North Norfolk railway saves locomotive by welcoming it to ranks

North Norfolk is set to welcome a unusual new resident as the North Norfolk Railway PLC (NNR) has added a new locomotive to their ranks.

The ex S&D 2-8-0 – 7F – no. 53809 was a regular performer on the Somerset and Dorset Joint Railway and has been in the ownership of the 13809 Preservation Society for 43 years.

However after a period of maintenance in the Weybourne Shed, the locomotive will be appearing regularly on trains travelling between Sheringham and Holt.

Hugh Harkett, managing director at the NNR commented: 'This iconic engine is much coveted and has been in our sights for a long time now.

'We are so pleased that the owning group led by John Moorhouse has consented to loaning the engine to us here. Indeed we hope she will become a long term resident in Norfolk.'

The owning society based at the Midland Railway Centre, Butterley have worked hard over the years developing 53809 into a very reliable locomotive.

John Moorhouse of the society, explained: 'After completing a major overhaul our loco was able to attend the West Somerset Railway Gala celebrating the 50th anniversary of the S&DJR closure in 2016. The members of the Society realised that the time had arrived to accept help with the continued maintenance of 53809.

'Following two very enjoyable visits to the NNR for their Galas an offer of such help was discussed. This has been developed into, what we hope, will be a long term relationship.

'The NNR, using their now excellent facilities, will undertake ongoing maintenance assisted as and when possible by the experience gained by the 13809 Preservation Society members during the last 43 years of ownership.'