Some few months ago the MNR’s Board of Director’s authorised its Vice-Chairman Mr John Hull to open talks with the newly formed B17 Steam Locomotive Trust.

The upshot of this, is that MNR invited the B17 Group to bring their two tenders to the MNR and have offered them a section of siding, where restoration can commence.

The B17 Group’s Press release, does indicate that they have a vibrant and considered project ready to move ahead. On top of works to the tender chassis, initial new design work involves completing a strengthened locomotive frame, with roller bearings and canon axleboxes on the main driving axles. These will replace the original design of plain bearings, axleboxes and wedges, which needed frequent adjustment to compensate for the wear and tear within the horns, a problem dogging the B17s during their life in service.

B17 Group also have a fund raising project planned and ready to go.

Given a fair wind, completion could be 10 years from hence, but the project will need adequate and regular funds to be flowing in as well.

MNR Steam Team may well be able to assist with this worthy project.

Further details of the MNR may be found on our website www.mnr.org.uk