As is annual practice for their 'Diesel Gala', the Swanage Railway held a 'Preview Day' the day before the gala gets underway, featuring a mix of traction to whet the appetite for the following event. This year, D1015 "Western Champion" would be joined by resident Bulleid pacific 34028 "Eddystone" for the majority of the days' services.
Arriving during the day would be Class 37 - 37219, appearing courtesy of Colas Railfreight. In addition, Class 33 - D6515 and Class 69 - 69002 would double-head 'The Jurassic Crompton' railtour onto the railway hauling Class 438 4TC - 428, with Class 73 - 73109 in tow. Once arrived, Class 33 - 33111 would be paired with the 4TC for two return trips through the Isle of Purbeck in the afternoon.
Unlike most previous years, the 'Preview Day' didn't have an exact theme. However, with the regular services being operated by a Class 52, Class 33, and a Bulleid pacific, the day had a strong Exeter feel.
Locomotives:
BR Class 52 'Western' - D1015 "Western Chapion"
BR Class 33 - 33111
Colas Railfreight Class 37 - 37219 "Jonty Jarvis 8-12-1998 to 18-3-2005"
BR Class 33 - D6515 "Lt Jenny Lewis RN"
GB Railfreight Class 69 - 69002 "Bob Tiller CM&EE"
Ex-SR Rebuilt 'West Country' Class - 34028 "Eddystone"
GB Railfreight Class 73 - 73109 "Battle of Britain 80th Anniversary"
00:00 - D1015 Castle View Crossing
01:16 - D1015 Corfe Common
02:25 - D1015 Swanage
04:00 - D1015 Wurzel Crossing
05:16 - 37219 Wurzel Crossing
06:33 - 34028 Norden Common
07:44 - D6515 & 69002 Furzebrook foot crossing
10:03 - 33111 Norden Common
11:03 - 33111 Townsend Bridge
11:58 - 34028 Dickers Crossing
12:39 - 33111 Dickers Crossing
13:55 - 33111 Afflington Farm
All footage filmed on Thursday the 9th of May 2024.