HST gets the blues … and the greens!

Shunters Trust is to hold two special events later this year to showcase its collection of shunting locomotives at Rowsley South on Peak Rail, with efforts also focused on returning its Class 09 to traffic for future use on Peak Rail service trains.

HST spokesman John Wade explained to Railways Illustrated that changes in the management structure at Peak Rail last year had resulted in some very positive and encouraging discussions with the railway in relation to the HST shunter collection at Rowsley South, which is the largest collection of historic shunting locomotives in the UK.

As a result of the positive working relationship between the HST and Peak Rail, it has been agreed that the HST can hold two shunter events this year.

The first will feature an entirely BR green selection of locomotives in service on brake van rides, while the second will have a BR blue theme. Taking place on June 3/4, there will be six locomotives throughout the day on brake van trains at Rowsley South, with Class 01 D2953, Class 02 D2854, Class 03 D2139, Class 04s D2205 and D2284 and Class 05 D2587 all expected to be in use. The HST shed, maintenance facility and the wider collection not in use will all be displayed for visitors.

The second event, on September 2/3, will have a BR blue theme, with 03099, 03113, 06003, 07001 and 08016 all scheduled to be in use. This is expected to be the first time that 06003 will be in use following a repaint into BR blue – a move eagerly awaited by many shunter enthusiasts. Meanwhile, the HST is also midway through overhauling Ews-liveried 09001 at Rowsley South. The powerful shunter is being prepared by the HST for use by Peak Rail on some timetabled service trains on its line to Matlock, as well as for hauling demonstration freight trains at special events.

Mr Wade said that like many other preservation groups, the HST would welcome additional volunteers to help it maintain and operate its collection of locomotives, as well as assisting with various restoration projects being carried out.

More information on the Heritage Shunters Trust and its collection, and details about how anyone interested in volunteering with the group, are available online at www.heritageshunterstrust.com

Andy Coward ABOVE: The Heritage Shunters Trust is holding two special events at its Rowsley South site. The September event is expected to feature repainted 06003 operating brake van rides in BR blue livery. During its time in BR green and carrying its PRETOPS identity of D2420, the Class 06 is displayed at Rowsley on July 25, 2021.