We’re heading into a momentous year for railway preservation as the Talyllyn Railway marks 75 years since it was saved from almost certain extinction to become the first heritage railway. But how did the concept of railway preservation emerge and develop? MARK PEARCE digs deeper.

FIRELESS LOCOMOTIVES – PART ONE

One of three remaining unrestored Barry ‘Hall’ class engines, No. 5967 Bickmarsh Hall has seen significant progress since its move to Llangollen in June 2024. GARY ESSEX visits the owner, Nick Gilbert, to look at progress.

Overhauls, restorations and running notes

As the Railway Preservation Society of Ireland appeals for funds to complete its recreated LMS (NCC) ‘W’ class 2-6-0, ROBIN MORTON and PETER SCOTT look back at these remarkable ‘Moguls’ and the project to bring one back to life.

Model Rail magazine’s editor rounds up the latest modelling news