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!