STEAM IN THE SUN: Among the visiting locos to the Severn Valley Railway’s September 15-18 autumn steam gala was West Somerset Railway-based GWR inspired Mogul No. 9351.The 2-6-0 is pictured at Foley Park on September 17.
ALAN WEAVER
VISITORS to an open day at Locomotive Maintenance Services (LMS) in Loughborough for shareholders of Toddington Standard Locomotive Limited (TSLL) on September 3, were wowed by the continuing progress in the restoration of BR Standard ‘4MT’ 2-6-0 No. 76077. Whetting appetites, the loco was presented with several additions to what, just two years ago, was just a bare set of frames.
The coupling rods have been fitted for the first time since 1968, while the cab assembly was temporarily placed on the frames, complete with cab side number. A replacement cab is to be manufactured – it having been decided the original is too badly wasted for when the loco is in traffic.
Restoration is being carried out by a combination of professional engineering skills and volunteer working parties, helping to ensure steady progress towards the aimed-for steaming date of 2026, which marks the loco’s 70th birthday.