Western Locomotive Association
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Welcome to the WLA!

The Western Locomotive Association was founded in 1973 to celebrate and preserve British Rail’s Class 52 “Western” diesel-hydraulic locomotives. The WLA are the current owners and operators of D1013 Western Ranger and D1062 Western Courier, based on the Severn Valley Railway, which runs from Kidderminster (Worcestershire) to Bridgnorth (Shropshire).

During 2023, locomotive D1048 Western Lady was gifted to the WLA for which we were very proud to receive! The locomotive will receive a full assessment, following which, the Members will be asked to see if we can return D1048 to operational status, if at all possible.

With three Westerns to look after, we now need more Volunteers than ever before! To become a Working Member, please CLICK HERE!

Like to know more about the WLA?

Download our Business Plan here!

Find out how the WLA performed in 2023 with the Chairman's Report here! 

Find out how you've helped the WLA remain Carbon Neutral by planting over 300 trees in our "Trees for Life" scheme here! 

Like to know how you could help out as a Volunteer? 

Download our Guidance Notes for Volunteers, Working & Committee Members here!

Become a Working Member! Find out more here! 

Join the WLA!

Become part of the WLA by clicking here!

News

FUND-RAISING OFFICER - Position vacant!

The Management Committee are seeking someone to join our Whizzo Team! The position is as a Fund-Raising Officer who should have experience in raising funds for Charities, with good communication […]

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Second (and largest) WLA Order placed for D1013's bogie overhaul!

Following the WLA's recent order for bogie Pedestal Brackets, a further order has been placed for 16 Bogie Spring Hangers which will be specially forged by WH Tildesley Ltd, one […]

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WLA acquires D1036!

Following a successful bid at an auction house on Saturday, 17th February 2024, the WLA acquired a pair of head-code doors, complete with blinds and mechanisms in remarkably good condition, […]

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Events

SVR Open House Weekend

Visit the SVR for an Open House Weekend and get a closer look behind-the-scenes at areas not usually open to visitors – all included in the price of your train […]

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SVR Spring Model Railway Weekend

The SVR may be more used to 12 inches to the foot scale but why not join the SVR for a celebration of slightly smaller trains during our Spring Model Railway Weekend at The Engine House, Highley.  

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D1062 Table B

WTT-2024-Table B    

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Western Locomotive Association 50 Years

The WESTERN LOCOMOTIVE ASSOCIATION is a company limited by guarantee - Registered No: 3873466
Registered Address: 5, Prospect Place, Millennium Way, Pride Park, Derby, England DE24 8HG. Charity No. 1115058