On Tuesday 26th August 2025, 50049 had an unplanned shutdown at Bridgnorth whilst working a routine train on the SVR. When attempting to re-prime the fuel, it was confirmed that there was zero fuel pressure. A plan was formed to bring the loco back to Kidderminster whereby further examinations and tests could take place, this took place on Thursday 28th August. A few local tests were performed and the fuel was primed once again and surprisingly 20psi of fuel pressure regis
Another date in March for your diary, as we head to South Wales with UK Railtours and Hanson & Hall’s 50008 Thunderer. Tickets and further information can be found at https://www.ukrailtours.com/product/the-south-wales-industrial-explorer-take-2/ This tour was postponed in November, due to last minute operational issues.
Some Sunday afternoon mainline thrash is up for grabs, thanks to UK Railtours. With this one way positioning move with one of our locomotives joining Hanson & Hall’s,50008 Thunderer. Visit www.ukrailtours.com for information and tickets. Locos subject to availability Fantastic photo by J Hartley
Uk Railtours “The East Lancashire Railway “ 📆 Saturday 7th March 2026 📍Commencing at Watford Junction with various pickup points ⭐️ 2 Class 50’s & a class 56* Hanson & Hall’s 50008 Thunderer along with Class 50 Alliance’s 50049 Defiance escorted on to the ELR metals by The Class 56 Group’s mighty grid ✅ Option to visit the museum and enjoy a trip on the 12 mile scenic route between Heywood and Rawtenstall. For more information and tickets 🎟️ please visit ⬇️ https://www.ukr