Today, 4th February 2013, saw the arrival of the GWR Steam Rail Motor number 93.

The following data come from the steam rail motor’s own web site ( www.railmotor93.org):

The first steam railmotors date back to the mid 19th century, but the idea came of age in the early years of the 20th century, when a vehicle capable of being reversed quickly, and designed for local trains making frequent stops was required.

Since then a succession of railcars and multiple units, powered by steam, diesel and electricity, have come to dominate the branch line and local services of our railways. In the 21st century, with the introduction of Voyagers, Pendelino’s and Adelante’s, those elite of all trains – the inter-city expresses, have also been taken over by the descendants of the humble steam railmotor

In the early 1970’s the Great Western Society acquired Auto Trailer No. 212 which had been rebuilt from the original Steam Railmotor vehicle No. 93 in the 1930’s, together with Auto Trailer No. 92, with the dream that one day they might be returned to operational condition, in original form as a steam railmotor and trailer combination.

Now, in the 21st century, that dream has become reality.

For details of our Winter Gala & Ale Festival from Saturday 16th to Sunday 24th February, including how to book your tickets on the Steam Rail Motor number 93 click here.

Spotted in the Rail Motor driver’s cab window was a stowaway who no doubt was arriving early for our “Teddy Bears’ Picnic Weekend” on the 31st May 2013 !!