WSR Spring Steam Gala - Thu 27 to Sun 30 April 2017

The event leaflet states Heritage Goods Train in service but I don't think any diagrams have been published yet.

 

What about brake van rides at the start of the day ? They have been done in the past ?

 

Heard a rumor at the Weekend, Whilst on the railway behind the 4F that lineside pass applications and renewals are being rejected due to the visit of 4472,

 

I think there will be brake van rides available this year, unsure of any details.
Robin F.

 

Hmmm. If only it was 4472 and not 60103.

 

one and the same, but would be a sad day to lose the extra revenue that the passes bring in, But if they raise higher than £50 can see a lot of people not renewing in the first place.

 

Yes, I know they're the same, but I think the loco looks much more impressive as 4472 in LNER apple green.
(and, yes, I know it's technically the wrong livery )

 

Problem is if this had come from the railway instead of a rumor then you wouldn't have so many upset people, The few that have posted here and on the WSR forum are in limbo because nothing official has come from the top,
The communication leaves a lot to be desired,

 

Re LSP's. I would suggest writing to the GM. We need to get our side of the argument over as I don't know if anyone else is.
(P.S. rumour, not rumor).

 

Along what lines ? Few times in the past I've tried to email the WSR about other things , never got an acknowledgement.

 

To balance things, I wrote to the WSR about LSPs a couple of weeks ago and had a prompt reply. Hopefully the position of LSPs will be resolved before the Spring Gala as I already have accomodation booked.

 

Unfortunately Brake Van rides will not be available for the SSG. I have this from a very good source.
Stef.

 

Maybe what I have been told has changed?
I think a bit more waiting may be required, I understand that brake van rides were being considered.
Robin F,

 

I have today had the disturbing news that LSP's are being discontinued on WSR! Sheer madness to my mind as they will lose quite a few faithful followers. I for one won't be going anywhere near as often especially during galas, having to stand shoulder to shoulder with everyone else at the popular viewing spots. I don't know what has prompted this as as far as I know there have been no incidents involving LSP holders. Not impressed frankly.

 

Correct Information is as per news item on wsr.org.uk.
Discontinued after 1st Jan 2018.
Railway is talking to HRA regarding options.
Renewals open for this year as long as you meet the criteria.
Robin F.

 

Thanks Robin. My source was Colin Howard, the Head of Commercial Services, so I imagine this is reliable information.
However, I hope that it proves to be wrong.
Stef.

 

I hope they do brake van rides, they are good.

 

Well lets hope the options are good ones.

 

I dont know any details, its just I am Guard on the Goods on the Friday and there has been a TTI booked as well for the turn, with the advise that it is for tickets for a extra brake van on the train BUT of course things change, so it may be it was considered but now not going to happen. I will not find out if there is rides available or not until much closer to the Gala.
I would hope that Colin would know the correct info, so it looks like it has changed since the roster was done.
Robin F

 

Timetables are up on the WSR website:
http://www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk/events/detail/spring-steam-gala

Anyone know if the intention is to turn loco's at each end so they are chimney first, thanks?