Diana Returns to Service Following Extensive Two-Month Restoration
Following two months of dedicated work by our Carriage & Wagon team, we are delighted to announce that Diana has now returned to service at Churnet Valley Railway looking better than ever ahead of what promises to be a very busy 2026 season.
The project has seen volunteers and staff working tirelessly both inside and out to completely refresh the vehicle and bring it up to the high standards expected of our dining train fleet. What passengers now see as a beautifully presented heritage coach is the result of hundreds of hours of careful preparation, restoration and attention to detail.
Externally, the coach underwent a full repaint from start to finish. This included extensive preparation work, sanding and flattening back between coats, before receiving two full undercoats, two gloss coats and three coats of varnish to achieve the final finish. The roof alone was painted four separate times throughout the process to ensure the best possible appearance and protection for the years ahead.
Inside the coach, volunteers have worked through every area to refresh and improve the passenger experience. Woodwork throughout the saloons has been carefully restored and revarnished, while new lighting has been fitted to create a much warmer and more luxurious atmosphere inspired by the classic Pullman styling of the famous *Topaz* coach at the National Railway Museum. Carpets and tables were removed for deep cleaning, table legs refurbished and repainted, and the toilet areas have also received extensive attention as part of the overhaul.
Alongside the cosmetic work, significant mechanical attention has also been given underneath the coach. Brake equipment has been rebuilt and adjusted, components overhauled and tested, and both vacuum and steam heating systems fully tested and recommissioned ahead of the coach returning to passenger service.
Projects such as this simply would not be possible without the commitment and enthusiasm of our volunteers. From painting and varnishing to engineering, cleaning, woodworking and general support, every contribution has played a part in bringing Diana back to life. Their hard work not only preserves an important part of railway heritage, but also ensures visitors can continue to enjoy high quality heritage dining experiences in the Churnet Valley for years to come.
If you’ve ever considered volunteering at Churnet Valley Railway, there are opportunities for everyone, regardless of experience or background. Whether you are interested in practical restoration work, engineering, customer service or simply becoming part of a passionate and friendly team, we would be delighted to welcome new volunteers.
More information on volunteering and the latest restoration updates can be found here:https://www.churnetvalleyrailway.co.uk/volunteering