If like me, you’re in desperate need of a heritage railway ‘fix’ in the current Covid-19 lockdown, you may be interested in this newly released video clip of the South Devon Railway (SDR).
The 30-minute clip takes you on a ride from Buckfastleigh to Totnes Riverside. Shot from on top of the locomotive’s cab roof – a sort of bird’s eye view from the footplate – it features whistles, hissing, clanking and plenty of exhaust bark – bliss if you’re a fellow steam fan. This is particularly so if you’re a ‘Western’ enthusiast as the engine is none other than GWR ‘Small Prairie’ 2-6-2T No. 5542.
Points of interest are highlighted along the charming GWR branch line, including Staverton station, Nappers Crossing, Woodville and Royal Mile, before the train arrives at the journey’s end alongside the Great Western Main Line.
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Support the coronavirus appeal
If you’ve enjoyed your ‘virtual trip’, why not donate help keep this delightful railway alive so it can again bring pleasure to visitors once coronavirus restrictions allow.
As previously reported, at the beginning of April, the SDR launched its SOS – Save Our Steam campaign, which aimed to raise £500,000 to help the seven-mile line survive through the pandemic. At the time of writing (May 13), the appeal total raised stood at £142,370.54. Every penny the railway receives from well-wishers will help to safeguard it.
To donate online or by more traditional means, visit https://www.southdevonrailway.co.uk/fundraising/ . There, you can also learn how you can support the SDR in other ways – including eBay for Charity, Facebook, Amazon Smile, EasyFundraising and Paypal Giving.
