Marcus' Model Railway Journey

Boards Friday 28/08/2026​

Cardiff Airport Scheduled Arrivals

Scheduled Departures

28th August, 2026​

DB Cargo UK up for sale as restructure takes place​

DB Class 66s and 67s at Toton TMD


The UK Management Board at DB Cargo UK is looking for a new owner to provide additional capital, more market opportunities and scale to support their next phase of development.

DB Cargo AG, DB Cargo UK’s current shareholder, says it is restructuring its Central European Operations following the European Commission’s State Aid ruling.

Legal and financial advisers have been appointed to support the process of finding a new owner.

DB Cargo UK says that they are confident that a sale represents the best route to securing long-term growth.

The freight operator, which operates a number of services across the UK, says that whilst significant improvements have been made, lots of this has been offset by a number of external factors that have contributed to lower volumes and revenue.

CEO Andrea Rossi says that it is business as usual, with services continuing to operate.

DB Cargo UK remains one of the UK’s leading rail freight operators, with a strong track record of delivering safe, reliable and efficient rail and engineering services to customers across a diverse range of sectors.

Our success is built on the expertise, dedication and professionalism of you – our highly skilled workforce – whose commitment enables us to provide outstanding service every day.

As we look to the future and pursue our growth ambitions, the UK Management Board has today announced that we are looking for a new owner who can provide access to additional capital, broader market opportunities and the scale required to support the next phase of our development.

Our current shareholder, DB Cargo AG, has recently confirmed that its strategic focus will increasingly be on its core Central European operations, which are undergoing restructuring following the European Commission’s State Aid ruling.

In light of this, the UK Management Board has appointed legal and financial advisers to support a structured process aimed at identifying a new owner with the resources, investment capacity and strategic focus to unlock DB Cargo UK’s full future potential.

The sale process has just begun and is supported by a comprehensive plan aimed at delivering for all our stakeholders.

We are confident that a sale represents the best route to securing the long-term growth, competitiveness and sustainability of the business.

Over recent years, our transformation programme in the UK has delivered significant improvements in operational performance and financial efficiency. However, the benefits of these improvements have been offset by a range of external factors, largely beyond our control, which have increased our already challenging cost base, adversely affected key markets, and contributed to reduced volumes and revenue.

Despite these challenges, we firmly believe there is a strong future for our business which has a significant market share, serves a diverse range of customers, has a substantial asset base and extensive property portfolio.

We recognise that today’s announcement will generate questions and concerns for colleagues. We are committed to communicating openly and transparently with you and your Trade Union representatives throughout the process and will provide updates whenever we are able to do so.

In the meantime, the business will continue to operate as normal. I know that you will maintain the high standards of safety, reliability and customer service that have always been the hallmark of DB Cargo UK.

Thank you for your continued professionalism, commitment and support.

DB Cargo UK says that it will not be making any further comment at the time of writing.

DB Cargo Class 66 on a freight train


DB Cargo UK is now up for sale, with the German operator deciding to focus on its Core European operations.

DB Cargo UK employs 2,200 people, providing freight and passenger services across the UK.

The TSSA Union is now seeking an urgent No Compulsory Redundancy Guarantee as the sale process continues.

DB Cargo AG, DB Cargo UK’s current shareholder, says it is restructuring its Central European Operations following the European Commission’s State Aid ruling.

Legal and financial advisers have been appointed to support the process of finding a new owner.

DB Cargo UK says that they are confident that a sale represents the best route to securing long-term growth.

“The sale of the UK arm of DB Cargo will cause concern for our members and their families but we are determined to fight their corner. Our priority is to protect their jobs, livelihoods, terms and conditions – and future job security.

“Though no planned redundancies have been announced we are seeking an urgent no compulsory redundancy guarantee because the truth is DB Cargo is a hugely important company to the British economy; and it’s vital Ministers recognise the wider importance of rail freight.

“TSSA will strongly be making the case for our members at DB Cargo and the case for expanding rail freight across the UK’s transport network, both for economic and environmental reasons.”

TSSA General Secretary, Maryam Eslamdoust

28th August, 2026

Preliminary findings released into Essex train derailment​

Derailed train near Wickford in Essex


The Rail Accident Investigation Branch has released its preliminary findings after a passenger train derailed near Wickford station in Essex.

The Greater Anglia Class 720s, which were operating as a pair, were travelling between Southend Victoria and London Liverpool Street when the rear vehicle derailed and travelled on ballast and sleepers for around 1.5 miles.

Thankfully, no one was hurt in the accident, with the train remaining upright.

Analysis of the On Train Data Recorder showed that the train was travelling at around 77mph when the derailment happened.

The driver of the train states that he saw a kink in the track, which rocked his cab as he passed over it.

CCTV from the train shows a misalignment in the track at the same time as the driver’s report and point of derailment.

The driver called the signaller to tell them about the track condition when an emergency call came in from a passing train regarding the derailment.

The train involved sustained damage, as did the passing train, which had been hit by flying ballast.

Significant damage was caused to the track, signalling and electrification equipment.

The investigation will look into:

• the actions of those involved and the factors that may have influenced them
• the status of the track at this location and how it was maintained
• the effectiveness of any mitigation measures to address the risk of operating trains in hot weather
• the performance of the train during the derailment
• any underlying management factors.

Ryanair Boeing 737MAX EI-ILO departing Cardiff for Tenerife 28th August 2026

29th August, 2026

First new Elizabeth Line train enters service​

New Elizabeth Line train enters service


Transport for London has announced that the first of 10 new Elizabeth Line trains have entered passenger service.

The new trains will help support passenger demand and have been built at Alstom’s Derby Litchurch Lane factory.

Each nine-carriage train contains 50 miles of cabling, 47,700 screws and 31,700 bolts.

The new trains will also help meet demand when HS2’s new Old Oak Common station officially opens.

345071 was the first off the production line at Derby, and this unit entered service this morning (29th August 2026).

The Class 345 is the same train as those that currently operate on the Elizabeth Line network, but will help to boost capacity to around 120,000 people.

The trains have been designed and built at Derby Litchurch Lane factory, which is the only facility with the ability to design, build and test trains.

29th August, 2026

Spectacular weekend to close heritage railway’s 50th anniversary​

7754 and 3802 steam away from Berwyn


The Llangollen and Corwen Railway has planned a spectacular Gala Weekend as the finale of its 50th anniversary celebrations in September.

Among the motive power operating throughout the weekend of Saturday, 12th, and Sunday 13th September will be Great Western Railway (GWR) steam locomotives 0-6-0 Pannier tank No. 7754 and heavy freight 2-8-0 No. 3802.

Diesel locomotives will include Class 26 No. 5310, Class 31 No. 31271 on the Saturday only, and Class 47 No. 47449 on the Sunday only.

A Class 127/108 heritage diesel multiple unit (DMU) will also be in service.

D5310 at Glyndyfrdwy on the Llangollen Railway


Gates to the gala open at 8.30 am each morning, and there will be 14 train journeys each day working to two different timetables.

The weekend promises to be one of this year’s most intensive weekends of operation, with passenger services, freight workings, brake van rides, and unusual shunting movements, and anyone visiting on both days will be treated to different events each day.

Adult Day Rover Ticket costs £30, and £8 for children, and allows visitors unlimited travel throughout the day, enabling them to visit each of the railway’s stations, travel behind steam, heritage diesels, or the Heritage Railcar, and even travel on as many trains as they can manage.

No. 31271 at Corwen on the Llangollen and Corwen Railway


The railway is now taking bookings for its Santa Specials, which will have a rousing launch this year from the City of Chester Bluecoat Band.


“If you love trains, this is going to be quite a weekend. We have 7754 and 3802 representing steam, 5310, 31271 and 47449 representing our heritage diesel fleet and our Class 127/108 DMU. We’re going to put them to work with 14 train journeys each day, as well as freight, brake van rides and plenty more happening around the Railway. The important thing is that Saturday and Sunday are completely different. This isn’t a case of running the same timetable twice. We want people spending the whole weekend with us and experiencing as much of the Railway as possible. But this isn’t just an event for the enthusiast. If you’ve never experienced a railway gala before, buy a Rover, get on a train and see where the day takes you.”

Iain Ross, Llangollen and Corwen Railway

29th August, 2026

Wabtec to modernise 33 locomotives​

Norfolk Southern Evolution Series locomotive


Norfolk Southern Corporation has signed a contract with Wabtec Corporation for the modernisation and upgrading of 33 DC-traction Evolution Series locomotives.

During the upgrade, the units will be converted from DC to AC-traction technology to improve performance, reliability, and efficiency, and fitted with upgraded control systems and advanced digital technologies.

After conversion, the units will be designated as ES44ACMs, and will have improved adhesion and hauling performance, especially in demanding operating conditions.

1,000th Norfolk Southern locomotive converted to AC technology


A side benefit will be that the upgraded locomotives will have higher productivity and require lower lifecycle maintenance, whilst enhanced diagnostics and maintenance planning will improve fleet reliability.

Wabtec is undertaking the modernisation work at its US facilities, and the first upgraded locomotive was delivered to Norfolk Southern this month.

The remaining locomotives will follow, with deliveries continuing through next year.

Wabtec ES44DC locomotives were originally launched in 2004, with Norfolk Southern being the first railroad to use them.

Since 2015, Wabtec and Norfolk Southern have together undertaken one of North America’s largest locomotive modernisation programmes, with over 1,000 locomotives having been upgraded.

An additional benefit of the conversion programme is a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and a more sustainable freight rail network.

Norfolk Southern locomotive Juniata maintenance facility


Brian Barr, Norfolk Southern Chief Operating Officer, commented that the investment will improve reliability, increase efficiency, and extend locomotive life, and will help to deliver a safe, dependable service for customers.

Norfolk Southern is working with Wabtec to invest in technologies that improve fleet performance and maximise the value of existing assets.

Norfolk Southern is currently going through a merger process with Union Pacific, with additional customer protections recently being offered beyond those included in the original merger application.

Norfolk Southern is also noted for its philanthropy and has a record of corporate giving, such as in 2023 when it donated $18.2m (£14.3m) to organisations across the 22 states in which the company then operated.


“This new modernisation program underscores the strength of our longstanding partnership with Norfolk Southern and our shared focus on delivering operational value. By combining innovative technology, engineering excellence, and deep service expertise, we’re helping our customer maximise the value of their assets while positioning their fleet for the future.”

Sameer Gaur, President of Freight Services, Wabtec

Log Saturday 29/08/2026​

Cardiff IAP ..runway in use 12

Titan Airways Airbus A321 G-GBNI on Golf at Cardiff 27th August 2026

Boards Saturday 29/08/2026​

Cardiff Airport Scheduled Arrivals

Scheduled Departures

180thAS/MO ANG C-130H Hercules 90-1796 at Cardiff 27th August 2026

57302 pulling ‘The Lakelander’ from Crewe to Carlisle this morning (29.08.26), approaching Warrington Bank Quay.

90043 and 90040 heading north at Balshaw Lane this morning on a liner train from Basford Hall at Crewe to Coatbridge. Not one container on the train.

D400 heading north at Balshaw Lane this morning running from Crewe to Preston to take over a rail tour from Leicester to Carlisle.
This should have been a steam working, but despite the recent rain here, the steam ban remains in place for main line operation.

Cleo was here........

Sarah Connor (Linda Hamilton)

30th August, 2026

CAF to supply 15 tram-train units for Île-de-France Mobilités in Paris region​

CAF Tranvia Montpellier


Île-de-France Mobilités – the public authority that plans, organises and finances public transport across the region which includes Paris and its surrounding areas – has awarded a contract to supply fifteen tram-train units for the T13 line to rolling stock company CAF (Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles).

The contract is worth more than EUR 150 million and also includes options for CAF to supply spare parts for the fleet and additional trains.

CAF’s plant in Bagnères-de-Bigorre


The T13 line is part of the regional transport network and is operated by RATP Cap Île-de-France, which is a subsidiary of RATP (Régie Autonome des Transports Parisiens).

The line opened in 2022, and serves the Grand Contournement Ouest (GCO) area of Paris, running daily services between Saint-Germain-en-Laye and Saint-Cyr-l’École in the Yvelines department, with trains stopping at Mareil-Marly, L’Étang-la-Ville, Noisy-le-Roi, Bailly and Versailles.

The line connects with TER, RER and local bus routes.

The fifteen new tram-trains will support the planned extension of the T13 line to Achères.

This will create the capacity to increase service frequency and reduce journey times.

Trains will run every ten minutes during peak periods.

The extension will also improve connectivity with other transport modes RER A, RER E and Transilien Line L services. T

The new vehicles will be built on CAF’s proven URBOS tram platform, and will bring modern, reliable rolling stock to the line.

Each will be 42 metres long and 2.65 metres wide and will comprise seven articulated modules mounted on five bogies.

Each unit will be able to carry 86 seated passengers and 170 standing passengers.

Around three-quarters of each vehicle will have an accessible, low-floor design.

There will also be air conditioning and dynamic passenger information displays located above the doors and on station platforms.

CAF Tranvia Marsella


The new rolling stock’s appearance will be in line with the visual identity and design standards of Île-de-France Mobilités.

The fleet will be to manufactured at CAF’s facility in Bagnères-de-Bigorre, in France’s Hautes-Pyrénées region.

CAF recently opened a maintenance facility in Manchester, and has supplied rolling stock for Britain’s railway system.

30th August, 2026

Škoda Group to supply four ForCity Plus trams to Germany​

Škoda ForCity Plus for Brandenburg an der Havel


Škoda has secured an order from Germany for four Škoda ForCity Plus 48T low-floor trams.

The order is for Brandenburg an der Havel, Brandenburg’s third-largest city, which has exercised an option under an existing contract to increase the order to eight ForCity Plus 48T low-floor trams.

They were developed jointly for the public transport operators in the German cities of Brandenburg an der Havel, Frankfurt (Oder) and Cottbus, and have been specifically adapted for their metre-gauge networks.

They have a maximum speed of 80 km/h, are 29 metres long with three sections, air-conditioned, and can accommodate up to 151 passengers.

Wide doors provide easy access for passengers with reduced mobility or travelling with pushchairs or bicycles.

In total, Škoda has supplied or has on order 242 vehicles of various types and lengths for 11 cities in Germany, including Mannheim, Heidelberg, Ludwigshafen, Bonn, Frankfurt (Oder), Cottbus, Brandenburg an der Havel, Chemnitz, Schöneiche, Kassel, and Mainz.

Included in the total are 114 trams for Rhein-Neckar-Verkehr, for service in Mannheim, Heidelberg, and Ludwigshafen, and Škoda 41T trams for Bonn.

Škoda is currently in the process of delivering 40 ForCity Plus trams for the Prague Public Transit Company in Czechia, with the order due to be completed by this December.

Interior of a ForCity Plus tram


“With the four additional trams, we are consistently continuing the renewal of our fleet. The vehicles improve accessibility and comfort for our passengers while also helping to secure the long-term future of tram operations in Brandenburg an der Havel. In Škoda Group, we have selected a reliable and solution-oriented partner. Thanks to the close and constructive cooperation, we were able to achieve a very good result. We are pleased with the technical quality of the trams. This reliability provides an essential foundation for the predictable continuation of our fleet modernisation and for investing directly in the quality of life and sustainable mobility of our city.”

Jörg Vogler, Managing Director, Verkehrsbetriebe Brandenburg an der Havel GmbH.

30th August, 2026

Luxury train set to visit Dorset this Tuesday​

Class 47 and the Statesman at York


The Statesman train is set to visit Dorset this Tuesday (1st September 2026).

The train will be hauled by heritage Class 47 diesel locomotives and will depart Norwich at 06:26.

The train will pass through Diss (06:55), Stowmarket (07:12), Ipswich (07:28), Manningtree (07:45), Colchester (07:56), Chelmsford (08:28), Shenfield (08:41), Stratford (London) (09:18), Acton Central (10:08), Woking (11:03), Eastleigh (11:48), Bournemouth (12:48), Poole (13:01) and Weymouth at 13:39.

After time in Weymouth, the train will leave for Norwich at 15:35 and will pass through Poole (16:16), Bournemouth (16:30), Southampton Central (17:08), Winchester (17:26), Chertsey (18:21), Acton Central (19:13), Stratford (London) (20:08), Shenfield (20:34), Chelmsford (20:47), Colchester (21:10), Manningtree (21:32), Ipswich (21:47), Stowmarket (22:05), Diss (22:25) and Norwich at 22:54.

BR Class 47 47798 "Prince William" at the Nation Railway Museum in York on the 26th of August 2026

Log Sunday 30/08/2026​

Cardiff IAP ..runway in use 30 ..to 12 11:28

VistaJet Cessna 560 Citation XLS+ D-CSUN on the Norman Apron at Cardiff 29th August 2026

30th August, 2026

Siemens celebrates full opening of Denmark light rail network​

Siemens Avenio train for Greater Copenhagen Light Rail network


Siemens Mobility, in conjunction with its partners, has celebrated the completion and full opening of the Greater Copenhagen Light Rail network in Denmark.

Siemens Mobility supplied 29 Avenio light rail vehicles for the system.

The Avenio units have a maximum speed of 70 km/h and a capacity of 260 passengers, including 64 seated, with dedicated spaces for bicycles, prams, and wheelchairs, and step-free boarding.

Interior of Siemens Avenio train for Greater Copenhagen Light Rail network


The Greater Copenhagen Light Rail network is 28 km long, has 29 state-of-the-art stations in eight municipalities on Ring 3 of the network, and is initially forecast to carry 12,000 passengers daily between Ishøj in the south, and to Lundtofte, north of Lyngby, and 14 million passengers annually by 2030.

For an initial period of up to months, service frequency will be every 5-8 minutes during peak daytime hours and every ten minutes in the evenings and on Sundays.

The Greater Copenhagen Light Rail was a turnkey project, with Siemens Mobility’s partner in the consortium being general infrastructure contractor Aarsleff Rail.

As well as supplying the 29 Avenio light rail vehicles, Siemens contributed the electrification, signalling, communication systems, depot workshop equipment, project management, and system integration.

Siemens Mobility also has a 15-year maintenance contract for the network.

The Greater Copenhagen Light Rail project initially opened in October 2025 with 12 stations.

The system has now been completed, with the construction of the remaining 17 stations, and now fully connects the eight municipalities through which it runs as well as making interconnections with S-bane trains at six interchanges.

An S-Bane station in Copenhagen


Siemens Mobility is also upgrading all 170 kilometres of Copenhagen’s S-bane network to prepare it for full automation, so that driverless trains can begin operations in 2030.

Earlier this month, the company delivered the first train for a new Sydney Metro line in Australia.


“With the full opening of the Greater Copenhagen Light Rail, we are proud to see Siemens Mobility’s turnkey expertise driving this revolutionary public transport project in Denmark. From delivering 29 innovative Avenio light rail vehicles to electrification, signalling, communications, system integration, depot equipment, and long-term maintenance, this light rail system offers a strategic improvement to daily mobility while making a clear commitment to sustainable transportation.”

Léon Soulier, CEO, Turnkey Business Unit, Siemens Mobility

Boards Sunday 30/08/2026​

Cardiff Airport Scheduled Arrivals

Scheduled Departures

G-POWX, Embraer E190LR - Titan Airways at Cardiff Airport on August 24, 2026

LBSCR A1X Terrier "Fenchurch" and "Gronk" Class 09 D4106 inside the shed at Sheffield Park on the Bluebell Railway, 8/8/26

50050 ‘Fearless’ pulling the ‘Thistle and Dragon’ , Kirkaldy to Llandudno through Bank Quay

89001 Avocet stands at the head of the Inter City Avocet Achievement rail tour looking ready to go, 90001 Royal Scot having been detached can be seen running round in the background.

The tour didn’t make it beyond Carlisle as Avocet failed with battery charger issues at Warrington Bank Quay.