The 27th of February saw ‘The Southern Six’ which is made up of six leading members from six heritage railways from the South of England hold a special meeting at The Bluebell Railway.

‘The Southern Six’ aims to promote solidarity and cooperation between the railways in order to create a united front, especially as recent times are economically challenging for the sector alongside the ever-increasing demands imposed within the industry.

The group’s alliance is hoped to create solutions and support their action, working together in this manner is hoped will bring a unified approach so that it can build the best possible outcomes for those concerned.

The first meeting was reported to be extremely positive with a great deal of thought and discussion created on how to push forward with ideas shared and intentions which aim to create coping mechanisms for the areas of need for 2023 and into the future for each of the railways.

The meetings are set to take place every two months and mark a fantastic step forward in making use of skills, communication and resources across the six railways.

‘The ‘Southern Six’ alliance is made up of:

• The Bluebell Railway with Lisa Boyle and Chris Knibbs in attendance at the meeting
• The Kent & East Sussex Railway with Robin Commbes in attendance at the meeting
• The Mid Hants Railway’s Amanda Squires was sadly unable to attend due to work commitments
• The Spa Valley Railway with Jonnie Pay in attendance at the meeting
• The Isle of Wight Steam Railway with Steve Backhouse in attendance at the meeting
• The Swanage Railway with Robert Patterson in attendance at the meeting