2857 General Update

We realised it’s been over a month since we last updated you on what’s going on with 2857, so we’ve brought you a bumper update below!

Overhaul Appeal – We’re delighted to say we’ve now raised £15,000 out of the £100,000 we have targeted. We’ve got one or two new ideas in the pipeline for extra fundraising and these will be communicated in due course.

2857 – Following the completion of the tube removal we met with the SVR/ESMP representatives to discuss the next stages. Within the next week or so we should be able to send a completed scope of work off to contractors for final quotations to be given for the ‘bottom end’ overhaul, this will then be followed by selecting a contractor. Whilst this happens The Society volunteers have been given a list of tasks to complete on the loco at Kidderminster, all of which will assist in removing the boiler from the frames when the time comes.

Tender – Our tender is on hire to the EMF for this year for use behind 7802 Bradley Manor. It has had its ride height adjusted to match 7802, and is ready to move with the locomotive to Kidderminster next week.

LMS Brakevan 730866 – Our LMS Brakevan is starting to look a little tired, so we will be asking the guys of the Bewdley Wagon Group to undertake a repaint in the coming months. Other than that the Brakevan is fit for use, and will see some action this year with various duties planned.

Sales Stand – We will have a Sales Stand at the SVR Spring Steam Gala. We can certainly man Friday-Sunday, and we hope to find people to cover the Monday too. We’ve done brand new clothing, mugs, and one or two other bits in stock so please come see us at Kidderminster Station throughout the gala.

Trustees – We’ve had one or two Trustees changes lately and these will be communicated via 28 Lines magazine, and a general press release in the near future. We are always looking for new Society volunteers, and indeed new trustees so please get in touch if you would like to know more.