East Grinstead Open Weekend

On Saturday 4^th September 2010, the Bluebell Railway official opened their new station platform at East Grinstead.

The first public train departed at 10.10 with Bluebell's own 4VEP unit 3417 "Gordon Pettitt" being pushed by electro diesel locomotive 73208 "Kirsten". Subsequent trains departed at 10 past the hour until 17.10.

The actual opening ceremony took place at 10.45 on Saturday, after the first train.

The service also ran on Sunday 5^th September using the same schedule.

Since 22^nd January 2009, 3417 has been based at Eastleigh Works, thanks to Kights Rail Services. On 2^nd September 2010, the unit made the move up to East Grinstead again in preperation for the open weekend.

73208 with 3417 behind can be seen here at East Grinstead station in preparation for the first train of the day. photograph by Colin Watts

3417 prior to the first trip of the day. photograph by Colin Duff

73208 with 3417 behind having just arrived from the first round trip. photograph by Colin Duff