GARY ESSEX looks at the railways that have successfully diversified their income streams, from contract work for main line operators to reinventing themselves as invaluable training sites.

EXPERT ANALYSIS OF THE ISSUES AFFECTING TODAY’S MAIN LINE CHARTER SCENE

Eyebrows were raised among the steam fraternity when the Watercress Line preserved a ‘Sprinter’ diesel multiple unit. Now the train has arrived at Ropley, MARK PEARCE delves deeper into what the move means for the future of heritage rail motive power.

Overhauls, restorations and running notes

When ALFRED FISHER took off on a mission to ride the Tollesbury Line in Essex in the early 1950s, he had no idea of the drama to follow…

The little-known Old Kiln Light Railway is home to a fascinating collection of narrow gauge locomotives and stock, including a rare large ‘Quarry Hunslet’ awaiting a return to the rails. Steam Railway pays a visit.