The Bluebell Railway’s popular annual ‘Branch Line Gala’ would see a western theme this year featuring three guest locomotives resulting in a total of four GWR locos running along the line for one weekend.
Visiting from the Severn Valley, GWR Manor No. 7812 Erlestoke Manor would run alongside two Pannier tanks, in the form of Kerr Stuart Pannier No. 7714, also visiting from the Severn Valley, and Collett Pannier No 1369, visiting from the South Devon Railway. Hall Class No. 6989 Wightwick Hall would complete the GWR lineup, having been based at the Bluebell Railway since 2022 and currently on long term hire to the line from Buckinghamshire Railway Centre.
Alongside the GWR locomotives, Standard 4MT No. 80151 would be running as 80100 for the weekend, the real 80100 also being based at the Bluebell Railway awaiting restoration. SECR O1 Class No. 65 would also feature, hauling brake van rides within the station limits at Horsted Keynes, and is also featured double heading with 80151 in order to position it at Horsted.
Filmed on the Friday of the event, the weather saw some brilliant sunshine throughout with plenty of signs of spring, adding to the excellent performances from the engines. A noisy Manor on the lines steep grades was never going to disappoint, alongside capturing it in the sunset in the evening where the engine hauled a ‘Pie and Mash’ special, while the two Panniers certainly helped to give the ‘Branch Line’ atmosphere the event is always known for.
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9 май 2024
