Monthly Archives: February 2025

  • Weekly Roundup – 23-Feb-25

    Another step forward for Class 35 ‘Hymek’ D7018 as DEPG volunteer, driver and trustee Paul Tucker worked hard in the confined space under the loco and between the fuel tanks re-connecting the final drive shafts to the repaired transmission. Pictured at Williton on Saturday 22nd February 2025 by Andy Royal © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    The start-up of Class 35 ‘Hymek’ D7018 came another step closer on Saturday 22nd February when the final drive shafts from the bogies were re-connected to the repaired transmission, an arduous task that is made more difficult by the need to get into the space between the underslung fuel tanks. Our willing volunteer, DEPG driver and trustee Paul Tucker, is no stranger to the task and got to work straight away, the result being that the two large and heavy shafts were soon bolted to the transmission output flanges, which will allow the loco to be shunted into a more suitable position for start-up (currently planned for Saturday 8th March).

    There are seven cardan shafts in a ‘Hymek’ – the first is the shaft that connects the engine to the transmission. This was re-connected earlier in the week by the ‘transmission team’, along with the two auxiliary shafts (for the Dynastarter and Serck pump). The two shafts that Paul re-connected provide the output from the transmission to the final drive gearboxes that are on the inner axles of the bogies, and the final two shafts connect the inner axle to the outer axle on each bogie (these two did not need to be touched). All shafts are now connected !

    The re-start of the engine after transmission repair will be a tightly controlled activity and requires several risk mitigation measures to be in place before we ‘press the button’. We still have some tasks to do before we are ready for that big moment, but we are certainly getting closer.

     

    D7018  – the shaft between the engine and the transmission was reconnected by Geoff and Colin F on Monday 17th February 2025. Pictured at Williton on Saturday 22nd February 2025 by Andy Royal © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    D7018  – the two auxiliary shafts that connect the transmission to the Dynastarter (combined generator and starter motor) and the transmission to the Serck pump (hydrostatic pump for the cooling fan motor) were reconnected by the transmission team on Monday 17th and Tuesday 18th February 2025. Pictured at Williton on Saturday 22nd February 2025 by Andy Royal © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

     

    D7017 UPDATE

    The work being done on both of the ‘Hymek’ sisters is taking a high priority because of the need to have these locos back in use during their 50th anniversary in preservation. The WSR have very kindly allocated the weekend of Saturday 30th and Sunday 31st August for showcasing ‘Hymek’ haulage, and we are working on the event format and hope to make an announcement in conjunction with the WSR very soon. Meanwhile, SAVE THE DATES !

    With all of the body repair work that has been taking place on D7017, it is easy to overlook the mechanical maintenance work that also has to be done during the winter period, and this is being carried out by DEPG volunteers while the loco is at Minehead. Progress during the last week has included the installation of the two newly-overhauled auxiliary cardan shafts, along with a considerable amount of cleaning taking place in the engine room. Having the roof removed for repair and repainting has made it a much nicer place to work, which is just as well because D7017 has a work-stained interior, not the fully restored and nicely painted interior of her sister D7018 !

    Here are some photos to show what has been happening inside the loco: 

    D7017  – the tunnel between the two banks of radiator elements is the home for the Dynastarter and the Serck pump, but also the workplace for Leroy as he prepares to re-install the newly-overhauled cardan shafts. Pictured at Minehead on Saturday 22nd February 2025 by Neil McCannon © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    D7017  – the view looking down on the transmission shows the newly overhauled shafts but also shows the work-stained appearance of this veteran performer. Pictured at Minehead on Saturday 22nd February 2025 by Neil McCannon © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    D7017  – with the roof removed for repair and repainting, the interior of the loco immediately becomes a much nicer place to work! New DEPG volunteer Jeffrey Curd grabbed a selfie while working at Minehead on Saturday 22nd February 2025. © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    We continue to receive donations to the D7017 bodywork overhaul fund, so a BIG THANK YOU goes out to the 70 people who have donated to this project so far, keeping it moving forward to ensure that the loco will be back in service in time for the WSR’s Summer Diesel Festival (5-7th June).

    The fundraiser for the bodywork repairs for ‘Hymek’ D7017 has been kept open with a new target of £12,000 with a total of £11,315 being raised so far.

    THANK YOU FOR YOUR FANTASTIC SUPPORT !

    The repair work is expected to cost around £15,000 so the new target will cover most of the work being done on the loco, the remaining £3,000 being provided from the DEPG’s general fund. The sub-contract route was taken to make sure that the loco gets repaired during the winter and is able to take pole position in the celebration of 50 years of ‘Hymek’ preservation that will take place on 30th and 31st of August this year.

    The fund will remain open until the work is completed (not much longer then!) to make sure that we have sufficient funding to cover any unexpected costs and make sure that a thorough and long-lasting repair is carried out. All funds donated via this appeal will be allocated to returning D7017 to service in time for the forthcoming season.

     

    Can you help ? Click here to donate £17 to D7017 !

     

     

     

     

     

    If you can help with this short-term appeal, please make a donation via our website (click on the icons above or below) or by bank app or by sending a cheque to the DEPG at WillitonTHANK YOU VERY MUCH !

            

     

     

    WSR NEWS

    The footplate and train crew refresher training continues with three days of hands-on training taking place last week and two more days next week, all involving duty loco Class 33 D6575 (33048) operating between Bishops Lydeard and Norton Fitzwarren. This does deplete the available hours for volunteering at Williton, but it is essential to ensure safe and efficient operation of the railway, so it takes first priority.

    Another priority is the winter program of infrastructure repair and renewal work that is taking place at multiple sites along the 23-mile length of the WSR. An example is the digging out and relaying of the ‘down’ line through Crowcombe Heathfield station, to provide a long-lasting and durable solution to a ‘wet bed’ condition. 

    The WSR Infrastructure team have been busy digging out the trackbed and replacing 60 sleepers on the ‘down’ line through Crowcombe Heathfield station to resolve a ‘wet bed’ condition. Pictured in mid-February 2025 by Jake Genge. © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    The WSR have published their running calendar for 2025 on their website and social media channels, and we have updated our DIESEL RUNNING DATES page including provisional loco allocations, some of which are subject to change to align with the availability of the locos and the crews. As the information becomes more refined, we will update our page and send out a DIESELGEN bulletin with the clarification. Click here or on the banner below to view the provisional allocations:

    Click here or on the image below to visit the WSR’s timetable page:

     

    The WSR’s SUMMER DIESEL FESTIVAL has been confirmed as being Thursday 5th through Saturday 7th with a Mixed Traction Day  on Sunday 8th of June 2025.

     

    Click here to join the DEPG

    Click here to go to our DIESEL RUNNING DATES page

    Click here to go to our ONLINE SHOP

    Thank you very much for your support !

     

    LOCO NEWS:

    Class 52 D1010 ‘WESTERN CAMPAIGNER’ – the time-consuming task of evaluating and listing the many component parts of the ‘B’ bogie is ongoing, so the rest of the team have been spending some time underneath the loco body, scraping off the 50-year-old crust of dirt and grime that has probably acted as a protective skin, because the underlying steelwork is in very good condition, as the photos show. The repair work on the ‘A’ cooler group has also progressed although there is more to do on this cooler group when compared with the one from the ‘B’ end of the loco. No worries, we will get it fixed !

    D1010 – the underside of the loco at ‘B’ end was the focus of attention for Viv and his hammer and chisel at Williton on Saturday 22nd February 2025.  Photo by Andy Royal © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    D1010 – meanwhile, at the ‘A’ end of the loco, Gordon and Ian F were busy scraping to expose the red paint that was applied at Swindon Works back in the mid 1970s. Pictured at Williton on Saturday 22nd February 2025 by Andy Royal © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    D1010 – looking into the transmission bay from the underside of the ‘A’ end of the loco, the absence of both engines allows sight of the ‘B’ preheater cradle in the dark distance. Pictured at Williton on Saturday 22nd February 2025 by Andy Royal © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    D1010 – repurposed steel plate has been welded into the corner of the ‘A’ cooler group, replacing the corroded material that was in that position previously. Pictured at Williton on Saturday 22nd February 2025 by Andy Royal © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    Our appeals for MORE VOLUNTEERS are working but WE STILL NEED MORE HELP to get this huge loco back on the rails, so please get in touch by using our CONTACT FORM if you are able to join the team.

     

    As mentioned before, apologies to those D1010 sponsors who have yet to receive the photos and certificates for the patches that they have sponsored. The bitterly cold and/or wet weather is preventing us from spending outdoor time on the engraving, so we will need to leave this work a little longer, at least until the temperature is back in (positive) double digits.

    Rest assured that every sponsor will receive their certificate and the details of where to find their sponsored patch. We will be making a further push for funds soon, because we have some big ticket items for refurbishment, including the remaining cardan shafts and 32 springs from the suspension system.

    MANY THANKS to all who have sponsored and supported the RESTORATION of D1010 !

     

     

    Class 09 D4107 (09019) – as we reported last week, only one of the two Oleo hydraulic buffers have been overhauled by the specialist subcontractor, because the other was corroded and beyond repair. This gives us a problem because Oleo buffers for Class 08/09 are rare indeed. To get the loco back into service, we will have to fit sprung buffers, the same as at the cab end of the loco and the same as when the loco first entered service in 1961. We still want to upgrade it to ‘Oleos’ if we can, but as yet, no-one has replied to our question, so here it is again:

    Do you happen to have a spare Oleo buffer for a Class 08/09 ? If yes, please use our CONTACT FORM to get in touch with us.

    Otherwise, the loco is making good progress towards her return to service, which is expected to be in early March, thanks to the efforts of our volunteers !

    D4107 – the buffer beam has been cleaned up and painted in readiness for the re-fitting of the buffers, which may have to be of the sprung type. Pictured at Williton on Saturday 22nd February 2025 by Andy Royal © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    D4107 – recently-joined DEPG volunteer Ben applies flexible sealant to some gaps that will be dealt with when the loco undergoes a bodywork overhaul next winter. Pictured at Williton on Saturday 22nd February 2025 by Andy Royal © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    Class 33 D6566 (33 048) – this loco will undergo some planned maintenance while resident at Williton.

     

    Class 33 D6575 (33 057) – this loco is the Duty Loco and is based at Bishops Lydeard and was in use on 21/22/23 February between Bishops Lydeard and Norton Fitzwarren for crew training purposes, and will be in use again on Friday 7th and Sunday 9th of March

     

    Class 35 ‘Hymek’ D7017 – covered previously

     

    Class 35 ‘Hymek’ D7018 – also covered previously

     

    Class 14 ‘Teddy Bear’ D9518 – although several members of the team were involved with crew training activities for some part of the week in review, the work on the electrical rewiring marched on, helped by the staging that has been erected around the loco to provide safe and level access to the work area. In parallel, the engine work also made progress in the hands of the ‘Tuesday’ team, with more photos of that work expected in the roundup next week.

    D9518 (NCB Ashington No. 7) – the staging that has been bolted into place alongside the loco allows for safe and protected access to the area that is currently undergoing a rewire. Pictured at Williton on Saturday 22nd February 2025 by Andy Royal © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    Quality work needs to be funded, so we will continue to appeal for funds to support the work, right up to the point where the loco is completed. Any surplus will then be used to ensure her proper care and upkeep. If you like what we are doing, please make a donation via our website (click on the icon below) or by bank app or by sending a cheque to the DEPG at WillitonTHANK YOU VERY MUCH FOR YOUR SUPPORT !

     

     

    Class 14 ‘Teddy Bear’ D9526 – this loco will enter the loco shed as soon as D4107 vacates and will undergo engine maintenance and receive a paint refresh in time for her appearance at the WSR’s SUMMER DIESEL FESTIVAL 2025.

     

    Class 47 47077 ‘NORTH STAR’ – this loco is based at Grosmont on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway and was in use on Wednesday 12th February 2025 when it worked a rake of Empty Coaching Stock (ECS) from Pickering to Grosmont. We hope to see this loco in regular use this season and will try to provide advance notice when we receive it.

     

    Andrew Barclay 0-4-0DH 578 – as previously stated, this loco is now back in service after having an issue with her starter motor !

     

    If you can help by donating your time to any of these projects, then please JOIN US and come along to the depot for an introduction to what we do and how we do it. We currently have people on site from Saturday through to Tuesday and we can open on other days if we can be sure of getting at least two volunteers on site at all times, so there is plenty of scope. We have tasks of all types to suit most capabilities, both skilled and unskilled.

    Many thanks to all of our volunteers who give up so much of their time to work on the cleaning, painting, maintaining, restoring, managing and fund raising for our fleet of heritage locomotives !

     

     

    BOOK REVIEW: This is a new release from Pen & Sword, another in the series of locomotive studies by ANTHONY P. SAYER and no doubt destined for similar positive reviews, as has been the case for other publications from this author (click here for details). His target this time is the short-lived Class 23 ‘Baby Deltic’, a rare example of a product from the English Electric stable that did not deliver on it’s promises. Anthony digs deep into the background and presents the story in his usual style, complete with fine detail.

    Price £32 – NOTE: RRP is £35 so save £3 by buying from the DEPG !

    Click here to obtain your copy of this new book.

    Other books in this popular series are also available from the DEPG online store (classes 1417 and 22)

    Four new books have just been added to our online store – click on the images below for details:

    The Railways of South Wales 1975-1995 Part 1 – by Michael Rhodes – price £21.95 The Berks & Hants Line – 40 Years from the Lineside – by Stephen Dance – price £22.95
    Railways of Cornwall – A Decade of Change – Part 1 – by Keith Barrow – price £20.95 Winners & Losers – Loco Bashing Tales from the 1990s – by Andy Chard – £18.95

     

     

    ON SHED: in response to the question about headcode 2V48 carried by D1069 ‘WESTERN VANGUARD’ that featured in our Roundup of the week ending 28-Jul-24, long time DEPG member and volunteer Gary Lemon has been researching and provides us with the following response and a lot more besides :

         “2V48 ? A puzzling headcode indeed. I’ve scoured the WR working timetables for the period and the closest match I can come up with is the 06.26 Salisbury – Exeter St Davids (Mon – Sat) which was coded 2V58. This would have been an unusual working for a ‘Western’ but not impossible. Returning from a PW train or stone traffic in the Westbury area to its home region perhaps? Looking closely at the headcode panel the ‘4’ character isn’t fully in the frame although this could be owing to the blinds becoming slack.

         I’ve been following the saga of the 18.12 (FO) Paddington – Taunton (1B30) with interest. I recall covering this train after school on Friday 25 April 1975 with 1037 ‘WESTERN EMPRESS’ to Swindon. I remember gazing out of the window of this service at Paddington’s platform 5 and alongside was 1023 ‘WESTERN FUSILIER’ on the 18.30 Paddington-Plymouth (1B43) and adjacent to that 1068 ‘WESTERN RELIANCE’ on the 18.27 (FO 1B39) Paddington-Truro. Three ‘Westerns’ awaiting departure on adjoining platforms. During the journey we passed 1070 ‘WESTERN GAUNTLET’ leaving Pangbourne on the 18.03 Paddington-Oxford (1A92). 1023 was paired up with 1051 ‘WESTERN AMBASSADOR’ on the following Sunday’s ‘Western Enterprise’ tour. I returned from Swindon on the 18.30 Bristol – Paddington. As we left Didcot 1011 ‘WESTERN THUNDERER’ was rounding the avoiding line on the 18.25 Birmingham- Paddington (1V68) which ran on the up relief. I left the 18.30 ex-Bristol at Reading & joined 1011 for the final 36 miles.

         The reason the 18.12 ex-Paddington was formed of Mk 1 stock on Fridays was that the air brake, air con. set that formed this service Mon-Thurs. was utilised on a FO 16.00 Gloucester- Paddington having previously worked the 11.45 Paddington-Bristol and then empties to Gloucester. Malago Vale therefore had to find a spare set to form the 15.30 Bristol – Paddington on a Friday which happened to be a rake of vacuum Mk 1s which then formed the 18,12 Paddington – Taunton on a Friday. During the 74-75 timetable, the loco was ‘officially’ supposed to be off the 18.40 ThO Burngullow – Sittingbourne ‘clayfreighter’ service, this train being handed over to SR motive power at Old Oak Common.

         Following the re-routing of the mid afternoon Cardiff – Paddington via Gloucester from May 75, the 16.00 FO Gloucester – Paddington was discontinued.”

    Many thanks to Gary for sharing this information with us all. We feature another of his many photos of this fascinating era below, with thanks !

    After their re-allocation ‘en bloc’ from the Stoke Division of the LMR to the WR, the six-year-old Class 50s were pictured surrounding out-of-use Class 35 ‘Hymek’ D7093 at Old Oak Common in October 1974, the 10-year-old ‘Hymek’ being officially condemned on 26th November of that year. Photo by Gary Lemon © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

     

    DEPG NEWS – the February edition of the quarterly DEPG Newsletter has been produced on schedule by editor Mark Bladwell and has been mailed or emailed (according to member preferences). If you are a member and haven’t yet received your copy one way or another, please get in touch by using our CONTACT FORM and we will get another copy out to you.

     

    The DEPG Board of Trustees and Directors will hold a scheduled Board Meeting at Williton on Saturday 1st March 2025. If you have any questions that you would like to put to the Board, please use our CONTACT FORM and we will respond to you ASAP. 

     

    The DEPG is a charity and is run entirely by volunteers, many of whom give both their time and their money to the continuance of work on the locos in the DEPG fleet. If you have been enjoying the roundup for free, have you considered joining us for just £1 a month ? You can then add your name to all of those helping out on the above projects and play your part in the future of our locos for a lot less than the price of a cup of coffee!

     

    JOIN US using whichever membership class is appropriate for your situation and means. CLICK HERE or on the image below or use the QR code to get the details.

         

     

    If you would like to go one step further and come along to help with the work on the locos in our fleet, then please use our CONTACT FORM to let us know that you would like to volunteer and we will respond with more details.

    We look forward to hearing from you !

     

    Go to the previous Weekly Roundup post

  • Weekly Roundup – 16-Feb-25

    DEPG Chairman Martin Howard is happy with the progress being made on D1010, D4107, D7017, D7018 and D9518 and is also happy that Barclay 578 (ROF 1) is running again ! Pictured at Williton on Saturday 15th February 2025 by Andy Royal © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    The lifting activities that took place at Williton on Friday and Saturday 7th/8th February were almost disrupted by the failure of the starter motor on DEPG yard pilot Barclay 578 (ROF1) which prevented Class 14 ‘Teddy Bear’ D9518 (NCB No. 7) from being pulled out of the loco shed. In the end, the skill of the crane operator from Heaver Brothers saved the day by lifting the cab back on to the Class 14’s frames inside the shed, avoiding a delay and the expense of another crane visit.

    The issue has now been resolved by repairs to the starter motor that were carried out by DEPG volunteer John Cooke on Saturday 15th, with the repaired motor re-fitted to the loco by Martin later in the day. The loco started straight away and was later shunted to a more convenient location on number 2 road where it is now ready for future duties – hopefully with improved reliability and resilience since we have now acquired some spare parts !

    Barclay 578 (ROF 1) – starter motor removed. Pictured at Williton on Saturday 15th February 2025 by Andy Royal © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    Barclay 578 (ROF 1) – starter motor solenoid switch contacts in need of repair. Pictured at Williton on Saturday 8th February 2025 by Terry Deacon © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    Barclay 578 (ROF 1) – repaired starter motor re-fitted. Pictured at Williton on Saturday 15th February 2025 by Andy Royal © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    Barclay 578 (ROF 1) – engine started and running at a steady 750 rpm to warm up. Pictured at Williton on Saturday 15th February 2025 by Andy Royal © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

     

    D7017 UPDATE

    The WSR engineering team are doing a fine job on D7017 at Minehead, with the old corroded metal being cut out and replaced with new metal, in some cases with specially-formed curvature to match the original profiles. The photos below (all provided by Neil McCannon © CC BY-NC 3.0) showcase the work that is being done by the combined team of staff and volunteers, all of which is very much appreciated:

    Above – 11-Feb-25 – The lower part of the valance on the secondman’s side at the the ‘A’ end has been cut out … … and this photo shows the reason why.
    Above – 11-Feb-25 – The roof section that goes over the preheater has been needle-gunned … … which revealed some perforations !
    Above – 14-Feb-25 – new steel sheet being formed to match the curvature of the original … … and ready to be welded into position.
    Above – 11-Feb-25 – the cab interior roof has been sanded back and is ready for painting … … and the bulkhead is being readied for painting.

     

    We continue to receive donations to the D7017 bodywork overhaul fund, so a BIG THANK YOU goes out to the 67 people who have donated to this project so far, keeping it moving forward to ensure that the loco will be back in service in time for the WSR’s Summer Diesel Festival (5-7th June).

    The fundraiser for the bodywork repairs for ‘Hymek’ D7017 has been kept open with a new target of £12,000 with a total of £11,095 being raised so far.

    THANK YOU FOR YOUR FANTASTIC SUPPORT !

    The new target will cover most of the work being done on the loco, the remaining £3,000 being provided from the DEPG’s general fund. The sub-contract route was taken to make sure that the loco gets repaired during the winter and is able to take pole position in the celebration of 50 years of ‘Hymek’ preservation that will take place on 30th and 31st of August this year.

    The fund will remain open until the work is completed, to make sure that we have sufficient funding to cover any unexpected costs, and make sure that a thorough and long-lasting repair is carried out. All funds donated via this appeal will be allocated to returning D7017 to service in time for the forthcoming season.

     

    Can you help ? Click here to donate £17 to D7017 !

     

     

     

     

     

    If you can help with this short-term appeal, please make a donation via our website (click on the icons above or below) or by bank app or by sending a cheque to the DEPG at WillitonTHANK YOU VERY MUCH !

            

     

     

    WSR NEWS

    The refresher training continues with three more days of hand-on training taking place this week involving duty loco Class 33 D6575 (33048) operating between Bishops Lydeard and Norton Fitzwarren. This does deplete the available hours for volunteering at Williton, but it is essential to ensure safe and efficient operation of the railway, so it takes first priority.

     

    The WSR have published their running calendar for 2025 on their website and social media channels, and we have updated our DIESEL RUNNING DATES page including provisional loco allocations, some of which are subject to change to align with the availability of the locos and the crews. As the information becomes more refined, we will update our page and send out a DIESELGEN bulletin with the clarification. Click here or on the banner below to view the provisional allocations:

    Click here or on the image below to visit the WSR’s timetable page:

     

    The WSR’s SUMMER DIESEL FESTIVAL has been confirmed as being Thursday 5th through Saturday 7th with a Mixed Traction Day  on Sunday 8th of June 2025.

     

    Click here to join the DEPG

    Click here to go to our DIESEL RUNNING DATES page

    Click here to go to our ONLINE SHOP

    Thank you very much for your support !

     

    LOCO NEWS:

    Class 52 D1010 ‘WESTERN CAMPAIGNER’ – the task of listing and evaluating the many component parts of the ‘B’ bogie is ongoing, the objective being to produce a ‘shopping list’ of parts that we can place on order while we turn our attention to the ‘A’ bogie (which is also likely to need the same or similar, so we will order two sets). The ‘A’ cooler group received attention from Tony, with one of several corroded areas being cut out and prepared for new metal to be welded in (photos taken at Williton on Saturday 15th February 2025 and provided by Leroy Ford © CC BY-NC 3.0). Progress on other parts of the loco has slowed while volunteers are undergoing training, but we do have several new volunteers who are now familiar with the work required and will be back on the case very soon. 

    Step 1 – identify the area requiring repair … Step 2 – cut into the area requiring repair …
    Step 3 – remove the corroded steel … Step 4 – in progress – prepare the area for the new metal.

     

    Our appeals for MORE VOLUNTEERS are working but WE STILL NEED MORE HELP to get this huge loco back on the rails, so please get in touch by using our CONTACT FORM if you are able to join the team.

     

    As mentioned before, apologies to those D1010 sponsors who have yet to receive the photos and certificates for the patches that they have sponsored. The bitterly cold and/or wet weather is preventing us from spending outdoor time on the engraving, so we will need to leave this work a little longer, at least until the temperature is back in (positive) double digits.

    Rest assured that every sponsor will receive their certificate and the details of where to find their sponsored patch. We will be making a further push for funds soon, because we have some big ticket items for refurbishment, including the remaining cardan shafts and 32 springs from the suspension system.

    MANY THANKS to all who have sponsored and supported the RESTORATION of D1010 !

     

     

    Class 09 D4107 (09019) – contrary to what was reported last week, only ONE of the two Oleo hydraulic buffers have been overhauled by the specialist subcontractor, because the other was corroded and beyond repair. This gives us a problem because Oleo buffers for Class 08/09 are rare indeed. We might have to fit sprung buffers, the same as at the cab end of the loco and the same as when the loco first entered service in 1961.

    Strange question, but worth asking, do you happen to have a spare Oleo buffer for a Class 08/09 ? If yes, please use our CONTACT FORM to get in touch with us.

    Otherwise, the loco is making good progress towards her return to service, which is expected to be in early March, buffers permitting !

     

    Class 33 D6566 (33 048) – this loco will undergo some planned maintenance while resident at Williton.

     

    Class 33 D6575 (33 057) – this loco is the Duty Loco and is based at Bishops Lydeard, which is handy because she will be in use again on 21/22/23 February between Bishops Lydeard and Norton Fitzwarren for crew training purposes.

     

    Class 35 ‘Hymek’ D7017 – in addition to the bodywork overhaul that is taking place in the loco shed at Minehead, volunteer driver and loco manager Neil has sorted out the issue with the driver’s droplight (side) window after finding that corrosion had caused one of the channels to swell and jam the glass. The former BR(WR) Automatic Train Control (ATC) equipment had to be removed from the cab side wall to expose the window mechanism, but repairs have now been completed and the ATC equipment put back in place, so this job can be deleted from the list. Thank you Neil for completing this task !

    D7017 – the driver’s droplight window has received attention and is now working properly again. Pictured at Minehead on Saturday 15th February 2025 by Neil McCannon © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    Class 35 ‘Hymek’ D7018 – this loco is getting closer to her return to service in this, the 50th year of ‘Hymek’ preservation. This loco was the last of the Class to be switched off, being withdrawn from service at Old Oak Common on 16th March, 1975. For more details, get a copy of our booklet ‘HYMEK D7018’ by clicking on this link.

    The transmission has now been put back in position inside the loco but there is still plenty of work to do before the engine can be started. The cardan shafts need to be attached (five in total), the cooling system needs to be connected and filled, the electrical connections need to be re-made and tested. Then, before starting the engine, a massive 290 litres (64 gallons) of oil needs to be pumped in to the transmission!

    A test schedule is being drawn up and all of the necessary risk mitigations will be put in place prior to the big moment – the pressing of the START button in approximately two weeks from now. There will then be a period of static testing and assessment before any test running is contemplated. This is a step-by-step process and there are no short cuts.

    D7018 – the repaired transmission needs to be coupled up to the five cardan shafts (engine, dynastarter, Serck pump, bogie A and bogie B) and needs to be re-connected to the cooling system and electrical system of the loco. Pictured at Williton on Tuesday 11th February 2025 by Colin Foxhall © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    D7018 – transmission team volunteer Tim was at work in the ‘tunnel’ formed by the two banks of radiator elements of the cooler group. Pictured at Williton on Tuesday 11th February 2025 by Colin Foxhall © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    Class 14 ‘Teddy Bear’ D9518 – the cab assembly has now been remounted onto the loco frames and the work of bolting it down and re-attaching the various parts is in process. One side of the loco has been surrounded by the mobile work platforms so that the task of wiring up the cab to the rest of the loco systems can take place safely. The engine rebuild is proceeding rapidly – the crankshaft has been re-fitted, the photos below showing the value of the turnover rig that allows the engine block to be safely rotated and locked in position, to allow easy access.

    D9518 – the cab is now back on the loco, giving it a much more recognisable shape. Work on bolting the cab to the frames has already begun. Pictured at Williton on Saturday 15th February 2025 by Andy Royal © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    D9518 – the crankshaft in the foreground was pictured before being hoisted into the engine block that is being held in a partially inverted position in the turnover rig behind. Pictured at Williton on Tuesday 11th February 2025 by Terry Deacon © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    D9518 – the crankshaft is now safely back in the engine block with the main bearing caps refitted and torqued down. The benefit of the turnover rig is apparent in this view at Williton on Tuesday 11th February 2025, with volunteer Nick standing guard. Photo by Terry Deacon © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    Quality work needs to be funded, so we will continue to appeal for funds to support the work, right up to the point where the loco is completed. Any surplus will then be used to ensure her proper care and upkeep. If you like what we are doing, please make a donation via our website (click on the icon below) or by bank app or by sending a cheque to the DEPG at WillitonTHANK YOU VERY MUCH FOR YOUR SUPPORT !

     

     

    Class 14 ‘Teddy Bear’ D9526 – this loco celebrated her 60th birthday on Monday 6th January, as announced in an earlier post (click here for the post and for a video clip of her most recent engine run). This loco will enter the loco shed some time in the spring and will undergo engine maintenance and receive a paint refresh in time for her appearance at the WSR’s SUMMER DIESEL FESTIVAL 2025.

     

    Class 47 47077 ‘NORTH STAR’ – this loco is based at Grosmont on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway and was in use on Wednesday 12th February 2025 when it worked a rake of Empty Coaching Stock (ECS) from Pickering to Grosmont to put it in place for the half-term running. Upon arrival at Grosmont, our loco passed the unique and wonderfully-restored NER Electric Autocar number 3170. This machine dates back to 1903 and was the first petrol-electric railway vehicle in the world, the forerunner of the modern diesel-eletric ‘unit’ train. Read more about this vehicle by clicking this link.

    Many thanks to DEPG member Martin Fisher for rushing over to Grosmont to capture this view at short notice !

    47077 (D1661, 47613, 47840) ‘NORTH STAR’ arrives at Grosmont with a rake of Empty Coaching Stock while restored NER ‘autocar’ 3170 waits to depart on a test run to Pickering. Pictured on Wednesday 12th February 2025 by Martin Fisher © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

     

    Andrew Barclay 0-4-0DH 578 – as previously stated, this loco is now back in service after having an issue with her starter motor !

     

    If you can help by donating your time to any of these projects, then please JOIN US and come along to the depot for an introduction to what we do and how we do it. We currently have people on site from Saturday through to Tuesday and we can open on other days if we can be sure of getting at least two volunteers on site at all times, so there is plenty of scope. We have tasks of all types to suit most capabilities, both skilled and unskilled.

    Many thanks to all of our volunteers who give up so much of their time to work on the cleaning, painting, maintaining, restoring, managing and fund raising for our fleet of heritage locomotives !

     

     

    BOOK REVIEW: This is a new release from Pen & Sword, another in the series of locomotive studies by ANTHONY P. SAYER and no doubt destined for similar positive reviews, as has been the case for other publications from this author (click here for details). His target this time is the short-lived Class 23 ‘Baby Deltic’, a rare example of a product from the English Electric stable that did not deliver on it’s promises. Anthony digs deep into the background and presents the story in his usual style, complete with fine detail.

    Here’s the description text that has been provided by the publisher, Pen & Sword:

         “The British Railways ‘Pilot Scheme’ orders of 1955 included ten English Electric Type 2 diesel-electric locomotives deploying Napier ‘Deltic’ engines. These locomotives, more colloquially known as the ‘Baby Deltics’, were introduced into traffic during 1959 for use on the Eastern Region of British Railways. This book looks at the history of the Class 23s, making extensive use of available but previously unpublished archive material, covering their introduction, technical idiosyncrasies, appearance design and performance. Issues with the original ‘Deltic’ engines were ultimately dealt with via a major rehabilitation exercise during the 1963-65 period; whilst various re-engining options were considered , including a new ‘U’ series English Electric high-speed engine design, the original Napier engines were ultimately retained. The work involved in the whole rehabilitation process is discussed in detail using internal English Electric archive material and forms a central focus of research. The fleet survived intact until 1968, when withdrawal commenced as a direct result of declining traffic levels across the UK, with successive National Traction Plans progressively selecting the less successful, non-standard and ‘numerically-challenged’ classes for removal from traffic. All ten locomotives were withdrawn by March 1971. Individual locomotive histories, allocations, fire and accident incidents, liveries and detail differences, storage and disposals are provided for each locomotive.”

    Price £32 – NOTE: RRP is £35 so save £3 by buying from the DEPG !

    Click here to obtain your copy of this new book.

    Other books in this popular series are also available from the DEPG online store (classes 1417 and 22)

    Four new books have just been added to our online store – click on the images below for details:

    The Railways of South Wales 1975-1995 Part 1 – by Michael Rhodes – price £21.95 The Berks & Hants Line – 40 Years from the Lineside – by Stephen Dance – price £22.95
    Railways of Cornwall – A Decade of Change – Part 1 – by Keith Barrow – price £20.95 Winners & Losers – Loco Bashing Tales from the 1990s – by Andy Chard – £18.95

     

     

    ON SHED: many thanks to ROGER GEACH for providing us with this view of our very own Class 52 D1010 ‘WESTERN CAMPAIGNER’ at Plymouth on Sunday 30th September 1973. The loco is carrying the 1V72 headcode of the Leeds to Penzance service, which she will work from Plymouth to Penzance. It was common practice for ‘Westerns’ to shuttle back and forth between Plymouth and Penzance, providing some ‘guaranteed’ and entertaining mileage for followers of the class. Many thanks to Roger for sharing his photo with us all.

    Class 52 D1010 ‘WESTERN CAMPAIGNER’ was pictured ‘light engine’ at Plymouth in preparation to work the 1V72 Leeds to Penzance service forward from Plymouth through to Penzance. Pictured on Sunday 30th September 1973 by Roger Geach © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

     

    DEPG NEWS – the February edition of the quarterly DEPG Newsletter has been produced on schedule by editor Mark Bladwell and has been mailed or emailed (according to member preferences). The paper copies were mailed on Saturday 8th February, but an issue has arisen where an effort to save cost has backfired ….

    The labels used were old stock and have lost their ‘stickyness’ and some have become detached in the post, resulting in the newsletters being returned to the sender without address labels. Unfortunately, we don’t know who has received their newsletters and who hasn’t !

    So, if you are a member and want a paper copy of the newsletter and haven’t yet received it, please get in touch by using our CONTACT FORM and we will get another copy in the mail for you. Apologies for any delay !

     

    The DEPG is a charity and is run entirely by volunteers, many of whom give both their time and their money to the continuance of work on the locos in the DEPG fleet. If you have been enjoying the roundup for free, have you considered joining us for just £1 a month ? You can then add your name to all of those helping out on the above projects and play your part in the future of our locos for a lot less than the price of a cup of coffee!

     

    JOIN US using whichever membership class is appropriate for your situation and means. CLICK HERE or on the image below or use the QR code to get the details.

         

     

    If you would like to go one step further and come along to help with the work on the locos in our fleet, then please use our CONTACT FORM to let us know that you would like to volunteer and we will respond with more details.

    We look forward to hearing from you !

     

    Go to the previous Weekly Roundup post

  • Weekly Roundup – 09-Feb-25

    Another milestone in the restoration of Class 14 D9518 was reached on Saturday 8th February 2025 when the part-restored cab assembly was re-mounted on the loco frames at Williton using a 66-ton-metre truck-mounted crane and a highly skilled operator, both provided by HEAVER BROTHERS of Exeter. Photo by Martin Howard © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    Also on Saturday 8th February 2025, a major step was taken towards the return to service of Class 35 ‘Hymek’ D7018 when the repaired transmission was re-installed in the loco at Williton using the 66-ton-metre truck-mounted crane that was provided by HEAVER BROTHERS. Photo by Julie Tucker © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    A 20-ft ISO container was collected from a donor and delivered to Williton on Friday 7th February 2025 using a 66-ton-metre truck-mounted crane that was provided by HEAVER BROTHERS. Photo by Julie Tucker © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    Another busy time at Williton with three major lifting activities being carried out with the help of a very capable 66-ton-metre truck-mounted crane and a highly skilled operator, both provided by HEAVER BROTHERS of Exeter. The three lifting tasks took place over two days and were completed with several hours to spare, even though the lifting of the cab assembly of Class 14 D9518 had to be carried out inside the loco shed because our yard shunter, Barclay 578 (ROF 1) developed a starter motor fault and could not be used to haul D9518’s frames out of the shed, as had been intended.

    Rather than abandon the lift and have to incur the expense of another crane visit on another day, the crane operator carried out a risk assessment on site and determined that the lift could take place inside the loco shed, taking advantage of the ability of the crane to lift the required load (4 tonnes including the x2 factor of safety) at a radius of up to 16 metres (52 feet). The crane had built-in load and moment sensors and was operated by remote control, allowing precise and safe operation within the confines of the loco shed. WELL DONE to HEAVER BROTHERS and their staff for getting the job done safely, at minimum cost to the DEPG !

    These lifts clear the way for our volunteers to make the next steps with both of these projects, and move us significantly closer to the return to service of these two locomotives. WELL DONE TO ALL INVOLVED!

    The part-restored cab assembly of Class 14 D9518 was re-mounted onto the loco frames at Williton on Saturday 8th February 2025. Photo by Jon Tooke © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    The repaired and repainted transmission and heat exchanger of Class 35 ‘Hymek’ D7018 were re-installed in the loco at Williton on Saturday 8th February 2025. Photo by Martin Howard © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

     

    D7017 UPDATE

    The repair work continues apace at Minehead, as the WSR engineering team makes daily progress on the replacing of corroded metal with new metal. The additional funding that has been made possible by the tremendous response from members and supporters is being put to good use, ensuring that the repairs are thorough and substantial, and capable of lasting for decades. We continue to receive donations to the D7017 bodywork overhaul fund, so a BIG THANK YOU goes out to all of the 64 people who have donated to this project, keeping it moving forward to ensure that the loco will be back in service in time for the WSR’s Summer Diesel Festival (5-7th June).

    As we reported last week, the fundraiser for the bodywork repairs for ‘Hymek’ D7017 has been kept open with a new target of £12,000 with a total of £10,927 being raised so far.

    THANK YOU FOR YOUR FANTASTIC SUPPORT !

    The new target of  £12,000 will cover most of the work being done on the loco, the remaining £3,000 being provided from the DEPG’s general fund. The sub-contract route was taken to make sure that the loco gets repaired during the winter and is able to take pole position in the celebration of 50 years of ‘Hymek’ preservation that will take place in the summer of this year.

    The initial target was reached on 1st January 2025, but we are keeping the fundraiser open until the work is completed, to make sure that we have sufficient funding to cover any unexpected costs, and make sure that a thorough and long-lasting repair is carried out. All funds donated via this appeal will be allocated to returning D7017 to service in time for the forthcoming season.

     

     

    Can you help ? Click here to donate £17 to D7017 !

     

     

     

     

     

    If you can help with this short-term appeal, please make a donation via our website (click on the icons above or below) or by bank app or by sending a cheque to the DEPG at WillitonTHANK YOU VERY MUCH !

            

     

     

    WSR NEWS

    The WSR are heavily involved in training sessions for all operational staff and volunteers, with more training taking place this coming week involving duty loco Class 33 D6575 (33048) between Bishops Lydeard and Norton Fitzwarren. This work is being supplemented by communications days taking place on weekends at Wellington School, where the plans for the year are being presented to all volunteers and the roles and objectives of the support organisations are being outlined. This does deplete the available hours for volunteering at Williton, but it is a short-term loss that is balanced against the need for the railway to perform at a higher level, and we welcome the WSR efforts.

    In parallel with this, the WSR Infrastructure team are hard at work renovating and repairing at multiple locations along the 23-mile line. The signalling is being overhauled at Blue Anchor and the down line is being re-laid at Crowcombe Heathfield, to name but two of the activity areas. This work is often a joint effort between WSR staff and volunteers, and is to be applauded.

    The Infrastructure team are hard at work re-laying the down line through Crowcombe Heathfield station. Pictured on Thursday 6th February 2025 by Brenden Hill © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    The WSR have now published their running calendar for 2025 on their website and social media channels, and we have updated our DIESEL RUNNING DATES page including provisional loco allocations, some of which are subject to change to align with the availability of the locos and the crews. As the information becomes more refined, we will update our page and send out a DIESELGEN bulletin with the clarification. Click here or on the banner below to view the provisional allocations:

    Click here or on the image below to visit the WSR’s timetable page:

     

    The WSR’s SUMMER DIESEL FESTIVAL has been confirmed as being Thursday 5th through Saturday 7th with a Mixed Traction Day  on Sunday 8th of June 2025.

     

    Click here to join the DEPG

    Click here to go to our DIESEL RUNNING DATES page

    Click here to go to our ONLINE SHOP

    Thank you very much for your support !

     

    LOCO NEWS:

    Class 52 D1010 ‘WESTERN CAMPAIGNER’ – with the focus on other projects at Williton last weekend, the D1010 team were content to keep out of the way and progress some simpler tasks, with Ian F continuing his never-ending paintwork challenge and Gordon tackling the 50-year accumulation of dirt that has attached itself to the underside of the loco. The focus in the coming weeks will be on evaluating and recording the condition of the various bogie components, so that the repair work can be arranged along with the necessary replacement parts.

    D1010 – the ‘A’ cooler group is still undergoing welding repairs, but it had to be moved out of the loco shed to make way for the crane on Saturday 8th February 2025. Pictured at Williton by Jon Tooke © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    D1010 – one of the fans from the ‘A’ cooler group had to be removed to allow the motor to be repaired, but this has now been done and the fan is being prepared for re-fitting to the motor shaft. Pictured at Williton on Saturday 8th February 2025 by Jon Tooke © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

     

    Our appeals for MORE VOLUNTEERS are working because we have had another new volunteer join us in the last week, which is great news, but WE STILL NEED MORE HELP to get this huge loco back on the rails, so please get in touch by using our CONTACT FORM if you are able to join the team.

     

    As mentioned before, apologies to those D1010 sponsors who have yet to receive the photos and certificates for the patches that they have sponsored. The bitterly cold weather is preventing us from spending outdoor time on the engraving, so we will need to leave this work a little longer, at least until the temperature is back in (positive) double digits.

    Rest assured that every sponsor will receive their certificate and the details of where to find their sponsored patch. We will be making a further push for funds soon, because we have some big ticket items for refurbishment, including the remaining cardan shafts and 32 springs from the suspension system.

    MANY THANKS to all who have sponsored and supported the RESTORATION of D1010 !

     

     

    Class 09 D4107 (09019) – the Oleo hydraulic buffers have been overhauled by a specialist subcontractor and are on their way back to Williton, which is great news and quite a relief, given that we are running out of time to keep this loco at Williton. The list of outstanding repairs and maintenance tasks is diminishing, the latest success being the solution to the slow operation of the Driver’s Safety Device (DSD, sometimes called the ‘deadmans’ handle or pedal), this issue being traced to a stuck valve underneath the floor of the loco. After dismantling and cleaning the valve, the DSD system now works as it should.

    D4107 (09019) – winter maintenance and repair works are almost complete, although the repaint will have to wait until next year. Pictured at Williton on Saturday 8th February 2025 by Andy Royal © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    D4107 (09019) – the delinquent valve is pictured as mounted under the cab floor. Photo dated Sunday 9th February 2025 by Ian Robins © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    D4107 (09019) – the delinquent valve was disassembled and cleaned up at Williton on Sunday 9th February 2025, solving the issue with the DSD. Photo by Ian Robins © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    Class 33 D6566 (33 048) – this loco has now returned to Williton and will receive some scheduled maintenance while also enjoying some rest and relaxation in the confines of the yard.

     

    Class 33 D6575 (33 057) – this loco has now become the Duty Loco, after moving to Bishops Lydeard on Saturday 18th January. This loco will be in use between Bishops Lydeard and Norton Fitzwarren for crew training purposes on Friday 14th and Saturday 15th February.

     

    Class 35 ‘Hymek’ D7017 – in addition to the bodywork overhaul that is taking place in the loco shed at Minehead, volunteer driver and loco manager Neil has been investigating the issue with the driver’s droplight (side) window and has found that corrosion has caused the underlying framework to swell, resulting in distortion of the guide channel which then gets in the way of the window glass. The solution is to remove the former BR(WR) Automatic Train Control (ATC) equipment from the cab side wall and expose the window mechanism so that the corroded section can be cut out and fresh metal welded in. This fairly simple issue will take many hours of work because of the difficulty accessing the work area. Although the ATC equipment is redundant, it is kept for authenticity and reflects the equipment fitted to these locos throughout their working lifetimes, so quite a bit of patience is required to get this job done. Well done to Neil for taking on the task !

    D7017 – the driver’s droplight window needs attention so the equipment mounted on the cab side wall had to be removed to allow access. What a task, and there is more to be removed before the welding repairs can take place! Pictured at Minehead on Wednesday 5th February 2025 by Neil McCannon © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    D7017 – the BR(WR) ATC equipment is mounted on the cab wall on the driver’s side, which then makes access to the window mechanism extremely difficult. Pictured at Minehead on Wednesday 5th February 2025 by Neil McCannon © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    Class 35 ‘Hymek’ D7018 – this loco is getting closer to her return to service in this, the 50th year of ‘Hymek’ preservation. This loco was the last of the Class to be switched off, being withdrawn from service at Old Oak Common on 16th March, 1975. For more details, get a copy of our booklet ‘HYMEK D7018’ by clicking on this link.

    As the transmission team were in a holding pattern after completing their preparations for the transmission to be re-installed, they demonstrated their talents by resolving an issue that had marred the looks of the loco for some time, namely the bent handrail on the Secondman’s side at the ‘Minehead’ end of the locomotive !

    The team set about removing the handrail for straightening, then welded it to rectangular plates, and then welded those plates to the loco body from the outside. This was necessary because of the lack of access from the inside. However, the team did mange to get a few coats of paint onto the repaired area from inside the cab, ensuring that the repair will last as long as the rest of the loco. Well done team !

    D7018 – the damaged handrail had been removed by Geoff and Colin F on the previous day, and straightened out before attaching it to two rectangular plates, with corresponding cutouts made in the loco body panel. Pictured at Williton on Tuesday 4th February 2025 by Colin Foxhall © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    D7018 – after welding from the outside and applying red anti-corrosive primer, the repair is now ready for completion by the painting team. Pictured at Williton on Tuesday 4th February 2025 by Colin Foxhall © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    Class 14 ‘Teddy Bear’ D9518 – as previously reported, the cab assembly has now been remounted onto the loco frames and the work of bolting it down and re-attaching the various parts can now proceed. This will also allow the wiring work to be completed. The engine overhaul is proceeding in parallel, and we will bring more news on that in the next roundup.

     

    Quality work needs to be funded, so we will continue to appeal for funds to support the work, right up to the point where the loco is completed. Any surplus will then be used to ensure her proper care and upkeep. If you like what we are doing, please make a donation via our website (click on the icon below) or by bank app or by sending a cheque to the DEPG at WillitonTHANK YOU VERY MUCH FOR YOUR SUPPORT !

     

     

    Class 14 ‘Teddy Bear’ D9526 – this loco celebrated her 60th birthday on Monday 6th January, as announced in an earlier post (click here for the post and for a video clip of her most recent engine run). This loco will enter the loco shed some time in the spring and will undergo engine maintenance and receive a paint refresh in time for her appearance at the WSR’s SUMMER DIESEL FESTIVAL 2025.

     

    Class 47 47077 ‘NORTH STAR’ – this loco is based at Grosmont on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway and we look forward to seeing this loco being in regular use during 2025 !

     

    Andrew Barclay 0-4-0DH 578 – although this loco had been very busy in connection with the re-location of the West Somerset Railway Heritage Trust’s carriage collection from Williton to Washford and had demonstrated her reliability and usefulness, she let us down totally on Saturday 8th by failing to start when we needed her to move D7018 and D9518 ! The issue appears to be a failure within the starter motor, so we are investigating that and trying to find a solution that will allow the loco to be started and moved out of the way while we get a spare motor overhauled. Such is life !

    Barclay 578 (ROF1) was marooned on number 4 road in disgrace after failing to start on the morning of Saturday 8th February 2025. The issue with her starter motor is being investigated. Pictured at Williton on the 8th by Jon Tooke © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    If you can help by donating your time to any of these projects, then please JOIN US and come along to the depot for an introduction to what we do and how we do it. We currently have people on site from Saturday through to Tuesday and we can open on other days if we can be sure of getting at least two volunteers on site at all times, so there is plenty of scope. We have tasks of all types to suit most capabilities, both skilled and unskilled.

    Many thanks to all of our volunteers who give up so much of their time to work on the cleaning, painting, maintaining, restoring, managing and fund raising for our fleet of heritage locomotives !

     

     

    BOOK REVIEW: many thanks to those who have already ordered this new book, and apologies for the delay in shipping, but we now have the books in stock and shipment commenced on Saturday 8th. Thank you for your patience!

    This is a new release from Pen & Sword, another in the series of locomotive studies by ANTHONY P. SAYER and no doubt destined for similar positive reviews, as has been the case for other publications from this author (click here for details). His target this time is the short-lived Class 23 ‘Baby Deltic’, a rare example of a product from the English Electric stable that did not deliver on it’s promises. Anthony digs deep into the background and presents the story in his usual style, complete with fine detail.

    Here’s the description text that has been provided by the publisher, Pen & Sword:

         “The British Railways ‘Pilot Scheme’ orders of 1955 included ten English Electric Type 2 diesel-electric locomotives deploying Napier ‘Deltic’ engines. These locomotives, more colloquially known as the ‘Baby Deltics’, were introduced into traffic during 1959 for use on the Eastern Region of British Railways. This book looks at the history of the Class 23s, making extensive use of available but previously unpublished archive material, covering their introduction, technical idiosyncrasies, appearance design and performance. Issues with the original ‘Deltic’ engines were ultimately dealt with via a major rehabilitation exercise during the 1963-65 period; whilst various re-engining options were considered , including a new ‘U’ series English Electric high-speed engine design, the original Napier engines were ultimately retained. The work involved in the whole rehabilitation process is discussed in detail using internal English Electric archive material and forms a central focus of research. The fleet survived intact until 1968, when withdrawal commenced as a direct result of declining traffic levels across the UK, with successive National Traction Plans progressively selecting the less successful, non-standard and ‘numerically-challenged’ classes for removal from traffic. All ten locomotives were withdrawn by March 1971. Individual locomotive histories, allocations, fire and accident incidents, liveries and detail differences, storage and disposals are provided for each locomotive.”

    Price £32 – NOTE: RRP is £35 so save £3 by buying from the DEPG !

    Click here to obtain your copy of this new book.

    Other books in this popular series are also available from the DEPG online store (classes 1417 and 22)

    Four new books have just been added to our online store – click on the images below for details:

    The Railways of South Wales 1975-1995 Part 1 – by Michael Rhodes – price £21.95 The Berks & Hants Line – 40 Years from the Lineside – by Stephen Dance – price £22.95
    Railways of Cornwall – A Decade of Change – Part 1 – by Keith Barrow – price £20.95 Winners & Losers – Loco Bashing Tales from the 1990s – by Andy Chard – £18.95

     

     

    ON SHED: in July of 2024, we featured a photo of Class 52 D1069 ‘WESTERN VANGUARD’ at Cardiff Canton depot carrying the headcode ‘2V48’ and this raised some questions about what Class 2 service the ‘Western’ would have been working prior to arrival on shed. The discussions over the last two weeks about Class 52 ‘Westerns’ working the 18:12 Fridays Only (FO) from Paddington have caused DEPG founder member Clive Burrows to make a plausible connection that would explain the ‘2V48’ headcode on a loco that quite possibly made its way to Cardiff on a Class 1 service from Bristol, while still showing the ‘2V48’ headcode at the trailing end of the loco. Here’s the information that Clive has provided:

     

         “Several months ago you published a picture of a Class 52 with a Class 2 WR headcode (2V48) with a question about the interregional service that was involved.  That reminded me that the 18:12 FO from Paddington was often hauled by a Class 52 up to the end of April 1976 as it was diagrammed for Mk.1 vacuum braked stock, even though all the other weekday services on the route had migrated to ETH stock.  The locomotive off the 18:12 FO then worked the Saturday afternoon 16:xx Bristol to Weymouth and the 19:xx return, which is likely to be where the 2Vxx headcode came from on the Class 52 in your photograph.

         The final destination of the18:12 FO from Paddington to Bristol was actually Taunton, but the locomotive would have brought the empty coaching stock (ECS) back from Taunton to Malago Vale before going on to Bristol Bath Road depot.  Looking back at my records, on 1st November 1974 I caught the 18:12 FO from Paddington to Chippenham that was hauled by D1046 and then the following day (Saturday 2nd November 1974) I caught the 16:00 Bristol TM to Weymouth that was also hauled by D1046.

         Rather strangely, I caught the 18:12 (FO) from Paddington to Bristol one evening several years later during an industrial dispute when it was load 11 coaches hauled by a single Class 33 with a Westbury based crew.  I rode on the footplate with the Westbury crew and noted that the power controller only had two positions, open and shut!”

    Many thanks to Clive for providing this information. Does anyone have an alternative theory about the mysterious ‘2V48’ headcode ? If so, please let us know by using our CONTACT FORM.

     

    Class 52 1069 ‘WESTERN VANGUARD’ stands at the head of a line of locos at Cardiff Canton shed on a gloomy day in December 1974. This loco was delivered new to Cardiff Canton on 21st October 1963 and immediately put to use on the Paddington express workings, to relieve the ‘Hymeks’ on these heavy turns. Evidently reduced to Class 2 workings by 1974, this loco was withdrawn in October of the following year. Photo by the late Mike Evans © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

     

    DEPG NEWS – the February edition of the quarterly DEPG Newsletter has been produced on schedule by editor Mark Bladwell and has been mailed or emailed (according to member preferences). The paper copies were mailed last weekend, but an issue has arisen where an effort to save cost has backfired ….

    The labels used were old stock and have lost their ‘stickyness’ and some are becoming detached in the post, resulting in the newsletters being returned to the sender without address labels. Unfortunately, we don’t know who has received their newsletters and who hasn’t !

    So, if you are a member and want a paper copy of the newsletter and haven’t received it by the 19th of February, please get in touch by using our CONTACT FORM and we will get another copy in the mail for you. Apologies for any delay !

     

    The DEPG is a charity and is run entirely by volunteers, many of whom give both their time and their money to the continuance of work on the locos in the DEPG fleet. If you have been enjoying the roundup for free, have you considered joining us for just £1 a month ? You can then add your name to all of those helping out on the above projects and play your part in the future of our locos for a lot less than the price of a cup of coffee!

     

    JOIN US using whichever membership class is appropriate for your situation and means. CLICK HERE or on the image below or use the QR code to get the details.

         

     

    If you would like to go one step further and come along to help with the work on the locos in our fleet, then please use our CONTACT FORM to let us know that you would like to volunteer and we will respond with more details.

    We look forward to hearing from you !

     

    Go to the previous Weekly Roundup post

  • Weekly Roundup – 02-Feb-25

    Barclay 578 (ROF Bridgwater No. 1) was put to work on Monday and Tuesday 27/28 January 2025, hauling the WSRHT’s heritage coaches from Williton to Washford with Class 03 D2133 at the rear. Pictured arriving at Washford with TK 5856 on the 28th. Photo by Robin Wichard © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    The re-location of the West Somerset Railway Heritage Trust’s (WSRHT) collection of heritage coaches from Williton to Washford created a challenge for the WSR because of the frail condition of some of the vehicles, most of which have not been subjected to haulage by rail for a very long time. After careful inspection, the vehicles were given permission to be moved by rail – but one at a time with a loco top and tail and at a maximum speed of 5mph.

    So, on Monday 27th and Tuesday 28th January 2025, the WSR’s Class 03 shunter D2133 arrived at Williton where the coaches had previously been made ready by DEPG Williton depot shunter Barclay 578 (ROF 1), and the two locos positioned at the top and tail of each coach in turn before heading off at walking speed. Over the course of two days, five heritage coaches were moved to their new home at Washford where they were shunted into the yard awaiting their turn in the restoration queue.

    The chance for such a workout does not come along very often, but we are happy to say that ‘ROF 1‘ gave a good account of herself and got the job done !

    DEPG and WSR volunteer secondman Chris was pictured while preparing to couple Barclay 578 (ROF Bridgwater No. 1) to the last of five WSRHT heritage coaches to be moved from Williton to Washford. Pictured at Williton on Tuesday 28th January 2025 by Mark Bladwell © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    Barclay 578 (ROF Bridgwater No. 1) was pictured departing from Williton on Tuesday 28 January 2025, hauling another of the WSRHT’s heritage coaches from Williton to Washford with Class 03 D2133 at the rear. The blue smoke soon cleared as the 52-year-old loco’s Paxman engine warmed up. Photo by Mark Bladwell © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

     

    D7017 UPDATE

    The repair of the hidden corrosion took a step forward last week when the DEPG authorised an additional block of expenditure to cover the cutting out and repairing of corroded body sections that are not normally visible or accessible, but that need to be dealt with to prevent further damage occurring. This work has been made possible by the generous donations that have been pouring into the D7017 bodywork overhaul fund, so a BIG THANK YOU goes out to all of the 63 people who have donated.

    A combined team of DEPG and WSR volunteers are working alongside the WSR engineering team to keep this project moving forward and ensure that the loco is back in service in time for the WSR’s Summer Diesel Festival (5-7th June).

    As we reported last week, the fundraiser for the bodywork repairs for ‘Hymek’ D7017 has been kept open with a new target of £12,000 with a total of £10,778 being raised so far.

    THANK YOU FOR YOUR FANTASTIC SUPPORT !

    The new target of  £12,000 will cover most of the work being done on the loco, the remaining £3,000 being provided from the DEPG’s general fund. The sub-contract route was taken to make sure that the loco gets repaired during the winter and is able to take pole position in the celebration of 50 years of ‘Hymek’ preservation that will take place in the summer of this year.

    The initial target was reached on 1st January 2025, but we are keeping the fundraiser open until the work is completed, to make sure that we have sufficient funding to cover any unexpected costs, and make sure that a thorough and long-lasting repair is carried out. All funds donated via this appeal will be allocated to returning D7017 to service in time for the forthcoming season.

     

     

    Can you help ? Click here to donate £17 to D7017 !

     

     

     

     

     

    If you can help with this short-term appeal, please make a donation via our website (click on the icons above or below) or by bank app or by sending a cheque to the DEPG at WillitonTHANK YOU VERY MUCH !

            

     

    SOME SAD NEWS

    As has been widely covered in the press, the Severn Valley Railway (SVR) suffered an embankment failure adjacent to a river bridge near Sterns, between Hampton Loade and Bridgnorth. The line is now closed north of Hampton Loade while the options for remedial work are being investigated. There is no doubt that this will be a lengthy and expensive repair, so the SVR is appealing for donations to its RESILIENCE FUND to help get the work done as quickly as possible. The SVR is an active base for many heritage diesel locomotives and the DEPG encourages all members and roundup readers to help support the repair fund as best they can.

    An aerial view of the embankment failure near Sterns on the Severn Valley Railway. Pictured on Sunday 2nd February 2025 by Gary Essex (c)

     

    WSR NEWS

    The WSR have now published their running calendar for 2025 on their website and social media channels, and we have updated our DIESEL RUNNING DATES page including provisional loco allocations, some of which are subject to change to align with the availability of the locos and the crews. As the information becomes available, we will update our page and send out a DIESELGEN bulletin with the clarification.

    Click here or on the image below to visit the WSR’s timetable page:

     

    The WSR’s SUMMER DIESEL FESTIVAL has been confirmed as being Thursday 5th through Saturday 7th with a Mixed Traction Day  on Sunday 8th of June 2025.

     

    Click here to join the DEPG

    Click here to go to our DIESEL RUNNING DATES page

    Click here to go to our ONLINE SHOP

    Thank you very much for your support !

     

    LOCO NEWS:

    Class 52 D1010 ‘WESTERN CAMPAIGNER’ – as our attention turns to the assessment and repair of the various parts that have been removed from the ‘B’ bogie, some of our volunteers appeared eager to start work on the ‘A’ bogie – so we needed to measure the spring heights and clearances and record them in case any unplanned dismantling takes place. Cue former railway engineer Barry, who attended at the yard last Saturday and took the measurements, adding them to the tables on the drawings that he had also prepared. This information will be helpful when the bogie is being re-assembled, because it will allow us to get the settings approximately right before making adjustments to compensate for any repair work that has been carried out.

    D1010 – the ‘A’ bogie is outdoors on number 1 road and is covered by a tarpaulin as it awaits a space in the loco shed. Volunteer Barry was pictured while measuring the spring heights and clearances at Williton on Saturday 1st February 2025 and recording them on the drawings that he also prepared. Photo by Andy Royal © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    Meanwhile, Gordon started work on the underside of the loco, scraping off the layers of dirt that hide some of the features of the underframe design. Being fabricated from some decent-sized steelwork, the underframe is in very good condition – but there is a lot of it – so we will welcome some help in tackling this massive task. The good news is that it is an under cover job, although the breeze can be rather cold at times !

    D1010 – Gordon was hard at work, scraping the dirt from the ‘A’ end underframe at Williton on Saturday 1st February 2025. The substantial nature and good condition of this structural steelwork is apparent in this photo by Andy Royal © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

     

    Our appeals for MORE VOLUNTEERS are working because we have had another new volunteer join us in the last week, which is great news, but WE STILL NEED MORE HELP to get this huge loco back on the rails, so please get in touch by using our CONTACT FORM if you are able to join the team.

     

    As mentioned before, apologies to those D1010 sponsors who have yet to receive the photos and certificates for the patches that they have sponsored. The bitterly cold weather is preventing us from spending outdoor time on the engraving, so we will need to leave this work a little longer, at least until the temperature is back in (positive) double digits.

    Rest assured that every sponsor will receive their certificate and the details of where to find their sponsored patch. We will be making a further push for funds soon, because we have some big ticket items for refurbishment, including the remaining cardan shafts and 32 springs from the suspension system.

    MANY THANKS to all who have sponsored and supported the RESTORATION of D1010 !

     

     

    Class 09 D4107 (09019) – the long list of work on this locomotive is now reducing to a few items that are either in final stages or are waiting for parts. The issue with the Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR) was resolved last weekend by connecting the ‘right wires’ to the ‘right places’, so that was a quick one and was confirmed by an engine test run, during which the AVR worked exactly as intended.

    The Oleo hydraulic buffers are being overhauled by a specialist subcontractor who also has many other buffers from various other railways, so there is a bit of a queue and we just have to wait a bit longer to get ours back on the loco. There are several small maintenance tasks to finish off, but nothing that is going to prevent us from getting this loco back in service during March – except perhaps the buffers ! We may have to borrow some buffers from another group in order to get the loco out of the shed and back to Bishops Lydeard on time.

    D4107 (09019) – winter maintenance work is drawing to a close, although there are still some tasks that need to be completed before the loco can return to service in March. Pictured at Williton on Saturday 1st February 2025 by Andy Royal © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    Class 33 D6566 (33 048) – this loco has now returned to Williton to enjoy some rest and relaxation while her sister takes on the role of Duty Loco.

     

    Class 33 D6575 (33 057) – this loco has now become the Duty Loco, after moving to Bishops Lydeard on Saturday 18th January.

     

    Class 35 ‘Hymek’ D7017 – in addition to the bodywork overhaul that is taking place in the loco shed at Minehead, there are also a few other tasks that are being carried out. The reconditioned cardan shafts that connect the transmission to the dynastarter and Serck pump need to be re-installed and the droplight window on the driver’s side at the Minehead end needs investigating because it won’t go down as far as it should. Readers who remember the Summer Diesel Festival of 2023 might recall that the driver’s window at the Bishops Lydeard end dropped too quickly and shattered on the first day of the event, and it took us weeks to fix it, so we are eager to avoid a repeat performance !

    In addition to his work on the bodywork repairs, volunteer driver and loco manager Neil has started work on the window and we will include his findings in the next edition of roundup.

     

    Class 35 ‘Hymek’ D7018 – this loco is being prepared for the re-installation of her transmission and the start of a series of static tests that will hopefully allow the loco to return to service in this, the 50th year of ‘Hymek’ preservation. This loco was the last of the Class to be switched off, being withdrawn from service at Old Oak Common on 16th March, 1975. For more details, get a copy of our booklet ‘HYMEK D7018’ by clicking on this link.

    The crane is booked to be on site on Saturday 8th February to lift the centre roof panel section off, then lower the repaired transmission into the loco, then lower the tested heat exchanger, then put the roof back on. This activity will be followed by a few weeks of work to re-connect everything and do some checks, then a start-up will be arranged with data logging of the various pressure sensors that will be fitted to the transmission to verify correct and safe operation. After all of these static tests have been completed, permission will be sought for a test run, probably in April.

    The transmission heat exchanger was subjected to a pressure test at Williton last week and the unit passed with flying colours. The integrity of this device is critical because an internal leak could allow coolant to enter the transmission, resulting in corrosion damage. The leak test involved fitting blanking plates over the coolant connections and pressuring the housing with compressed air. The transmission fluid connections were covered with polythene film, held in place only by a layer of grease. Any internal leak in the heat exchanger matrix would result in a pressure increase in the transmission fluid circuit, which would be indicated by bulging of the film. Simple and effective.

    D7018 – looking in through one of the coolant connection ports, the copper tubes that carry the hot transmission fluid are clearly visible. Pictured at Williton on Tuesday 28th January 2025 by Colin Foxhall © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    D7018 – for the pressure test, both of the coolant connection ports were fitted with blanking plates and sealed with gaskets. The tyre valve visible in the centre of the plate was then used to pressurise the housing, simulating the maximum operating pressure of the coolant. Pictured at Williton on Tuesday 28th January 2025 by Colin Foxhall © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    D7018 – during the test, the two transmission fluid connections were covered with polythene film held in place only by a layer of grease. An internal pressure leak would cause the film to bulge or be displaced. Pictured at Williton on Tuesday 28th January 2025 by Colin Foxhall © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    Class 14 ‘Teddy Bear’ D9518 – the crane has been booked to visit Williton to lift the cab assembly back on to the frames on Saturday 8th February, and everything is ready. The one thing outside of our control is the weather, so let’s hope for some good luck with that.

    Meanwhile, there has been further progress with the engine overhaul, with the engine block getting close to being ready for re-assembly.

    D9518 – Tuesday team members Nick and Gwyn (L-R) were pictured while working on the Paxman 6YJ cylinder block at Williton on Tuesday 28th January 2025. Photo by Mark Bladwell © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    D9518 – the cylinder block gets a coat of red oxide primer, courtesy of Colin G at Williton on Saturday 1st February 2025. Photo by Andy Royal © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

    D9518 – the cylinder block carries the evidence of a pressure test that was carried out almost 60 years ago, on 25th February 1965. Pictured at Williton on Saturday 1st February 2025 by Andy Royal © CC BY-NC 3.0

     

     

    Quality work needs to be funded, so we will continue to appeal for funds to support the work, right up to the point where the loco is completed. Any surplus will then be used to ensure her proper care and upkeep. If you like what we are doing, please make a donation via our website (click on the icon below) or by bank app or by sending a cheque to the DEPG at WillitonTHANK YOU VERY MUCH FOR YOUR SUPPORT !

     

     

    Class 14 ‘Teddy Bear’ D9526 – this loco celebrated her 60th birthday on Monday 6th January, as announced in an earlier post (click here for the post and for a video clip of her most recent engine run). This loco will enter the loco shed some time in the spring and will undergo engine maintenance and receive a paint refresh in time for her appearance at the WSR’s SUMMER DIESEL FESTIVAL 2025.

     

    Class 47 47077 ‘NORTH STAR’ – this loco is based at Grosmont on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway and we look forward to seeing this loco being in regular use during 2025 !

    We have been advised that this loco is booked to work an Empty Coaching Stock (ECS) train from Pickering on Wednesday 12th February, so keep an eye on the NYMR Railcams on that day to get a glimpse of this loco in action.

     

    Andrew Barclay 0-4-0DH 578 – as covered previously, this loco has been very busy in connection with the re-location of the West Somerset Railway Heritage Trust’s carriage collection from Williton to Washford. It is great to see this powerful little loco being put to good use !

     

    If you can help by donating your time to any of these projects, then please JOIN US and come along to the depot for an introduction to what we do and how we do it. We currently have people on site from Saturday through to Tuesday and we can open on other days if we can be sure of getting at least two volunteers on site at all times, so there is plenty of scope. We have tasks of all types to suit most capabilities, both skilled and unskilled.

    Many thanks to all of our volunteers who give up so much of their time to work on the cleaning, painting, maintaining, restoring, managing and fund raising for our fleet of heritage locomotives !

     

     

    BOOK REVIEW: many thanks to those who have already ordered this new book, and apologies for the delay in shipping, but we now have the books in stock and shipments will commence on Saturday 8th. Thank you for your patience!

    This is a new release from Pen & Sword, another in the series of locomotive studies by ANTHONY P. SAYER and no doubt destined for similar positive reviews, as has been the case for other publications from this author (click here for details). His target this time is the short-lived Class 23 ‘Baby Deltic’, a rare example of a product from the English Electric stable that did not deliver on it’s promises. Anthony digs deep into the background and presents the story in his usual style, complete with fine detail.

    Here’s the description text that has been provided by the publisher, Pen & Sword:

         “The British Railways ‘Pilot Scheme’ orders of 1955 included ten English Electric Type 2 diesel-electric locomotives deploying Napier ‘Deltic’ engines. These locomotives, more colloquially known as the ‘Baby Deltics’, were introduced into traffic during 1959 for use on the Eastern Region of British Railways. This book looks at the history of the Class 23s, making extensive use of available but previously unpublished archive material, covering their introduction, technical idiosyncrasies, appearance design and performance. Issues with the original ‘Deltic’ engines were ultimately dealt with via a major rehabilitation exercise during the 1963-65 period; whilst various re-engining options were considered , including a new ‘U’ series English Electric high-speed engine design, the original Napier engines were ultimately retained. The work involved in the whole rehabilitation process is discussed in detail using internal English Electric archive material and forms a central focus of research. The fleet survived intact until 1968, when withdrawal commenced as a direct result of declining traffic levels across the UK, with successive National Traction Plans progressively selecting the less successful, non-standard and ‘numerically-challenged’ classes for removal from traffic. All ten locomotives were withdrawn by March 1971. Individual locomotive histories, allocations, fire and accident incidents, liveries and detail differences, storage and disposals are provided for each locomotive.”

    Price £32 – NOTE: RRP is £35 so save £3 by buying from the DEPG !

    Click here to obtain your copy of this new book.

    Other books in this popular series are also available from the DEPG online store (classes 1417 and 22)

    Four new books have just been added to our online store – click on the images below for details:

    The Railways of South Wales 1975-1995 Part 1 – by Michael Rhodes – price £21.95 The Berks & Hants Line – 40 Years from the Lineside – by Stephen Dance – price £22.95
    Railways of Cornwall – A Decade of Change – Part 1 – by Keith Barrow – price £20.95 Winners & Losers – Loco Bashing Tales from the 1990s – by Andy Chard – £18.95

     

     

    ON SHED: last week, we featured a photo from Mark Bladwell’s collection showing the 09:45 Paddington to Bristol Temple Meads on 21st August 1974 which had arrived with D1036 ‘WESTERN EMPEROR’ hauling the failed train loco 50013 (D413) (later to be named ‘Agincourt’). This prompted a response from DEPG member and loco owner Clive Burrows, who kindly provided the following feedback:

         “The photograph of D1036 assisting 50013 highlights the appalling unreliability of the Class 50s at that time.  I travelled on the 13:24 Bath to Bristol the same day (21.08.1974), which was hauled by 45112.  The 13:24 from Bath would have been the 11:15 from Paddington, the service subsequent to the 09:45 that set out with 50013 and then failed.  Interestingly, I travelled on the 19:45 Paddington to Bristol the previous evening (20.08.1974) and that was also hauled by 45112.  Bristol Bath Road crews were trained on Class 45s for the cross-country services, which would have enabled these Bristol-Paddington services to be hauled by Class 45s, much to the annoyance of the Midland fleet planners! The dreadful performance of the Class 50s when first transferred to the WR contributed to the need to extend the life of the Class 52s.

         I came across D1036 hauling air conditioned Mk2 coaches again on the Paddington-Bristol route two years later, on 7th May 1976, when I travelled on the 18:12 Fridays Only (FO) service from Paddington to Chippenham, which was a set of very hot air-conditioned Mk2 coaches, again hauled by D1036.”

     

    We will have more feedback from Clive in the next edition of roundup, with a curious but plausible connection between the 18:12 FO and a photo that we featured in a roundup last year …

     

    This week, we jump back across the Welsh Channel to Cardiff Canton depot, with a photo of our very own Class 35 ‘Hymek’ D7018 standing on the same road as the breakdown train. This is actually a postcard that was discovered when looking through some old documents. The postcard was published by the Oxford Publishing Co and credits the photographer as B J Nicolle (author of several railway books).

    No date information is given, but a reasonable guess would be summer 1974, based on the generally tired look of the locomotive and the short shadow length. Does anyone have a photo of their own depicting D7018 on the breakdown road ? Or perhaps have a B J Nicolle book featuring this same photograph ?

    Class 35 ‘Hymek’ D7018 was pictured on the breakdown train road at Cardiff Canton Diesel Depot in this undated picture postcard published by the Oxford Publishing Co. with photo by B J Nicolle ©

     

     

    DEPG NEWS – there has been a delay in announcing the loco allocations for this year’s running, due to the need to align the plan with the availability of drivers. Details will be posted on our DIESEL RUNNING DATES page and sent out via DIESELGEN as soon as the crew rostering details have been finalised – hopefully during the coming week.

     

    The DEPG is a charity and is run entirely by volunteers, many of whom give both their time and their money to the continuance of work on the locos in the DEPG fleet. If you have been enjoying the roundup for free, have you considered joining us for just £1 a month ? You can then add your name to all of those helping out on the above projects and play your part in the future of our locos for a lot less than the price of a cup of coffee!

     

    JOIN US using whichever membership class is appropriate for your situation and means. CLICK HERE or on the image below or use the QR code to get the details.

         

     

    If you would like to go one step further and come along to help with the work on the locos in our fleet, then please use our CONTACT FORM to let us know that you would like to volunteer and we will respond with more details.

    We look forward to hearing from you !

     

    Go to the previous Weekly Roundup post