On Friday, 11th July until Sunday, 13th July, the Diesel Gala will be making a return at The Watercress Line.

They have an intensive timetable planned, with a range of resident and visiting locomotives planned to make this year’s event bigger than ever.

Across various stations and onboard trains, visitors will be able to join in on the new Real Ale and Cider Festival.

For the gala, they have announced four visitors:

• Class 50 50008 ‘Thunderer’ – Visiting courtesy of Hanson & Hall Rail Services Solutions Ltd.
• Class 52 D1015 ‘Western Champion’ – Visiting courtesy of the Diesel Traction Group.
• Class 42 D821 ‘Greyhound’
• Class 46 46045 – Visiting courtesy of the Peak Locomotive Company Ltd.

Joining the visiting locomotives will be the resident fleet of locomotives, including:

• Class 08 D3462 (08377)
• Class 20 D8059 (20059)
• Class 20 D8188 (20188)
• Class 47 47579 “James Nightall GC”

On static display, locomotives will include Class 08 08032 (13044 / 3044), Class 08 08288 “Phoenix”, and Class 50 50027 “Lion”.

There will be a Drive a Diesel experience available at Medstead Station serving the Gala, and there will be society and locomotive stands at Ropley Station.

Further information and booking can be found online.

“Our wonderful Diesel Gala will be a celebration of preservation, heritage and the people who made it possible. We’re delighted to welcome these wonderful visiting locomotives, and proud to honour the Plymouth Laira team.

“From diesel trains to real ale and hands-on thrills, it’s a must for railway fans and families alike. Whether you’re a heritage railway enthusiast or just fancy a great day out with something a little different, we can’t wait to welcome you.”

Rebecca Dalley, CEO of The Watercress Line