Watercress Line wins Heritage Railway Association accolade

The Watercress Line won the Steam Locomotive Award at the Heritage Railway Association Awards for the restoration of the Merchant Navy Class Bulleid Pacific No. 35005 Canadian Pacific.

The engine returned to service in March 2025 following more than a decade of restoration.

35005 Canadian Pacific at Ropley Yard. (Image: Jeremy de Souza Photography. Alton, Hampshire UK)

Rebecca Dalley, CEO of The Watercress Line, said: "This is the ‘Oscars’ of the Heritage Rail community and the Steam Loco of the year is the prize that means the most to the industry, so we are incredibly proud to see Canadian Pacific recognised.

"The locomotive’s return to steam is a story of resilience and determination as well as craftsmanship and collaboration between our skilled staff, volunteers and apprentices."

Built in 1941 and rebuilt in 1959, Canadian Pacific is one of Britain’s most iconic express locomotives.

The restoration project was supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

The Watercress Line team celebrate success at the Heritage Railway Association Awards. (Image: Jack Boskett)

It brought together staff, volunteers, and apprentices to return the locomotive to steam.

In addition to the main award, Daniel Ball, The Watercress Line’s education and outreach coordinator, was highly commended in the Rising Star Award category.

He was recognised for outstanding contribution to learning, engagement and innovation across the railway.

Mr Ball has played a key role in transforming how education is delivered at the heritage railway, developing new programmes, partnerships and creative initiatives that place learning and community engagement at the heart of the organisation’s work.

Ms Dalley continued: "We are also delighted that Daniel Ball has been highly commended as a Rising Star.

"His creativity and energy have helped strengthen our education and outreach work, enabling us to inspire new audiences and ensure the heritage of our railway continues to be shared with future generations."

The Heritage Railway Association Awards celebrate the efforts of heritage railways, museums and volunteers across the UK.

They shine a light on those working to preserve and promote Britain’s railway history.