The Branch Line Society will run an unusual locomotive-hauled excursion from Tonbridge in Kent to Nottingham on Sunday 11 June, raising funds for the Alzheimer’s Society,

Highlights include Sevington loop, Cranmore DGL, Otford Up Loop, Kew East curve, Wembley EuFOC and Harringay Curve.

All accommodation will be First Class, and passengers will have the opportunity to guarantee a table for two. A Buffet Car will serve hot and cold drinks, snacks and light refreshments.

This charter will be operated by GB Railfreight as part of its 2023 fund-raising programme.

It will feature a pair of Class 73’s to Wembley, and a GBRf Class 66 or 69 from Wembley to Nottingham, with Mk 2 coaching stock.

The Society has requested former Gatwick Express Class 73s 73202 and 73212, but this will be subject to availability and operational requirements. The Class 73s are expected to lead on departure from Sevington Loop.

There will be a charity raffle, with all proceeds donated to Alzheimer’s Society.

Indicative times and routing for this one-way trip:

Tonbridge P1 (PU 10.45) – Paddock Wood P2 – Cranmore DGL – Headcorn P2 – Ashford – Sevington Loop (RM) – Ashford P1 (PU 11.45) – Maidstone East Through Line – Otford Up Loop – Swanley – Bickley – Kent House P1 – Brixton Jn – Factory Jn – Clapham Junction P6 (PU 13.30) – New Kew Jn – Kew East Jn – Acton Canal Wharf – Willesden No 7 Jn – Wembley EuFOC (RM / loco change) – Kensal Green Jn – Gospel Oak – Harringay Curve – Stevenage – Huntingdon – Fletton Jn Dn Slow – Peterborough P5 (SD 17.00) – Helpston Jn – Tallington – Grantham – Bottesford – Nottingham P6 (SD 18.30)

Fares:

• First Class, Non-Dining, at a guaranteed table for two: £90
• First Class, Non-Dining: £65
• No surcharge for not being a Branch Line Society member
• Accompanied under 18s benefit from a £32.50 reduction in all fares.

For full details and to book visit the Branch Line Society’s website.