4th September 2010 was an historic day for East Grinstead and the Bluebell Railway with the departure of the first public passenger train south from East Grinstead since the line between there and Lewes closed in 1958. Forming an important part of the Bluebell's 50th anniversary celebrations, this was symbolic gesture with the journey only taking about 5 minutes to the current end of this part of the line "Imberhorne North" - the northern edge of the landfill site. This is currently being cleared in stages - by rail transport - to allow the Bluebell Railway to join this short stretch to the remainder of its line to Sheffield Park.

The first public passenger train from the National Railway network onto Bluebell metals will be on November 6th 2010 - a charter using Hastings Diesels DEMU unit 1001. Unfortunately I will not be able to travel on, nor record, this event.

Operating a steam service in isolation of the rest of the Bluebell's infrastructure was not thought desirable nor viable, so stock for this special weekend was the Bluebell's own 4 Vep unit 3417 operated as a trailer set in push-pull mode by GB Railfrieght's electro-diesel 73208 "Kirsten" - a respectable Southern formation!

Here, before most passengers arrive, the electro-diesel awaits the 10:10 departure.

3417 awaiting the 10:10 departure and is being given a last-minute clean before most passengers arrive.

The Bluebell's new platform was still being worked on the night before and as can be seen (left) was not totally complete. Not only were fence palings still be be fitted at the south end but part of the fence was awaiting atop coat of paint. Much regretted was that the station totems were not fitted as the back-boards were not ready. However, this is not to detract from the terrific effort to get the station ready for the public.