Class 66 set for Watercress gala

FREIGHTLINER is to send a Class 66 to the Mid-Hants Railway’s July 15-17 diesel gala.

As reported in issue 294, the weekend will see the first public outing of the EPB Preservation Group’s Class 419 motor luggage vans Nos. 9001 and 9002 – and Class 416 2EPB (electro pneumatic brake) No. 5759 – in several years. The electric theme, celebrating 85 years of electrification to Alton, continues with Class 33 No. 33111 added to the line-up, courtesy of the 33/1 Group, and London Underground’s 4TC Class 438 unit.

From the home fleet, Class 47 No. 47579 James Nightall GC and Class 20s D8059 and D8188 will be in operation. Class 50 No. 5007 Lion was withdrawn after developing a generator earth fault.

To book tickets, visit www. watercressline.co.uk/diesel-gala