Second Valve Steam: Heritage Review 2023

As we revel in the first days of the fledgling new year, I find myself reflecting on the heritage steam scene during 2023. Many noteworthy events took place last year: 'Flying Scotsman' celebrated her centenary, a GWR 'Castle' returned to the Settle & Carlisle line, the North Yorkshire Moors and Great Central passed fifty years of preservation and the Llangollen Railway finally reached Corwen among countless other events and railtours on the calendar.
However, which ones were my favourite? Not necessarily the best or most well-attended or diverse, but the ones I find myself looking back most often and thinking 'That was a good day.' In the inaugural year of Second Valve Steam, I've been lucky enough to visit no fewer than eleven heritage railways, whether for galas, celebrations or standard running days. This collection of shots are my personal pick of the year. My absolute favourite captures of supreme steam action from January to October. Multiple factors contributed to these decisions: weather, stock, location, loco performances, but more often than not, these shots worked because simply put - it all just came together.
I hope you all enjoy the video. Did your favourite shots of the year make the cut? Are there any events or railtours you think I should look out for in the future? As always, please leave your thoughts in the comments below. Thank you all for your continued support. If you haven't already, follow our Instagram page at / secondvalvesteam . Feel free to comment and subscribe!