The Dean Forest Railway is embarking on the most comprehensive programme of carriage overhaul in it's history. All of our existing coaches will be fully reviewed and restored as appropriate within the next few years. To enable the DFR to do this, the Dean Forest Railway Society has agreed to purchase a stock of spare carriages to replace those being taken out of service.

Earlier this year, the DFRS was presented with an unmissable opportunity to acquire two ex-British Rail Mark 2 coaches.The coaches are in good running order (having seen recent mainline service), and only need a brake system modification in order to enter service on the DFR (they require the fitting of vacuum brakes).

The total cost of the two Mark 2 coaches, including transport and brake modification is £60,000. The Society, and the Members have dug deep to pledge £25,000 already - that's over 40% of the target, and we are now fundraising for the remaining £35,000.

As of November 2018, we have purchased two carriages - W5341 and M5175. W5341 is now at our chosen engineering workshop to receive brake modification in order to run with our fleet of heritage locomotives, while M5175 will be arriving soon to receive some minor repairs before entering service. We are still looking for funds to help complete the engineering work and cover transport costs to get these carriages home to the DFR.

All donors will be invited to an exclusive “first trip” launch event in the coaches and a roll of honour will be published in the Society Magazine.

In addition, Donations of:

£250 or greater will receive a 5 year Membership of the Dean Forest Railway Society.

£500 or greater will receive a 10 year Membership of the Dean Forest Railway Society.

£1,000 or greater will receive a Life Membership of the Dean Forest Railway Society.

BR Mark 2 coach W5341:

Interior of a Mark 2 coach:

Any funds raised and not used for the specific purchase of new coaches will be invested in the renovation of our existing coaching fleet.