Taff Vale Railway 0-6-2T no. 85 had the luxury of a day off on Sunday when USATC S160 5820 handled the steam service but is back this weekend on both days.

DRB M79964 which will once again operate the diesel turns throughout the weekend.

The highlight of last weekend was the trial running of a steam hauled (empty) passenger set banked by a further steam locomotive to simulate the operation when ‘Flying Scotsman’ visits in April. Under normal circumstances steam banked passenger services are not permitted and hence the trial. 60103 is a thoroughbred and the lifting of a heavy train, which will include both Pullman coaches, on the steep curve out of Keighley and up Keighley Bank is not what the A3 Pacific was built for. Banking assistance has therefore been given special dispensation to ensure that the days services operate without hitches and delays, should the Pacific need assistance out of Keighley. This adds to the dispensation for the axle loading which is over normal KWVR limits.

With 5820 at the head and 90733 at the rear the pair power towards Ingrow. The exhaust from 90733 can just be seen at the rear

5820 has passed and 90733 comes into view

Working hard, 90733 gives rear assistance , non-stop through Ingrow

A view across the Valley as the evening sun sinks below the skyline and the pair continue on through Oakworth on the last trip of the day.

Whilst every effort will made to ensure that the advised motive power is available, the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway reserve the right to change this when operational circumstances so dictate.