Strathspey Steam Gala: September 16/17

A gala comprising of some possible interesting firsts:

The first(?) appearance of an S160 north of the border with No. 6046 lined up from Churnet Valley; currently in final stages of overhaul, if not complete in time will be replaced by No. 5197.

Flying Scotsman on static display (in light steam) at Boat of Garten; it will be pulling trains on September 15 in what I believe is its first 'working' visit to a Scottish heritage railway (has been stabled at Bo'ness during tour workings, but as far as I can find has never pulled a public train on a preserved railway in the country.)

Bon Accord from the Royal Deeside Railway operating footplate tasters and shunting at Boat of Garten.

Hourly timetable and will include late evening trains on the Saturday with goods trains running at times both days. A gathering of road engines (including a line of Showmans alongside the Gresley Pacific) at Boat with traction engines parading each afternoon.

A possible further guest being discussed but as yet unconfirmed.

Nos. 5025 and 46512 of course also out over the weekend.

 

Isn't this the 1st ever steam gala it's held?

 

Certainly wasn't a billing I was expecting. Very much a little and large pairing! Booked the weekend off for band activities so going to get up for the Saturday. An S160 up over Granish Moor is a tempting prospect. As is a Barclay Pug for that matter.

In this style, yes.

 

I've just been advised that the visit of the S160 has been dropped; an alternative loco is being investigated but at the moment looks like it will just be Bon Accord guesting at the event.

 

A shame, was looking forward to some big yank power but such is life. There is a lovely Edwardian tank visiting Boness only weeks before that would be an interesting addition. This is where I duck.

 

I thought if 6046 was a no show then Churnet would send 5197?
We also don't know what this second visitor is either.

Don't be silly, they wouldn't book a 57xx!
Anyhow, Peggy wouldn't be a bad shout, only needs one low-loader after all and it's not too far from there.

 

That was the intention. I'm not sure the ins-and-outs but it appears the S160 plan as a whole has been dropped which is somewhat disappointing as I'd booked accommodation earlier in the week (coming from London) to visit the railway for its first proper gala based on that.