MLVs for Watercress Line Diesel Gala

THE Mid-Hants Railway has announced the first visitors to its July Diesel Gala will be Class 419 Motor Luggage

Vans Nos. S68001 (9001) and 9002, courtesy of the EPB Preservation Group.

Built in 1959 at Eastleigh, the MLVs were the first of a batch of 10 introduced for the Kent Coast Electrification. They were designed to carry the large quantities of luggage for passengers travelling overseas by connecting ships, and were equipped with batteries for running short periods away from the third-rail in yards and sidings.

The Watercress Line Diesel Gala will be a three-day event from July 15-17. Further visiting traction is still to be announced.