DIESEL DAYS AND GALAS

■ With the lockdown restrictions still on track (pun intended) to lift on June 21, railways have become more confident than ever about a return to normal. More galas are now being scheduled and guest engines are being sourced, all a good sign.

■ The early part of June is quiet but ends with the Mid-Hants gala over the weekend of June 25-27. Joining the home fleet of 47579/50027 will be Class 20 D8059, which is on long-term hire, and Class 25 D7162 from the South Devon Railway.

■ July kicks off with a threeday event at the East Lancashire Railway and while no guests had been announced at the time or writing it was hoped that 40145 would be back in time. Class 25279 should feature as well, now in BR blue. July 10/11 will see the Chasewater Railway hold its annual diesel gala, although this year will see a change from the norm with Pacer units 142029 and 142030 both in action alongside the industrials, and, if still present, 143063 will also take part. The month rounds off with the July 24/25 North Norfolk Railway’s mixed traction event which should see Class 31 D5631 making its return to traffic alongside Class 37 D6732.

■ A look ahead shows the following events lined up for later in the year with hopefully more to follow. August 6-8 Spa Valley and Ecclesbourne Valley; Aug 28/29 North Norfolk (D6732 25 years in preservation); Sept 3-5 Great Central; Sept 10-12 Chinnor & Princes Risborough (31128); KWVR (mixed traffic); Sept 17/18 East Lancs; Sept 25/26 Epping Ongar, Mid-Norfolk, and Gloucester Warwickshire; Sept 30-Oct 3 Severn Valley; Oct 8-10 Nene Valley (three Peaks).