Sales Stand Success!
With The Duke’s appearance as a guest locomotive at the Severn Valley’s Spring Steam Gala held on 16 to 19 April 2026, the opportunity to have a Sales Stand on Kidderminster station for the 4 days could not be missed.
Steve Wakeland was ably assisted by other members of the Trust’s Management Committee selling branded items to the enthusiasts in attendance. From the videos available online the event was well attended – we’d like to think due to the appearance of The Duke at his first heritage railway since being outshopped from his heavy overhaul.
Steve informed us that whenever a Duke-hauled train arrived at Kidderminster the passengers flocked to the Sales Stand and bought a Duke branded item. New on the Stand for this event were cute cuddly teddys wearing a Duke T-Shirt. We have given this cute fellow the working name of ” Riddles” but purchasers can, of course, give them a name of their choosing. “Riddles” will soon be available in our online shop on this website.
Appearing as a guest at a heritage railway fulfils one of the Trust’s objectives – that of letting him be seen by as many of the public as can get close so we can educate them about his important role in steam locomotive development and British transport history.
The other objective achieved at this Steam Gala was to raise funds towards the upkeep and future overhaul of The Duke. During the Gala weekend, and over the five days, the sales stand generated gross income of £6,759, a total that has beaten all Trust records, which will go towards the future overhaul of The Duke.
If you would like to have a look at what we have to offer in our online shop click here.
The Duke will be at the Bluebell Railway’s Giants of Steam Gala in October – another chance for you to ride behind him or just get up close and personal at a station.