All of the SVR’s ‘Magnificent Seven’ are named for Autumn Diesel Bash
The Severn Valley Railway has named the four guest locomotives that will be joining the ‘Magnificent Seven’ line-up at its Autumn Diesel Bash, from 29th September to 1st October.
The railway has confirmed that it has agreement in principle to welcome four diesel hydraulics to the event. Subject to availability, these will be the Class 35 Hymeks D7017 and D7018, owned by the Diesel & Electric Preservation Group and based at the West Somerset Railway, and Warship Class No 832 ‘Onslaught’ and Class 35 Hymek 7076, owned by the Bury Hydraulic Group and based at the East Lancashire Railway.
The visitors join the SVR-based D821 ‘Greyhound’, D1015 ‘Western Champion’ and D1062 ‘Western Courier’ to complete the ‘Magnificent Seven’ line-up.
“Undoubtedly this is a very ambitious event,” explained the SVR’s managing director, Jonathan ‘Gus’ Dunster. “We’ve pulled together the largest ever gathering of main line diesel hydraulic types.
“We needed plenty of faith to attempt this. But, the SVR is home to the only two currently working Class 52 Westerns, and these were our initial seeds of inspiration. And, our Diesel Festival in the spring proved we’ve got serious drawing power in terms of our visitor numbers. Together these factors gave us the confidence to go for it.
“The ‘Magnificent Seven’ theme for our Autumn Diesel Bash is the final element of celebrating 50 years of heritage diesel preservation. What better way to do this than muster this impressive showing of former Western Region diesel hydraulic classes, which were the pioneers of early diesel locomotive preservation.
“The SVR is setting out its stall as the leading venue for heritage diesel events, and by providing this unique opportunity, we think we’ll nail it.”
The railway is also promising photos shoots with some of the visitors and the home fleet, and a pre-event ‘excursion’ day on Wednesday 27th September, featuring three round trips, hauled by three different diesel hydraulic locomotives.
At The Engine House, there are plans for a 5” gauge display of miniature diesel hydraulics, along with a mini beer festival.
Gus added:
“We know that people are keen to see the timetable, but an event of this size requires something very complex to be put together. It’s a work-in-progress and we’ll be announcing it as soon as possible. And, we’re working on something very special for Sunday 1st October as a final flourish to round off the Diesel Bash in true SVR style, which we hope to announce very soon.”
