Bluebell marks delayed 60th anniversary gala

Dubbed ‘60+1’, the Bluebell Railway staged its much-delayed (due to Covid-19) three-day 60th anniversary gala, with an event that felt like the railway getting back to normal. A busy service showcased its vintage rolling stock, plus activities at all the stations – such as Class 08 shunting at Horsted Keynes, and opportunities to see progress in its workshops, along with summer rain showers.

Despite its currently ‘tight’ motive power situation, with four steam locomotives available for four duties (Standard 4MT 80151, Q class 30541, H class 263 and O1 No. 65), no issues were reported during the event.

During a shower at the 60th Anniversary Gala, H class 0-4-4T No. 263 eases under Leamland Bridge as it gets away from Horsted Keynes on August 7. Dave Bowles