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Marcus' Model Railway Journey
- Thread starter Marcus Antonius
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28th March, 2026
A steam cavalcade on the Bure Valley Railway.
This year, the Bure Valley Railway in Norfolk will allow visitors to imagine they are in the West Country with a journey on the Cream Tea Express.
Next to a trip on a steam train, holidays in Devon or Cornwall are never complete without a cream tea, and starting on the 1st April and continuing through to November, the Cream Tea Express is the Bure Valley Railway’s new experience, It is designed so that visitors can celebrate the pleasures of a slow train journey, with the timeless enjoyment of a cream tea.
Even better, for visitors travelling on the Cream Tea Express, the cream tea is included in the cost of their ticket.
More details about other events on the Bure Valley Railway are available here.
As well as the Cream Tea Expresses, the Bure Valley Railway holds regular events throughout the year, such as a series of Teddy Bear Expresses during the February half term, where children were invited to bring their teddy bears on trains travelling between Aylsham and Wroxham.
The railway has also been exploring alternatives to coal for its steam engines, and in 2024 carried out a trial of ovoids, which use coal residue from the production of other ovoids with a resin binder.
Enjoy a cream tea on a Norfolk train journey
A steam cavalcade on the Bure Valley Railway.
This year, the Bure Valley Railway in Norfolk will allow visitors to imagine they are in the West Country with a journey on the Cream Tea Express.
Next to a trip on a steam train, holidays in Devon or Cornwall are never complete without a cream tea, and starting on the 1st April and continuing through to November, the Cream Tea Express is the Bure Valley Railway’s new experience, It is designed so that visitors can celebrate the pleasures of a slow train journey, with the timeless enjoyment of a cream tea.
Even better, for visitors travelling on the Cream Tea Express, the cream tea is included in the cost of their ticket.
More details about other events on the Bure Valley Railway are available here.
As well as the Cream Tea Expresses, the Bure Valley Railway holds regular events throughout the year, such as a series of Teddy Bear Expresses during the February half term, where children were invited to bring their teddy bears on trains travelling between Aylsham and Wroxham.
The railway has also been exploring alternatives to coal for its steam engines, and in 2024 carried out a trial of ovoids, which use coal residue from the production of other ovoids with a resin binder.
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28th March, 2026
Siemens Vectron Dual Mode Electric/Battery locomotives
Siemens Mobility has signed a framework agreement with locomotive and passenger train leasing and maintenance company Akiem for the purchase of 80 Vectron locomotives.
Coinciding with the agreement is the launch of a new dual-mode electric/battery version of Siemens’ Vectron Locomotive.
The initial order under the agreement is for 50 locomotives, with the first deliveries to Akiem scheduled for 2029/2030, and an option for an additional 30 units.
The new locomotives expand Siemens’ Vectron family to include a battery-based version, allowing the locomotives to operate under overhead lines and use on-board traction batteries on non-electrified lines.
This is not the first time that Siemens Mobility has entered a partnership with Akiem, as Akiem has ordered a total of 120 Vectron and Vectron Dual-Mode locomotives since 2021.
The new locomotives will be based on the proven Vectron Dual-Mode platform and designed for similar operations.
However, a modular traction battery system will replace the diesel engine to enable operation on non-electrified lines as well as from overhead power.
The design will plan for flexible battery configurations of up to more than 2 MWh, and deliver up to 2,400 kW to the wheels in both battery and overhead electric mode.
The locomotives will weigh approximately 90 tonnes, have a maximum speed of 160 km/h, a maximum tractive effort of 300 kN, and train supply power of 480 kVA.
Fabien Rochefort, Akiem CEO, commented that Akiem and Siemens’ teams share a common vision that the Vectron Dual Mode Electric/Battery locomotives will meet the vast majority of its customer needs when operating on non-electrified lines, significantly reducing costs of operations against existing market solutions, while reducing CO2 emission and noise.
In January, Siemens Mobility received authorisation for its Vectron Dual Mode locomotives to operate across the border between Germany and Austria.
“Akiem’s decision is a strong vote of confidence in our technology, and we greatly value that trust. With the Vectron Dual Mode Electric/Battery, we are taking a major development step based on the proven Vectron platform, adding a new fully electric member to the Vectron family. For customers, this means greater operational flexibility on routes where electrification is not continuous, while supporting the transition to more sustainable rail operations.”
Andre Rodenbeck, CEO Rolling Stock, Siemens Mobility
Siemens secures order for 80 dual-mode electric/battery locomotives
Siemens Vectron Dual Mode Electric/Battery locomotives
Siemens Mobility has signed a framework agreement with locomotive and passenger train leasing and maintenance company Akiem for the purchase of 80 Vectron locomotives.
Coinciding with the agreement is the launch of a new dual-mode electric/battery version of Siemens’ Vectron Locomotive.
The initial order under the agreement is for 50 locomotives, with the first deliveries to Akiem scheduled for 2029/2030, and an option for an additional 30 units.
The new locomotives expand Siemens’ Vectron family to include a battery-based version, allowing the locomotives to operate under overhead lines and use on-board traction batteries on non-electrified lines.
This is not the first time that Siemens Mobility has entered a partnership with Akiem, as Akiem has ordered a total of 120 Vectron and Vectron Dual-Mode locomotives since 2021.
The new locomotives will be based on the proven Vectron Dual-Mode platform and designed for similar operations.
However, a modular traction battery system will replace the diesel engine to enable operation on non-electrified lines as well as from overhead power.
The design will plan for flexible battery configurations of up to more than 2 MWh, and deliver up to 2,400 kW to the wheels in both battery and overhead electric mode.
The locomotives will weigh approximately 90 tonnes, have a maximum speed of 160 km/h, a maximum tractive effort of 300 kN, and train supply power of 480 kVA.
Fabien Rochefort, Akiem CEO, commented that Akiem and Siemens’ teams share a common vision that the Vectron Dual Mode Electric/Battery locomotives will meet the vast majority of its customer needs when operating on non-electrified lines, significantly reducing costs of operations against existing market solutions, while reducing CO2 emission and noise.
In January, Siemens Mobility received authorisation for its Vectron Dual Mode locomotives to operate across the border between Germany and Austria.
“Akiem’s decision is a strong vote of confidence in our technology, and we greatly value that trust. With the Vectron Dual Mode Electric/Battery, we are taking a major development step based on the proven Vectron platform, adding a new fully electric member to the Vectron family. For customers, this means greater operational flexibility on routes where electrification is not continuous, while supporting the transition to more sustainable rail operations.”
Andre Rodenbeck, CEO Rolling Stock, Siemens Mobility
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2-4-2T tank locomotive originally built by the Baldwin Locomotive Works in 1898.
The locomotive shown is a functional, new-build replica completed in 2017.
The locomotive shown is a functional, new-build replica completed in 2017.
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28th March, 2026
A table for 4 in Pullman class
Vintage Trains is celebrating winning two awards this month by offering passengers discounts on tickets for its Easter tours.
Vintage won the Heritage Railway Association’s Manisty Award for Excellence, which is named after preservation pioneer Captain Peter Manisty, at the HRA’s annual awards ceremony held in Llandudno in North Wales on Saturday 7 March.
The award recognised Vintage Trains’ efforts in operating the replica Locomotion No. 1 in a recreation of the first locomotive-hauled train journey.
This event was held last year as part of Railway 200, the industry’s celebration of two centuries of the modern railway.
At the West Midlands Tourism Awards, Vintage won a Silver award in the ‘Experience of the Year’ category for its Shakespeare Express service.
The Shakespeare Express service runs between Birmingham and the playwright’s home town of Stratford-upon-Avon, and travels along the Shakespeare Line and the Chiltern Main Line.
Vintage Trains cuts fares to celebrate double award win
A table for 4 in Pullman class
Vintage Trains is celebrating winning two awards this month by offering passengers discounts on tickets for its Easter tours.
Vintage won the Heritage Railway Association’s Manisty Award for Excellence, which is named after preservation pioneer Captain Peter Manisty, at the HRA’s annual awards ceremony held in Llandudno in North Wales on Saturday 7 March.
The award recognised Vintage Trains’ efforts in operating the replica Locomotion No. 1 in a recreation of the first locomotive-hauled train journey.
This event was held last year as part of Railway 200, the industry’s celebration of two centuries of the modern railway.
At the West Midlands Tourism Awards, Vintage won a Silver award in the ‘Experience of the Year’ category for its Shakespeare Express service.
The Shakespeare Express service runs between Birmingham and the playwright’s home town of Stratford-upon-Avon, and travels along the Shakespeare Line and the Chiltern Main Line.
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Shakespeare Express at Stratford
In celebration of these two awards, Vintage Trains is reducing the price of both Standard and Pullman class tickets by one-fifth on all eligible journeys in the spring.
It opened the offer for new bookings on Wednesday 25 March, and will close it on Friday 10 April 2026.
However, the operator is advising the public that only a limited number of tickets are available for its tours that take place over the Easter weekend, and it expects tickets to sell quickly.
Vintage Trains runs train journeys on the main line from the West Midlands, with services hauled by classic locomotives.
Standard class travel provides passengers with the experience of riding behind a working locomotive while enjoying some of the country’s most memorable main line routes.
In addition, Pullman class passengers benefit from a classic on-board experience, which includes table service and heritage railway décor.
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Locomotion and Vintage Trains team at Darlington
Passengers may not combine this offer with other offers or with group rates.
The discounts do not apply retrospectively to bookings that have already been made.
Prospective passengers can see the full details of all journeys on the Vintage Trains website.
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28th March, 2026
Hope and Heritage by Vincent Butler (1989) at its new home on Springburn Station
A long-hidden piece of railway heritage has returned to the spotlight in Springburn.
Heritage and Hope, a 1989 sculpture by Vincent Butler, is back on public display after more than 20 years in storage.
The artwork depicts a railway worker and his daughter guiding a symbolic figure of hope, a tribute to the community that built Scotland’s locomotive legacy.
Forgotten railway statue finds new home at Springburn station.
Hope and Heritage by Vincent Butler (1989) at its new home on Springburn Station
A long-hidden piece of railway heritage has returned to the spotlight in Springburn.
Heritage and Hope, a 1989 sculpture by Vincent Butler, is back on public display after more than 20 years in storage.
The artwork depicts a railway worker and his daughter guiding a symbolic figure of hope, a tribute to the community that built Scotland’s locomotive legacy.
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Hope and Heritage by Vincent Butler (1989) at its new home on Springburn Station
It was put away following the closure of Springburn Museum in 2001, but local artist Mandy McIntosh led efforts to revive it in 2024.
With support from Network Rail, ScotRail and community groups, the sculpture has been restored and installed on platform one at Springburn Station for hundreds of thousands of passengers to enjoy each year.
Its return not only honours the area’s past, but also signals ongoing investment in the station’s future, including potential accessibility improvements and station frontage works.
“This sculpture is so important in recognising Springburn’s industrial heritage It’s fitting that Heritage and Hope now has a permanent home at the train station. It’s a wonderful link to the future for people and place in an area of such significance.”
Paul McKay, ScotRail communications director, said: “Springburn has an incredible railway history, so it’s fantastic to see the Heritage and Hope statue back at the heart of the community that inspired it.
“This sculpture is a powerful reminder of the generations of railway workers and families who helped shape Scotland’s Railway and the communities around it.”
Mandy McIntosh, local artist.
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29th March, 2026
Easter Bunny at Ropley Station
This Easter, those visiting Hampshire can visit The Watercress Line for some egg-citing fun.
Their Easter Bunny Trains will run from the 2nd to 6th April, where you can meet the Easter Bunny, take part in Easter activities and enjoy numerous train journeys.
Those visiting Ropley station will be greeted by the Easter Bunny, pose for photos and receive a chocolate egg.
Easter helpers will also be on board trains, leading Easter-themed songs and jokes.
Further information on the activities and trains can be found on their website.
“The Easter Bunny Train is one of our most joyful events of the season, combining classic steam train travel with springtime activities. Join us to make happy memories this Easter.”
Rebecca Dalley, CEO of The Watercress Line
Easter Bunny to visit Hampshire Railway
Easter Bunny at Ropley Station
This Easter, those visiting Hampshire can visit The Watercress Line for some egg-citing fun.
Their Easter Bunny Trains will run from the 2nd to 6th April, where you can meet the Easter Bunny, take part in Easter activities and enjoy numerous train journeys.
Those visiting Ropley station will be greeted by the Easter Bunny, pose for photos and receive a chocolate egg.
Easter helpers will also be on board trains, leading Easter-themed songs and jokes.
Further information on the activities and trains can be found on their website.
“The Easter Bunny Train is one of our most joyful events of the season, combining classic steam train travel with springtime activities. Join us to make happy memories this Easter.”
Rebecca Dalley, CEO of The Watercress Line
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29th March, 2026
New-generation Frecciarossa train
Hitachi Rail has secured a €260 million contract to supply an additional nine new-generation Frecciarossa trains to Italy’s Trenitalia, part of the FS Group.
The order follows an order signed in 2023 for the supply of 36 trains, together with ten additional trains as part of a call-off option.
The order is part of a renewal programme for the Frecciarossa fleet to provide an increasingly modern, innovative, and sustainable service.
It is planned that 57 new trains will be in service from 2029, and a total of 74 by 2031.
The new-generation Frecciarossa trains will be manufactured by Hitachi Rail at its Italian plants in Naples and Pistoia.
Designed to operate at speeds up to 300 kilometres per hour, the trains will be certified for a maximum limit of 360 kilometres per hour and equipped with advanced traction systems for improved efficiency.
The external design will be similar to existing Frecciarossa trains, but the interiors will be upgraded to designs by Giugiaro Design, and the on-board instruments will be in a Made-in-Italy style.
An innovation in the new trains is the use of Hitachi Rail’s HMAX for Rail digital suite, which is a digital asset management system that processes data in real time to optimise traffic, maintenance, and energy consumption.
Several years ago, Hitachi Rail, in partnership with Bombardier, signed a contract to supply 23 Frecciarossa trains to Trenitalia for its new Intermodalidad de Levante service, and for another 30 trains for service in Italy, but which can be used elsewhere in Europe, including high-speed lines in France, Germany, Spain, Austria, Switzerland, Belgium and the Netherlands.
“With this investment, Trenitalia takes a further step to strengthen its High-Speed fleet, consolidating Frecciarossa’s position as a benchmark for rail transport in Europe. Our trains are becoming more efficient and more sustainable to meet our passengers’ expectations. And we will continue to invest in this direction, both in Italy and on international markets, to build an increasingly modern, integrated and future-oriented transport system.”
Gianpiero Strisciuglio, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager of Trenitalia
Hitachi wins contract to supply more high-speed trains to Italy
New-generation Frecciarossa train
Hitachi Rail has secured a €260 million contract to supply an additional nine new-generation Frecciarossa trains to Italy’s Trenitalia, part of the FS Group.
The order follows an order signed in 2023 for the supply of 36 trains, together with ten additional trains as part of a call-off option.
The order is part of a renewal programme for the Frecciarossa fleet to provide an increasingly modern, innovative, and sustainable service.
It is planned that 57 new trains will be in service from 2029, and a total of 74 by 2031.
The new-generation Frecciarossa trains will be manufactured by Hitachi Rail at its Italian plants in Naples and Pistoia.
Designed to operate at speeds up to 300 kilometres per hour, the trains will be certified for a maximum limit of 360 kilometres per hour and equipped with advanced traction systems for improved efficiency.
The external design will be similar to existing Frecciarossa trains, but the interiors will be upgraded to designs by Giugiaro Design, and the on-board instruments will be in a Made-in-Italy style.
An innovation in the new trains is the use of Hitachi Rail’s HMAX for Rail digital suite, which is a digital asset management system that processes data in real time to optimise traffic, maintenance, and energy consumption.
Several years ago, Hitachi Rail, in partnership with Bombardier, signed a contract to supply 23 Frecciarossa trains to Trenitalia for its new Intermodalidad de Levante service, and for another 30 trains for service in Italy, but which can be used elsewhere in Europe, including high-speed lines in France, Germany, Spain, Austria, Switzerland, Belgium and the Netherlands.
“With this investment, Trenitalia takes a further step to strengthen its High-Speed fleet, consolidating Frecciarossa’s position as a benchmark for rail transport in Europe. Our trains are becoming more efficient and more sustainable to meet our passengers’ expectations. And we will continue to invest in this direction, both in Italy and on international markets, to build an increasingly modern, integrated and future-oriented transport system.”
Gianpiero Strisciuglio, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager of Trenitalia
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NEW UK STAMPS
Definitive Tariff 2026
March 26 2026Definitive
Designed by Royal Mail Group Ltd
Size 39mm (h) x 30mm (v)
Printed by Cartor Security Print
Print Process Gravure
Perforations 15 x 14.5
Gum Self Adhesive
Purple Heather
£3.60
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Aqua Green
£3.80
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Sapphire Blue
£4.60
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Presentation Pack
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First Day Cover
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- Status