Bluebell Railway- Branch Line Gala- 10th-12th May 2024

I need to check my log book but yes 8 and maybe 9 had times. I have the Manors as class 4

 

BR classified the Manors as 5MT. Their tractive effort was 27,340 lbf.

Andy

 

Yes that may be their official classification but in my view they could not perform as well as LM or BR Standard 5s.

 

As apposed to those who are never pleased?
Anyhow, I must admit, I am pretty appeased with how 7812 is the 1st real controversial visitor to a steam gala.

It's definitely a talking point.

 

1369 announced as guest 2

 

Just announced on Facebook that 1369 is the second visitor from the South Devon Railway. Also on the Bluebell website.

Branch Line Gala Weekend 2024 - Bluebell Railway in Sussex (bluebell-railway.com)

 

This is going well.
Decent traction at last.
Visitor 3 = 4144 perhaps?

 

Looking at the Event page on the Bluebell website, it says that in addition to 7812 and 1369, the home fleet will be the made up of the 01, 80151 and Fenchurch.

 

Still posted as 2023s - this year's line up is still tbc

 

A poster on East Grinstead station says 7714 in addition to 7812 and 1369.

 

Wasn't expecting a third visitor, but still a welcome one none the less. Looking forward to this one.

 

7714 now officially confirmed

 

Timetables: https://www.bluebell-railway.com/branch-line-gala-weekend-2024/

(Half way down the page).

7 locos in steam!

Tom

 

And E6040 on Sunday...

I must say I don't think I've ever been more looking forward to a gala then this one

 

Both panniers due to face south, I see

 

Good to see 6989 making an appearance, would have seemed a bit strange if it didn't with the other Westerners, but really looking forward to this event.

 

Yes it's a great loco line-up, probably the best I can remember for the Branch Line gala, but then of course I'm a GWR fan!

 

Yes, it will certainly be one to remember, dare I say, the best one they will ever throw?

 

Following an earlier April Fool prank by the Bluebell on Facebook earlier (possibly on they're other social channels too) about 80100 having been restored to take part at the Branch Line Weekend, they've followed up by saying that 80151 will instead be running as 80100 at the event.

The real 80100 spent it's final few years based at Machynlleth, as well as stints at Shrewsbury and Croes Newydd beforehand so in keeping with the Western theme of the event.

 

Sorry - but if it's true it's a silly idea. From what I've seen 80151 is spending a lot of time double-heading with that well known GWR loco "Fenchurch"!

Anyway I don't really mind what the Bluebell do with their home fleet for this event - I'm coming to see the visitors.