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Historic Locomotive Could Be Absent From Steam Railway's Fiftieth Celebrations

The Isle of Wight Steam Railway's fiftieth-anniversary celebrations could be without its flagship locomotive.

The charity is now appealing for £24,000 to ensure the historic O2 class No. 24 Calbourne will be present for the celebrations next year.

All steam locomotives must undergo a thorough overhaul and boiler examination every 10 years which involves completely dismantling the locomotive so that the boiler can be thoroughly checked, and any repairs carried out.

Calbourne’s overhaul started in December 2019 and was progressing well until the pandemic led to the Railway being completely shut down.

Although work has now recommenced, the lockdown has had a very serious effect on the Railway’s finances.

General Manager Steve Backhouse said:

“Unfortunately, the crisis means that we have had virtually no income for the first four months of our operating season. While our engineering team is ready and able to finish the work on Calbourne, we currently no longer have the money to do so. Therefore, the success of this appeal is essential to seeing Calbourne back in steam for next year.”

“We are planning a number of exciting events to celebrate our fiftieth anniversary in 2021. It would be devastating if Calbourne could not be part of these so we are asking everyone to give generously, despite the difficult economic times”.

Donations towards the appeal can be made on the Railway’s website here - where there is also a gift aid facility or by cheque, payable to Isle of Wight Railway Co Ltd and sent to the Railway at Havenstreet Station.

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