27th February 2012

The B12's Back!
During the last week of February 2012, sole surviving B12 8572 moved once again under its own steam after overhaul. The loco was tested light engine, and then with empty coaching stock on the East Lancs Railway. Everything went to plan, with only minor issues reported.

The loco will now return to the North Norfolk Railway, when it will haul its first public passenger trains during the Railway's Spring Steam Gala to be held on the 9th–11th March.

For more information on the Gala, visit the NNR's website: www.nnrailway.co.uk.

For now, I'll leave you with a glimpse of what you can expect!

1st December 2011

B12s Remembered
Launched today, this 32 page booklet celebrates the class and 61572 in particular. The locomotive was brought out of retirement in 1963 for a 260-odd mile railtour. Chris Bird and David Butcher describe the events that led up to the tour and the tour itself. Dick Hardy precedes this with an affectionate look at the class in BR days and some of the men who crewed the engines.

If you'd like to purchase a copy, or for more information on this and other items available form the M&GN Society, please click here. Alternatively you can visit the Society's website at www.mandgn.co.uk.

8th november 2011

After the optimism of late last year when the boiler passed its steam test, the first half of 2011 was quite frustrating. Initially we were hopeful of having the engine back in traffic by the middle of the year. This proved not to be, as we missed our slot in Riley's work programme.

This doesn't mean to say that no work was carried out in this period. The brake gear was refitted together with the sanders. Many of the components that arrived with the tender (from Weybourne in November 2010) also had to be sorted through, assessed and made good, to ensure they were ready for refitting. New boiler cladding sheets were also manufactured using the old ones as templates. These were then primed to stop corrosion.

When resources started to become available around May, worked started to pick up. The first job was to steam test the boiler. This was to check its integrity and ensure it hadn’t been damaged during transit (from Chatham, Kent) or come to any harm over the harsh winter. Once these tests had been carried out to everyone's satisfaction it was time to reunite the boiler with the frames.

On a very wet and miserable Wednesday, 10th August, the boiler was lifted, with the first task to attach the newly constructed ashpan. This inevitably required some fine adjustments before it could be cottered and pinned in place on the foundation ring. The following day, the first attempt was made to lower the boiler and ashpan together into the frames, and with only about 18 inches to go, a number of the new seam rivet heads on the firebox sides fouled on the frames, so these had to be lightly ground back to provide the required clearance. The second attempt saw the boiler lowered to within about one inch before another challenge. The ashpan drop grate shaft bearing housing on either side of the foundation ring was catching on one of the horn guide fixing nuts on both sides. After much scratching of heads, it was identified that these particular nuts and bolts needed to be countersunk rivets, to give the necessary clearance, so once these had been modified, the boiler finally settled back down in its rightful place on Monday, 15th August.

With the boiler now in the frames and a dedicated team of fitters and boilersmiths to hand, reassembly moved up a gear. The new insulation, cladding and boiler bands were fitted. Other boiler fittings have been completely stripped down, examined, and repaired/replaced as deemed necessary.

The two main steam pipes have been replaced as the originals were getting near to the end of their life. These mount onto the cylinder block, and these faces have been machined to ensure there is no steam leaks.

The Westinghouse brake system is currently being inspected to ensure that all reservoirs and associated pipework is fit for purpose.

Work continues on fitting the new blowdown valve, together with its associated operating lever(s) and pipework. The blowdown should ensure that the engine is able to go longer between boiler washout, thus increasing its availability.

More recently all the valve gear has been fitted, with the pistons soon to follow.

Nearly there?
While the year will probably pass without the B12's return to steam, things are certainly moving in the right direction. Much of the work that is being carried out will not only raise the engineering standard of the loco, but ensure a reliable period in traffic while making future overhauls more straightforward.

Starting to look like a complete locomotive once again. 61572 is seen at Bury in September.

Photo: Keith Ashford

The new cladding for the backhead, and associated fittings start to be refitted.

Photo: Keith Ashford

25th January 2011

Wandering 1500 Tour Footage
While we're all waiting patiently for the overhaul of the B12 to be completed, why not indulge in a little nostalgia?

I was delighted to be emailed by Dave Barton of railway video website BritishRailways.tv. David sent me a link to the video (right), a short 42 second film of 61572 on 5th October 1963 with the famous Wandering 1500 railtour at Hitchin on the ECML. It was about to take the Midland branch off the GN that ran to Bedford.

britishrailways.tv

16th January 2011

Overhaul update
An important milestone was reached on Friday 19th November when the boiler passed its out of frames steam test at Chatham in Kent. With representatives from both the M&GN Society and insurer both present, it meant that the boiler could be 'signed off'.

Events then moved quickly, as the boiler was placed onto a lorry Wednesday (24th November) evening ready for the long journey north to Lancashire. It arrived at Ian Riley's works at Bury mid-day Thursday. There it met up with the tender (which only arrived from Weybourne the week before) and the bottom end, that had been patiently awaiting the arrival of the boiler before further work could continue.

The good news of the steam test followed on from a successful hydraulic (boiler) test on 6th October. This passed without incident, and while a few minor leaks were found, it was regarded by the insurer to be within acceptable limits.

Next, the boiler was steamed to allow Chatham to check the flue and small tubes before refitting the superheater header and elements. The subsequent (second) hydraulic test on 3rd November was also successful.

The boiler was then steam tested for the second time. Representatives from the M&GN Society, Chatham and Ian Riley's were all present to inspected the boiler ahead of a formal steam test and transportation to Bury. A few minor issues were noted, but as they require the boiler to be in the frames, most of these will be rectified in Lancashire.

As previously mentioned, the boiler was formally steam tested on 16th November, and passed.

The Bottom End
Not much to report here, as little work could be undertaken without the boiler. Now the boiler is at Bury, hopefully work can progress swiftly to ensure the engine is back together as soon as possible. Work to lesser components has continued however. The new ash pan has been fabricated. This will be of the hopper type (the first to be fitted to a B12?), and will make disposal of the loco much quicker and cleaner for the crews. (Having ashed out the previous ash pan myself, it wasn't a pleasant task on a windy day!)

Tender
After reuniting the tender tank and frames in the spring, completion of the tender was held up as problems persisted with the springs. These had to be returned to the specialist firm for a second time before the tender could be weighed and springs set.
The running in process was completed at the end of September and arrangements were then made for the tender to be send to Bury (along with the remaining B12 parts still at Weybourne).

Return to traffic
While all parties are committed to returning 8572 back to traffic as soon as possible, this still looks a little way off yet, but the successful steam test of the boiler means that the overhaul has certainly entered the home straight. Watch this space!

Full Steam Ahead! The safety valves lift as full pressure is attained during the steam test on 19th November.

Photo: Chatham Steam

Primed and ready to go. The finished boiler at Chatham before transportation to Bury.

Photo: Chatham Steam

Late on Wednesday 24th November, five days after passing its steam test, the boiler was loaded onto the lorry. It would arrive in the north-west by Thursday lunchtime.

Photo: Chatham Steam

Starting to look the part – the tender stands at Weybourne in September.

Photo: Ben Boggis

28th April 2010

Overhaul news
Much has happened since the website was last updated. So the following should bring you update.

The Boiler
Repair of the boiler is now entering the final stages of completion. It was given its final internal by the insurer in December 2009. With the exception of a couple of localised areas of pitting in the base of the barrel (which will be built up with weld, and ground back to profile), the Surveyor was satisfied to sanction re-tubing. With this work now having been completed and work to the foundation ring almost finished it is hoped that the boiler will be hydraulically and subsequently steam tested in the coming weeks.

The Bottom End
Since the frames were moved to Ian Riley's works at Bury in June 2009,much work has taken place. The cylinders have been re-bored, with the piston heads being built up and new piston rings and glands fitted. Work has been completed to the alignment of the horn guides, tapered wedge adjusters and axle boxes. New slide face inners have been fitted and axleboxes re-white remetalled on the bearing journal. With this work completed, the frames were ready for re-wheeling on 14th December (see picture right).

A projected date for the bottom end work to be completed is being sought so that the delivery of the boiler (and remaining components still at Weybourne) can be co-ordinated.

Painting
Ahead of the re-wheeling, Ian Riley engaged the services of Ian Matthews and his team to prepare and paint the backs of the driving wheels in LNER Standard green and the outsides of the main frames black. Ian Matthews has returned to continue painting the insides of the frames in vermilion.

Tender
Work to the chassis at Weybourne has virtually been completed. The tender tank has been grit blasted and received two coats of green undercoat, followed by the preparatory top coat.
The chassis has been painted to finished black. Phil Anderson has been engaged through the NNR to carry out the red lining to the frames. This was done on 12/13th January 2010. The tank is now waiting to be placed back onto the chassis.

Work to the boiler nears completion; this picture showing the backhead being heated and set to match the angle of the foundation ring.

Photo: Keith Ashford

The frames and wheels are reunited on 19th December 2009 at Bury.

Photo: Keith Ashford

The tender tank has received a coat of paint. Since this picture was taken, it has been reunited with the frames.

Photo: Ben Boggis

The frames have been lined out too.

Photo: Ben Boggis

27th December 2008

Overhaul news
After steady if not spectacular progress with the overhaul of the B12 at Weybourne, the decision was made by the M&GN Society in September to send the boiler to Chatham Steam in Kent.

While the original intention was to have the overhaul carried out in house, the work load and unexpected staff shortages at Weybourne meant that this needed to be reassessed. Chatham Steam was an obvious choice for several reasons. They have an excellent reputation, having carried out boiler work for 4472 Flying Scotsman, 60019 Bittern, 4771 Green Arrow, to name but a few. The (M&GN) Society also has first hand experience with work carried out to the WD 90775 in 2007. Another key factor influencing the decision was the turn around time. Chatham are hopeful they can have the boiler overhauled in six months, which means that there is a real possibility that the B12 will be back in steam the second half of 2009. An exciting prospect, I'm sure you'll all agree.

With the decisions made and contracts signed, everything was in place for the boiler to be lifted. 15th October 2008: a damp morning greeted the contractors from Chatham as two cranes lifted the boiler onto the awaiting lorry. (See pictures right.)

Work to the bottom end (frames, motion and wheels) will continue over the winter months at Weybourne. As has been reported previously, work in this area is thought to be relatively light and should be largely complete by the time the boiler returns.

Assessment of the tender carried out in the summer found that very little has been done since its withdrawal from BR (with the exception of the tender tank, which was fabricated during the loco’s overhaul in Germany). The first step will be to separate the tender tank from the frames. This will allow plate work to be built up/renewed as necessary. Turning to the frames, the tender wheels will be turned using the wheel lathe at Weybourne, and axle boxes remetalled, and frames checked for alignment.

Fundraising
Fundraising continues. The final cost of the overhaul is still expected to be in the region of £200,000. At present almost three-quarters of that figure has been raised. If you would like to donate to the Boiler Appeal, then please follow the link.

The future
So all being well by the autumn of 2009, 8572 should be back in steam, resplendent in LNER Apple Green hauling the Quad-arts through Kelling Heath.

A damp Wednesday morning saw the most significant step of the overhaul so far when the boiler was lifted from the frames.

Photo: Vinny Blake

The whole operation took around 2 hours to complete.

Photo: Vinny Blake

…with the removal of the large flue tubes.

23rd April 2008

Overhaul news
The dismantling of 61572 began in earnest in the new year, with the removal of all smokebox fittings, allowing the rather laborious task of removing the small tubes from the boiler. While this was taking place the boiler cladding, cab roof, and all the backhead fittings were removed. The next task will be the removal of the super heater elements, and large tubes. Following this, the boiler will then be washed out and de scaled in preparation for the boiler inspector's visit.

Turning to the mechanical side: the loco is thought to be in reasonable shape, thanks to the constant maintenance the engine has received since its return from Germany, some 13 years ago. An assessment is being carried out to see how much work is needed to both loco and tender before any dismantling/overhaul work takes place.

Once winter maintenance work has been completed on the NNR's running fleet in the spring, the attention of the workshops will then be focused on 61572.

Also worth a mention: the B12 now has a full service history (thanks to John Current), dating back since the loco returned to steam in 1995. John has spent the winter compiling all the documentation connected to any work that has taken place on the loco, enabling the M&GN Society to make informed decisions on current and future work.

61572 seen in Weybourne shed on 22nd March 2008.

Photo: Ben Boggis

Another view, clearly showing the removal of the roof, and headplate fittings.

Photo: Ben Boggis

25th March 2008

Wandering 1500 Club – Footplate Experience Days
During two weekends in March the Wandering 1500 Club (the B12's support group) held footplate experience days for its members. In scenes reminiscent of the Cambridge University Railway Club specials of the 1950s, J15 65462 hauled a single coach as members made several trips along the line, each in turn given the chance to drive and fire. The day also included a visit to Weybourne shed, where members could see for themselves the latest progress made to the B12. Everyone who took part (1500 Club members and volunteers alike) had a highly enjoyable day.

Ever fancied getting your hand on the regulator? If you join the Wandering 1500 Club you can, and help raise money for the B12 at the same time. Click here to find out more.

Going Green
Since launching the B12 Boiler Appeal a few members have asked us what is the intended livery for the loco when it returns to traffic. No decision had been made as it was our intention to wait until the restoration was nearing completion before making any firm choice. However, in view of the keen interest that livery debates provoke we thought perhaps an early decision would be welcomed by members. Following a vote by the M&GN Society Council, it has been agreed the loco will be restored to Apple Green as LNER number 8572.

There are several reasons for this. Firstly, we had indicated a while ago that we wanted to restore the green livery but events conspired against us. Now we have the chance to do just that and deliver on a previous commitment. Besides, the loco has been black for some time now and it seemed only right to give those supporters of LNER Green the opportunity to see the loco in their favourite livery again. Finally, with the return of the Quad set we will soon have a very attractive set of teak coaches to run behind it, so there is logic to the decision.

An LNER Green loco, teak carriages and rolling Norfolk countryside, a timeless scene, and one that hasn't been seen in East Anglia for nearly 60 years. Thanks to your help, this could become a reality, once again, in the not to distant future.

Wandering 1500 Club Footplate Experience Days 2008

Apple Green and teak. 8572 is seen climbing Eardington Bank on the Severn Valley Railway in 1998. A scene that will be created at the North Norfolk Railway upon return from overhaul.

Photo: Steve Allen

9th September 2007

The B12 has now officially been withdrawn from service. The loco last steamed on 1st July, and was withdrawn shortly afterwards as a number of small tubes in the boiler had started to leak and would need replacement. Due to the cost involved, it was decided that it wasn't cost effective with just 6 months remaining on the boiler ticket.

About the overhaul
During the M&GN Society's AGM on 18th August, details were announced regarding the impending overhaul of the B12. The work will be contracted out to the North Norfolk Railway. It is anticipated that the majority of the overhaul will be carried out on site at Weybourne.

It is hoped that the loco can be turned around quickly, thanks to the constant maintenance the engine has received. The majority of work will however centre around the boiler, which at present, the extent of the work needing to be done is unclear until it's been lifted out of the frames and assessed. With this uncertainty an estimated cost of around £200,000 has been calculated to return Britain's last remaining inside cylinder 4-6-0 to steam. An appeal has now been launched to raise the money.

The B12 Boiler Appeal
While the overall cost will be in the region of £200,000, there is some good news, with hire fees and subscriptions through the Wandering 1500 and B12 200 Clubs we have £100,000 already in 'the bank'. With half the cash already raised, it gives us a superb start, but still leaves us with around £100,000 left to find, which is why the M&GN Society is launching The B12 Boiler Appeal.

While work will start on the loco in the not to distant future, its important that the remaining £100,000 is raised to allow the work to be completed as soon as possible. If this is the case, it is quite likely that the loco may steam again in 2009, and take a starring roll in the 50th anniversary celebrations.

If you'd like to make a donation to the Boiler Appeal, click here to download the leaflet. You may also be interested in the Wandering 1500 Club, details of which can be found by clicking here.

The B12's is seen 'cold' at Sheringham during the Steam Gala, making its last public appearance before work on the overhaul begins this autumn.

Photo: Benjamin Boggis

5th July 2007

Despite the indifferent British weather, the Steam Dream weekend was very well received by both volunteers and visitors alike. All three Great Eastern engines performed well, and draw great interest. 61572 was double headed throughout the weekend, as concerns with the plugged boiler tubes continued. Despite worries that the engine wouldn't last the weekend, it did, and on the final trip was let loose with the J15!

61572 – The future
The feasibility of further steaming of 61572 are now being assessed, but it is quite possible that the loco has steamed for the last time with its current boiler ticket. If this is indeed the case, we hope to return the B12 back to steam at the earliest opportunity, hopefully for the 50th Anniversary celebrations in 2009.

Stratford reborn! B12 61572 lines up beside N7 69621 and J15 65462.

Photo: Benjamin Boggis

61572 pilots 34081 92 Squadron up Kelling Heath on Saturday 30th June.

Photo: Benjamin Boggis

26th June 2007

Steam Dream Weekend
Timetables are now available for the weekend. Click here to visit the NNR's website for more information.

Wandering 1500 Club
Due to unforeseen circumstances, there will not be a Wandering 1500 Club stand at this weekends Steam Dream. Hopefully I'll be able put this right at the Steam Gala in the Autumn.

18th June 2007

The B12 successfully completed its first 25 steaming after return from extensive repairs. However, it's became apparent during the loco's first washout that a number of the small flue tubes had nearly reached the end of their life. Having carefully weighed up the options, the Society Council has decided it is not cost effective to replace the tubes with only a few months left of its boiler ticket. Whilst the locomotive will be available for traffic, it will be used primarily as a stand by locomotive this year, and only when necessary. It's hoped the locomotive will be available for the Steam Dream Weekend 30th June and 1st July (see below), the NNR's Steam Gala 31st August–2nd September, and maybe Barrow Hill on 10th–11th November.

Steam Dream Weekend
After two failed attempts, it looks like being third time luck for the NNR's Steam Dream Weekend. The weekend will feature the railway's three resident Great Eastern designed locos in steam for the first time; B12 61572, J15 65462 and N7 69621. Completing the 50s East Anglian theme will be Battle of Britain 34081 92 Squadron, masquerading as 34057 Biggin Hill (once a Stratford engine). For more information, visit the NNR website – www.nnrailway.co.uk.

Wandering 1500 Club – Under new management
Incase you don't know, my name is Ben Boggis, and I've been the webmaster for this site since its conception in 2005. I have recently taken over the Wandering 1500 Club. The Club supports the B12 financially, allowing the loco to remain in steam. By doing so club members gain advantage to unique benefits, such as footplate experience days, free tickets, Annual members' days and much more. (More information on the Wandering 1500 Club can be found here.)

I'm currently looking for new members, and hope to have a small stand at the Steam Dream Weekend (possibly at Sheringham) promoting the B12 and Wandering 1500 Club. So do come and pay me a visit.

Steam Dream Weekend 30th June and 1st July 2007.

Photo: Peter Boggis

10th April 2007

Return to service
As planned, 61572 returned to regular service over the Easter period, and worked along side (fellow M&GN Society loco) J15 65462. The pair make a delightful sight, and together with the fantastic Easter weather drew the crowds. The engine performed trouble free, and will now be in regular used throughout the year.

Great Eastern Steam Dream… it's back on!
A gala featuring the NNR's three resident Great Eastern locos is in the planning, and will hopefully take place later this year. More details will appear nearer the time.

Video
In a change from the usual selection of photos, I've decided to use a video, thanks go to Peter Boggis. Hopefully it will meet with approval.

20th March 2007

Return to traffic
After successfully completing a trip up and down the line on Wednesday 14th March, 61572 returned to traffic on Sunday 18th March. It was the first time the loco had hauled a train since the 2005 Steam Gala, and performed well.

Finishing off
The engine has now returned to Weybourne shed, for final attention by shed staff. This includes; fitting of a new smokebox door, completing the painting of the loco, and rectifying a few teething troubles (discovered while in service on Sunday). Once complete, the B12 will then re-enter traffic before Easter, and be available for the summer season on the NNR.

Shedmaster Nick Johnson takes it steady, as 61572 ventures out onto the 'mainline'.

Photo: Coral Gillespie

61572 crosses bridge 303.

Photo: Ben Fraser

26th February 2007

Heavy/intermediate overhaul
The B12 steams once again! Today, 61572 made steam for the first time in 534 days. Although the locomotive didn't move under her own power, full pressure was reached (180psi), allowing the safely valves to be set.

More news and pictures to follow in the coming days…

Fire in her belly!

Photo: Ben Fraser

16th February 2007

Heavy/intermediate overhaul
Over the last few weeks the remaining few jobs on the B12 have been completed. 61572 was then washed out, and on the 15th February the loco passed its dry boiler inspection.

The engine will now be boxed up, which then leads us to the exciting prospect of lighting the fire for the first time in nearly 18 months. Hopefully this will take place next week, allowing running in to start. The first news and pictures will appear here first! So stay tuned…

15th January 2007

Heavy/intermediate overhaul
Shed staff and volunteers have been working constantly on the B12 since the loco was bought back into the shed.

Since the new year the following has taken place:

• Springs fitted to the driving wheels, the axle box keeps and adjusting wedges have been fitted and adjusted to correct limit.
• The inside eccentrics have been refitted and connected to eccentric straps, the slide bars have been cleaned and cross heads checked.
• The Westinghouse air pump has been fitted.
• The sanders and protectors have been refitted.
• Lubrication pipe work for bogie refitted.
• Vacuum and air brake pipes on front buffer beam refitted,
• The drop grate has been reinstated and linked back up to the footplate.
• The grate has been reinstated.
• The brake rigging and locomotive brake blocks have been fitted.
• Brake cylinder removed, stripped, cleaned and refitted.
• Pipe work under the cab has been reinstalled.

The (few) remaining tasks include:

• Connecting rods to be fitted.
• Check pipes are clean for Wakefield mechanical lub oil supply.
• A dry inspection by the boiler inspectorate.
• Repaint inside frames and touch up paint work on wheels and frames.

By the time this has been completed, it will be time for the exciting prospect of adding coal to the firebox and lighting the fire! Providing the loco then successfully runs in, the overhaul will be completed with a (much needed) repaint.

Inside frames and motion repainted, brake rigging fitted. Connecting rods waiting to be installed.

Photo: Benjamin Boggis

All six of the driving wheel axle boxes have been remetalled.

Photo: Benjamin Boggis

Reinstated fire grate, and drop grate.

Photo: Benjamin Boggis

28th December 2006

Heavy/intermediate overhaul
Work began last week (starting 18th December) to rewheel the B12 and move the loco back into the shed. Jacks had been kindly loaned from the Nene Valley Railway, and by Thursday 21st December, the loco had been checked over, measurements made and was ready to be lifted. The engine was slowly lowered back onto its 6'6" driving wheels and front bogie on Friday (22nd December), the whole operation taking most of the day to complete.

Saturday 23rd December; once (air) problems with the Class 11 diesel shunter were sorted a road was cleared in Weybourne shed. 61572 was oiled up and carefully checked over once again. Just after noon the the B12 was coupled to the shunter and was slowly moved for the first time in over 14 months. Despite a few problems with a sticking rear driving wheel, everything went very smoothly.

Returning the B12 to the 'sanctuary' of Weybourne shed was a very significant step, but a lot more work will have to be carried out before she can return to traffic. Once the valve gear has been reinstated, and the loco repainted, it will have to be gently run in over several weeks.

61572 is slowly lowered onto is wheels on Friday 22nd December.

Photo: Ben Fraser

The loco was moved back into Weybourne shed on Saturday 23rd December.

Photo: Benjamin Boggis

5th November 2006

Livery change
It has been decided that the B12's paint work was looking a little tired and needed a spruce up. The current lined back livery was applied back in 1999, and at the time was only intended to be short lived, so it's done well to last seven years! When 61572 returns to traffic, it will be resplendent in BR plain black livery, with early crest. We've also not ruled out changing it again before its current boiler ticket runs out!

Heavy/intermediate overhaul – Latest news
Work has continued, be it all at a rather frustrating pace. All (but one of the) six axle boxes have been machined, trail fitted, and checked for imperfections. Once these have been finished, cranes can then be hired to reunite the loco and its wheels. Not to be forgotten about, the tender has undergone a C exam, and has been given a repaint (see above and pictures right).

Looking resplendent. The finished tender now only requires further vanishing before it's complete.

Photo: Benjamin Boggis

4th July 2006

Don't worry, the site hasn't been forgotten about! After a long spell of relatively little B12 news to report on, its time for an update on the progress so far, and what is in store for 61572 later in the year!

Heavy/intermediate overhaul – Progress to date
All three driving wheel sets have returned from Carnforth, and have received a fresh coat of paint. The bogie frames have been repaired, reassembled, and painted. Progress has been slow on the axle boxes. This has been for a number of reasons, but work is now progress again. If all goes to plan, it is hoped to have the B12 back in service by the middle of the summer, fingers crossed!

LNER 4-6-0s at Barrow Hill
61572 will be attending Barrow Hill's Steam Gala on 21st–22nd October. For this year's event, Britain's last surviving roundhouse will pair the two surviving B1s (1306 Mayflower, and 61264) for the first time in preservation, and 61572 is joining in the party (subject to the completion of its overhaul). With all three surviving LNER 4-6-0s in one place, it should be one of the highlights of 2006!

Great Eastern Steam Dream
Originally planned for last year's Winter Gala, the "Great Eastern Steam Dream" featuring the B12, J15 and N7, has been penciled in for this year's event (30th December–1st January). More details will appear nearer the time.

And finally…
Congratulations to Ben Fraser on being named "Young Preservationist of the Year", well done mate!

The B12's reassembled bogie.

Photo: Benjamin Boggis

Dave Burgess attends to one of the axle boxes in Weybourne shed.

Photo: Benjamin Boggis

11th December 2005

Poppy Line Named Railway of the Year
The Poppy Line (home to B12 61572) has won top award in the National Railway Heritage Awards. At a ceremony in Merchant Taylors' Hall, City of London, on 6th December, General Manager Geoff Gowing and Marketing Manager Colin Borg received the Ian Allan Publishing Independent Railway of the Year Award from John Armitt, chief executive of Network Rail, and David Allan, chairman of Ian Allan.

This top award crowns a very successful year for the Railway. The Poppy Line has won three prizes in the Tourism in Norfolk Awards (winner of the Community Award and runner-up for Best Attraction and Outstanding Contribution to Tourism), and three prizes in the Heritage Railway Association Publications Awards (including the top prize of Continued Excellence awarded to Joint Line).

Now we are national Independent Railway of the Year.

On top of all that, the Poppy Line is celebrating an increase of 6% in passenger loadings, whilst most other North Norfolk attractions are down by 8–10%.

So let’s raise our glasses to the dedication of the volunteers and staff who have made it all happen. Thanks to you all!

2005 has been a busy year for the Poppy Line and the M&GN Joint Railway Society. Other notable achievements in 2005 include; the extension of the run round loop at Sheringham, refurbishment of Weybourne station canopy, extension of the loco and carriage sheds, together with the ongoing progress at Holt. The Society has also purchased its fourth steam loco, WD Austerity 90775 (pictured above).

Photo: Benjamin Boggis

17th November 2005

Mixed news to report this time.

Winter Gala
Due to unforeseen mechanical complications in the B12s current "Heavy/intermediate overhaul", 61572 will not be running at this years Winter Gala, as originally planned. It was previously hoped that the Winter Gala would be the first time that the B12, J15 and N7 would be in steam together in preservation.

The Winter Gala will however still be going ahead, with a distinct East Anglian theme. Headlining the event will be newly repainted 34081 92 Squadron. The loco, in BR green, will be masquerading as 34057 Biggin Hill (once a Stratford engine). It will be joined by N7 69621, J15 65462 and WD 2-10-0 90775 (which will be making its first appearance at a gala as an M&GN Society loco). Finally, in a late addition to the line-up, Terrier 662 Martello will also be visiting the railway from Bressingham. The event will be held from the 31st December to 2nd January 2006, for more information visit www.nnr.co.uk.

Heavy/intermediate overhaul – Progress to date
All three driving wheel sets which were sent to Carnforth to be reprofiled have been completed, and will return in the new year. The overhaul of the Westinghouse pump (which you may recall was sent (back) to Germany, see previous news update) has also been completed.

Back at Weybourne; A crack has been discovered in the bogie frames and is currently being assessed. In addition to the other tasks taking place while the loco is off its wheels, the chance is also being taken to machine and remetal the axle boxes.

The B12's bogie frames stripped out inside Weybourne shed.

Photo: Benjamin Boggis

The axle boxes, still waiting attention

Photo: Benjamin Boggis

20th October 2005

A great deal to report this time as 61572 under goes an intense overhaul in time for the NNR's Winter Gala.

B12 returns to Germany…!
…but not quite on the same scale as in 1991. The B12's Westinghouse pump (together with the N7's spare) have been sent to Deutsche Bahn AG - Dampflokwerk Meiningen for overhaul.

Light/intermediate overhaul
After a successful summer period, 61572 last appeared on Friday (9th September) of the NNR's Steam Gala. It was withdrawn from service soon after for work to begin on the bottom end overhaul. The loco was lifted on 19th October, allowing the wheels to be removed. The driving wheels then left the following day, and have been sent to Carnforth to be re-profiled. 61572 now sites rather distressingly in Weybourne shed car park, minus its wheels!

While the wheels are out of the frames, the opportunity is being taken to carry out the following tasks; new oiler pads in the driving wheel axle boxes, repair and refit axle box wedges, repair and re-bush axle box spring hangers.

The chance has also been taken to carry out numerous other smaller task, such as re-varnishing the cab windows. Many thanks to John Austin who has kindly offered to undertake this task, which has included purchasing a new pain of glass for one of the windows. Many thanks John. For a picture of John (showing the fruits of his labour), click here.

If all goes to plan, 61572 should be back in action by early December, ready to take part in the NNR's Winter Gala, featuring all three Great Eastern locos in steam for the first time in preservation. More information will be released nearer the time.

Pictures – coming soon
The website will gain around 16 archive pictures of several B12s at various stages of their lives in the next week or so, to finally complete the history sections of the site.

Steady as she goes! The B12 is lifted to allow the wheels to be removed.

Photo: Ben Fraser

Front bogie out of the frames.

Photo: Ben Fraser

61572's 6'6" driving wheels, before being taken to Carnforth.

Photo: Ben Fraser

The loco stands in Weybourne car park displaying its "Not to be Moved" board!

Photo: Ben Fraser

5th September 2005

61572 has ran trouble free throughout August, and has worked along side 3440 City of Truro, making an attractive, if not odd pair! The loco is due for a boiler wash out in the coming days ready for the Steam Gala next weekend (9–11th September). More information on the NNR's Steam Gala can be found below and at www.nnr.co.uk.

A few weeks ago we placed the B12's safety valve springs on ebay. We're happy to report that we received an outside bid from David Cook, who is a Wandering 1500 member. David had made an extremely generous offer towards the springs, to which we're very grateful, and look forward to getting David on the footplate in the near future.

Three superb videos have been added to the Movies page of 61572 at work during the 2004 Steam Gala. Movies are courtesy of Mike Snow, many thanks Mike. One picture has also been added to the B12 class gallery, B12/1 8552 in 1931 with an express train passing through Stratford. We are always looking for new material, either pictures or video, so don't hesitate to get in touch.

Railway by the sea – 61572 makes steady progress as it starts the 1 in 80 climb towards Weybourne on 25.08.05.

Photo: Benjamin Boggis

13th August 2005

Updates have been few and far between recently, but no news, is good news! The loco has performed faultlessly since being bought back into traffic in April. 61572 will hopefully be in service for most of August (barring any unforeseen problems), and working alongside National Railway Museum celebrity 3440 City of Truro.

Steam Gala
The North Norfolk Railway's Steam Gala takes place this year from Friday 9th to Sunday 11th September. The line up is probably one of the best ever, featuring; GWR City Class 3440 City of Truro, SR Battle of Britain 34081 92 Squadron, WD 2-10-0 90775, LNER N7 69621, J15 65462 and (of course) B12 61572. An intensive service will run throughout the course of the weekend, for more information visit www.nnr.co.uk.

Railwaymana
Maybe a little later than originally hoped, but we have finally got round to placing 61572's safety valve springs on eBay. The springs were fitted to the loco during its overhaul in East Germany at Kloster Mansfeld near Leipzig. All money raised from the sale will go to 61572, and as an added incentive, if the winning bid exceeds £80, the winner will be entitled to a free footplate ride on 61572! See pictures opposite.

61572 safely valve springs as fitted to the loco during its overhaul as Kloster Mansfeld.

61572 safely valve springs as fitted to the loco during its overhaul as Kloster Mansfeld.

3rd june 2005

61572 is currently acting as 'standby' loco, but if all goes to plan it should enter service by the middle of June. The engine will then be used regularly throughout the summer months with the rest of the NNR's home fleet, which will shortly be boosted by the arrival of two more locos…

Top of the list is GWR standard-bearer 3440 City of Truro, on loan from the National Railway Museum. 3440 earned it's place in the history books when it took claim to be the first locomotive to reach 100mph while descending Wellington bank in 1904. The loco will arrive at the railway in early July and will be used extensively until it leaves at the end of September.

If that wasn't enough, the third part of the Great Eastern 'Steam Dream' will also be completed in the next couple of weeks. GER designed N7 69621 is rapidly coming together in the (new) sheds at Weybourne and should be in steam the coming months. For more information on 69621 click here.

Finally, if you always wanted to own your very own piece of railwayana, then stay tuned, as we will be auctioning 61572's safety valve springs on eBay in the coming weeks! We will let you know when bidding starts. All moneys raised will (of course) go to 61572.

14th April 2005

61572 raised steam for the first time in over six months on the 13th April when a steam test was conducted on the loco. We are happy to report that the loco passed with flying colours. One or two anomalies were found, but nothing that can't be easily rectified.

A 'steam test' was carried out, safety valves tested, and the boiler freely maintained the working pressure. Checks were also made to the renewed regulator and value, injector valve (driver's side) and steam manifold. The whistle was in turn refitted, which had been loaned to Green Arrow during part of the loco's winter visit.

To insure that everything was in order, 61572 completed two short trips up and down Weybourne yard. This was the first time the loco had moved under its own power since the NNR's 40s Weekend on 19th September 2004. It is now hoped that the B12 will now return to service on the NNR in the next couple of weeks.

Nearly there…

Photo: Ben Fraser

Back in business! 61572 makes a short test run up and down Weybourne yard.

Photo: Ben Fraser

11th April 2005

61572 is nearing the end of its planned schedule of Winter maintenance. This has included the renewal of the regulator and the replacement/rebuilding of the front buffer beam. Other odd jobs have been carried out by willing volunteers (led by Ben Fraser), these have included; repainting the inside cab roof, descaling and repainting the tender coal space, and (trying to) clean the inside motion.

It is hoped that the B12 will return to service in late April early May, in time for the "high" season.

Mid Norfolk Railway Visit
The B12 will not be visiting the MNR later this month as originally planned. This has been postponed due to the fact that a pit has yet to be constructed. However, it has been agreed that the J15 will "deputise". The J15 has less working restrictions than the B12, and there for doesn't need a pit.

…and finally
The B12 now has its own website, but you already know that!