WEST SOMERSET DEBUT FOR 73082 CAMELOT AT WSR AUTUMN STEAM GALA

British Railways Class 5MT 73082 “Camelot” will be making its West Somerset Railway debut at the WSR Autumn Steam Gala which will take place between October 5^th and 8^th. Normally based at the Bluebell Railway and owned by the Camelot Locomotive Society 73082 will be third member of the class to operate between Bishops Lydeard and Minehead, its predecessors being 73096 and 73129.

Three other guests, which it is intended will be Swindon designed locos are being sourced and the visitors will operate alongside current residents of Minehead locoshed 6960 “Raveningham Hall”, LMS 4F 44422, and SDJR 7F’s 53808 and 53809. Industrial saddle tanks, Peckett “Kilmersdon” and Andrew Barclay 1219 will also be in action. As  “guests” are confirmed announcements will be made.

Other planned attractions will be the railway museums at Bishops Lydeard, Blue Anchor and Washford having their doors open. The shed and workshops at Minehead will be partially open on the Saturday and Sunday and also on Saturday and Sunday all engines should work chimney first, courtesy of the Norton Fitzwarren triangle and the Minehead Turntable. There will be model railway action at Bishops Lydeard and on all four days the Diesel and Electric Preservation Group will welcome visitors to their Williton Depot and Heritage Centre.  Details of the operation of the “Quantock Belle” dining train are being planned.

Discounted  Rover tickets are now on advanced sale at www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk or can be obtained by calling 01643 704996.