Great Western Society Limited

The Great Western Society Limited (GWS) is a registered UK charity (Charity number 272616) dedicated to the preservation, restoration, and operation of steam and other railway locomotives, rolling stock, and associated equipment. Established originally in 1961 under the name Great Western Preservation Society, the organization has evolved into a prominent railway preservation society with a significant public exhibition and museum presence.

History

The society was initially formed following a letter published in 1961, which sparked interest in preserving Great Western Railway (GWR) locomotives and rolling stock. The inaugural meeting was held at Southall Community Centre in May 1962. Shortly after, the name was changed to the Great Western Society to reflect its broader ambitions in railway preservation.

In 1967, the society was offered the use of the redundant engine shed at Didcot, Oxfordshire, marking the beginning of its long-term association with the location. The society moved to Didcot with three locomotives and several carriages, gradually transforming the site into what is now known as the Didcot Railway Centre, a significant museum and heritage railway facility open to the public.

Mission and Activities

The core mission of the Great Western Society is to preserve, restore, and operate railway locomotives and rolling stock as a permanent public exhibition. The society manages the Didcot Railway Centre, which serves as a museum and active restoration site. It displays a wide range of historic railway equipment, much of which is in operational condition, offering visitors an immersive experience of Britain’s railway heritage.

Over time, the society's activities have expanded to include extensive restoration projects, running heritage train services, and educational outreach. The growing maintenance and restoration costs have necessitated income-generating activities, with the support of members and visitors crucial to sustaining its operations.

Didcot Railway Centre

The Didcot Railway Centre, the home of the society, is located on the site of the former Great Western Railway locomotive depot at Didcot. The site includes the original engine shed and various other railway infrastructure, preserved and restored by society members.

The society secured a long-term lease for the site from Network Rail, initially subject to a six-month termination clause. After prolonged negotiations and uncertainty during the 2000s, a new 50-year lease was signed in 2011, ensuring the society’s continued stewardship of the site well into the future.

Local Groups and Community

The Great Western Society is supported by several local groups, including active branches in Bristol and Taunton, which organize meetings, events, and local fundraising activities. These groups also contribute practical assistance both at the Didcot Railway Centre and locally, helping to enhance the society’s preservation efforts and public engagement.

Governance

The society operates as a registered charity and limited company, adhering to the regulatory requirements and charitable purposes defined by the UK Charity Commission. Its activities are overseen by an appointed board and supported by a dedicated membership base.

The Great Western Society Limited remains a key institution in the preservation of Britain's railway heritage, combining public education with hands-on restoration and operation of historic railway equipment.

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[1] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/about-the-register-of-charities/-/charity-details/272616 [2] https://didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk/article.php/16/the-great-western-society [3] https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/00899248 [4] https://didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk/article.php/31/local-great-western-society-groups [5] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Didcot_Railway_Centre