A Royal Visit

His Royal Highness The Duke of Gloucester visited Didcot Railway Centre on Thursday, 24 July to celebrate the return of locomotive No. 1466 following her recent overhaul, ahead of entering service later in the summer.

Prince Richard is shown locomotive 1466 by Phil Morrell, the restoration project manager

During his visit, Prince Richard was shown around the lifting shop, locomotive works and engine shed and introduced to some of the many projects taking place.

Pete Gransden, Ali Matthews and Leigh Drew with Prince Richard in the Locomotive Works

Under supervision, the Duke drove locomotive 4079 ‘Pendennis Castle’ on the main demonstration line. He also engaged in conversations with a range of staff members and volunteers.

Ann Davies and Thomas Macey with Prince Richard next to 4079 'Pendennis Castle'

Prince Richard and his party being shown through the engine shed by Kevin Dare

As a qualified architect and patron of the Royal Institute of British Architects, Prince Richard expressed particular interest in the ongoing reconstruction of the Heyford Station building at Oxford Road station. He took the opportunity to observe the construction work and discuss developments with the project manager.

Heyford Station Building project manager, Tim Part, outlines the project to Prince Richard.  Footplate crew are Laura Donaldson and Kevin Dare

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