A much anticipated date in the diary. We were back in the south west this past weekend for the West Somerset Railway's 'Spring Steam Spectacular'. Four days of sunshine steam and spectacles.
This years event saw some new ideas brought in by the ever expanding event organisers team at the WSR, with mixed local passengers, pick up goods and express runs. Five guest locomotives were brought in for the event, the stars of which was LNER B1 61306 'Mayflower' which will be based out of Bishops Lydeard for LSG's mainline program in the south west this summer.
Alongside the B1 was LNWR 'Coal Tank' 1054, making a rare venture south from it's base at the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway. Also making a return visit was GWR Hall 6990 'Witherslack Hall' from the Great Central Railway. Rounding off the guest was GWR 56xx 6695 having recently completed a long term overhaul at the Swindon & Cricklade Railway, and Hunslet Saddle Tank 1873 'Jessie' again fresh from overhaul at the Pontypool & Blaenavon Railway.
0:00 7828 'Odney Manor'
5:16 Pannier Tank 9466
12:15 WSR Mogul 9351
17:59 'Coal Tank' 1054
21:22 56xx 6695
24:04 1873 'Jessie'
32:57 6990 'Witherslack Hall'
38:56 61306 'Mayflower'
With the home fleet of GWR locos supporting the line up, the event was a huge success. The timetable was very well thought through with a variety of types of trains, my personal favourite being the local goods to Washford. But the overall atmosphere was an excellent vibe. Very well done to all the volunteers and staff for organising another fantastic gala. Hope you enjoy!
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