The Keighley and Worth Valley Railway held their annual 'Spring Steam Gala' over the weekend of 6th, 7th and 8th March. Like previous events, the gala would see vintage services, demonstration goods runs, expresses, shuttles and everything else in-between. As the Worth Valley is one of my favourite heritage lines, with so much to see and do in such a short distance, I knew a visit would have to be made. It would be the perfect way to round off a full weekend of nothing but steam, having spent Friday at the East Lancashire Railway's own gala and Saturday chasing LNER A4 60009 'Union Of South Africa' (see separate videos).

Eight locomotives would be in action; GWR 5101 'Large Prairie' 2-6-2T 4144 visiting from Didcot Railway Centre. The only engine from the KWVR's home fleet that didn't take part was BR Standard 4MT 4-6-0 75078, as maintenance is still ongoing. The biggest surprise however was the weather: persistent rain had been expected but I was pleasantly surprised by the sunny spells with drizzle only setting in towards the late afternoon.

The full lineup consisted of:

Visiting:
GWR 5101 'Large Prairie' 2-6-2T 4144 (from Didcot Railway Centre)

Home Fleet:
LMS Stanier 5XP 'Jubilee' 4-6-0 45596 'Bahamas'
LMS Stanier Black 5MT 4-6-0 45212
MR Fowler 4F 0-6-0 43924
BR Standard 2MT 2-6-0 78022
TVR O2 0-6-2T 85
USATC S160 2-8-0 5820 'Big Jim'
LMS Ivatt 2MT 2-6-2T 41241 (ran on Friday and Saturday only)*

*Does not feature in this video.

I hope you all enjoy the video. Special thanks to the KWVR for another fantastic event. Feel free to comment and subscribe!

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