■ JOE Horsley, volunteer general manager of the Leighton Buzzard Railway for nearly 40 years, has died following a short illness. Mr Horsley (1953-2023) joined the Leighton Buzzard Narrow Gauge Railway Society in early 1974, became publicity officer from late 1977 and took over the role of general manager in May 1984. He was a railway professional whose background included periods with Network Rail and South West Trains before becoming a management consultant providing expert advice to various railway operators.
■ GRAHAM Fairhurst’s ex-Minas de Utrillas O&K 0-4-0WT 2378/1907 Utrillas has been withdrawn from service at the Lancashire Mining Museum, Astley Green, on expiry of its 10-year boiler ticket. Dismantling commenced on site and the boiler has been lifted. Utrillas relocated to the Lancashire Mining Museum’s then-new passenger line in July 2021 from its previous West Lancashire Light Railway base.