The Great Central Railway proudly announces the return of its much-anticipated annual Autumn Diesel Gala, running from 4th to 6th September. This action-packed event offers visitors the chance to experience an impressive range of diesel traction, featuring the home fleet alongside three spectacular visiting locomotives.
A highlight of the heritage railway calendar, the gala kicks off with Thursday’s BR Green Day, showcasing a nostalgic, green-liveried roster including the guest Class 35 ‘Hymek’ No. 7018, Class 14 ‘Teddy Bear’ D9551, and Class 27 D5370, alongside home fleet favourite Class 37 D6700.
Visitors can enjoy three specially configured train sets, including a Griddle Car serving hot meals, a newly launched Buffet Bar with hand-pulled pints, and classic suburban coaching stock. Additionally, ‘Iris’ will be running special services along the Mountsorrel Branch, while an exclusive opportunity to take the controls of Class 10 D4067 at Rothley Carriage & Wagon will be available on Thursday only, for a £20 supplement.
The visiting locomotives add historical depth and variety to the gala:
- Class 35 ‘Hymek’ No. 7018 (built 1962), one of only four preserved Hymeks, restored to service in 2019 after extensive overhaul.
- Class 14 ‘Teddy Bear’ D9551 (built 1965), a beloved loco restored to its original green livery and a familiar sight on the Severn Valley Railway.
- Class 27 D5370, a versatile loco with a rich history spanning freight and passenger duties across the UK, now preserved and operated by the Caledonian Railway Diesel Group.
The home fleet includes the much-loved Class 27 27056, Class 33 D6535, Class 37 37714, Class 37 D6700, Class 50 50017, and Class 55 55019, providing a wide variety of diesel traction throughout the weekend.
Friday and Saturday promise busy, full-day schedules with four train sets in operation, including a station tearoom and a BBQ at Loughborough Central. Evening events feature the popular BeerEx, hauled by different locomotives each night – Friday by D7018, and Saturday by 27056 and a guest loco. An evening-only ticket offer is available on these days, granting access from 5:00pm at reduced prices.
For those seeking an extra treat, the gala extends to Sunday 7th September with a Mixed Traffic Day, combining steam and diesel traction, passenger and goods trains, and brake van rides. Diesel power is expected to include guest and home fleet locos alongside a steam engine from the home fleet, with a special offer allowing kids to go for a quid.
Throughout the event, visitors are encouraged to explore the lively trade stands at Loughborough Central Station, featuring groups such as SVR Class 14 Ltd; 27007 Lives; Deltic Preservation Society; Heavy Tractor Group, and 5305 Locomotive Association. These stands offer memorabilia, preservation insights, and an opportunity to meet those dedicated to keeping diesel heritage alive.
The Annual Autumn Diesel Gala is a must-visit for diesel enthusiasts, families and friends, providing a unique blend of history, heritage, and entertainment as the new season begins.
Tickets are available to purchase via gcrailway.co.uk. Evening only tickets for Friday and Saturday (5pm onwards), are only available to purchase on the day via the GCR Loughborough Booking Office, or a Train Ticket Inspector.
Image credit: GC Railway
