GWR Hall steam locomotive replaces LMS Duchess for Severn Valley Gala

GWR Hall No. 4953 Pitchford Hall is set to make a special appearance at the Severn Valley Railway’s Autumn Steam Gala.

Unfortunately, LMS Duchess No. 6233 Duchess of Sutherland has been withdrawn from the list of guests.

Normally based at the Epping Ongar Railway, the Hall class has clocked up 1.3 million miles in service before being withdrawn in 1963.

Pitchford Hall will join GWR Pannier 9466 at the gala alongside its home fleet between the 16th and 19th of September.

Day rovers can be booked via the SVR website or can be purchased on the day.

“We’re thrilled that ‘Pitchford Hall’ will be joining us later this month,” said general manager Helen Smith. “This really is a splendid locomotive, and its unusual livery of BR lined black is very eye-catching. It’s never run on our line before, and we think it’s going to prove very popular.

“We’re sorry that the Duchess of Sutherland won’t be able to join us for our special event, but like any other heritage steam locomotive, unexpected problems do arise. We hope that we’ll be able to welcome 6233 to the SVR in the not-too-distant future.”

SVR head of engineering Martin White explained more about the issues affecting 6233: “The loco has been undergoing some extensive repairs and maintenance at its base in Ripley, Derbyshire. Quite late in the work schedule, a problem was identified with the driving-wheel axle boxes. Some of the metal bearing surface had cracked and become loose, necessitating replacement. Unfortunately, this is not going to be completed in time for our event.”

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