Volunteer Liaison Officer update

Even though we are now closed to the public after a very busy and successful Polar Express TM season, there is still plenty of things going on at the railway.


Avonside Engine Co. Ltd No. 1919 “Cranford” arrived at the railway on January 30th. This steam locomotive has been hired in for our 2026 season and will be hauling our trains on selected dates throughout the year. We will also be offering driver experiences with Cranford so please keep a look out on our website and social media channels for further information. With thanks to Chris and Simon Theaker for the hire of Cranford and allowing it to visit our railway.


The railway also welcomed a narrow gauge battery powered tram on Saturday 31st January. It was built by Peter Hallam, (believed to be around 1999-2001) in St Austell Cornwall. It was originally built as a ¼ replica of a Manx Electric Railway tram, but was completely rebuilt into the current configuration not long after construction. The tram moved to a private railway near Carlisle where it was purchased by a volunteer in 2026. Currently unknown whether the tram is operational but requires cosmetic work. Hopefully will be used as a back-up locomotive for when the steam tram is unavailable for service and as the yard shunter’


The recent storms and bad weather in January has resulted in a number of trees and branches falling onto the railway. A clear up operation is taking place to ensure the railway remains open for departmental trains.


A bench seat has been fitted in the accessible area of our MK2 BSO No. 9406. It is still hoped to have this coach in service from Easter 2026.


The engine oil has been drained from Ruston & Hornsby Class LSSH No 525947 “Rusty”. This will allow easier removal of the big end components when removing the block and pistons.This will also allow the sump to be flushed out and a change of oil to take place.


Removal of the Polar Express decorations, and a thorough cleaning inside all four MK2 TSO coaches is taking place ready for the new season.


With thanks to Joshua, Jae and Andrew for the additional information and photographs used in this update.


The railway is now closed to the public until Easter Sunday 5th April.


Our 2026 events are now on our website, with tickets available for pre-booking.


https://www.telfordsteamrailway.co.uk/events-2026.html