The Railway Magazine – July 2019

This workshop scene painting

from Jonathan Clay represents the

current status of the 5BEL project.

The driving car carries the number

3050, which the completed train will

carry.COURTESY OF JONATHAN CLAY

Sure to become one of the talking points of the

restoration is the inclusion of a modern disabled

access toilet unit, which has been installed inside

Car No. 91 (due to be namedMabel). A number of

alterations have been made to this coach to ensure

that it is accessible to wheelchair users. The exterior of

the unit is clad in wooden panelling to help it blend in

with its more traditional surroundings.

Still in undercoat, the cab front of Car No. 91 (due

to be namedMabel) is seen at Shirebrook on June 1.

New headlights and LED tail lights have been fitted to

comply with current regulations, but these generally

do not detract from the appearance of the vehicles.

New Pullman crests will be added to the cab fronts.

delays over the past few years, although he was
relieved the restoration is now entering its final
phase. He also confessed that the trust is still
working to resolve a problem with air-cooling
of the saloons, which is proving somewhat
tricky, and a suitable solution is still being
sought. The original forced-air cooling system
is not suitable for use on the train and the trust
is keen to ensure the train is comfortable for its
passengers in all weather conditions.
With the rebuilt ‘Brighton Belle’ expected
to be back carrying passengers within the
next year, it will provide a unique electrically
powered luxury dining train offering day trips
to various destinations, while also filling one of
the gaps in main line railway preservation.
As the project marks its 10th anniversary,
the prospect of seeing the ‘Brighton Belle’ back
out on the main line operating under its own
power is now closer than ever.. and with such a
stunning and detailed restoration, it will draw
attention wherever it goes. ■
■The Railway Magazine would like to express its thanks to
Denis Dunstone, Doug Lindsay and Gordon Rushton from the

5BEL Trust for accommodating our visit and explaining the

scope and background of the project.

Coach Identity Type Original Unit Status

Car No. 85 Trailer Third 3053 Overhaul at W H Davis

Car No. 87 Trailer Third 3052 Stored at Barrow Hill

Car No. 88 Motor Third 3051 Overhaul at W H Davis

Car No. 91 Motor Third 3052 Overhaul at W H Davis

Doris Kitchen First 3051 Overhaul at W H Davis

Hazel Kitchen First 3051 Stored at Barrow Hill

July 2019 •The Railway Magazine•33

5BEL TRUST BRIGHTON BELLE COACHES