NEW GUEST LOCO ANNOUNCED: DIESEL POWER TAKES THE SPOTLIGHT AT GREAT CENTRAL RAILWAY SPRING GALA

Experience the roar of classic diesel power at the Great Central Railway’s Spring Diesel Gala, taking place from Friday 24 to Sunday 26 April 2026. Running along the UK’s only preserved double-track main line, this three‑day celebration promises an intensive timetable of frequent services and a stunning line‑up of both home fleet and visiting diesel locomotives.

Against the backdrop of the blossoming Charnwood countryside, visitors will see an impressive selection of diesel traction in action. Alongside the Great Central Railway’s own fleet, the event will feature special guest locomotives including the powerful Class 35 D7018 ‘Hymek’ and the first‑time visitor Class 14 D9525.

Excitingly, GCR has also just announced that Class 26 26043 will be the final guest to join the gala, with thanks for the Cotswold Mainline Diesel Group and Gloucestershire and Warwickshire Steam Railway. Class 55 D9015 will now also be on static display with cab access at Quorn.

Over the course of the weekend, guests can make the most of the intensive service timetable, with plenty of opportunities to ride behind different diesel locos as they traverse between the railway’s four historic stations. Those seeking an immersive experience can pre‑book cab rides to enjoy front‑line views on their favourite traction, while Friday visitors may enjoy a special run along the Mountsorrel Branch aboard Derby Lightweight Iris, with entry to the Heritage Centre at Nunckley Hill included.

The gala also offers a range of unique experiences beyond the mainline action. On Saturday and Sunday, visitors can try their hand at being Driver for a Tenner on Class 08 13101 around the Loughborough Central shed area. The same loco will be working passenger trains on the Friday only. The Class 08 13101 hasn’t hauled a passenger service for a number of years, so this is one not to miss!

Limited brake van rides behind a Windcutter Goods Train will give a rare perspective on railway operations and will now also be running across the whole weekend. Throughout the event there will be trade stands at Loughborough Central, where visitors can meet preservation groups, browse model railway merchandise and support the organisations keeping diesel heritage alive.

Refreshments and dining opportunities will be available throughout the weekend, with food and drink served from the 1960s Griddle Car, the newly relaunched Buffet Car and cafés across the line, making it easy to combine great railway action with classic British heritage hospitality.

Tickets are available now for this unmissable celebration of diesel traction and Britain’s rich railway heritage. For more information, and to book, please visit: https://www.gcrailway.co.uk/visit/events/20260424-spring-diesel-gala/