December 2025

Earlier in the period, work on 30076 focused on the exhaust manifold area, with all studs successfully removed and the majority of threads cleaned out using a tap, allowing preparation for reassembly to continue. Attention was also given to the mechanical lubricator support frame, which was rubbed down and treated with anti-rust paint, and ongoing work progressed on one of the side tanks to ensure correct clearance around the sander pipework. One of the side tanks was repositioned within the shelter to allow better access, and later in the period the second side tank was brought into the shelter to support parallel fabrication work.

Work on 30075 moved into the final stages ahead of its planned return to steam, with the top backhead cladding fitted and the gauge glasses refitted. Following this, the locomotive was shunted clear of the shelter, coal was loaded into the bunker, the boiler filled, and a full mechanical check carried out including cleaning of the motion. A warming fire was later lit, the snifter valve refitted, and the tanks filled in preparation for steaming.

30075 was subsequently steamed successfully and operated between the station and the bridge over the Child Okeford road, pausing at intervals for photography. During running, a small number of leaks were identified for follow-up attention, although brake performance was reported to be good. After steaming, the gauge glass issues were resolved, the boiler was drained, and the locomotive was secured with the bunker sheeted and the chimney covered to protect it while out of use.

Later work on 30076 concentrated on detailed fabrication to the reverse side of one of the tanks, where recess slots were cut to accommodate the sander pipes and the water feed to the clack valve. Steel channels for these recesses were cut to size, with tapered ends fabricated in readiness for welding. Further attendance is planned to continue tank fabrication and general overhaul activity on 30076, alongside follow-up work on 30075 as required.