Tickets for the upcoming Class 455 Farewell Tour sold out in just 15 seconds, with more than 9,000 enthusiasts waiting for 400 tickets.

The tour will take place on the 21st December and tickets were priced at £45.50.

The Branch Line Society and South Western Railway are now holding a second train and tickets for this, which will also run on the same day, are on sale now.

The first train will leave London Waterloo at 0932, followed by the second train at 1035. Both trains will weave their way around the SWR network, taking in familiar locations such as Guildford and Kingston, along with some special routes and stops for Class 455s, including the District Line’s branch from East Putney to Wimbledon, and Haslemere on the Portsmouth Direct Line.

“We’ve been amazed at the level of interest in our Class 455 Farewell tour and are thrilled to raise so much money for Macmillan, The Alex Wardle Foundation and Railway Children, three charities that have a special significance to our colleagues.

“Knowing there are so many more enthusiasts out there who want to be part of this special occasion, we’re pleased to run a second train on Sunday 21 December. Doing so will raise even more money for our chosen charities and give some lucky enthusiasts an early Christmas present!”

Lawrence Bowman, Managing Director of South Western Railway and Network Rail Wessex Route