Our own locomotive, Hudswell Clarke no. 1604 is now in the last stages of restoration. Help us keep steam alive on the ‘Middy’.
Why 1604 is so important to the future of the ‘Middy’
1604 was one of the last working steam locomotives in East Anglia, having worked at the British Sugar Corporation, Bardney, Lincolnshire from new in 1928 for over 40 years. 1604 is similar to the engines which worked the MSLR in the line’s early days and from the same manufacturer, Hudswell Clarke of Leeds. Nothing is left of the originals, but it is in keeping with the ethos of the Museum to restore an engine with a similar pedigree to maintain the early 20th century atmosphere of this unique piece of England’s railway history.
Thanks to the dedication of the restoration team and all who have donated so far, a great deal has been achieved. Right now the boiler and firebox is with our outside contractors at Yaxham in Norfolk and we are happy to report that, even despite the current general disruption, valuable progress is being made. The firebox has been passed by the inspector and riveting is now being carried out on the boiler.
We hope to have these components will be back at Brockford soon. Then we will be ready to unite the boiler and chassis for the final stage of the refurbishment. We have the team, we have the expertise, skills and enthusiasm, all based in our lottery funded Restoration Shed. Now all we need is the wherewithal to bring 1604 steaming back to life in the near future.
