Chinese route upgrade forces Jitong line to close

This pair of Chinese QJ 2-10-2-'s storm up the western approach to Shandiang Summit in January 2005

Just 2 weeks ago GW Travel, operators of the famous "Jingpeng Orient Express", confirmed that the famous Jitong line is expected to close completely at the end of 2012. This is due to the building of a new line avoiding the Jingpeng Pass, and as no money can be found to keep the line running, the Chinese Authorities have no option but to close the line completely.

To pay tribute to this wonderful line, GW Travel have partnered up with "Steam Railway Magazine" to offer one last tour encompassing this spectacular railway. The 2012 "Jingpeng Orient Express" takes place over the final weekend of January. You can join the fabulous GW Travel Rolling Hotel or have some fun with the Steam Railway readers as they spend the day walking up and down the line recording the very last QJ hauled trains before the famous line closes for the forseable future. Details of this tour will appear later in January.

Of course it may re-open, but there are no plans for this at present.

We are all sorry for the passing of this legendary steam railway.

Best Regards,

Steve & Chris Nelson

Severn Valley promises spectacular line up for 2012 Spring Gala

During its record breaking visit to the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway in February 2010, Gresley N2 No.1744 climbs the bank just outside Oakworth station



A4 No.4492 "Dominion of New Zealand" stands at Corfe Castle station during the 2011 Autumn Gala at the Swanage Railway in Dorset



Caledonian Railway 0-6-0- No.828 makes a fine sight paired with the SVR's L.M.S. Maroon coaches during the 2011 Autumn Gala

Organisers of the Severn Valley Railway Spring Gala have promised a line up that will certainly draw in the crowds. Caledonian Railway 0-6-0- No.828 will be appearing in the Gala after spending the 2011 Festive Season at the railway.

L.N.E.R. fans will get their wish as A4 No.4492 "Dominion of New Zealand" has joined the line up and, of course, the blue A4 will be paired with the SVR's fabulous set of Teak carriges. N2 No.1744 makes another apperance on the line and is also pencilled in to be paired with the teak set. L.M.S. "Ivatt" No.43106 has returned from the North Norfolk Railway and will participate in the 2012 event.

The Gala is running in partnership with Steam Railway Magazine. Definately something to look forward to.

Regards,

Chris Nelson,

Steam Correspondent