Six locomotives spanning half a century of steam power will take centre stage at the Swanage Railway’s Autumn Steam Gala from 12th to 14th September.
Star of the line-up is Southern Railway ‘Schools’ class express engine No. 926 Repton, visiting Dorset for the first time since it was based in Bournemouth during the Second World War. Joining it is S15 class freight engine No. 30506 – the first of its type to appear in Purbeck in more than 20 years.
Swanage Railway volunteer commercial director Alexander Atkins said: ‘With steam locomotives from the 1890s to the 1940s hauling passenger and demonstration freight trains, as well as bracing brake van rides, the Autumn Steam Gala will be an exciting spectacular not to be missed. Some of the passenger trains will be running over our four mile line beyond Norden to Furzebrook and the River Frome – within sight of Wareham.’
The railway’s company chairman – and volunteer signalman – Gavin Johns praised the chance to see two fine examples of Southern Railway design working again in Dorset’s landscape.
The visiting engines will of course be joined by Swanage Railway’s own fleet, including Victorian London and South Western Railway T3 No. 563 and two Battle of Britain class Bulleid Pacifics, Manston and 257 Squadron.
Advanced adult tickets start at £29, and full details and ticket sales available at swanagerailway.co.uk
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