Diesel fans have something special to look forward to this festive season, as legendary Deltic locomotive 55009 will be the star guest at the Severn Valley Railway’s Winter Diesel Day on Tuesday 29 December.
The visit will mark the first time the increasingly popular Winter Diesel Day has featured a visiting locomotive, adding an extra dimension to an event that already showcases the SVR’s impressive home diesel fleet.
55009 is currently undergoing recertification for main line operations, but thanks to the SVR’s excellent relationship with Rail Adventure and the Deltic Preservation Society, an opportunity has arisen for the locomotive to visit the railway.
“We’re incredibly grateful to the owners and operators of 55009 for making this visit possible,” said Gus Dunster, chief executive officer of the SVR. “It’s a real privilege to welcome such an iconic locomotive to the Valley, and we’re looking forward to seeing it working alongside our own diesel fleet.
“Winter Diesel Day has become a firm fixture in the SVR calendar, and having a visiting locomotive for the first time makes this year’s event particularly special.”
Visitors can expect a busy timetable between Kidderminster and Bridgnorth, with the SVR’s home-fleet locomotives joined by 55009. With steam-heated heritage carriages and the locomotives working hard on the 16.5-mile line, it promises to be a noisy and atmospheric way to blow away those Christmas cobwebs.
There will be plenty to do away from the trains, too. The Engine House at Highley will be open from 10.45am until 4.30pm, with last entry at 4pm, while station gift shops, cafés and kiosks will be open for food, drinks and refreshments. Visitors can also make a day of it by sampling some of the real ales available at the railway’s two pubs.
Whether you’re a lifelong diesel enthusiast or looking for something different to do with the family during the Christmas holidays, Winter Diesel Day offers the chance to experience the Severn Valley at its loudest.
Tickets are already on sale, and there are more event details at svr.co.uk.