SWANAGE Railway's latest steam gala has broken all previous attendance records - making it the most successful gala in the heritage line's history.
Some 5,700 passengers were carried on the trains hauled by the classic 1940s-built Bulleid Pacific class of steam locomotive.
The historic locomotives took part in the three-day 'Strictly Bulleid' event earlier this month.
Swanage Railway general manager Matt Green said: "We had an absolutely fantastic Strictly Bulleid event with some 110 volunteers and staff helping to stage the event each day. It was areal Bulleid bonanza enjoyed by everyone.
"It has been a memorable and record-breaking event with the largest gathering of Bulleid steam locomotives in one place since the end of main line southern steam in the summer of 1967 - 50 years ago."
Steam trains also operated on Swanage Railway's four-mile newly completed extension from Norden station westwards to the River Frome during the event.
Mr Green said: "We also had a record-breaking number of visitors to the event and while we had some train delays, in what was a tight timetable, there was a great atmosphere about the place.
"The quality of the workmanship that has gone into the visiting Bulleid Pacific steam locomotives was incredible. All the engines performed well, they were well-liked by the footplate crews and they came with some excellent locomotive owners and representatives
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel