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 backplate fittings were removed. The next task will be the removal of the superheater elements, and large tubes. Following this, the boiler will then be washed out and descaled 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 Durrent), 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 backplate 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 center 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. Dispite 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 maintance. 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!