Trust launches major appeal to buy Sentinel Steam Loco 7109 "Joyce"

The Trust has been given the opportunity to purchase our resident Sentinel steam locomotive 7109 ‘Joyce’ by its owner Andy Chapman. Since arriving at Midsomer Norton in 2004, ‘Joyce’ has been restored to full working order, and since 2016 has been the backbone of our steam hauled services.

The Trust would naturally like to complete the purchase of ‘Joyce’ so that she can be enjoyed by future generations at Midsomer Norton. Although not historically a Somerset & Dorset locomotive, her design was the basis for two almost identical locomotives that were purchased by the Somerset & Dorset Joint Railway Company for use at Radstock numbered by the LMS as 7190 and 7191, and latterly by BR as 47190 and 47191. 

The Trust are looking to raise £55,000 which will not only cover the purchase of ‘Joyce’, but will also provide us with a strategic reserve to help cover the cost of her next major overhaul which is scheduled for 2026. These overhauls have to be carried out every 10 years.

Your donations can make the purchase of ‘Joyce’ possible, and any persons donating over £750 will be invited to a special day at Midsomer Norton, where they will be able to experience operating ‘Joyce’ under supervision.   Donations can be made online by clicking here , in person at the station, or by cheque payable to the Somerset & Dorset Railway Heritage Trust and sent to 'Joyce appeal', Somerset & Dorset Railway Heritage Trust, Midsomer Norton Station, Silver Street, Midsomer Norton, BA3 2EY

If you choose to donate online this is in denominations of £10 so for example if you’d like to give £50 then simply increase the quantity to 5 by hitting the + sign. The total amount you’re donating will always show.

Gift Aid – if you haven’t already provided us with a Gift Aid declaration and you’re a UK tax payer then please help us increase the value of your donation by completing the form that can be found by clicking here.

Thank you for your valued support.