For their 'Spring Steam Gala', the South Devon Railway made a firm return to their roots, fronting their three original locomotives; 4555, 6412 and 1369 - a sight not seen on the railway for 47 years.
After purchase in 1965, 4500 Class - 4555 worked the inaugural preservation service over what would become the South Devon Railway in 1969, being the first locomotive based on the railway. In 1973, the loco was transferred to the Dartmouth Steam Railway where it has remained since. Now returning from an extensive overhaul, 4555 made a return to the South Devon Railway, rubbing shoulders once again with 6412 and 1369, both of which along with 4555, served as the first three locomotives to be based at the South Devon Railway in preservation.
The gala featured a frequent passenger service, with the addition of demonstration goods and Autocoach runs woven into the timetable.
The event also marked a return to service for 1366 Class - 1369, fresh from a two year long overhaul.
Locomotives:
GWR 4500 'Small Prairie' Class - 4555
GWR 1366 'Pannier Tank' Class - 1369
GWR 4575 'Small Prairie' Class - 5542
Ex-GWR 6400 'Pannier Tank' Class - 6412
All footage filmed on Saturday the 14th of March 2020