THE Quainton Railway Society, which operates the Buckinghamshire Railway Centre (BRC) is appealing for £70,000 to get its flagship loco, Metropolitan Railway 0-4-4-T No. 1 back in steam for its 125th anniversary in 2023.
Withdrawn in 2019, 18 months short of its 10-year ticket due to the condition of the crown stays, the cab, fittings and the boiler were all removed for assessment at Quainton Road just prior to the national Covid-19 lockdown, which prevented further works taking place. Remaining assessments have now taken place – including nondestructive testing of the boiler, which has flagged up that firebox repairs are required. It is hoped that ‘Met 1’ will enter the BRC workshops later this year or early 2023. Tube removal and other less weather-sensitive elements are continuing when resources permit.
Donations can be made at www.bucksrailcentre.org or by calling BRC on 01296 655720.