The ongoing hiatus of the Great Dorset Steam Fair has understandably left many people disappointed. Thankfully, the sight of a steam fair in Dorset could still be experienced at the Swanage Railway, with their 'Roads to Rail' event returning for another year; held over the weekend of June 28th-30th.

A collection of steam traction engines and other heritage vehicles would descend on the Isle of Purbeck, with many of them taking to 'The Play Pen'; the main display arena, where owners could demonstrate their vintage vehicles in action.

Alongside the impressive display of heritage vehicles, there would be working demonstrations, a beer tent, and evenings of live music all contributing as attractions. There would also be a few trade stands around the arena. Among them, David Ensor, photographer and volunteer with Southern Locomotives Ltd, was selling prints of some of his spectacular images in order to raise funds for SLL. On-site camping would also be available for those travelling from further away. For the duration of the event, T3 Class - 563 would feature on static display at Norden, adjacent to the arena field, with the cab being open to visitors.

Services would be handled by U Class - 31806 and the resident Class 117 DMU. The DMU would remain in service through Friday and Saturday evenings, providing transport for people travelling to and from the arena field.

Locomotives:
Ex-SR U Class - 31806
BR Class 117 DMU - W51356+W59486+W51388
LSWR T3 Class - 563

00:00 - 31806 Norden Common
00:52 - 31806 Castle View Crossing
01:57 - Class 117 DMU Norden Common
02:39 - 563 Norden
05:51 - The Play Pen
23:05 - Wood sawing demonstration
24:38 - Around the arena field
26:32 - "Dauntless" Corfe Castle
29:10 - Winch demonstration
30:48 - The Play Pen
36:03 - Class 117 DMU New Barn
37:09 - Class 117 DMU Townsend Bridge
38:04 - The Play Pen

Footnote:
With thank to Nathan Au, Chairman of the 563 Locomotive Group, for facilitating the fitment of a particular headboard.

All footage filmed on Friday the 28th, and Saturday the 29th, of June 2024.

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