North Norfolk Railway gala rides a season of success
THE North Norfolk Railway’s (NNR) September 3-5 steam gala proved a popular draw, the news coming during a season when trains have had to be strengthened to carry increased passenger numbers.
“The gala was extremely well supported with 2744 passengers carried across the three days, making it one of our most successful galas in recent years,” NNR commercial manager, Graham Hukins told the RM.
“It is a tribute to our staff and volunteers that we were able to field an impressive line-up of six tender locos, all from the home fleet, to put on a fantastic show which featured 12 hours of on track action each day.”
Making its final gala appearance ahead of overhaul was ‘B12’ 4-6-0 No. 8572 – while ‘7F’ No. 53809 returned to traffic after extensive repairs which have kept the 2-8-0 out of action for almost two years. Other performers included GER ‘Y14’ 0-6-0 No. 564, BR ‘4MT 2-60 No. 76084, BR ‘9F’ No. 92203 Black Prince and WD 2-10-0 No. 97705 The Royal Norfolk Regiment.
Graham said August was “very successful” and within 2% of the NNR’s busiest ever with 31,547 passengers carried during the month, taking the line’s total since re-opening on April 12 to over 75,000. The good numbers continued into the start of the railway’s autumn service with trains having to be specially strengthened to six coaches on September 7.
“We are looking forward to the Members’ & Shareholders’ Day on October 9, which will showcase the collection of our supporting charity, the Midland & Great Northern Society,” added Graham. “This will see the ‘B12’ making one of its final appearances before overhaul and the delightful Victorian train returning to service having been sidelined during Covid-19 and the initial resumption of services.”
A special timetable will operate. Visitors who are not members or shareholders are welcome to travel on this day – standard fares will apply.