The Severn Valley Railway has unveiled the final guest locomotive for its upcoming Spring Steam Gala, with LMS Jubilee 45699 ‘Galatea’, currently running under the guise of 45627 ‘Sierra Leone’, confirmed to appear at the event. The locomotive will join the gala from Friday 18th to Monday 21st April, coinciding with the Easter weekend.
Managing Director Jonathan ‘Gus’ Dunster expressed his excitement at the news:
“We’re delighted to welcome ‘Galatea’ to the SVR and very grateful to West Coast Railways for making it possible. With this addition, we’ll have two Jubilees and two Manors for our first enthusiast event of the season!”
‘Galatea’ shares a special historical connection with the SVR, having once been owned by the railway in unrestored condition during the 1980s. Originally acquired as a potential spares donor for sister engine ‘Leander’, it was eventually sold in 1994 and later restored to mainline condition.
Joining ‘Galatea’ in the guest line-up are LMS Jubilee 45596 ‘Bahamas’ and GWR 6880 ‘Betton Grange’. The SVR’s home fleet will also be in action, featuring:
- GWR 7802 ‘Bradley Manor’
- GWR 7812 ‘Erlestoke Manor’
- BR Standard 4MT 75069
The gala will offer an intensive four-day timetable, including early morning departures, late evening trains on the Friday and Saturday, and a varied mix of passenger, shuttle, and freight services across the line between Kidderminster and Hampton Loade.
Although the line north of Hampton Loade remains closed due to a landslip near Bridgnorth, the station will still feature a hub of activity. GWR 7714 and GWR 1450 will be stationed there, providing short rides and demonstrations, alongside displays from the rest of the SVR’s steam fleet and a chance to ride in a freshly repainted DMU power car.
With the guest list now finalised and the full timetable available, the SVR is promising a gala weekend full of nostalgic steam action and family-friendly festivities. Tickets and further event details are available via the Spring Steam Gala page.
