Special locomotive reunion this weekend to mark birthday of Newlyn Downs Branch Line

Monday, 23 June 2025 20:09

The imposing East Wheal Rose Engine House stands over the construction of the Newlyn Downs Branch Line in the early 90s

A much-loved locomotive will be the star of the show, as Lappa Valley gets set to celebrate the 30th birthday of one of their much-loved railways this weekend.

In 1995, the family attraction opened its charming 10¼‑inch gauge Newlyn Downs Branch Line, which follows the former Newquay to Chacewater GWR route. The railway was constructed using rails purchased from the then-closed Carlyon Bay Beach Railway, which had delighted thousands of beach-goers each year.

As part of the purchase, Lappa Valley also rescued the locomotive “Duke of Cornwall”, which served as the sole motive power from when the branch line began operation until 2008. Although currently undergoing an overhaul, the locomotive will make a special appearance during the anniversary weekend.

Ben Harding, Operations Director at Lappa Valley, said:
“Lots of people remember Duke of Cornwall with a great deal of fondness from her time on the beach, as well as here at Lappa.

“We’re really pleased to be giving her a run-out over the weekend, with a series of demonstration services along the Newlyn Downs line. We’ll also be commemorating the hard work that went into constructing the line on the old track bed over the cold winters.

“Here at Lappa Valley, we love honouring the past and inspiring the next generation of train lovers.”

Over two days of celebration, visitors will journey along the route of the former Great Western Railway to the Mitchell & Newlyn Halt behind today’s fleet, including 10¼‑inch diesels “Eric” and “The Duke”, built by Alan Keef. There will also be the unveiling of a new information board celebrating the history of the line.

Last year, Lappa Valley unveiled a new station for the branch line, which will become a focal point for the anniversary celebrations. There will be opportunities to enjoy photos with Duke of Cornwall alongside the current fleet.

More from Newsplus

Plans unveiled for £20m redevelopment of former Hotel Victoria

Audio

Plans have gone on display showing how the former Hotel Victoria in Newquay and neighbouring buildings, including the Griffin Inn, could be transformed into a new 4 or 5-star hotel and apartments.
Police appeal after assault on child in Goonhavern Park

Police are appealing for witnesses after a child was reportedly assaulted in a park in Goonhavern.
Hundreds sign petition urging council to drop parking removal plans

Audio

A petition has been launched in an effort to stop plans to remove 19 free parking spaces along Cliff Road in Newquay, to make way for a new cycle route, But Cornwall Council insists new parking is being created nearby.
Cornwall RSPCA temporarily pauses admissions and appeals for new foster homes

Audio

The RSPCA’s Cornwall branch has temporarily paused taking in new animals while it focuses on caring for those already at the centre.
Newquay to host major international surf lifesaving event

Newquay is set to host a major international surf lifesaving competition as the prestigious World Ocean Series comes to the UK for the first time.
Campaigners claim victory over car park plan – but say the fight isn’t over

Audio

A key campaigner has pledged to continue pushing for improvements to car parking in Newquay, after celebrating this week's announcement that car parks won't be privatised.
New lighting brings a magical glow to Newquay Harbour

New colour changing uplighting has been installed at Newquay Harbour, transforming the iconic site with a striking visual enhancement that celebrates the area’s natural beauty.
Award winning chef to open new restaurant at The Headland Hotel

An award-winning chef and restaurateur is set to open a new restaurant at Newquay’s Headland Hotel.
Funeral and remembrance planned for well known Newquay man

The funeral of a much loved Newquay man, known to many simply as 'Clive' – will take place next week.
Cornwall Council scraps plans to sell airport and transfer car parks

Cornwall Council says its new Cabinet has scrapped plans to sell Cornwall Airport Newquay and transfer 19 council owned car parks to its arms length operator.
Rips and a fracture lead to a busy day for lifeguards

RNLI lifeguards came to the aid of several people at Fistral beach in Newquay on Saturday (14 June), responding to a series of incidents throughout the day.
Newquay MP calls on water boss to step down unless urgent action is taken on sewage pollution

Audio

Newquay’s MP, Noah Law, has called on the head of South West Water, Susan Davy, to consider her position unless the company makes an immediate start on improving infrastructure to tackle sewage pollution.
Newquay boy honoured with ocean legacy tribute

A Newquay boy who died aged four from complications linked to a rare illness has been honoured by environmental charity Surfers Against Sewage (SAS).
Surf life saving club celebrates King's Award with visit from Lord Lieutenant

Audio

Holywell Bay Surf Life Saving Club has been honoured with the King’s Award for Voluntary Service.
Police are investigating a report of aggravated burglary at a property on Trelawney Road

It was reported at around 10 o'clock last night (Sunday, June 15th) three males entered a property, assaulted and threatened people inside before leaving the scene with a quantity of cash and jewellery.
The strollers club where dads meet, walk and talk in Newquay

Audio

It’s Father’s Day this Sunday and dads in Newquay are being invited to join a weekly strollers club.
Plans for redevelopment of Hotel Victoria to go on show

Plans to redevelop one of Newquay’s most prominent buildings, the former Hotel Victoria, along with neighbouring properties including the Griffin Inn, are set to be unveiled later this month.
Post Office reopens at new location in Newquay

The former Central Square Post Office has reopened in Newquay inside the Spar on Tower Road.
Lappa Valley to mark 200 years of train travel with Weekend Gala

Cornish attraction Lappa Valley will mark a major milestone in railway history this weekend as it takes part in the nationwide Railway 200 celebrations, commemorating 200 years since the dawn of train travel.
Change of use bid for Newquay apartment block

The owner of a troubled development in Newquay has submitted a planning application to change the use of part of the site.