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Farewell Train Tickets Sell Out in 15 Seconds!
3 Dec
Summary
- Tickets for a farewell SWR Class 455 train tour sold out rapidly.
- Over 9,000 customers vied for just 400 tickets initially available.
- A second train was added due to unprecedented demand from enthusiasts.
A farewell tour for South Western Railway's (SWR) iconic Class 455 trains, in service since 1983, has seen tickets sell out with astonishing speed. The initial 400 tickets for a special charter service, planned for December 21st, were gone in just 15 seconds, with over 9,000 customers attempting to purchase them.
This unprecedented demand prompted SWR and the Branch Line Society to arrange a second train to accommodate the many enthusiasts eager to bid farewell to the trains. Limited tickets for this additional service also went on sale and were expected to sell out quickly. The initiative highlights the deep affection many hold for these historic commuter trains.
The Class 455 trains will be retired by the end of 2025 as SWR transitions to its new Arterio fleet. Proceeds from the farewell events will be donated to charitable causes, including Macmillan, The Alex Wardle Foundation, and Railway Children, adding a philanthropic element to the historic send-off.
