Just over two weeks are left before the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway will begin running trains once again
On Tuesday 13th April 2021, the first trains since Christmas Eve 2020 will steam out of Toddington before continuing past Winchcombe and on to Cheltenham Racecourse.
The GWSR was one of the first heritage railways to announce a return to service following the UK government's lockdown roadmap.
GWR 2-8-0 No. 4270 will be in charge of the first train which has been restored from scrapyard condition.
The first trains to run will operate with COVID restrictions as per 2020, with tickets only available in advance online, only Toddington station will be open, other stations will remain closed.
Richard Johnson, the voluntary Chairman of GWSR comments: “Despite continuing restrictions, this will be an exciting day for our volunteers, getting back to doing what we all love – running a popular heritage railway that, over the past 40 years, has become one of the leading attractions in the Cotswolds.”
“During lockdown a limited number of volunteers have been undertaking essential work to ensure that the infrastructure, locomotives, rolling stock and stations are safe and ready to operate. I'm deeply grateful to everyone who has gone above and beyond to ensure that we're ready to welcome back our visitors.”
“We expect to operate trains that reflect essential Covid precaution until the end of June – subject of course, to any further guidance from the Government.”
Six carriages will be used on a train, using give compartment coaches, with seats for 2 to 6 people, and one open coach limited to couples and individuals.
Masks will be needed on platforms and on trains except if in a compartment with the door closed.
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good to see trains runningagain feel ive been on agap year cant wait
The Gloriously-Wonderful Gloucestershire-Warwickshire Railway, in the Colourful Cotswolds… Are indeed Gearing up on Reopening Back Up & Running During 2021… I Wish them & their Beloved Cotswold Heritage Line, Good Luck.