Bideford rides again!
Public services resume at North Devon heritage venue after 15-year absence.
THE Bideford Railway Heritage Centre, Devon, saw the return of passenger operations after a 15year absence. These took place on October 31 when ‘Halloween Specials’ were run in the form of cab rides in ‘Planet’ four-wheel diesel No. DS1170 (Hibberd
3832 of 1957).
This proved popular with much interest from visitors in this rare opportunity to ride in the loco and enjoy the views across the town and the River Torridge.
Group spokesman Lewis Andrews said: “It was a wonderful day and particularly pleasing to see the smiling faces of the children who, in some cases, fulfilled a dream of riding in a locomotive in north Devon. Today has been the result of about four years of hard work by our volunteers which began by rebuilding the loco’s engine, many hours of repainting, weeding and paperwork, which resulted in the site rightfully returning to a passenger railway station.
“Next year, we plan to give rides in our guard’s van with a choice of indoor seating or standing behind the loco; so exciting times ahead!”
The signalbox museum was open as a finale to a busy season at the heritage centre.
The cab rides were so successful, with nearly 100 people travelling, that this offering is due to be repeated on December 31, 13.00-15.00.
Meanwhile, working parties continue on Wednesdays from 10.00 onwards with anyone welcome to join in.
Located at the old station Bideford, Devon, it is one of the UK’s shortest standard gauge heritage railways. The line is about 1000ft in length with regular rides due to start next April, with advance booking available.
Visit www.bidefordrailway. co.uk for details.