The news that the Severn Valley Railway is holding its first ever Winter Steam Gala has been widely welcomed. The event is taking place on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 January 2024, and promises ideal conditions for photographers, as professional photographer and SVR volunteer John Titlow explained:
“The days may be short but winter is the best time to be out riding and photographing steam trains. Nothing is better than a cold, still winter day with the locomotive working hard and the exhaust laying on top of the train as it winds its way along the line.
“Frosty landscapes viewed from the inside of a steam-heated carriage is something special, particularly with a hot drink in hand. Snow and sun can only make it better!”
The railway is planning at least five steam locomotives in operation and a busy timetable that includes visiting locomotive 2253 ‘Omaha’, which has stayed at the SVR after its gala appearance in September.
The gala is also a last chance to see 21C127 ‘Taw Valley’ in wartime black, and to bid a temporary farewell to 43106 ‘The Flying Pig’ as it reaches the end of its current boiler ticket. The recently overhauled 2968 makes its gala debut and 7812 ‘Erlestoke Manor’ is back at its home base as well.
Organisers anticipate that services will begin at 8am each day, finishing about 7pm, including an evening special on the Saturday, with 43106.
Tickets are on sale at svr.co.uk.
