Severn Valley Railway has announced three of the planned four guest locomotives for 2018's Spring Steam Gala.
This event takes place on Friday the 16th to Sunday the 18th of March.
These are Peppercorn A1 Tornado, LNER B12 No. 8572 and Bellerophon, the fourth guest to be confirmed.
Below is an insight into the locomotives which will be visiting in 2018.
Bellerophon for the SVR Steam Gala
Bellerophon is one of the world's oldest steam locomotives. Built-in 1874 by Haydock Collieries, Bellerophon was originally one of six locomotives built by them. Eventually, Bellerophon saw out its days working for the National Coal Board, who sent her for scrapping in 1964.
The Keighley & Worth Valley Railway stepped in and saved Bellerophon from the Cutter's touch.
In 1981, the Vintage Carriage Trust brought Bellerophon off KWVR for £1 (around £3.50 in 2016!) and restoration commenced.
Once restored, Bellerophon was a very popular loco, even venturing across into Europe on a visit. Bellerophon currently is on loan to the Foxfield Railway.
B12 No. 8572
It will be almost two decades since 8572 visited the SVR, the last time being for the Autumn Steam Gala 1998.
8572 is the sole survivor of the B12 class and is the only inside cylinder 4-6-0 persevered.
Built in 1928 by Beyer, Peacock & Co, 8572 was built in the last batch built for the LNER.
Later renumbered 1572 under Thompson's numbering system. 8572 was the last B12 to be withdrawn, lasting until 1962.
After a tour over BR tracks and storage, the Midland and Great Northern Joint Society brought 8572 and moved the loco to the North Norfolk Railway. 8572 doesn't leave the NNR much, which makes the visit even more special.
Tornado
After an impressive year, including hitting 100mph and starring in Paddington 2, Tornado joins Bellerophon and 8572.
2018 marks Tornado's 10th birthday, with Tornado being completed in August 2008.
Other Locos
It's hoped Standard 4 75069 is completed from an overhaul in time for the gala, but this will be confirmed closer to the gala.
80072 may also take part in the gala as it will be at the line until April 2018. Please see my article on 80072 for more information
Other members of the home fleet will take part in the gala.
SVR plan on having a fourth guest, this will be confirmed closer to the time.
- Visit the Severn Valley Railway Website
For more information
