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.

Wednesday 3rd June 2026

Marcus & Cleo Have Another Bus Adventure into Cardiff!

Our first 'port of call' was the 'Great Western' where I had three pints of 'Welsh cake Stout'

Then we went to Tesco's and Cleo bought a meal deal and then we to the balcony of the indoor market to eat it.

We went to 'The Gatekeeper', where, again, I had a three pints of 'Welsh Cake Stout' followed by A double Gin & Tonic.

After all that we caught the bus home which was a brand new electric one, still had the new smell too.


The bus into Cardiff was Cardiff Bus/Bws Caerdydd No. 278, Volvo B8RLE MCV EvoRa, BU26 WML

The bus home from Cardiff was Cardiff Bus/Bws Caerdydd No. 281, Volvo B8RLE MCV EvoRa, BU26 WMD

WELSH CAKE STOUT​

A new take on Welsh Cake

Welsh Cake Stout is a pastry stout inspired by our favourite sweet treat.

Adding oats + raisins to a rich stout base means every sip tastes of fresh Welsh Cakes straight from the griddle.

• Style​

  STOUT

• Colour​

  BLACK

• ABV​

  4.30%

• Hops​

  BRAMLING CROSS, CHALLENGER

Cardiff Indoor Market balcony

3rd June, 2026

Epping Signalling Museum provides fun free day out for the whole family​

Locomotive L11


Epping Signalling Museum is rather unique among heritage railway offerings. It is the only London Underground Signal Cabin on the entire tube network open to the public.

Visitors are actively encouraged to test their skills on a fully functional 47 lever signal frame to signal a (simulated!) train through the 1940’s station layout at Epping, which at the time sent and received trains over the Central Line branch to Ongar.

In addition to the signal cabin, the Museum boasts a full-sized, former London Underground shunting locomotive built using two former Piccadilly Line trains ‘cut & shut’ together.

Passengers to Epping station will have seen this bright yellow loco at the entrance to the museum.

The 47 lever frame


Visitors can sit at the driver’s controls and keep a lookout for the working colour light signals and moving set of points whilst Central Line trains clatter past.

The main Museum room houses a wide range of Underground artefacts, including signage, signals, maps, lamps, clocks, as well as a remotely controlled 11 lever signal frame, where the levers pull themselves (by air)!

The Museum gives visitors a guided tour with knowledgeable guides adding to the experience with some unusual and fun anecdotes.

It opens every Saturday from 10:00 to 16:30 until October and admission is free, with donations gratefully received.

Check the website for details: www.eppingmuseum.com or search Facebook for ‘Locomotive L11’

3rd June, 2026

Final Class 599 to be withdrawn from service at the end of June​

Metro on QE2 Bridge


Nexus has announced that the Class 599 electric units, which have operated on the Tyne and Wear Metro since its inauguration in August 1980, will be withdrawn by the end of June 2026.

With only a small number of the 90-strong 599 class in service, the final few are set to bow out on the evening of Friday 26 June, having served 46 years on the Tyne and Wear Metro system with an estimated 1.7 billion journeys made on these trains covering over 621 billion miles throughout their careers as a collective fleet.

No. 4021 in 1982


During the last week of service, commencing on Monday 22 June, the final class 599s will operate the 09:33 from South Gosforth to South Hylton, the 10:58 South Hylton to Airport and the 12:17 Airport to South Gosforth on the Green Line. They will also operate the 13:42 South Gosforth to St James and the 14:43 St James to South Shields on the Yellow Line.

On the final day of service, Friday 26 June, two additional services will run, the 16:19 South Shields to Airport and the 17:22 Airport to Regent Centre.

It will mark the end of an era in North East England’s Metro Heritage, when the final train arrives at Regents Centre on Friday, 26 June.

No. 4054 in 1985


Some of the class will be seen on the network in yards and sidings for a few weeks following the final trains, before heading to a scrapyard in County Durham, where they will be recycled.

Three units will survive, two heading for preservation, while the other will become a training asset at the Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service.

Haymarket platform 2, March 2015


The 599 replacements, the 46-strong class 555 fleet are all due to be in service by the end of the year.

Since their launch in 2023, they have proven popular with passengers and staff.

They include onboard mobile charging, air con, sliding steps for accessibility, and linear seating.


“After giving our region 46 years of service, I’m pleased to confirm the original Metro train fleet will soon be phased out completely. I promised that by summer every single journey people made would be on a new train, and that’s what we’ve done.

“This is a really significant milestone for our region, one that I’ve no doubt will generate a lot of nostalgia and fond memories for many. It’s great that people will have one last chance to travel on them before they go.

“It’s the end of an era for Metro, but it’s time we look ahead. I want a better, cheaper, and more reliable transport network – one that works for everyone and makes it easier for local people to get to work, to school and out to socialise. That’s why we’ll continue to improve our Metro network, with an extension to Washington, a new signalling system and improvements to even more stations.”

North East Mayor Kim McGuinness
“The old Metro trains have given us sterling service over the last 46 years, but we’re now getting ready to say that historic farewell.

“We’re in the final few weeks where customers are guaranteed a journey on the few that remain running. They have been replaced gradually by the new Metro fleet since the end of 2024.

“These trains helped to change the face of public transport in our region in 1980, and over the four decades that followed. They have served us well, surpassing their expected life expectancy. They’ve now come to the end of the line. They’re making way for the new generation of trains, which are delivering a bright future for the Tyne and Wear Metro.

“The coming weeks will be the final time that customers will get the chance to travel on the old carriages on our system. We’ve developed this special timetable for the 599s to run in service throughout the week to ensure those that want one last journey can do so.

“It’s undoubtedly the case that these familiar Class 599 Metrocars are assured of their place in North East England’s railway heritage.

“When the last train leaves it’ll be a poignant moment in the storied history of our Metro system.”

Cathy Massarella, Managing Director of Nexus

3rd June, 2026

Increase in UK-Netherlands rail travel contributes to Eurostar’s growth​

Eurostar 3999


A great increase in rail travel between the UK and the Netherlands contributed to the growth in revenue revealed in UK Eurostar’s 2025 full-year results released yesterday, Tuesday, 2nd June.

The figures come as the company plans a new fleet of trains and new routes, and confirms that continued growth is driven by sustained passenger demand and a long-term investment strategy.

In 2025, passenger numbers increased by 3% to 20 million passengers, an increase of 500,000 passengers compared with 2024, and demonstrate that high-speed rail has continued appeal for international travel across Europe.

During 2025, Eurostar routes with the biggest increase in passengers were:

• London to Amsterdam (+18.3%),
• London to Brussels (+5.8%),
• London to Paris (+5%),
• London to Germany via Brussels (+10%).

This increase in passenger numbers resulted in an increase of 1.7% to over €2bn.

A significant investment programme is focused on two key priorities: fleet growth and customer experience.

To support future growth, €2 billion is being invested in a new fleet of up to 50 trains to provide increased capacity, and the capability for opening new international routes from London to Frankfurt and Geneva, and Amsterdam/Brussels to Geneva. In 2025, Eurostar made its first payment to Alstom Group of €90m for its new fleet of trains.

Customer experience was enhanced when a new cross-channel terminal was opened in Amsterdam, which tripled the capacity on the London-Amsterdam route.


“Our 2025 results demonstrate the strength of demand to travel with Eurostar and the allure of high-speed, cross-border European rail travel. At the same time, we are concretely investing in the future with a bespoke new fleet on its way, enhanced stations and an improved customer experience. Even in difficult economic conditions, Eurostar continues to welcome more passengers than ever from across the world and forge the future of sustainable travel in Europe.”

Gwendoline Cazenave, Chief Executive Officer of Eurostar

3rd June, 2026

Charles Beyer Legacy Day celebrated across the Dee Valley​

The services was led by Father Lee Taylor, pictured with Cllr Phil Robinson and Loco Cleaner Andy Postlethwaite


The Charles Beyer Legacy Day, organised by the Llangollen and Corwen Railway in partnership with the East Lancashire Railway, was celebrated on Tuesday, 2 June, to mark the 150th anniversary of the death of Victorian railway engineer and industrialist Charles Beyer.

The day was organised to acknowledge the achievements of the co-founder of Beyer, Peacock & Company, whose locomotives were exported to railways around the world.

Proceedings began with a service at St Collen’s Church in Llangollen, led by Father Lee Taylor.

Guests then travelled through the Dee Valley on a steam-hauled train behind GWR Heavy Freight No. 3802, carrying a specially commissioned Charles Beyer Memorial Headboard.

At Berwyn Station, representatives attended the unveiling of a commemorative plaque by the Institution of Civil Engineers, recognising Beyer’s contribution to engineering and industry.

A procession then crossed the Chain Bridge to Llantysilio Church, where a graveside service was held at Beyer’s final resting place.

Father Lee Taylor led graveside tributes for Charles Beyer


Through Beyer, Peacock & Company in Manchester, Beyer helped establish Britain’s reputation for locomotive engineering, supplying engines to railways across Europe, Africa, Asia and South America.

The company also built locomotives for London’s Metropolitan Railway, the world’s first underground railway.


The commemorations also highlighted Beyer’s support for Owens College, later the University of Manchester, and reflected growing recognition of his place within LGBTQ+ history alongside his engineering and educational legacy.

The event concluded with a reception at Llantysilio Hall, rebuilt by Beyer after he purchased the Llantysilio estate in 1867.

He lived there until his death on 2 June 1876.


“This was about far more than simply remembering an engineer. Charles Beyer’s story touches industry, education, Manchester’s global heritage, Wales and increasingly LGBTQ+ history as well. Bringing people together in the landscape where he spent his final years gave the day a genuine emotional resonance.

“To see the Charles Beyer Memorial Headboard carried proudly by No. 3802 through the Dee Valley was a fitting tribute to a man whose engineering vision helped connect communities across the world. I would also like to personally thank Father Lee Taylor for leading such moving and thoughtful services throughout the day, Mr Akram Abu Hamdan and his family for so generously welcoming guests to Llantysilio Hall, and our friends and colleagues from Network Rail, Transport for Wales, the East Lancashire Railway and across the wider railway heritage movement for supporting the commemorations. Above all, this day would not have been possible without the incredible dedication of our volunteers who worked tirelessly to make the event such a success.”

David Hennigan, Trust Manager of the Llangollen Railway Trust.

Thursday 4 Jun 2026

Reminder of essential engineering work on North Wales railway between 6-8 June​

Region & Route: Wales & Western: Wales & Borders



Passengers are being reminded of essential engineering work taking place on the North Wales railway between Chester and Llandudno Junction from the early hours of Saturday 6 June and reopening in the early hours of Monday 8 June.

During this time, the railway will be closed to allow teams uninterrupted access to carry out important maintenance and improvement work as part of continued Network North Wales upgrade and the recent introduction of a new timetable.

A range of tasks will be delivered during the weekend over a selection of areas including:

• Flint – Drainage improvements to help reduce the risk of flooding and improve the long-term resilience of the railway
• Pensarn – Foundation and site preparation work ahead of the installation of a new accessible footbridge
• Rhyl (Saturday night only) – Sleeper replacements to maintain track quality and support a smoother, more reliable journeys for passengers

During this time, passengers should expect no rail services to run between Chester and Llandudno Junction during the closure, and replacement transport to be in place to keep passengers moving.

These tasks form part of continued investment in the North Wales railway and are essential to:

• Maintain reliability following the recent timetable uplift, allowing passengers to take advantage of 50% additional train services
• Support future accessibility improvements for passengers
• Keep the railway safe and resilient for staff, passengers and freight services

Colin Lea, Planning and Performance Director at Transport for Wales said:

"We’re encouraging all passengers travelling between Llandudno Junction and Chester to check before they travel over the weekend. As no trains will run between these destinations, our Manchester Airport, Cardiff Central, and Liverpool Lime Street services will start and terminate at Chester, while services from Holyhead will terminate at Llandudno Junction

"We’ll be running rail replacement services between Llandudno Junction and Chester roughly every half an hour on the Saturday, and every hour on the Sunday. We’ll also have ticket acceptance in place with Arriva Bus. Please allow extra time for your journey and check before you travel using our website or app”.

Passengers are urged to plan ahead and check their journey before travelling at https://www.tfw.wales, Train Timetables | Train Schedule | Avanti West Coast, www.nationalrail.co.uk

For more information about the Pensarn footbridge, follow this link: Pensarn Level Crossings - Network Rail

4th June, 2026

Major restoration sees National Railway Museum’s D6535 return to service​

National Railway Museum’s National Collection Diesel D6535 before and after restoration efforts from Great Central Railway and the 5305 Locomotive Trust


A major restoration of the National Railway Museum Collection’s locomotive D6535 has been completed at the Great Central Railway, securing the future of one of Britain’s most historically significant early diesel locomotives.

Carried out by the 5305 Locomotive Trust, the restoration has returned the locomotive to operational condition, following extensive structural and cosmetic work.

Visitors will be able to see D6535, now carrying its later number 33116, in traffic at the Great Central Railway’s Autumn Diesel Gala, where it is due to work alongside visiting Class 33 locomotive 33103.

The guest locomotive is attending courtesy of Nemesis Rail and the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway.

D6535 is also expected to appear on selected operating days before the gala.

A busy Scene at Loughborough


D6535 entered service in December 1960 and later served at Eastleigh, Stewarts Lane, and Old Oak Common after an initial allocation to Hither Green.

Named Hertfordshire Railtours in 1993, it was withdrawn in 1998 following a shunting accident and selected for preservation in the National Collection.

Since arriving at the Great Central Railway in 2005, the locomotive has undergone extensive work to address severe corrosion caused by years of outdoor storage, ensuring its long-term preservation.

Queen Lagertha LothBrok Shield Maiden played by Katheryn Winnick

5th June, 2026

New Elizabeth Line train takes to the tracks in Derby​

345071 on the Derby Test Track


345071 is the first complete unit that has left the production line and is now undergoing final tests on the Derby Test Track.

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.

Once final tests are completed, 345071 will move to London for testing before entering service later this year.

Inside the production line


The Aventra trains will also help to serve HS2’s Old Oak Common station in the future.

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.

Each of the new Class 345s is nine carriages in length, and the construction, which Alstom showed us around, includes 50 miles of cabling, 47,700 screws and 31,700 bolts.

More than 850 million journeys have now been made on the Elizabeth Line, with growing demand being at the forefront of the new trains.

Roof being spun to allow cabling to be fitted


Seb Dance, Deputy Mayor of London, said that the Elizabeth Line is the ‘perfect example’ of how transport infrastructure can unlock opportunities.

This how how the carriage roofs are made, with cabling etc attached at this stage before the sides and floor are added in.

Moving onto the next stage is the doors, these have their own stage where they are fitted, sealed and tested before each carriage moves onto the fitting out stage, where the carriage ends are added, seats fitted, and final tasks completed.

An almost complete exterior


Each carriage is completed on a rolling road type system where there are multiple carriages in the workshop at each time, with one carriage at each stage of the process.

Doors being fitted to the train shell


“Seeing the first of our new Elizabeth line Aventra trains roll off the production line in Derby is a proud moment for everyone at Litchurch Lane. These new trains will help meet growing demand on the Elizabeth line while supporting highly skilled jobs in Derby and our nationwide supply chain."

Andy Butters, Managing Director of Derby Litchurch Lane Works