New Season Opens with a Different 08 Loco

How did we come to have 08769 Diesel Shunter?

We can thank Richard Bentley, Operations Manager at the Watercress Line for the introduction to Martyn Normanton, of Valley Rail Preservation who operate adjacent to the Dean Forest Railway.  The Watercress Line have used Martyn's services for some time to maintain their 08 fleet at their railway.  One particular locomotive 08288 had reached the point where a major engine overhaul was needed.  The condition was similar to that we have been advised is the case with our own 08 D4095.  They took the decision to send their 08 to Valley Rail for this engine overhaul which they knew would be undertaken to a high standard. 

On the strength of Richard's recommendation we contacted Martyn who has proved to be most helpful right  from that first telephone call.   Consequently it has been an easy decision to send our 08 to Valley Rail for an initial assessment on the state of the engine.  Depending on the outcome of that assessment The S&DRHT will decide the future of D4095.  

Valley Rail also has a small pool of 08 locomotives that can be made available for hire and it has proved fortuitous that 08769 was coming off hire from the Dean Forest Railway.  Chairman of the Operating Company, Matt Cornborough along with the Trust Chair Roger Burfitt and Vice Chair Keith Bottomley  visited Valley Rail at Lydney.  Matt had the opportunity to have some test runs on the locomotive and was given instruction on where the methods of operation differed in a few areas from our own.  

The visit confirmed that  08769 would be suitable for operation at Midsomer Norton so a hire agreement has been entered into with Valley Rail and this ensures we have a locomotive in very good condition available for the start of our new operation season. 

Our thanks go to Martyn Normanton of Valley Rail for the loan of the loco, and all his help and support.

Roger Burfitt, Chair of Trustees