A diesel-powered locomotive has made a welcome return to service on the North Norfolk Railway.

The Class 31 D5631 has joined the heritage stable at the Poppy Line, following an extensive renovation by North Norfolk Railway Engineering, commissioned by its owners, the Midland and Great Northern Joint Railway Society.

D5631 was the star of the show during the railway's mixed traction weekend on July 24-25, when she hauled special services, including a private charter.

Eastern Daily Press: D5631 at the head of the charter train – comprising 5 “blood and custard” Mark 1s, departing Weybourne on its return to Sheringham.D5631 at the head of the charter train – comprising 5 “blood and custard” Mark 1s, departing Weybourne on its return to Sheringham. (Image: Martin Bonnington)

Keith Ashford, the railway's chief mechanical engineer, said: “The overhauled 31 demonstrates the quality of work achieved by NNR Engineering. This is a very special project with much work being undertaken in the Weybourne workshops during the 16 months of Covid restrictions demanded by government.”

D5631 has been outshopped in BR Green with bodyside stripes and small yellow front panels. This was the livery from the 1960s which members indicated in a poll that they wished the locomotive to carry after the overhaul.

Eastern Daily Press: Neil Sharpe handing over the keys to the driver, Rod Eastman before departure of the 1pm charter journey of the D5631, which has joined the North Norfolk Railway.Neil Sharpe handing over the keys to the driver, Rod Eastman before departure of the 1pm charter journey of the D5631, which has joined the North Norfolk Railway. (Image: Peter Mayne)

Eastern Daily Press: D5631 on train in Sheringham station.D5631 on train in Sheringham station. (Image: Peter Mayne)