Marcus' Model Railway Journey

Status
Not open for further replies.
Call that a flag? - that's a flag.........
1780153104938.png
 
30th May, 2026

Stadler hands over more FLIRT trains to Poland​

train.jpg

New Stadler FLIRT train for Poland


At a press conference held at Warsaw’s Warszawa Główna station in Poland on Monday, 25th May, Stadler handed over the latest two FLIRT trains that it is building for Koleje Mazowieckie, which operates trains in the Mazowieckie Voivodeship and Przewozy Region.

Stadler is increasing the rate of delivery of the units, and since the beginning of May, it has delivered 23 new trains out of a contract total of 75, which are designed to strengthen the operator’s fleet in the Mazovia region.

The original order took the form of a framework agreement and was signed in 2024.

By the end of this year, Stadler plans to have delivered 53 of the new FLIRT trains.

Stadler’s contract also includes maintenance, staff training, and repair of the new FLIRT trains.
 
train.jpg

Representatives at the press conference in Warsaw


The trains are being manufactured at Stadler’s factory in Siedlce, Poland, and some are already in service on regional trains across Mazovia.

Each train has ETCS Level 2, five carriages, a maximum speed of 160 km/h, and a total capacity of 582 passengers, including 261 seated.

With spacious entrance areas, there is easy access for passengers with disabilities, pushchairs, and bicycles.

They also feature air conditioning, Wi-Fi, digital passenger information systems, and advanced safety systems, including CCTV monitoring, AED defibrillators, and emergency intercoms.
 
train.jpg

New Stadler FLIRT train for Poland


“Delivering a project of this scale within such a short timeframe requires excellent cooperation between the teams involved on both sides. Every week, we hand over additional vehicles, while production of the next units is already underway. Since the beginning of May, we have delivered 23 new trains to Koleje Mazowieckie — a record pace made possible thanks to tremendous commitment and very good cooperation with the customer. I would like to thank Koleje Mazowieckie for their openness, efficient communication, and partnership approach in implementing this project.”

Radosław Banach, CEO of Stadler Polska



“The new vehicles will provide our passengers with even greater comfort and travel safety. Their environmental aspect is also important. Thanks to their lightweight construction and energy recuperation system, FLIRT trains consume less electricity, which translates into both reduced environmental impact and lower operating costs.”

Czesław Sulima, Member of the Management Board and Operations Director of Koleje Mazowieckie
 
30th May, 2026

Stadler to supply FLIRT trains to Montenegro​

train.jpg

Stadler's FLIRT train


Rolling stock manufacturing company Stadler has signed a contract with Montenegro passenger transport operator Željeznički prevoz Crne Gore (ŽPCG) to supply three four-car FLIRT electric multiple units.

Stadler believes that the new trains will contribute significantly to modernising passenger rail transport in Montenegro, a Balkan state with a population of less than a million people that stands on the Adriatic Sea.

The company boasts that the units that it will supply offer enhanced standards of comfort and safety, and expects that this will make public transport a more attractive option for those wishing to travel.

The exterior design of the trains is inspired by Montenegro’s national identity and its national colours of red and gold.
 
train.jpg

Delegations from Stadler and Željeznički prevoz Crne Gore in Podgorica, Montenegro


Stadler’s FLIRT (Fast Light Inter-city Rapid Transit) platform is already running in several countries in Europe, including Serbia, Slovenia and Austria, and has secured orders to provide trains to Lithuania, the Netherlands and Poland.

Stadler originally developed FLIRT for the Swiss Federal Railways, and delivered the first units in 2004.

The FLIRT trains that Stadler will supply for operation in Montenegro will be very similar to the FLIRT units that are already running in its neighbouring country of Serbia.

The similarity in their designs will mean that the electric multiple units will be able to travel across the border between the two countries.

This will be the first time that this has been possible.
 
train.jpg

Left: Željko Davidović, Director Sales for Central and Eastern Europe, Stadler; Right: Dragana Lukšić, CEO of Željeznički prevoz Crne Gore


Montenegro is receiving funding from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) to buy the new, modern units.

The Bank provides investment to strengthen economies in the continent and to make them more sustainable.


“These new trains will not only modernise public transport, but also serve as a visible symbol of progress, European integration and regional connectivity. We would like to thank ŽPCG, the Government of Montenegro, the EBRD and all project partners for their excellent cooperation and for the trust they have placed in us.”

Željko Davidović, Director of Sales Central and Eastern Europe at Stadler
 
30th May, 2026

Steam extravaganza at Welsh narrow-gauge railway​

train.jpg

Extreme Steam Extravaganza at the The Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway


The Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway is gearing up for its ‘Extreme Steam Extravaganza’ Summer Gala weekend in June.

To be held from Friday, 19th to Sunday, 21st June, one of the highlights promises to be ‘Fest-Motor-Rail’, when a pair of classic road cars, a Mini and an Austin A30, will be transported on one of the railway’s well wagons.

The scene promises to be an unusual type of freight on the narrow-gauge line and will no doubt attract the attention of many photographers.
 
train.jpg

Extreme Steam Extravaganza at the Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway


Although the gala is being held from Friday to Sunday, for anyone arriving early, there are other activities the day before, on Thursday, 18th June, including ‘The Quarryman’ set, which is timed to depart from Blaenau Ffestiniog at 17:40, time enough for anyone travelling by the Transport for Wales train that arrives at Blaenau Ffestiniog at 17.25.

For anyone who has a Rover Ticket for Friday, 19th, or a 3-day Rover Ticket, their ticket will also be valid for travel on this train, with its arrival at Harbour Station timed to allow plenty of time for dinner and a drink in Spooner’s.

During the early evening of Thursday, early arrivals will have the chance to witness other activity taking place between Porthmadog and Minffordd while the railway makes sure everything is in the right place for the weekend.
 
train.jpg

The Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway


A feature of the weekend will be a chance to vote for which engines visitors want to pull each train.

Votes can be cast by booking tickets in advance at https://www.festrail.co.uk/extreme-steam-extravaganza/.

With there being no special anniversaries to celebrate this year, the railway has opted for ‘Weird and Wonderful’ as something out of the ordinary for a working slogan.


The theme of the slogan will extend to many unusual train formations, unusual combinations of locomotives, and the chance for visitors to decide Sunday’s loco roster.

To deliver the planned intensive timetable, all sorts of complicated shunting will be needed, which will result in some sights that visitors may never have seen before.

Also taking place from Friday, 19th to Sunday, 21st June is a Mini Model Railway Show at The Gweithdy in Minffordd, where there will be a selection of model railway layouts, and a variety of stalls to browse. Entry to the show is free.

The weekend’s events will kick off with a special ‘Spirit of Steam & Song’ train on Friday, 19th June, which departs Porthmadog at 3:10 pm for Caernarfon.

Throughout May, residents in the local area have been able to travel on the railway for a 50% discount.
 
31st May, 2026

Steam locomotive 45110 set for extended Cotswold stay​

train.jpg

45110 at chicken curve on the Gloucs and Warks on the 24th May


The Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway has announced that an agreement is now in place that will see LMS Black 5 No. 45110 stay in the Cotswolds for an extended period.

The agreement has been signed between the GWSR and the locomotive owner, West Coast Railways.

45110 will be a resident at the railway for a further six months, providing plenty of opportunity for a ride behind the locomotive.

This is the first time in a number of years that 45110 has hauled passenger trains, making her debut at the Cotswold Festival of Steam gala recently.

The GWSR website will have a locomotive roster available so people can plan their visit.
 
1st June, 2026

Brand new Excursion Car arrives at Welsh Railway​

train.jpg

New ‘Excursion Car’ Built in Aberystwyth for Brecon Mountain Railway


A new carriage, built by the team at the Vale of Rheidol Railway’s workshop, has arrived at the Brecon Mountain Railway.

After 12 months of designing and construction, the new ‘Excursion Car’ complements the railway’s existing carriages.

The carriage has space for 34 passengers and 2 wheelchair spaces, which will be available for use after final checks have been completed.

The railway has seen increased passenger numbers, operating at 97% capacity during August last year.

The new carriage will help meet this new demand, as well as make the line more accessible for everyone.
 
train.jpg

New ‘Excursion Car’ Built in Aberystwyth for Brecon Mountain Railway


The carriage cost around £80,000, with a funding boost coming from the UK Government Shared Prosperity Fund via Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council.


“This is a fantastic example of the skills that still exist within the heritage railway sector here in Wales. To be able to design and build a completely new carriage in-house is something very special, and we are extremely proud to see it enter service at the Brecon Mountain Railway.

“Passenger demand at the railway continues to grow strongly, particularly during the peak summer season, so this additional capacity is very important for us. At the same time, the carriage has been designed with improved accessibility in mind, helping ensure more people can enjoy the experience in future.”

Stuart Williams, General Manager of the Brecon Mountain Railway
 
1st June, 2026

Installation progress made at new Bristol station​

train.jpg

The footbridge at Bristol Brabazon station in place


The brand-new Bristol Brabazon station has reached a new milestone with the installation of an accessible footbridge.

A crane lifted all nine pieces into place over the recent Bank Holiday Weekend.

Now that the deck and stairs are in place, cladding work will begin.

Alongside the bridge work, platform construction work has been progressing well with canopies, platform edges and more being installed over the next few weeks.
 
train.jpg

Lifting the footbridge at Bristol Brabazon station into place


The station is still set to open later this year, with a planned second phase ahead of the Aviva Arena opening in 2028.


“The installation of the accessible footbridge is a major milestone for Bristol Brabazon station and alongside the ongoing platform construction, marks significant and visible progress.

“Once complete, the new station will play a key role in connecting people to jobs, homes and opportunities, providing sustainable access to everything the wider region has to offer. We’re proud to be part of a project that supports both the growth of this new neighbourhood and stronger transport links across the West of England.”

Network Rail Western route director Marcus Jones
 
1st June, 2026

80% of train services now in public ownership​

train.jpg

Train in Great British Railways livery


Yesterday, Sunday, 31st May, train services operated by Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR), which includes those operating as Thameslink, Southern, Great Northern, and Gatwick Express, were transferred into public ownership.

Instead of being privately owned, GTR services will now be operated by DfT Operator Limited (DFTO), which is the department that now owns the railways, and is the government’s partner for delivering its Public Ownership Programme.

Until the formation of Great British Railways (GBR) is complete, the DFTO will be responsible for bringing into public ownership all railways and train operators currently managed by the Department for Transport or privately owned.

With the absorption of GTR into public ownership, 80 per cent of passenger train services that will eventually come under the auspices of Great British Railways are now being operated by publicly owned operators under DFTO.

With public ownership, the impetus behind the creation of Great British Railways, its focus is on improving the service to passengers.

One of the main drivers behind the creation of Great British Railways is to bring together public-sector train operators and Network Rail so they can work together as Great British Railways to improve performance and customer experience.

Common ownership will also provide the opportunity to reduce subsidies and improve safety and sustainability.

Other railways in public ownership include South Western Railway, which recently celebrated its first anniversary under DFTO.
 
Last edited:
1st June, 2026

Update on overhaul of Darjeeling Himalayan Railway locomotive​

train.jpg

Darjeeling No. 19B


The Darjeeling Tank Locomotive Trust has issued an update on the overhaul of its two-foot-gauge steam locomotive No. 19B, which used to operate on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway in India.

The locomotive, Kerr Stuart No. 19B, was built in 1889, and until recently had been owned by the late Adrian Shooter.

In 2023, the Darjeeling Tank Locomotive Trust raised £300,000 to purchase the locomotive, which at the time was operating at the Statfold Barn Railway.

On 7th October 2023, it was withdrawn for its first overhaul since 2004, when it was overhauled at Tyseley.
 
train.jpg

The new boiler under construction at Boston Lodge


When No. 19B was purchased, the Trust knew the locomotive’s boiler was near the end of its ten-year ticket and was in poor condition.

After its overhaul commenced, a boiler inspection showed that although it was possible to repair the boiler, it was far preferable to purchase a new one.

This meant that £130,000 needed to be raised, which, through the generosity of generous supporters, and helped by the Statfold Barn Railway and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Society, was achieved.

Construction of a new boiler was put out to tender, with the successful bidder being the Ffestiniog Railway’s Boston Lodge Works, which has experience in designing and manufacturing new boilers.


After insurance and other safety authorities had approved the design, materials were ordered, although there were some unavoidable delays in getting them delivered.
 
train.jpg

A new tube plate


In April this year, supporters of the overhaul of No. 19B were invited to Boston Lodge Works to view progress on the new boiler under construction.

At Boston Lodge Works, the Trust’s Trustee and Engineering Lead, Will Smith, and Works Manager, Jon Whalley, described the new boiler and associated fittings, and explained the details surrounding the construction of a new boiler, and how the firebox will be fitted to the boiler shell; also joining the visitors to explain the work was the welder at Boston Lodge, Bob Yates.

After discussions around work to construct the boiler, the party were given a tour of Boston Lodge Works.
 
1st June, 2026

North Yorkshire Moors Railway offer free tickets and much more with new memberships​

train.jpg

LNER B1 No. 1264 near Goathland - North Yorkshire Moors Railway


New tiered memberships have been launched by the North Yorkshire Moors Railway.

Memberships help support the railways’ running and the maintenance of the line and its locomotives.

The tiers include options for a Member, Ambassador, or Patron, with options for single, joint and family memberships.

There is also an option for a Ryedale Residents Membership for those who live within the valid postcode areas.


Supporters will be able to benefit in a range of ways, including discounted or free travel (membership level dependent), free parking, shop and tea room discounts, exclusive invites, access to galas and much more.

Memberships range from £20 to £800 and can be purchased online.

Further information on tiers, prices, and benefits can be found on their website.


“As a charity, our ability to preserve and operate depends on the continued support of our members. This new membership structure gives supporters even more ways to get involved to help us preserve our railway heritage for generations to come.”

Laura Strangeway, CEO at NYMR
 
1st June, 2026

Llangollen celebrates record-breaking weekend​

train.jpg

Class 31 at the station


The Diesel Power and Ultimate 80s Weekend, which took place at Llangollen and Corwen Railway, has been described as one of the most successful events in its recent history after attracting record visitor numbers on 30 and 31 May.

Attendance surpassed previous diesel gala records, with the 1980s theme proving popular among railway enthusiasts, families and visitors from across the UK.

Alongside main-line locomotives, guests enjoyed Class 08 shunters 08195 and 08202, period station decorations, retro gaming, themed catering, and continuous 80s music from DJ Pete Edwards at Llangollen station.

The two-day event combined heritage diesel locomotives with authentic 1980s entertainment, live music and themed attractions, creating what organisers called “a diesel gala with a completely different atmosphere”.
 
train.jpg

Rhythm Train – Wales’ best party band, went down a storm with the eighties classics


On Saturday evening, Llangollen station became ‘Buffers Nightclub’, where musicians Rhythm Train performed in a marquee before a packed crowd.

Following the event’s success, plans are already underway for its return in 2027.

Other events set to take place during 2026 include Classic Transport Weekend (4-5 July) and a 1960s Weekend celebration (1-2 August).


“We knew the idea of combining a traditional diesel gala with a full 1980s party atmosphere was something a bit different, but the response completely exceeded our expectations. The feedback from visitors has been incredible. People really embraced the fun side of the event, whether that was the music, the fancy dress, the retro gaming or simply enjoying the trains in such a unique atmosphere. It was fantastic to see so many families, enthusiasts and first-time visitors enjoying the railway together.”

George Walker, one of the organisers from the Llangollen Railway Diesel Team.
 
1st June, 2026

Hastings DEMU tour to the Cotswolds and Exmoor​

train.jpg

Hastings diesel-electric multiple unit


The Branch Line Society has announced the Cotswold and Exmoor Explorer rail tour to be hauled by a Hastings DEMU on Saturday, 18th July.

The tour will comprise a return trip by a Hastings six-coach unit, departing from Hastings at 7.02 to Minehead in Somerset, the terminus of the West Somerset Railway.

Stops to pick up will be made at Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge, Redhill, Reading, Oxford, Moreton-in-Marsh, Honeybourne, and Worcester, with the tour also covering several loops and rare track items of interest.

From Worcester, the tour heads south to Bristol and Taunton, before running over the connection to the West Somerset Railway.

On the West Somerset Railway, there will be a one-hour break at Bishops Lydeard, with time to photograph the train, locomotive depot, and station before continuing to Minehead for a mid-afternoon arrival and a one-hour stay at Minehead.

For those who wish to remain at Bishops Lydeard, the West Somerset Railway will be running services according to its Blue Timetable, with both steam and diesel haulage; it is expected that a Class 33 will be allocated to the diesel diagram. Tickets can be purchased on board, and more information can be found here.

Departing from Minehead at 15.50, the tour retraces its outward route, with arrival at Hastings at 22.30.

Among the unusual lines to be covered are: Down Reading Spur, Cheltenham Lansdown down goods loop, Bristol Parkway down goods loop, Bristol Temple Meads down and up through lines, Taunton down and up relief line, West Somerset Railway heritage connection, Highbridge & Burnham Goods, Cheltenham High Street up goods loop, and Reading Low Level.

Among other rail tours with the Hastings DEMU are the Gosh Ness Monster to Scotland, organised by the Branch Line Society, over the weekend of Friday, 22nd to Sunday, 24th May, and a tour in April from Hastings to Cranmore on the East Somerset Railway.
 
1st June, 2026

Vintage Bus Day at the Middy set for this June​

train.jpg

Railbus E79963


The Mid-Suffolk Light Railway Museum has announced a month of diesel railbus operations during its Sunday openings in June, culminating in its annual Vintage Bus Day on 28 June.

Vintage Bus Day will feature a selection of historic road buses, with some offering local rides.

The museum, tea room, restoration shed, real ale bar, and souvenir shop will all be open.

Standard admission prices apply, with free parking available.
 
train.jpg

Eastern Counties Bristol LS829


Visitors will be able to travel by railbus along the extended Mid-Suffolk Light Railway to the new Aspall Halt station, which remains under construction, but passengers will still be able to alight and enjoy beautiful views of the Suffolk countryside.

Although the original railway never operated diesel locomotives or railbuses, the museum says the event offers a chance to experience how a more economical form of transport might have looked on the line.
 
Status
Not open for further replies.
Back
Top