A newly built steam train is still set to be the star of the show at a heritage railway's steam gala later this month.Severn Valley Steam Railway at Bridgnorth. The Spring Steam Gala takes place on the 18th-21st April 2024. Pictured from left to right, Alistair Stuart and John Kitchen Picture by Phil Blagg Photography. PB038-2024
The in-service debut of Betton Grange has been anticipated for more than a quarter of a century, after the construction project started in 1998. The SVR expects the locomotive to be a big crowd-puller at its four-day event, as managing director Jonathan ‘Gus’ Dunster explained earlier in the spring: “We are extremely pleased to be hosting the gala debut of such an important engine.
Subject to examination and agreement between TLW and the SVR on testing and commissioning of the loco, Betton Grange will join fellow guests Terrier No 72 Fenchurch and Lambton Tank No 29, as well as members of the SVR’s home fleet, including the Stanier Mogul 13268, appearing for the first time in its new LMS lined black livery and bearing its new number, and the SVR’s flagship locomotive, 4930 Hagley Hall.