The recent record temperatures are forcing dramatic changes in the operations of heritage railways, and in common with other lines throughout the country, the Kent & East Sussex Railway is running diesel-hauled trains instead of steam in case a stray spark from a steam locomotive starts a major fire in tinder-dry fields.

As a result, the railway, which runs for ten miles through the Rother Valley from Tenterden to Bodiam, found itself in urgent need of additional diesel locomotives to fulfil its timetable.

The Kent & East Sussex Railway had already arranged that three of its volunteers would take their track maintenance machinery to carry out some heavy infrastructure maintenance at the Epping and Ongar Railway.  Whilst there, it was suggested to them that there was the possibility that the Mid-Norfolk Railway had a diesel locomotive available for loan.

The Mid-Norfolk Railway agreed that the Kent & East Sussex could hire Class 33 diesel-electric No. 33202, currently named Dennis G Robinson. A few days later, 33202 made the 150-mile journey by road to Tenterden where it was prepared for service on the Kent & East Sussex. It hauled its first services this weekend and is running again today, Monday, 15th August.

When it was new, 60 years ago, 33202 was allocated first to Hither Green depot in South East London then shortly afterward to St. Leonard’s depot. While at St. Leonard’s, it would have often worked between Tonbridge and Hastings through Robertsbridge, which was the junction for the Kent & East Sussex line.

Other locomotives at the Kent & East Sussex include Class 14 diesel No. D9526 visiting from the West Somserset Railway, and the railway’s own Class 14 No. D9504 which is nearing the end of a period of repair and restoration work.

Kent & East Sussex Railway Operations Manager Peter Salmon said: “‘It was a huge relief given the forecast. It means we have another diesel to ensure we can deliver services in our peak month of operation in the main season.

“The continuing period of extreme fire risk means it would be irresponsible to operate our usual steam service.

“Testing, commissioning and crew familiarisation have all been undertaken and, with a number of our volunteers already competent for this type of diesel locomotive, we’ve been able to put her into service very quickly, once all the checks had been passed.”

“The 33/2 locomotives were constructed with a specially narrow body, which was necessary to operate through the narrow rail tunnels on this particular route, so we’re thrilled to welcome a loco with such local connections!”