The Bulleid Double | Swanage Railway 30/04/2022

One original, one rebuilt. One 'Battle of Britain', one 'West Country'. One BR built, one Southern built. There had been no intention of going back to the Swanage Railway so soon before their 'Diesel Gala', but this was too tempting to miss, as two Bulleid pacifics steamed together over the bank holiday weekend to operate the railways' Yellow timetable.

The pair, owned by Southern Locomotives Ltd, have long been residents of the Swanage Railway home-fleet, with both now in their second boiler tickets in preservation. Despite this, it's the first time they've rubbed shoulders in steam on a standard operating day in preservation, having only worked together previously for the 'Steam and Lights' services in the winter. Similarly, it's believed to be the first time in over 8 years that any two Bulleid pacifics have operated together on the Swanage Railway on a standard timetable day.

Given that four years ago, SLL were facing a locomotive crisis with no operating Bulleid pacifics, with their only hire revenue coming in from 4MT Tank - 80104, the sight of two of their Bulleids steaming through the Isle of Purbeck was a very welcome one.

Locomotives:
BR(S) 'Battle of Britain' Class - 34072 "257 Squadron"
Ex-SR Rebuilt 'West Country' Class - 34028 "Eddystone"

All footage filmed on Saturday the 30th of April 2022.