Lappa Valley railway, Cornwall

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[Chris from Nailsea]

From the Falmouth Packet:

Much-loved locomotive to be centre of celebrations this weekend

[Image from here is not available to guests]

A much-loved locomotive will be at the centre of celebrations this weekend.

Lappa Valley is preparing to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Newlyn Downs Branch Line.

The family attraction opened its 10¼-inch gauge Newlyn Downs Branch Line in 1995, following the path of the former Newquay to Chacewater GWR^▸ (Great Western Railway) line.

The railway was built with rails acquired from the then-closed Carlyon Bay Beach Railway. As part of the purchase, Lappa Valley also acquired the locomotive "Duke of Cornwall."

This locomotive was the sole motive power from the branch line's inception until 2008. Although it is currently undergoing an overhaul, the Duke of Cornwall will make a special appearance during the anniversary weekend.

Ben Harding, operations director at Lappa Valley, said: "Lots of people remember Duke of Cornwall with a great deal of fondness from her time on the beach, as well as here at Lappa. We're really pleased to be giving her a run-out over the weekend, with a series of demonstration services along the Newlyn Downs line."

As part of the two-day celebration, visitors will be taken along the route of the former Great Western Railway to the Mitchell & Newlyn Halt behind the current fleet, including 10¼‑inch diesels "Eric" and "The Duke." A new information board celebrating the history of the line will also be unveiled.

Last year, Lappa Valley unveiled a new station for the branch line, which will serve as a focal point for this weekend's celebrations. There will also be an opportunity for photos with the Duke of Cornwall locomotive and the current fleet.

Lappa Valley is an award-winning attraction featuring a 15-inch gauge railway, indoor and outdoor play, a café, shops, and more. It attracts over 100,000 guests each year and was named Railway of the Year 2025 in the Heritage Railway Association Awards.

The celebrations will take place on June 28 and 29.