SECOND AWARD FOR RESTORED RAILCAR

A unique driving coach from a 1958 railcar that entered service at the North Norfolk Railway late last year following a 9½ year restoration has secured its second award in the space of six weeks! The team that returned M56182 to her former glory were Highly Commended at the national Heritage Railway Association Awards on 10 February 2024.

The annual awards celebrate the best achievements of the HRA’s 300 members which range from lengthy heritage railways operating historic steam locomotives, to short electric tramways, miniature lines, tramways, cliff railways, railway preservation groups and related museums. M56182 had already scooped silver in the Railcar Association’s annual awards announced in early January.

Passengers will have a chance to ride in M56182, a Class 104 driving coach, during February half-term as the railcar is one of two historic trains scheduled to be in action every day from Saturday 17 to Sunday 25 February. The second train will be formed of steam-era carriages hauled by visiting Great Western Railway steam locomotive No 4277 “Hercules”. The powerful 104 year-old engine once worked heavy coal trains in South Wales and is visiting from the Paignton & Dartmouth Steam Railway.

North Norfolk Railway Commercial Manager, Graham Hukins, said “We’re looking forward to kick starting our 2024 season at half-term with two very special trains in action.  We are very proud of the team that have restored M56182 and are delighted that their efforts have been recognised on a national stage.

“Having the railcar working alongside ‘Hercules’ will allow passengers to make the most of the unlimited travel afforded by our Day Rover tickets and they can hop on and off and experience travel in two contrasting heritage trains. There will also be special activity booklets for children plus traditional refreshments and light lunches from the station buffet at Sheringham, so passengers can enjoy a whole day out with us.”

Historic steam and heritage diesel trains run daily 17 February – 25 February – see www.nnrailway.co.uk for further details along with information on summer services, special events and the line’s popular dining trains.

ENDS