The start of 2024 would see the Bluebell Railway hold one final event before closing for winter maintenance, in the form of a New Years Day special timetable with four locomotives in action.
The highlight of the event would be the return of Battle of Britain Class No. 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair, hauling her first public trains on the line in 14 years. Although the engine had been used on the recent Santa Specials, this was the first time the engine would be on normal public service trains. The engine, still fresh from overhaul having returned in October, is yet to receive it's new paint job and nameplates. As such, the engine appeared in a somewhat weathered looking condition, and would be disposed of at Horsted Keynes after the event for the repaint to take place.
Running alongside 'Archie' would be 6989 Wightwick Hall, currently on loan to the line from Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, SECR O1 Class No. 65, featuring on the demonstration freight train, and A1 Terrier Class No. 72 Fenchurch, which recently had it's whistle changed.
The event proved to be a popular one despite the weather turning rather wet in the afternoon, with many people out on the lineside to see 34059 back in public service, and the trains seemingly full with many marking a start to 2024 with plenty of steam action along the line.
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31 дек 2023
