Mince Pie Steam Special – 30th December 2023
On Saturday 30th December 2023, over 200 Stanier Mogul Fund members and their guests enjoyed a round trip on the Severn Valley Railway behind 2968 on board 5 immaculate LMS coaches with complimentary mince pies. A perfect way to bring 2023 to a close. This was a free event for members, which was an opportunity for the people who make possible the overhauls and ongoing preservation of the Stanier mogul to enjoy the fruits of this dedicated support and enjoy experiencing 2968 in action.
It all began on the 29th December with a warming fire being lit in 2968 on shed at Bridgnorth. In preparation for the 30th.
After working from Bridgnorth to Kidderminster light engine. 2968 is seen here in road 5 of Kidderminster Carriage shed collecting the 5 LMS carriages for its special train.
A pause at Arley on the outward journey allowed for a leg stretch and an opportunity to visit the footplate, also for the happy crew to pose for photographs. All smiles! R Cooper
After making easy work of Highley Bank, another short break at Hampton Loade, while waiting to cross with an up train from Bridgnorth.
Running round the train at Bridgnorth. 2968 sat for a while on Platform 1, again for photos and an opportunity for members and their guests to visit the footplate. J Titlow
The all SMF member crew happy in their work.
2968 at the head of her train once again in Platform 2 at Bridgnorth, ready for departure once a Down train arrives. P Weston
A view of the footplate, whilst again at Arley Station. The jewel in the crown of the SVR. R Cooper
From the front at Arley, 2968 in all her glory.
Darkness began to fall as we stopped at Bewdley.
The glow of the firebox lights up the cab, before the final run to Kidderminster. F Goulding
A final view of 2968 on the stop blocks on Platform 2 on Kidderminster. Before setting the coaches back into the Carriage sidings and returning light engine to Bridgnorth. R. Cooper