Locomotive News
Following 10 years out of action, the Welsh Highland Heritage Railway was delighted that Russell (Hunslet 2-6-2, works number 901 of 1906) returned to active service in August 2014. The overhaul at Alan Keef’s works in Ross on Wye had drawn to a close and Russell finally returned to his home in Porthmadog in North Wales.
Russell will now be eased gently back into service, and will be used on some weekends during the rest of the year, with most services continuing to be hauled by Barclay 0-6-0t "Gertrude". Please ring 01766 513402 to find out if Russell is running today.
Meanwhile, a new boiler for Gelert (Bagnall 0-4-2 side-tank of 1953) is now under construction at Israel Newton’s, with plans in place for a speedy return to service.
2014 is proving to be an exciting time for the Welsh Highland Heritage Railway; not only has Russell returned, but progress with fund raising for the overhaul of Ex-War Department Baldwin No.794 (44699 of 1917) has reached a point that has enabled work to recommence on this loco, with a view to having it back in steam in time to celebrate the loco's 100th birthday in 2017. This has been made possible by a large and most generous donation, which means that further fundraising of approximately £50,000 should see it completed.
- Make your own donation to Baldwin '590' Appeal.
- Read more about the original Baldwin '590' on the Welsh Highland Railway, and its wartime sibling now to be restored soon, the Baldwin '794'.
- Read more about the history of the steam locomotives on the original WHR.
