The weekend of the 2nd & 3rd of November saw the Dean Forest Railway hold their annual end of season Royal Forest of Steam Gala. This gala would see resident locos 8750 no.9681 and 4575 no.5541 being joined by newly restored Peckett 0-4-0ST 2147 Uskmouth 1 which was making its operational debut after a lengthy restoration, this is the first time the engine has been in service since 1993. Uskmouth spent the event on brakevan rides in and out of the platform at Norchard low level. Despite the first guest 94xx no.9466 being unavailable due to mechanical issues, second guest 56xx 6695 became the first 56xx to visit the railway in preservation, running the full length of the line on both passenger and freight trains. This event was also the last opportunity to see and ride behind 5541 before the engine is withdrawn from service for overhaul.
Locomotive roster includes:
Resident locos:
GWR 8750 no.9681
GWR 4575 no.5541
Peckett 2147 Uskmouth 1 (fresh from restoration)
Guest engines:
GWR 56xx no.6695 (courtesy of the Swindon & Cricklade Railway)
Hope you enjoy.
