Western Locomotive Association
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Welcome to the WLA!

The Western Locomotive Association was founded in 1973 to celebrate and preserve British Rail’s Class 52 “Western” diesel-hydraulic locomotives. The WLA are the current owners and operators of D1013 Western Ranger and D1062 Western Courier, based on the Severn Valley Railway, which runs from Kidderminster (Worcestershire) to Bridgnorth (Shropshire).

During 2023, locomotive D1048 Western Lady was gifted to the WLA for which we were very proud to receive! The locomotive will receive a full assessment, following which, the Members will be asked to see if we can return D1048 to operational status, if at all possible.

With three Westerns to look after, we now need more Volunteers than ever before! To become a Working Member, please CLICK HERE!

Like to know more about the WLA?

Download our Business Plan for 2025 to 2027 here!

Find out how you've helped the WLA remain Carbon Neutral by planting over 400 trees in our "Trees for Life" scheme here! 

Like to know how you could help out as a Volunteer? 

Download our Guidance Notes for Volunteers, Working & Committee Members here!

Become a Working Member! Find out more here! 

Join the WLA!

Become part of the WLA by clicking here!

News

D1013 Bogie Overhaul Project Update

D1013 B Bogie Update 30.06.2025 by Graham Gant. Details of work carried out so far during 2025 follows - Bogie Frame The main objective at the start of 2025 was […]

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New WLA Membership Cards...!

The WLA has just introduced a new credit card style Membership Card, which will replace the old paper based cards (which has served the WLA well for many years)! All […]

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WLA Charities Officer

The WLA are looking to recruit a Charities Officer for the Management Committee as soon as possible. The Board have agreed that any candidate needs to be a good self […]

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Events

Committee Meeting at Kidderminster
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Railway 200 Derby (WLA Present with Sales Stand)

As part of this year’s Railway 200 celebrations, Alstom’s historic Derby Litchurch Lane Works will be front and centre, as its host the largest temporary gathering of trains and rail-related […]

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Class 52 Driver Footplate Experience Course (AM only)

There is nothing quite like the sight and sound of a diesel locomotive in full cry! Choose your locomotive and experience the power and surge of adrenaline as you take […]

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Western Locomotive Association 50 Years

The WESTERN LOCOMOTIVE ASSOCIATION is a company limited by guarantee - Registered No: 3873466
Registered Address: 5, Prospect Place, Millennium Way, Pride Park, Derby, England DE24 8HG. Charity No. 1115058