‘Deltics’ make a spectacular debut in the Cotswolds

CLASS 55 No. 55019 Royal Highland Fusilier has become the first of this iconic type ever to operate a passenger train on any part of the former Stratford upon Avon–Honeybourne–

Cheltenham line. It was the only visiting loco supporting the varied home fleet of six locos at the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway’s July 29-31 diesel gala.

It was such a star loco it ensured the event was a huge success with more than 1,500 tickets issued – this continuing an upward trend in attendance for GWSR diesel galas.

No. 55019 was then joined by Deltic Preservation Society classmate No. 55009 Alycidon for a special running day on August 19 to mark 40 years of ‘Deltic’ preservation.

ROBIN STEWARTSMITH The Deltic Preservation Society’s No. 55009 approaches Toddington on August 19 during the running day with stablemate No. 55019 to mark 40 years of ‘Deltic’ preservation (see also page 82).