MID-NORFOLK RAILWAY PRESERVATION TRUST
The Wymondham-Dereham-North Elmham-County School Line

KING EDWARD II’s SUCCESSFUL FIRST WEEKEND
For the first time since its withdrawal in 1962, King Edward II, No. 6023, the [ex] Great Western Railway’s most powerful passenger express 4-6-0 locomotive, has worked fare paying passenger trains over about 190 miles, without problem.
Mid Norfolk Railway’s Chairman, Barry Woodgett, said :-
“I was pleased to welcome Mr Richard Croucher, the Chairman of the Great Western Society, to Dereham Station on Saturday (4th June) and congratulated him and his restoration team, on such a wonderful restoration of this magnificent locomotive.

“I would also appeal to the people who picked up the missing safety valve bonnet in the Swaffham area, when it fell off the locomotive in transit last Tuesday, to return it to the owners of King Edward II. If they will arrange for it to be brought to Dereham Station, the MNR will ensure that it is returned to the locomotive owners.

“I recommend to all the people of East Anglia and its holidaymakers, that a ride in the coaches behind King Edward II, and especially in the Observation Car, whilst both are working on the Mid Norfolk Railway, is an opportunity not to be missed.”
James Hewett, passenger traveling in the ex LNER Coronation Beaver Tailed Observation Car, was almost overwhelmed by the experience…..
“……- just had a brilliant day on the MNR – KE resplendent in BR blue (matching the sky!), the small supplement for the 1930s Gresley Beavertail, c/w Art Deco interior (and the luxury of the at-seat service of tea, coffee or chocolate) was very much worthwhile.

“I did two round trips, all in the Observation Car – enjoyed the passing beautiful south Norfolk countryside, and had interesting chats with the very friendly passengers relaxing in the other sumptuous tartan-covered armchairs. We must have returned at least 100 waves from the well-wishers lining the trackside – we felt like royalty. Very impressed with the railway – please congratulate yourself and your colleagues.” Regards, James. [James is a railway preservation enthusiast and ex-Chairman of the Welsh Highland Railway Ltd.].
King Edward II remains at Dereham until 17th July, being rostered to work each weekend and also 22nd & 29th June and 6th&7th & 13th&14th July.
On 9th & 10th July it will work a 2 train service with Pannier Tank 9466 and on 16th&17th July it will again work a 2 train service and a Gala element will be provided with a narrow gauge railway in Dereham car park, together with model railways and stalls upon Dereham’s platform.
Further details of the MNR may be found on our website www.mnr.org.uk.

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