable coming into effect on Sunday 18 May.

Regular travellers who are used to catching their service at the same time each day should ensure they know what the changes will mean for them.

Transport for Wales’ Planning and Performance Director Colin Lea said: “We’re pleased to be delivering a number of small but important changes across our network that we think will make a big difference for customers.

“Some later services on busy routes, longer trains in the summer to holiday destinations and the continued roll out of brand-new trains as part of an £800 million investment by the Welsh Government are among the key highlights.

“It’s always important to check your journey details, even if it’s a train you catch day in, day out, so please don’t get caught out.

The same applies to those making connections as other operators may also be making changes that could affect your journey.”

New arrivals platform at Aberdare Station

On Sunday 18 May a new second platform will open at Aberdare station, located just south of the main Aberdare station and conveniently opposite the Sobell Leisure Centre.

This will enable more services to run on the Aberdare line once the South Wales Metro is complete.

The new platform will be for arrivals only when travelling to Aberdare. Passengers traveling from Aberdare to stations south towards Cardiff will continue to use the original platform (Platform 1).

Alongside the new platform, a new track loop has been installed.

This new infrastructure is crucial for increasing the frequency of trains from Aberdare to Cardiff, to deliver four trains per hour when all the new tram-trains are in service.

New integrated routes

From 18 May customers will be able to purchase a combined rail and T6 and rail and T10 tickets through TfW retail channels.

T6 (Swansea to Brecon) Customers will be able to travel to/from Ystradgynlais or Brecon using a combined ticket with connections at Neath.

T10 (Bangor to Corwen) Customers will be able to travel to/from Capel Curig or Corwen using a combined ticket with connections at Bangor.

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A summary of the key changes in the May 2025 rail timetable change can be found here Train timetables | Wales and UK Rail Timetables | TfW

12th May, 2025

Steam locomotive Palmerston to visit the Talyllyn Railway​

The Talyllyn Railway will be celebrating the life of Rev. W. Awdry through its Awdry Extravaganza.

Awdry was the creator of Thomas the Tank Engine and one of Talyllyn’s earliest volunteers.

2025 marks 80 years since the first Railway Series book, which was published in 1945.

Awdry Extravaganza 2024 Group shot at Tywyn Wharf


The three-day event, which will take place between the 18th and 20th July 2025, will celebrate not only his success with the Railway Series but also his time as a volunteer guard on the Talyllyn Railway.

His time as a member and volunteer inspired the fictionalised version of Tayllyn, Skarloey Railway, which appeared in “Four Little Engines” in 1955.

Rev. W. Awdry Guarding a train in 1952


The steam engines of this story are based on the real steam engines at Talyllyn, with Sir Haydn as Sir Handel.

Thanks to Ffestiniog Railway and the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, ‘Duke the Lost Engine’ and ‘Mike the Small Engine’ will be making the trip, joining Talyllyn’s home fleet for the celebrations.

Across the event, there will be a mix of the normal passenger timetabled trains and pre-booked special trains.

Fred, Rusty & Sir Handel


An Explorer ticket will allow all-day travel on standard trains for £28, so passengers can explore the railway and the surrounding areas fully.

Tywyn Wharf will be the centre for activities, with displays and footplate rides on ‘Duke’.

The Narrow Gauge Museum will be open, and there will be an exhibition showcasing the origins of the Railway Series book, with the original illustrations for the books and models used for the TV series.

Abergynolwyn Station will have another exhibition, focusing on Rev. W. Awdry’s model railways over the years.

There will be models of engines that he built while writing and ones that were used in productions.

On Friday, Tim Dunn and Richard Awdry will host one of Rev. W. Awdry’s lectures on the history of Sodor.

Rev. W. Awdry, Christopher Awdry, Richard Awdry and Sir Handel


Saturday will see a retrospective of the first book to feature Skarloey Railway will also be presented.

Tickets for the event go on sale on the 19th May, with full information on Talyllyn’s website.