Great Central Railway is to welcome the Deltic locomotive D9015 Tulyar for a special weekend of diesel action on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 August.

By appearing at the event, the historically significant locomotive will return to public passenger service for the first time in nearly three decades.

Great Central Railway is organising the weekend event in partnership with the Deltic Preservation Society (DPS).

The loco will haul passenger trains along the UK’s only double-track heritage main line. The Railway sees this as a major milestone in the preservation of Britain’s diesel railway heritage.

D9015 Tulyar is owned by the Deltic Preservation Society, and is named after the famous racehorse owned by the Aga Khan. It has undergone extensive bodywork and mechanical repairs in preparation for its return to service.

Tulyar was one of three Deltics to appear at the Greatest Gathering last year.

The Railway intends to run Tulyar in passenger service over 96 miles on Saturday and 64 miles on Sunday. This will offer passengers the opportunity to experience the distinctive sound and power of a Deltic locomotive.

Visitors will also have the chance to meet representatives from the Deltic Preservation Society during the weekend, to find out more about D9015 Tulyar and the work involved in preserving it.

The Refreshment Car on board the train will be serving real ales, hot and cold drinks, snacks and a selection of beers. Loughborough Central Station will host a barbecue, with hot dogs and burgers served with toppings.

“The return of D9015 Tulyar to public passenger service is a hugely exciting moment for railway preservation, and we are delighted to be working with the Deltic Preservation Society to welcome this remarkable locomotive to Great Central Railway.

“To see Tulyar back on the main line, hauling passenger trains once again after nearly 30 years, is something that will have huge appeal for railway enthusiasts, but this is also a fantastic opportunity for anyone looking for a memorable day out.

“With miles of running across our unique double-track heritage railway, the chance to meet the people who have helped preserve Tulyar and plenty of food and refreshments available, it promises to be a very special weekend.”

Malcolm Holmes, General Manager at Great Central Railway,