Marcus' Model Railway Journey

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Metrolink Tram on Cross St, Manchester City Centre
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30th October, 2025

East London train depot approval for Virgin Trains’ Cross-Channel service​

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Virgin to move ahead with cross-Channel plans


The Office of Rail and Road has said that Virgin can move ahead with its cross-channel train services and can plan to use Temple Mills International Depot.

Virgin will operate the trains using 12 Avelia Stream trains from Alstom.

The service is on track to launch in 2030, with services running from London St. Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord, Brussels-Midi and Amsterdam Centraal.

Virgin also has ambitions to expand across France and into Germany and Switzerland.

Virgin has also confirmed that if either Ebbsfleet International or Ashford International stations are reopened, then services will stop there.


Leading the project will be Phil Whittingham, who is a former Managing Director of Virgin Trains.

With this decision, the ORR has also rejected Evolyn, Gemini and Trenitalia’s plans.


“The ORR’s decision is the right one for consumers – it’s time to end this 30-year monopoly and bring some Virgin magic to the cross-Channel route. Virgin is no stranger to delivering award-winning rail services, and just as we have successfully challenged incumbents in air, cruise and rail, we’re ready to do it again. We’re going to shake-up the cross-Channel route for good and give consumers the choice they deserve.”

Sir Richard Branson, Founder of the Virgin Group


“Virgin and Alstom have a history of driving innovation and change in the rail industry, and delivering for passengers. We are thrilled to partner with Virgin once again for this exciting new venture. This collaboration not only strengthens our longstanding relationship but also reinforces our shared commitment to sustainability, customer experience and technological excellence.”

Andrew DeLeone, Alstom Europe Region President 


“With this decision we are backing customer choice and competition in international rail, unlocking up to £700mn in private sector investment and stimulating growth. While there is still some way to go before the first new services can run, we stand ready to work with Virgin Trains as their plans develop.”

Martin Jones, Deputy Director, Access and International
 
30 Oct 2025

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TfW to welcome Railway 200’s ‘Inspiration’ Exhibition train to Llandudno​


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TfW Llandudno


Transport for Wales will be hosting Railway 200’s flagship exhibition train, Inspiration, at Llandudno station from 15–18 November 2025.

This unique event marks Wales’ only stop on the train’s nationwide tour celebrating the 200th anniversary of the modern railway this year.

Railway 200 is a national bicentenary programme that honours the railway’s rich history while inspiring the next generation of STEM professionals to shape its future.

The Inspiration train will have visited 60 locations across the UK by the end of the year, and TfW are excited to bring this experience to the heart of North Wales.

Curated in partnership with the National Railway Museum, Inspiration is the only exhibition train of its kind on the UK rail network, featuring four immersive carriages:
  • Railway firsts – Showcasing landmark moments in rail innovation.
  • Wonderlab on Wheels – Hands-on engineering exhibits to test visitors’ skills.
  • Your railway future – Exploring hidden careers in rail and encouraging future talent.
  • Partner zone – A flexible exhibition space that highlights industry collaboration.
Visitors will also discover how Transport for Wales works with partners across the sector, including a spotlight on Network North Wales.

Wales played a pivotal role in the origins of the modern railway.

From Richard Trevithick’s early locomotive experiments to the Swansea and Mumbles Railway, the world’s first fare-paying passenger line, our industrial heritage helped spark a transport revolution.

Alex Fortune, Senior Project Manager at Transport for Wales, said: “We’ve collaborated across the rail industry and communities to deliver events celebrating rail’s past, present and future.

“Inspiration’s visit is a proud culmination of that work, and we’re thrilled to welcome it to Llandudno.”

Emma Roberts, Programme Manager for Railway 200, added: “This special exhibition train is set to become a new, national visitor attraction, providing an unforgettable experience for hundreds of thousands of people across Britain.

“It will excite, enlighten, entertain and inspire them to take a fresh look at the railway, as part of its anniversary celebrations.”

Free tickets to board the train are available now for visits between 15–18 November.

Booked visits begin at 10am daily, with last entry at 4pm and the train closing at 5pm.

Visits are expected to last up to one hour.

To book and learn more, visit www.railway200.co.uk/inspiration.

For details on the wider Railway 200 programme, visit www.railway200.co.uk.

  • 2025 marks the 200th anniversary of the modern railway, inspired by the opening of the Stockton and Darlington Railway in 1825, a journey that changed the world forever. Under the banner of Railway 200, nationwide celebrations are planned throughout the year, showcasing how the railway shaped Britain and the world and how its pioneering pedigree continues today and is shaping tomorrow.
  • Supported by a £250,000 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Inspiration is expected to welcome over 200,000 visitors across the UK, including thousands of schoolchildren.
  • Find out more: Railway 200 is here | Transport for Wales

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Thursday 30 Oct 2025

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Railway closure in South West Wales this weekend for major signalling upgrade​

Region & Route: Wales & Western: Wales & Borders

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Ferryside signal box - levers


Buses will replace trains from Friday 31 October through the weekend between Carmarthen and Swansea as Network Rail switches the route over to new safer and more efficient digital technology

Rail passengers are advised that the railway will be closed between Carmarthen and Swansea on Friday 31 October, Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 November, while Network Rail engineers carry out major signalling upgrade works designed to modernise train control systems, improve train reliability and enhance safety across the region.
 
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Kidwelly box old signalling components


The upgrade, part of phase two of Network Rail's Port Talbot West resignalling project, represents a significant step forward in the transition to digital signalling technology.

Over the past two and a half years, there have been 59 signalling failures between Carmarthen and Llanelli.

The upgraded signalling and level crossing systems included in this programme are intended to address these issues.

Through infrastructure improvements, safety updates, and more streamlined operations, Network Rail aims to reduce the frequency and duration of delays for both passengers and freight operators.
 
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Pembrey signal box


As part of the work this weekend:
  • Four traditional signal boxes at Pembrey, Kidwelly, Ferryside and Carmarthen Junction will be retired, with train operations moving to remote digital control from Port Talbot.
  • Level crossing enhancements will be delivered at four sites, including new barriers, enhanced obstacle detection systems and refreshed road markings to boost safety for road users and passengers.
  • On-site attendants will be in place at Kidwelly, Bertwyn and Ferryside level crossings until December/January while commissioning of the new equipment takes place. Similar systems have already been successfully introduced at Duffryn and Llanelli station.
  • The Pembrey relay room adjoining the former signal box will be demolished as part of the decommissioning works.
  • Semaphore signals - the traditional arm-style indicators - will begin to be removed this weekend, with remaining structures to be dismantled and repurposed within the region over the coming months.
 
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Ferryside signal box


“These works mark a transformative moment for rail operations in South West Wales,” said Scott Beech, Project Manager.

“By centralising control and upgrading our signalling infrastructure, we’re not only improving reliability but also laying the groundwork for a safer and more responsive railway system that better serves our communities.

“We thank passengers in advance for their patience while this vital work is carried out.”
 
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Ferryside signal box interlocking system


These works form part of Network Rail’s ongoing programme to strengthen rail infrastructure, improve safety standards, and support more reliable journeys for passengers across the Wales and Borders route.

Additional line closures between Swansea and Carmarthen are planned for Sundays 16 and 23 November to complete the final stages of the upgrade.

Buses will replace trains while this work is carried out and passengers are encouraged to check before they travel via National Rail Enquiries.

Network Rail apologises for any inconvenience caused and thanks passengers and local communities for their patience and cooperation during these essential improvements.
 
I remember this advert from many years ago........

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British Railways Advert - HST v Class 37 Police Car!!​

​

This is the famous advert made for British Railways that featured numerous HST power cars and at one point one of them being flagged down for speeding by the Police liveried Class 37.​

- YouTube

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com

 
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31st October, 2025

Piston failure puts steam locomotive 7812 Erlestoke Manor on the sidelines​


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7812 Erlestoke Manor


The Erlestoke Manor Fund has released an update after 7812 Erlestoke Manor was absent from the recent WSR Autumn Steam Gala.

The loco was absent because the loco was awaiting inspection and steam testing after a fix was implemented for a washout plug thread defect.

Thankfully, the repair was successful and the loco entered traffic on the 21st October.

Unfortunately, on the 22nd October, 7812 suffered from a piston failure whilst working out of Bishops Lydeard, which means it is now out of service.

Operational and mechanical investigations are underway to find the cause of this failure, and repairs have already commenced.

The loco has now moved to Minehead. More information will be released at a later date.
 
31 Oct 2025

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‘The Great Book of Wales’ – new book to be written from Wales’ trains​


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Jon Gower


A new book mixing travel with culture, natural history with human history, myth and legend – a true exploration of Wales through its rail network, will be written over the coming months.

Transport for Wales has partnered with former BBC arts and media correspondent Jon Gower to deliver the exciting new project, which will involve him using the Wales and Borders rail network and Wales’ bus network to travel the country and tell its story.

Jon, who has over 40 books to his name will work as an ‘author in residence’ for Transport for Wales and bring the public transport network alive through stories, tales, and history.

‘The Great Book of Wales’ will be published in late 2026 by the H’mm Publishing Foundation – a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to raising the profile of the arts and culture in peoples’ lives.

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- YouTube

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.
www.youtube.com www.youtube.com


James Williams, Head of Media at TfW said: “Storytelling has always been at the heart of Welsh culture and our rail and bus networks have many tales to tell.

Spanning throughout the country and into the Borders, our public transport network connects communities, towns and people.

“Travelling on our new trains and buses, Jon will explore Wales and weave together interesting stories about what he’s seen and who he’s met along the way.

“We’re looking forward to working with Jon, promoting Wales and our public transport network, and helping create ‘The Great Book of Wales’.

Jon Gower added: ‘I am simply delighted to be working with Transport for Wales in this way, gathering stories as I travel the length and breadth of the network, by train and bus.

“I guess my special qualification is that my father, Des was a railwayman and so was his brother Derek and I spent a lot of time as a child on and around trains.

“I’ve been fortunate enough to work in Wales for all of my adult life and it never fails to amaze me that just when you think you know this small country well you’ll be reminded there’s a discovery to make around every corner.'

Ali Anwar, Director of the H’mm Foundation said: “We are delighted to have the opportunity to work in partnership with Transport for Wales and Jon Gower on this new and very exciting project. We will collect these amazing stories, histories and accounts of a very special country and publish them in ‘The Great Book of Wales’.”
Jon Gower’s most recent books include ‘The Turning Tide: A Biography of the Irish Sea’; ‘Raider,’ a portrait of NFL legend Raymond Chester and ‘Birdland: A Journey Around Britain On the Wing.’
 
1st November, 2025

Class 47 locomotive to visit the South Devon Railway​

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47715 at The Greatest Gathering in Derby


The South Devon Railway has announced that Class 47 No. 47715 will be visiting them for their Diesel Gala this month.

47715 will be working trains on both the 8th and 9th November, and visits thanks to Rail Engineering Solutions.

This will mark the first visit of a Class 47 to the South Devon Railway in a number of years.

The 47 will join Class 56 locomotives 56045 and 56103 in visiting from DCRail as well as Class 04 D2246, Class 04 D2271, Class 25 D7612 and Class 33 33002 at the gala.


A working timetable is now available to download, and tickets can be bought on the South Devon Railway website.


Recently outshopped in striking new RES livery, this Class 47 will be a popular addition to the event. This will be the first visit in many years of a Class 47 to the South Devon Railway.

SDR Spokesperson
 
I won an award!

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The Lennarts 2025 - Golden Heart

Lennarts 2025 - Golden Heart This Award is for the members of TNP who always brighten up the day with their joyful attitude and kindness. Nominees for this award display a kind attitude, and brighten up the day. They make us feel happy, and are willing to talk or to help when needed.
forum.thenorthpacific.org forum.thenorthpacific.org

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3rd November, 2025

Class 99 locomotives authorised for use in the UK​

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GBRf 99001 in testing at Crag Mill Loop near Belford


The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) has given GB Railfreight’s Class 99 fleet Authorisation for placing into service.

This means that the new bimodal fleet meets all the safety, accessibility and environmental standards, as well as meeting technical compatibility.

The Class 99s were part of a £150 million investment, and they were developed with Beacon Rail and Stadler.

These new trains are able to operate on routes which have been electrified and those which have yet to be electrified, meaning that they have quite a range while also being more environmentally friendly.
 
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99001 hauled the 6E86 sand train from Peterborough to Doncaster


This will also be a huge step in decarbonisation within the industry, as they also run on renewable fuels such as HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil), while also creating a more resilient network.

The Class 99s first left for a test track in January, with the first one arriving in the UK just a few months later.

This authorisation is just the next step in the process now that they have been put through their paces to prove they meet standards.

In early 2026, the first revenue-generating service will run with the Class 99s, followed by them operating Britannic Explorer services from 2027.


“Receiving ORR authorisation is another huge step forward for the Class 99, and we’ve been deeply encouraged by the numbers the 99001 and 99002 have been posting in testing over the past few weeks. The Class 99 will set a new benchmark for sustainability, performance and safety. And we cannot wait to get them out on the network for our customers early next year.”

Liam Day, Asset Director of GB Railfreight
 
3rd November, 2025

Avanti West Coast provide update on Cumbria train derailment​

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Avanti West Coast Pendolino at Glasgow Central


Avanti West Coast have provided an update after a train derailed in Cumbria this morning.

The train involved is the 04:28 Avanti service from Glasgow Central to London Euston; thankfully, no injuries have been reported.

It has been confirmed by the British Transport Police that the front carriage has derailed, but the train has remained upright.

The British Transport Police say that the 85 passengers onboard have been safely escorted from the train.

All lines are blocked, and Avanti says that the disruption is likely to last for a number of days.


“At 06.10hrs today, 3 November, the 04:28 Avanti West Coast service from Glasgow to Euston was reported to have derailed at Shap in Cumbria.

“Our priority is the wellbeing of everyone who was onboard and getting them safely off the train. We are assisting emergency services who are on the scene.

“As a result, all lines are blocked north of Preston. Please do not attempt to travel north of Preston today.

“We’ll provide further information in due course, but it is likely there will be significant disruption to our network for a number of days.”

Avanti West Coast Spokesperson


Officers received a report that an Avanti West Coast train had derailed at 6.15am this morning (3 November), close to Shap, Cumbria.

Thankfully, there have been no reported casualties and the 85 passengers have been safely escorted from the train.

The front carriage came off the tracks but remained upright, and BTP remain on scene alongside emergency service colleagues.

British Transport Police Spokesperson
 
4th November, 2025

Repairs progressing as travel advice updated following Cumbria train derailment​

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Avanti West Coast Pendolino following a derailment


Network Rail says that repairs are progressing well following yesterday’s train derailment at Shap in Cumbria.

The train hit a landslip at around 06:10 and caused the front carriage to derail.

No one was serious hurt and everyone was evacuated to a nearby hotel.

Repairs are progressing, with overhead wire repairs completed, the train has been taken away from the site, and earth, track and signalling work is ongoing.

Major disruption is expected until the end of the day, with Avanti West Coast running trains as far as Preston, though they are running shuttle trains between Glasgow Central and Carlisle.
 
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Shap derailment damage


TransPennine Express are running between Liverpool / Manchester and Preston only.

Ticket acceptance and rail replacement buses are in operation so please check with your rail operator for the latest info.

Caledonian Sleeper services were affected last night, with the Highlander being diverted via the East Coast Main Line and the Lowlander being cancelled.

However, the Lowlander carriages were parked in the station for passengers to sleep on.

Ticket acceptance is in place with Lumo and ScotRail.

Avanti says tickets on this route dated Monday 3 or Tuesday 4 November can be used at no extra cost anytime from Wednesday 5 to Friday 7 November.


The latest travel advice can be read in full on the National Rail Enquiries website.


“We want to thank passengers for their patience while we have investigated this extremely complex incident.

“Now that the RAIB staff have finished their investigation our team can begin the work of reopening the railway. We will need to move the train before we begin the repair work necessary to get services moving safely as soon as possible.

“This incident will continue to cause disruption for the rest of the day and we’re urging passengers to check with their train operator or National Rail Enquiries for the latest information.”

Phil James, North West Route Director for Network Rail
 
4th November, 2025

Vintage Trains recreates ‘Farewell to Steam’ 60 years on​

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Clun Castle at Paddington


Last Saturday (1 November), Vintage Trains recreated British Rail Western Region’s 1965 ‘Farewell to Steam’ rail tour, from London Paddington to Bristol and Cheltenham – using the same locomotive and the same route!

The original tour ran on Saturday 27 November 1965, hauled by express steam locomotive Clun Castle.

Vintage Trains sees the 2025 tour as not a ‘farewell’ to steam, but rather as ‘a celebration of main line steam’s continuous existence’.

Clun Castle has a unique record of hauling final trains.

The loco is the last of the Castle class to remain in operation
 
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Detail of loco 7029


In 1964, the locomotive set a new point-to-point record timing between Plymouth and Bristol, reaching a speed of 96 mph during the journey.


When Clun Castle retired from British Rail service, it went straight into preservation, moving to Tyseley to continue special train work.

The loco is still based at Vintage Trains’ Tyseley Locomotive Works, where it is kept in good working order, frequently hauling The Shakespeare Express to Stratford upon Avon and The Cathedrals Express to various cities which are of historic interest.

Clun Castle retains all its original name and number plates, and is painted in BR Western Region livery.

On Saturday, the locomotive featured an exact copy of the 1965 headboard.

It also had GWR style 7029 numbers repainted on the buffer beam, as it did on the original tour.

Passengers on Saturday’s tour were given a reproduction of the 1965 ticket as a memento.
 
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Farewell to Steam ticket


Vintage Trains Community Benefit Society member Rob Tibbits travelled on both the 1965 and 2025 rail tours.

Vintage Trains is a charitable trust that runs a heritage engineering workshop which delivers services around the country.

It also preserves the skills of the steam age and trains young people in manufacturing.

In 2017, Vintage Trains established a Community Benefit Society, through which it set up and now runs its own train operating company.

The company operates express steam trains across the country, offering a range of tours on various themes.

It also offers private Special trains with tours tailor-made for the customer.
 
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