When details of our Diamond Jubilee Celebrations are known they will be posted here however in the mean time here is a taster of what is proposed (E&OE).

This should be a great four-day event and should feature the final runs of 78019 – a loco that has proved to be both a reliable and popular performer.

5542 is also booked to appear (and will depart straight after the gala) and following on from the many favourable comments made following the appearance of 1369 and the two GWR coaches earlier in the year, the small prairie tank is to spend much of the weekend working with a similar formation. The sight of a two coach chocolate and cream GWR set with a small prairie at the helm is sure to be popular and is very much in keeping with our branch line tradition.

1369 and 3205 complete the steam line up, whilst English Electric Type 1 D8110 and railcar W55000 represent the diesel fleet, and being in green livery, very much represent the railway scene in the years following the coronation of HM Queen Elizabeth II.

There will be a real ale festival at Staverton, again run by the Devon Diesel Society, and this will feature over 50 real ales and ciders. The festival will be housed in the new bar and waiting room area constructed over the past few months. Work is still progressing and the building will be ready for the June event, but will then be finished off ready for a full official opening just before the August Rails and Ales event. The WLS are also hoping to have a PIMMS tent at Staverton. Additional toilet facilities are being provided at the station this year to help cope with demand. The now established “Jon Morton Quiz Night” will again take place on the Sunday evening.

A poster for this year’s festivals is attached so please feel free to print off and display where ever you can.