Steam and Diesel trains run over the Bank Holiday weekend.  In addition to passenger operations services are complemented by engineer’s trains.

Recently overhauled Great Western Railway 0-6-0PT locomotive 5786, now runs as L.92 in Metropolitan Red, recalling the period between its withdrawal from British Railways and preservation by the Worcester Locomotive Society when it was owned by the engineering department of London Transport.

Unusual diesel workings include the use of diesel shunters on passenger trains.  The familiar “08” is limited to 15 miles per hour, but our D3721 is an example of the visually identical but less common “09” which is able to work up to the maximum speed allowed on our railway.  “04” shunter D2246 has a similar capability and each haul the single car diesel unit on Saturday and double head a full length carriage set on Monday.

Engineer’s trains is the theme of the non passenger trains.  L.92 works such a train which is completed by a brake van previously owned by London Transport.  A “Wickham” gangers’ trolley makes a round trip between Buckfastleigh and Staverton on Saturday and Sunday for the benefit of photographers.  Visitors of a certain age may remember one of these taking a staring rôle in the “Great St. Trinians Train Robbery” film.

Beer Festival at Staverton

Located at the idyllic Staverton Station, the Devon Diesel Society’s annual Spring Real Ale festival will once again feature many local and national real ales, along with a selection of traditional ciders, all served from the Society’s own bar located in the station goods shed, and at a competitive £2.80 per pint. Soft drinks and light refreshments will also be available and there will also be a PIMMS tent in the main station yard.
There will be a frequent train service running to and from Staverton as part of the South Devon Railway’s 1960s gala with both steam and heritage diesel locomotives in use, including one of the last steam locomotives to operate on the London Underground network. In addition to the normal passenger services, demonstration freight and engineers trains will also run, and there will also be a small display of rolling stock in the station yard at Staverton. Trains operate from 09.25 each day until the early evening.

A London Transport Routemaster ‘bus operates additional road services during the event, including a late service to Newton Abbot on both Saturday and Sunday. Proceeds from the event go towards the upkeep of rolling stock and buildings on the railway.