SOUTH Devon Railway will host a special two-day Diesel Gala on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 November, following the success of last year’s popular one-day event.

The expanded celebration promises an unmissable weekend for enthusiasts and visitors alike, showcasing a rich line-up of heritage diesel locomotives along one of Devon’s most picturesque branch lines.

Visitors can look forward to a feast of classic traction, with an intensive timetable operating across both days.

The event will feature members of the railway’s much-loved home fleet, including Class 04s D2246 & D2271, Class 25 25262 and Class 33 33002, alongside two visiting Class 56 locomotives from Devon and Cornwall Railways.

Together, they will bring to life the golden age of British diesel power with locomotives built in every decade between the 1950s and 1980s, showcasing the development of modern railways.

The Diesel Gala will offer a rare opportunity to experience the sound and atmosphere of working heritage locomotives on the scenic route between Buckfastleigh and Totnes Riverside.

Passengers can relax with onboard buffet and bar services, while enjoying a front-row seat to the sights and sounds of these historic machines in motion.

Ernie Elsworth-Wilson, General Manager of South Devon Railway, said the return of the event reflects growing interest in the line’s diesel heritage.

‘Following a hugely popular one-day Diesel Gala in 2024, we are pleased to present a full two-day event this year’, Ernie said.

‘With an intensive timetable on both days and a buffet and bar service onboard, it is the perfect opportunity to experience a wealth of heritage diesel traction.

‘We are delighted to be working with Devon and Cornwall Railways again, who are very kindly supporting our event with two visiting Class 56 locomotives.

‘This will be the first time that a Class 56 has worked on our branch line, and they are sure to bring much interest’, Ernie added.

The Class 56 locomotives no. 56045 and no.56103 are usually utilised hauling heavy freight trains conveying construction materials and this will be a rare opportunity to travel behind the locomotives on a heritage railway.

With much acclaim from industry observers, no. 56045 was restored in July 2025 to close to it’s as delivered condition and since then it has been a popular exhibit at Rail200 events in Derby, Darlington and Chesterfield.

The appearance at the South Devon Railway will be its first use on passenger trains since the makeover and with the locomotive once being based at Bristol Bath Road depot for use on aggregates trains, its return to the West Country is rather appropriate.

Class 56 no. 56103 carries the corporate colours of DCRail complete with historic Devon and Cornwall Railway crests.

It is expected that one locomotive will be used each day during the gala with the second locomotive on static display.

The operating days of each locomotive will be confirmed nearer the time. Both locomotives will be appearing subject to availability

David Fletcher, Group Director for Rail at Cappagh said: ‘We are again pleased to be able to support the South Devon Railway and look forward to a successful weekend for all involved. I would like to thank the DCRail staff who have volunteered to support this event’.

Early bird tickets are available until 2 November, offering excellent value for those keen to secure their place at one of the region’s most distinctive railway events.

For more information and to book tickets, visit www.southdevonrailway.co.uk