And now for something completely different.

This week (or last weekend rather) was the GWSR’s Cotswold Festival of Steam, 2023 and they pulled out all the stops this year. Special guests included 75014 ‘Braveheart’ from the Paignton & Dartmouth Railway, 31806 from the Swanage Railway and 78019 from the Great Central Railway. Also in action were LMS Pug 11243, 7820 ‘Dinmore Manor’ and 7903 ‘Foremarke Hall’ masquerading as 6999 ‘Capel Dewi Hall’.

Perhaps the most important guest of the event was ‘Pendennis Castle’ who came to the GWSR direct from the SVR following its photo charter on the Monday following their Spring Steam Gala. It ran a special non-stop excursion and even double headed with 7903 on their set of Chocolate & Cream Mark Ones. All did not go quite according to plan as there ended up being a few delays throughout and 7820 had to be withdrawn on the Sunday due to mechanical problems. Nevertheless, a combination of fine weather and glorious motive power ensured a popular turn out.

Once again, it is Ben & Emily whom I have to thank for making this video possible. I was invited to join them but unfortunately I was rostered on an SVR TTI duty so I had to pass on that. Hopefully might be able to go next year. They did take quite a lot more footage but it was in portrait so I’ve added some of their photographs at the end for extra interest. Full marks (Foremarke’s, boom boom) to GWSR for a fantastic event and hears to another successful financial and operational year.

In other news: This is Your Life shall return next week with a ‘small’ instalment. Do not adjust your set!

As always, thanks very much for watching.

Stay Safe & Stay Tuned - Alex.

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