Dean Forest Railway - Royal Forest of Steam 2023 - Oct 14/15

Thanks. Ticket purchased.

 

The Dean Forest Railway's Royal Forest of Steam gala starts tomorrow - hope to see you there!

 

5541 has failed

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Any idea what’s wrong with 5541? It’s just limped down the loop at Lydney Jct.


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I understand 5541 has a broken spring, which should be repaired for tomorrow. It is currently tucked in behind 401 at Lydney Junction on the front of its delayed service train.

 

Does anyone know in which direction the locos face please? TIA. <BJ>

 

All smokebox first to Parkend.

 

5541 double headed with 401 on the last train to Parkend today and then lead the final Lydney Jcn to Norchard train with 401 on the back... safe to assume she is all fit for Sunday.

 

Not many better railways to have a gala at than the DFR in these autumnal months, galas don't always go to plan but enjoyed myself and the cider available from the 'Legless Toad' in Parkend goods yard is highly recommended!

Thanks to all the volunteers and organisers, I am sure it was the biggest DFR gala yet with 5 locos in steam. Don't think there had ever been 4 locos in steam at Parkend at once before today.
A personal highlight was seeing stalwarts 9681+5541 doubled headed, this year has been the first time since 2001 both have been available together.

1340 with the saloon looked perfect in Parkend yard!

 

A few mobile phone snaps. The Legless Toad was very Titfield Thunderbolt! Sadly couldn’t afford the ticket price with the family in tow, but had a nice time mooching about and stuck a few quid in the donation jars.

 

My video coverage from the DFR's 'Royal Forest of Steam', filmed on Sunday 15th October.

 

I went on Sunday. Apart from a ride behind Trojan and Rosyth in the inspection saloon and one ride in a mk1, the rest of the time I spent riding the goods train. On a sunny and frosty day it was a great way to see the forest.

I'd like to thank the DFR for a great gala. The railway was busy with many happy faces on show. Staff were friendly and seemed to be enjoying themselves too.

Thanks again.

 

Trojan is doing full line trips on 28 October with the Hawksworth saloon.

More info:
https://deanforestrailway.co.uk/experiences/first-class-saloon-tour/

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And having sampled the last train with that on Sunday, it is good fun!