Growl, whistle, roar: it must be the Spring Diesel Gala!
article by: webmaster
posted on: 02 April 2009
updated on: 02 December 2009
The GWR's first event of the year is
this weekend: and as usual, the Spring Diesel Gala promises a feast
of diesel-powered magic.
The GWR's diesel galas have been
growing in popularity as visitors savour the growls, whistles and
roars of different classes of diesel locomotive - sounds that are
all too rare in the modern world of electric traction, HSTs and
multiple-units.
Machines in action over the weekend
include
Locomotives such as these hold an
important place in the GWR's history as they held sway over the
line after the end of steam until closure in 1976. The railway's
superb fleet is acclaimed by many as the best heritage diesel fleet
in the UK.
The intensive working timetable can be
downloaded by clicking
here and you'll see plenty of variety including double heading,
'local' trains between Winchcombe and Toddington as well as some
'top and tail' working.
All this for just £14 for adults; £12
for senior citizens and £10 for youngsters too - fantastic value,
especially as each ticket allows unlimited travel on the day of
issue. So arrive early - and enjoy!
If you want to stay for the weekend
there is plenty of local accommodation. And if you are a
photographer, make sure you are in possession of an orange
high-visibility vest as well as a lineside pass. Day and annual
passes are available from the Toddington booking office. There are
big discounts for GWR members so if you aren't already a member, do
yourself a favour and join: it's cheaper to join and buy a member's
annual pass!
The Flag & Whistle and on-train
catering will be serving refreshments throughout each day and on
the trains, you can enjoy the railway's exclusive Rail Ale, brewed at
Winchcombe by Goffs.