The Watercress Line in Hampshire is celebrating national recognition after winning a prestigious award at the Heritage Railway Association Awards, alongside a highly commended accolade for a member of its team.
The heritage railway received the Steam Locomotive Award for the remarkable restoration and return to service of Merchant Navy Class Bulleid Pacific No. 35005 Canadian Pacific. After more than a decade of meticulous work, the locomotive triumphantly returned to steam at The Watercress Line in March 2025.
Originally built in 1941 and rebuilt in 1959, the restoration project brought together engineering expertise, the dedication of volunteers and valuable apprentice training opportunities. Supported by funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the ambitious project revived one of Britain’s most iconic express locomotives for visitors and enthusiasts to enjoy once again.
Alongside this success, Daniel Ball, The Watercress Line’s Education and Outreach Coordinator, was highly commended in the Rising Star Award category, recognising his outstanding contribution to learning, engagement and innovation across the railway.
Daniel has played a key role in transforming how education is delivered at the heritage railway, developing new programmes, partnerships and creative initiatives that place learning and community engagement at the heart of the organisation’s work.
Rebecca Dalley, CEO of The Watercress Line, said:
“This is the ‘Oscars’ of the Heritage Rail community and the Steam Loco of the year is the prize that means the most to the industry, so we are incredibly proud to see Canadian Pacific recognised. The locomotive’s return to steam is a story of resilience and determination as well as craftsmanship and collaboration between our skilled staff, volunteers and apprentices.
“We are also delighted that Daniel Ball has been highly commended as a Rising Star. His creativity and energy have helped strengthen our education and outreach work, enabling us to inspire new audiences and ensure the heritage of our railway continues to be shared with future generations.”
The Heritage Railway Association Awards celebrate the achievements of heritage railways, museums and volunteers across the UK who work to preserve and promote Britain’s railway heritage.
For more information about The Watercress Line, visit https://watercressline.co.uk/
