Diesel Gala
The Return of the Diesels!
Many visitors won’t remember steam traction, so the Diesel Gala brings back memories of these heritage machines that worked right from the end of steam up until recent memory – and in some cases, continue to do so!
The event will take place from Thursday, 19th to Sunday, 22nd June.
GUEST LOCOMOTIVES
COLAS
Class 37 appearing courtesy of Colas Rail
Class 37
We are thrilled to announce that Colas Rail will be supporting our upcoming Diesel Gala with the appearance of one of their iconic Class 37 locomotives!
Best known for their role on Network Rail Infrastructure Monitoring test trains, the locomotive is scheduled to arrive on Friday afternoon and will depart the railway on Sunday.
The exact locomotive number will be confirmed closer to the event—stay tuned for updates!
We extend our sincere thanks to Colas Rail for their generous support—this marks the first time they’ve provided a locomotive for our event, and we’re excited to welcome them!
📸 Tom Noble
55009
Class 55 appearing courtesy of The Deltic Preservation Society
‘Alycidon ‘
A true icon of diesel traction, 55009 ‘Alycidon’ is one of the surviving members of the legendary Deltic fleet that once roared down the East Coast Main Line.
Built in 1961, this locomotive racked up an incredible service life, and is now proudly preserved by the Deltic Preservation Society.
‘Alycidon’ makes her KWVR debut in 2025, unveiled in the striking Finsbury Park “white cab” livery, appearing for the first time in this new guise.
Get ready for the unmistakable growl of Napier engines echoing through the Worth Valley — a sound not to be missed!
📸 Ian Dixon
47714
47714 appearing courtesy of Wensleydale Railway
Class 47
Built in 1966 as D1776, 47714 is a veteran of express passenger work during the British Rail era. Later reclassified with ETH (Electric Train Heating) for modern coaching stock, it served on both intercity and secondary duties across the UK.
Now preserved, 47714 makes its first appearance at KWVR, bringing with it the unmistakable presence of one of BR’s most successful diesel classes.
Don’t miss seeing this iconic locomotive in action—combining classic diesel power with a bold new look.
📸 George Stephens
50021
50021 appearing courtesy of Paul Spracklen
‘Rodney’
Another returning favourite, 50021 ‘Rodney’ was built in 1968 for high-speed duties on the West Coast Main Line.
Known for their dramatic sound and performance, the Class 50s have long been fan favourites.
Preserved by Paul Spracklen, ‘Rodney’ returns to KWVR following a standout appearance in 2024 – now sounding even better after further restoration work. She’ll be running alongside 55009 for an unforgettable display of diesel power.
Welcome back, Dave!
47715
47754 appearing courtesy of Mike Vaughan & Rail Engineering Solutions
Class 47
We’re pleased to welcome Class 47 No. 47715 ‘Rail Engineering Solutions – Quality Assured’ to the Diesel Gala, thanks to Mike Vaughan & Rail Engineering Solutions.
A stablemate to 47714, 47715 was also built in 1966 (as D1777) and followed a similar operational life – from fast passenger duties to departmental work later in its career. She’ll be running alongside her sister loco, 47714, and this could be your last chance to catch 47715 in her iconic Network SouthEast livery before she gets a new paint job!
Together, 47714 and 47715 form a classic pairing, and both will be starring at the Diesel Gala for the very first time.
📸 Ian Dixon
37508
37508 appearing courtesy of Loram UK Ltd
Class 37
Originally built in 1961 at the English Electric Vulcan Foundry as D6704, this locomotive later became 37606 during its long mainline career. Now restored and running as 37508, it’s preserved and maintained by LORAM.
Class 37s were the backbone of both passenger and freight services for decades, beloved for their distinctive growl and durability.
Thanks to a rake of air-braked Mk1 coaches provided by WCRC, 37508 will be hauling its first passenger services in preservation under its current identity — a historic moment not to be missed!
📸 Kenny Felstead
TIMETABLES
The preview of the locomotive allocations and working timetables will be available soon. These will be available in a booklet on the day you collect your tickets. There is no need to print beforehand!