It was confirmed a little while ago that a 455/8 has been preserved by the SETG group. Seeing how the unit is still mainline registered and the group also own a 4 VEP, how cool would it be if we finally get a route based on the South Western lines? I wouldn't mind if it was backdated to the BR days, but imagine getting the chance to measure and photograph every inch of these two units and not only that, potential for recording every possible sound of them in action to make highly accurate TSW models. Would love for either DTG or one of the 3rd party companies to not only build these and a route for them to run, but perhaps even work with SETG and perhaps help them earn a few quid in royalties to help keep these units on the rails for years to come.
This would be cool opportunity for DTG to support the heritage rail groups and release a first class product for TSW!
A great idea. I'd like to see this become a regular thing. Class 507 Preservation Society with a backdated Merseyrail route. The ACMU Group in association with a Network South East Great Eastern main line. I think I mentioned the Brighton Belle recently, I'm pretty sure that's nearly ready to roll too. And APT-P, well, DTG did it for TSC......
Secretly hoping a second 455 gets preserved. An 8 car formation would be wonderful for railtours of the sort, especially with how quick the SWR railtour sold out.
727 would've been my candidate for preservation as it sounds absolutely wonderful in the motor coach but I think the chances are dwindling pretty fast. 732 would be nice, as that was the first to be retractioned with the Vossloh motors and the last to leave SWR.
I absolutely agree, but do they have the space and funds for it? Using both roads in their shed at Strawberry Hill. 2 units would mean more folk could travel on trips and you're making more money per trip. Maybe something will happen.
