Hastings DEMU heads to Faversham

ENCOURAGED by the loadings of a series of trains run between Eastbourne, Hastings and Tonbridge on August 7, Hastings Diesels Limited has announced a second outing for its unique six-car DEMU No. 1001, running from Hastings to Faversham via Canterbury East.

Timed to depart Hastings at 11.5am on Saturday, September 11, the ‘Faversham Flyer' calls at Rye, where, because of the short platform, passengers are advised to board by the first coach, then Ashford International, and Canterbury East, arriving at Faversham at 1.10pm.

The promoter said HDL is reducing Covid-19 precautions in line with the gradual relaxation of national restrictions. “We ask passengers to wear a face covering except when seated. An endeavour will be made to provide some social distancing in the seating arrangements, with single individuals possibly seated diagonally opposite one another in a bay of four seats,” he said. A limited Club Class service will be available, comprising tea or coffee, sandwiches for lunch and on the return journey, and a pre-prepared ploughman's supper with wine. The buffet car will be open to Standard Class passengers.

Following a two-hour break, the DEMU leaves Faversham at 3.32pm, reaching Hastings at 5.30pm. Standard Class fares are from £40 to £47.

HDL said that tickets are sold subject to its code of conduct and adherence to Covid-19 precautions. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult.