7F Swansong | Watercress Line - 'Somerset & Dorset Railway Trust Special' 22/07/2023

A works outing for the Somerset & Dorset Railway Trust with the pride of their fleet, 7F - 53808, as the locomotive performed a special service over the Watercress Line. 53808 would complete a return trip over the line between Alresford and Alton, with members of the S&DRT being given priority for tickets on the service, while the remainder would be available to the public. Afterward, the locomotive would spend the afternoon at Alresford performing light shuttle duties within the station limits. The 7F is due to be withdrawn for an overhaul in the coming months, with this outing scheduled to be its last participation in a dedicated service for the S&DRT before withdrawal. The preserved Watercress Line shares notable characteristics with the Somerset and Dorset Railway, namely its challenging gradients, and its nature as a largely single track mainline; resulting in the 7F looking very much at home as it powered through Hampshire. Operating regular services alongside the S&D stalwart, would be S15 - 506 and Ivatt tank - 41312. Locomotives: Ex-LSWR S15 Class - 506 Ex-S&DJR 7F Class - 53808 BR(M) Class 2MT Tank - 41312 All footage filmed on Saturday the 22nd of July 2023.