Marcus' Model Railway Journey

2nd June, 2026

Milestone reached for Severn Valley Railway Society​

SVR-based locomotives 75069 and 7802 Bradley Manor cross at Hampton Loade during the SVR's recent Steam Gala


Yesterday, the Severn Valley Railway announced that Severn Valley Railway (Holdings) Plc has been converted into a Charitable Community Benefit Society (CCBS).

Following approval from the Financial Conduct Authority, the company is now known as the Severn Valley Railway Society Limited (SVRS).

The alteration is a milestone in their One Railway project, aiming to create a more resilient railway.

The project required the support of shareholders and members due to the restructuring involved, both of which opted for changing the company into a CCBS.

This alteration opens new opportunities for grant funding streams as well as Gift Aid benefits.

7812 Erlestoke Manor


“Today marks a defining moment in the history of the Severn Valley Railway. The creation of the Severn Valley Railway Society Limited is the result of a clear vision for the future of the railway and the strong support shown by both shareholders and members throughout this process.

“This new structure places the railway on a firmer footing for the years ahead, while preserving the values and heritage that are so important to everyone connected with the SVR. On behalf of the board, I would like to thank all those who have contributed to reaching this milestone. Their commitment, patience and confidence in the One Railway project have helped make this day possible.

“We can now look ahead with optimism and ambition as we continue to strengthen and develop this remarkable railway for future generations.”

Chris Walton, chairman of the Severn Valley Railway Society Limited

2nd June, 2026

Limited edition whisky launched to raise funds for restoration project at Welsh railway​

Limited-edition ‘Adfywiad Blanche Revival’ whisky, Penderyn Distillery


The Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways have their upcoming ‘Extreme Steam Extravaganza’ Summer Gala.

Their exclusive limited edition ‘Adfywiad Blanche Revival’ Whisky will be available for their Spirit of Steam & Song train.

It has been produced in partnership with Penderyn as a unique way to raise funds to restore Blanche.

A Bottle of limited-edition ‘Adfywiad Blanche Revival’ whisky, Penderyn Distillery


The whisky was delivered from Penderyn Llandudno Distillery, and the first bottle will be opened on the 19th June, before the first Spirit of Steam & Song train departs Porthmadog Harbour Station.

Passengers on board will be able to have a taste and have the option to purchase a bottle during the interval at Caernarfon Station.

Bottles cost £110 with each sale going towards the restoration project.

Further information on the gala can be found here.

Book your tickets now and be there to witness the spectacle:

2nd June, 2026

Class 08 locomotive livery and name unveiled​

D3401 sitting outside West Shed after the naming ceremony


The Princess Royal Class Locomotive Trust held a ceremony at The West Shed (located on the Swanwick Junction museum complex of the Midland Railway-Butterley).

They held the ceremony on the 30th May to unveil the new livery and name of Class 08 No D3401.

The locomotive has been named Eric Riley, in recognition of Riley’s contributions and association with the Princess Royal Class Locomotive Trust and Midland Railway Trust.

Princess Royal Class Locomotive Trust Chairman, Chris Powell, and Eric Riley’s sister, Jean Wagstaff at the unveiling


D3401 has been undergoing extensive works at the West Shed Workshop, including the refurbishment of the cylinder heads and replacement of radiator components.

The locomotive appeared in its authentic BR livery from 1957, and the naming ceremony was carried out by Riley’s sister, Jean Wagstaff.

Points

Pride train Liverpool Street

2 June 2026

Brand-new railway bridge for Cathays station​

TfW FLIRTs in cardiff


A brand-new railway bridge will be installed at Cathays railway station with work starting on 13 June 2026.

The ‘Access for All’ (AFA) footbridge will provide better accessibility and help modernise the station to a safer transport hub.

Additional features of the infrastructure upgrade include step-free lift access for wheelchair users, improved walkways, and direct access to the Cardiff University's Centre for Student Life.

These improvements form part of the wider South Wales Metro programme, supporting TfW’s commitment to delivering a more reliable, faster, greener, and more accessible transport system for communities across Wales.

The project will be delivered in phases with the main construction starting in Autumn 2026.

TfW will issue regular updates and communications at each key stage – particularly on any impacts on residents, businesses or road users.

Dan Tipper, Chief Infrastructure Officer at Transport for Wales said: “This investment is an important step in our ongoing work to improve accessibility and modernise stations across Wales.

“The new footbridge will make Cathays station safer, easier to navigate and more welcoming for everyone who uses it.

“We’re working closely with Cardiff University and other local businesses to ensure the project supports the needs of the student and surrounding communities, and are looking forward to seeing it develop.”

Alex Phillips, Senior Project Manager added: "As we move into this first phase, our teams will begin setting up the site, implementing pedestrian diversions, and carrying out initial excavation and cable works.

“These are important enabling works for the wider project, and our focus is on delivering them efficiently while ensuring the station continues to operate as normal.”

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The project will be delivered in phases to ensure the smooth running of the station:

• Phase 1 (From 13 June): Focuses on early enabling works. Walking routes will remain largely unchanged, with all work areas safely cordoned off to maintain normal station operations.
• Phase 2: Main Construction (Autumn 2026): The next phase will see an increase in activity from October as construction accelerates. This stage is expected to deliver the new footbridge, lift, and associated structures. During this period, the site may see more intensive activity, including larger machinery, additional deliveries, and temporary changes to pedestrian routes.