This special event to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of H.M. The Queen will take place in the Exhibition Hall at Swanwick Junction.
The Midland Railway – Butterley is the home of no less than three former Royal Saloons, which offers the opportunity for a very special event within the heritage railway movement.
The Royal Saloons are:
the Midland Railway’s Royal Saloon no.1910 built for King George V
the LMS Chairman’s Saloon no.45000, which later became part of the Royal Train
the Royal Dining Saloon no.2902 built for Queen Elizabeth II
These carriages will be the focal point of the event. They will form a display in the Exhibition Hall, which will be decorated for the occasion.
The event will feature:
· A rare chance to view the interior of the Midland Railway Royal Saloon built in 1912 and to see the on-going detailed restoration work. It is intended that volunteer members of the Midland Railway Trust in period costume will be available to answer questions about the carriage and to explain the painstaking restoration work.
· Guided tours through the LMS Chairman’s saloon, with an opportunity to learn about the key role that this vehicle had during World War II.
· A rare opportunity to inspect the kitchen and pantry of Royal Dining Saloon 2902 – a behind the scenes look at the on train catering facilities.
· A special exhibition about the history of royal travel by train.
· Music from royal events, including Coronations and Weddings.
Event organiser Anne Deeth said: “We are looking forward to celebrating the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in this unique way. After the success of last year’s smaller event celebrating the centenary of George V’s Coronation, we are confident that our visitors will have a thoroughly interesting and enjoyable day out over the extended Bank Holiday weekend. We are very grateful for the support of the Princess Royal Class Locomotive Trust in allowing us to move the LMS Chairman’s Saloon to join the two other Royal Saloons in the Exhibition Hall.”
