The P'tit Train du Haute Somme celebrated 45 years of operation since the first trains ran in 1971. To mark the occasion there was a special event held over four days from 5th - 8th May 2016, with six steam locomotives and two diesels operating an intensive timetable along the whole railway. 2016 also marks the hundredth anniversary of the Battle of the Somme in 1916 and as a result the gala had a World War 1 theme with re-enactments of typical trains to the front line with soldiers and munitions. Volunteers were dressed in suitable uniforms and period costumes.
The railway has constructed a replica 'Péchot' carriage for the occasion. Major Péchot of the French army oversaw the development of narrow gauge railways on lightly laid track to bring men and materials to the front line, a big advance in logistics in its day.
Our film covers all four days of the event with miniature and model railways as well as the action throughout the line from the Museum to the Plateau.
PAL DVD Digitally mastered Hi-Fi narration and music.
Produced by - Belhurst Productions
Running time - 60 mins
DVD only
Released - 2016