WEST SOMERSET Railway-based Diesel & Electric Preservation Group (DEPG) has launched an appeal for funds to restore No. D1010 Western Campaigner. The Class 52 has been laid-up since the ‘B’-end transmission seized up during the 2018 diesel gala.
It was outside, partly sheeted, in Williton South Yard for 19 months. It has received some attention, but the start of a full restoration has been delayed due to protracted work on other locos in the shed. With some items removed, such as the lower front valances, name and numberplates, and faded paintwork, the group’s flagship loco has acquired a down-at-heel appearance. It is now in the shed with restoration underway, but a rough estimate puts the total required at about £100,000.