SOUTH Tynedale Railway (STR) is exploring options to secure the future of ex-Matheran Light Railway (MLR) 0-6-0T No. 740 (OK2343/1907). The boiler and chassis of the dismantled locomotive are in covered storage, while the cab and tanks are on a wagon in STR’s yard. STR has told The RM that it wishes to see the loco returned to steam somewhere, but the means by which this is achieved are open to discussion.
MLR No. 740 was originally gifted to the UK by Indian Railways, arriving in Britain in November 1986. Peterboroughbased Railworld became its owner in 1991 and it was placed on loan to the Leighton Buzzard Railway which returned it to operation.