Railway's 50th anniversary starts with diesel gala

Kent & East Sussex Railway is holding events to mark its 50th anniversary

Kent & East Sussex Railway (K&ESR) will hold its first diesel gala in 14 years as it starts events to mark its 50th anniversary.

Five historic diesel locomotives will be in action this weekend, with three of them being ‘guests’ making their first ever appearance at the railway.

The other two will be from the K&ESR’s diesel fleet.

K&ESR general manager Robin Coombes said: “Diesel trains have played an important part in the evolution of the UK’s rail system and were there at the start of the K&ESR’s services back in 1974."

The five trains will leave Rolvenden at 09:30BST on Saturday, travelling up Tenterden bank and into Tenterden station.

Just like steam trains, diesel trains have their own loyal following amongst railway enthusiasts and the railway expects a busy event.

Mr Coombes said: “They are iconic in their own right and it is our job as an educational charity to help visitors understand and appreciate that role as we bring British transport history to life while giving passengers an amazing day out.”

The railway is offering visitors the chance of a 'driver experience' on a diesel train

The diesel gala will run until 14 April.

The railway is also offering the chance to sign up for a 'driver experience' on a trains in a siding near the station.

The event is expected to be busy due to the loyal following of railway enthusiasts for both diesel and steam trains.

A heritage bus will also be running between Headcorn station, on the Southeastern mainline between London and Ashford, and Tenterden.

K&ESR is holding a 50th anniversary gala on 1-2 June.