January 2026

Work on 30076 continued earlier in the month with further progress on the side tanks, including cutting the recess slots, fabricating the steel channels, and continued derusting by wire brushing. Later in the period, the cab doors were removed, along with the drain cock mechanism, which was taken off and placed into store for safekeeping.

On 30075, attention was given to the gauge glasses, with ongoing work to fit new washers and sort associated fittings. The leaking blowdown valve was removed, overhauled, and refitted, followed by further attention to the blowdown valve pipework. A partial boiler washout was also carried out, with particular focus on the foundation ring. In addition, the motion and valve gear were inspected, and a plan is now being developed to optimise the valve settings.

Alongside locomotive work, a major tidy-up of the container workshop was undertaken, with workbenches cleared and reorganised to improve usability.

A committee meeting took place during the period, where a range of matters were discussed. Of note, agreement was reached to proceed with a Steaming Weekend to mark the 60th anniversary of the Somerset and Dorset line’s closure, with plans also being explored to display a small number of local traction engines in steam. Further brief discussions were held to consider practical arrangements for this event.