Published on 27th February 2026
A unique set of operations occurred on the 27th February 2026, marking an industry collaboration event between GWR, GBBf, Network Rail, and the West Somerset Railway.
The movements were essentially to demonstrate the viability of alternative stabling locations for stock in the South West for use during current and future line closures, especially in relation to upcoming HS2 works in London. It also highlighted the industry collaboration between various companies. Two charters were operated from Bristol, both crewed by GBRf. 1Z50 09:05 Bristol Temple Meads – Goodrington operated via Norton Fitzwarren Triangle, Fairwater Yard, Exeter New Yard, Hackney Yard, and Goodrington. This train was formed of Locomotive Services Ltd Class 40 No. 40013 'Andania' (D213) and No. 50050 'Fearless' (D400) in top-and-tail formation with three LSL coaches, and conveyed GWR Managers with guests from industry partners. The second charter used GWR Hitachi IET No. 800036 'Dr Paul Stephenson OBE' (also crewed by GBRf), which operated as 1Z80 09:15 Bristol Temple Meads – Goodrington, following the same operating pattern as the first charter. A further movement using the GWR ‘Night Riviera’ stock with top and tail Class 57s also used the Norton Fitzwarren Triangle, with all three trains later posed in Fairwater Yard for a photo opportunity.
