A rare winter steam gala on the Severn Valley Railway would kick start the new year in fine style, the gala itself was a rather poignant one due to the fact there was a significant retirement of the life long resident locomotive, 43106 The 'Flying Pig' The LMS Ivatt would be seen in steam for the final time over the two day gala as its boiler ticket is up and its now due to be retired. There are no current plans to overhaul the loco due to unavailable funds. This video captures its final outings along the Severn Valley and it put in a few tasty performances as it sounded better than ever. A sad sight to see but from all accounts it went out in style !

It wasn't just the Flying Pig which was due to be retired at the winter gala, it was also Taw Valley's last runs before its due to be overhauled, so more of a temporary retirement if anything. The loco shouldn't be out for too long and it should return in its traditional southern guise. The loco is currently running in a wartime black livery and number 21C127. The gala was also showcasing the recent return of Stanier Mogul 2968 which recently returned last year after a near 11 year overhaul. The loco is firm favourite among enthusiasts and footplate crews.

The gala was a homefleet only event and the lack of a visiting engines did not put off the crowds with the the event being well attended across the two days. Great Western Manor Class 7812 'Erlestoke Manor was also in action after its Summer and Autumn visit to the West Somerset Railway. The Manor was in fine voice throughout as the video will show. The other homefleet locos were STD 4 75069 and everyone's favourite Pannier tank 7714 which looked resplendent with a short rake of Great Western Coaches whilst running along the flooded fields of the adjacent River Severn. The prolonged heavy rainfall we've had this winter has caused issues countrywide. The River Severn has now peaked thankfully and the weather is now beginning to settle down.

Top marks to the Severn Valley Railway for unusual steam gala but a much welcomed start to the new year. Action is captured on the day one of the event (06/01/24) I hope you enjoy the video.