Bluebell Railway Suspends Steam Trains Amid Wildfire Risk

Photo: Bluebell Railway

The Bluebell Railway has suspended all steam locomotive services until further notice because of the heightened risk of wildfires.

The heritage railway, which runs between Sheffield Park and East Grinstead, said services from Friday will instead be operated by heritage diesel locomotives following advice from the fire service.

Operators said the prolonged dry weather and lack of rainfall had left the surrounding countryside at increased risk of lineside fires, making safety their top priority.

The railway said it would review the situation daily with the relevant authorities before deciding when steam services can safely resume.

Visitors are still being encouraged to travel on the railway throughout the summer holidays, with all scheduled services continuing using diesel locomotives instead of steam.