Today was a very proud moment for the Mid Hants Railway, all those that worked on Black 5 No. 45379 for the last 5 years and railway preservation as a whole. For the first time since 1965, 45379 had a fire lit in its firebox and smoke could soon be seen coming from the chimney.
For this milestone, the honour of lighting the fire was bestowed to Mr David Seal, without who's support, the project would not be complete today. Smiles all round as the fire took hold.
A ceremony wouldn't be a ceremony without a cake, which had to be black of course with lashings of chocolate fudge! The cutting of the cake fell to Martin Buckell, who has been intimately involved with the project since the railway acquired the locomotive, and for the past 5 years along with a core team of volunteers, has dedicated countless man hours to the restoration. Unlike the time taken to restore the engine, the cake didn't hang around for long. Thanks to Tim's partner, Nikki, for spending a Friday night slaving in the kitchen!
The locomotive now awaits the Inspector to formally sign her off later this week and will then be run in, light engine, prior to the Somerset & Dorset Steam Spectacular, where she will haul her first revenue earning train. This will be the first opportunity to ride behind 45379 since 1965, so an opportunity not to be missed!
A volunteer led project, there were many who helped restore this fine locomotive to such magnificent condition, including support from paid staff, specialist contractors plus assistance from other preserved railways. A roll call of credits will soon follow, it's taking quite some time to compile!
Some photos attached from the ceremony and when she was rolled out of the wheel drop shed on Friday. The photos don't really do her justice, such is the level of craftsmanship and quality of the work involved to get 45379 to this standard. A huge congratulations to all involved in the project.
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45379 outside the shed on Friday looking stunning!
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Mirror finish paintwork and lining
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The cake!
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Martin Buckell cuts the cake followed by some suitable words covering the achievement
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David places the fire in the box
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Smoke in the cab with smiles all round
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First fire since 1965!
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The first wisps of smoke from the chimney
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Lovely shiny top showing the safety valves
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Smoke starts to become thicker
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The shovel that did the deed
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Some of the team that brought her back to life
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The sign writing on the cake wasn't up to the same high standard as that on the side of the cab. I'll leave sign writing to the professionals! Tim
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Glorious!
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Close up of the motion
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On the pit road (Friday)
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The footplate. Few minor jobs remain, including applying the windows
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Builders plate
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On Friday, for a brief period, 45379 was towed into Ropley Station. Proud Black 5 volunteers, John, Chris & Martin were on hand for a photo op
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