‘S160’ TRIPLE-HEADER BACK ON AS CHURNET REOPENS
A triple-header of ‘S160’ 2-8-0s is in prospect again, with the reopening of the Churnet Valley Railway following swift repairs to flood damage.
The CVR’s ‘Super Power Saturday’ event on October 26 hosted visiting ‘S160’ No. 2253 ‘Omaha’ – but the US Army Transportation Corps 2-8-0, and resident classmates Nos. 5197 and 6046, were unable to run after the trackbed was washed away near Consall (SR499).
However, the embankment was rebuilt in less than a month by contractor Stobart Rail, and the line reopened on November 15.
The work cost a six-figure sum, but was made possible by a loan from Staffordshire Moorlands District Council, to ensure payment while the CVR raises funds.
Jon Kerr of the CVR said: “This kind of support is beyond true recognition, and we are grateful for the support shown in ensuring that our Santa services run as planned for 2019.” Donations can be made at www.churnetvalleyrailway.co.uk/ donations
The ‘Super Power’ event with all three ‘S160s’ has been rescheduled to the weekend of February 1/2. CVR director Chris Meadowcroft said: “This will replace the normal gala – the date has been moved forward as 2253 can’t stay until our normal slot on the last weekend of February.”
On loan courtesy of owner Peter Best before moving to take up a hire contract at the Dartmouth Steam Railway, ‘Omaha’ is scheduled to work all of the CVR’s post-Christmas ‘Winter Warmer’ trains on December 26, 28/29, January 1 and 4/5.
The two resident ‘S160s’ are away on ‘Polar Express’ duties over the festive season, No. 5197 at the Telford Steam Railway and No. 6046 at the Wensleydale Railway.