Easter Weekend 2014 saw the Dean Forest Railways resident small prairie No 5541 return to service after 9 years since it was withdrawn for overhaul. The Dean Forest organised a small celebration to welcome back the prairie by planning a small gala using other residents to the railway to a timetable featuring passenger and goods workings.
The full loco line up was -
|GWR 4575 Class No 5541
|Hunslet 0-6-0ST No 3806 'Wilbert'
|BR Class 14 No D9555
Despite the day starting with delays up to 35 minutes due to points issues at Lydney Junction the railway was able to get back on time by around lunchtime with some clever movement of services. A very enjoyable day it was with some enthusiastic performances from both steam and diesel alike. Highlights include Class 14 D9555 on the goods train and 5541 at Lydney Town and approaching Whitecroft in gorgeous Spring Sunshine as it passes through the forest.
Well done to all who worked hard on 5541, certainly did look the business!
