Rare Deltic Locomotive to Return to Passenger Service for Special Great Central Railway Weekend
- LM News
- 3 hours ago
- 2 min read
A historically significant Deltic locomotive will return to public passenger service for the first time in nearly 30 years when Great Central Railway welcomes D9015 Tulyar for a special weekend of diesel action on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 August.
The event, held in partnership with the Deltic Preservation Society (DPS), will see the iconic locomotive hauling passenger trains along the UK’s only double-track heritage main line, marking a major milestone in the preservation of Britain’s diesel railway heritage.
Owned by the Deltic Preservation Society, D9015 Tulyar is one of the most historically significant surviving Deltic locomotives. Named after the Aga Khan’s famous racehorse, the locomotive has undergone extensive bodywork and mechanical repairs as part of its long-awaited return to service.
The special weekend will give visitors the rare opportunity to see Tulyar back in action, with the locomotive set to cover up to 96 miles on Saturday and 64 miles on Sunday, offering passengers the chance to experience the distinctive sound and power of a Deltic locomotive in full operation.
Representatives from the Deltic Preservation Society will also be at the railway throughout the weekend, giving visitors the opportunity to meet the volunteers behind the locomotive’s preservation, find out more about D9015 Tulyar and discover the work involved in protecting an important part of Britain’s railway history for future generations.
Great Central Railway’s stations will also be bringing the atmosphere of a classic railway day out, with the on-board Refreshment Car serving real ales, hot and cold drinks, snacks and a selection of beers. At Loughborough Central Station, visitors can enjoy a freshly cooked barbecue, with hot dogs and burgers served with all the toppings.
Malcolm Holmes, General Manager at Great Central Railway, said: “The return of D9015 Tulyar to public passenger service is a hugely exciting moment for railway preservation, and we are delighted to be working with the Deltic Preservation Society to welcome this remarkable locomotive to Great Central Railway.
“To see Tulyar back on the main line, hauling passenger trains once again after nearly 30 years, is something that will have huge appeal for railway enthusiasts, but this is also a fantastic opportunity for anyone looking for a memorable day out.
“With miles of running across our unique double-track heritage railway, the chance to meet the people who have helped preserve Tulyar and plenty of food and refreshments available, it promises to be a very special weekend.”
Whether visitors are dedicated diesel enthusiasts keen to witness Tulyar’s long-awaited return or simply looking for a unique day out, the weekend promises an unforgettable celebration of railway heritage, with one of Britain’s most distinctive locomotives taking centre stage on the Great Central Railway.
More information about the railway can be found at www.gcrailway.co.uk
