The flagship locomotive of Telford Steam Railway is returning in triumph for the first time in nearly 20 years for a steam enthusiast’s gala on Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday at Horsehay.
The flagship locomotive of Telford Steam Railway is returning in triumph for the first time in nearly 20 years for a steam enthusiast’s gala on Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday at Horsehay.
Ex-Great Western Railway 0-6-2 tank locomotive number 5619, built in 1925, was acquired by the Telford Horsehay Steam Trust in 1973.
It was restored by the fledgling Telford Steam Railway before steaming at different railways around the country until 1991 when it was withdrawn for major overhaul.
Now, thanks to a National Lottery grant and help from private benefactor Alan Moore, the historic locomotive is back in action, ready for the Telford gala.
Steam railway spokesman Dave Angell said: “This will be one of limited opportunities to travel behind this historic locomotive at Telford, as it is to spend much time on other railways until such time as the line here is extended.
“For this gala weekend, a special timetable will operate, utilising 5619 and other steam and heritage diesel motive power on both passenger and freight workings, to provide something for everyone.”