CAVAN & LEITRIM RAILWAY’S ‘DROMAD’ MOVES TO CUMBRIA FOR OVERHAUL

The Cavan & Leitrim Railway is set to have two working steam locomotives for the first time, as its Kerr, Stuart ‘Brazil’ 0-4-2T ‘Dromad’ has arrived in Cumbria for overhaul.

First steamed in 1994 following an extensive rebuild by Alan Keef Ltd from original saddle tank form to side tank configuration, 1916-built ‘Dromad’ (Works No. 3024) was initially sent across the Irish Sea for potential overhaul in March last year following the arrival of recently restored Avonside 0-6-0T Works No. 1547 Nancy (SR492).

It was transferred from Duncan Milner’s yard near Stoke-on-Trent, where it had been in storage, to Cumbria on July 4, and is believed to be the first 3ft gauge locomotive in the county since the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway was converted to 15in gauge in 1915. Once its overhaul is complete, the CLR will be able to field two operational steam locomotives for the first time since Dromod opened in 1995.

CLR spokesman Darragh Connolly said: “Those who wish to donate towards the overhaul fund are encouraged to contact the Cavan & Leitrim on social media or email. The railway remains closed due to Covid-19 and will likely remain closed to the public for the 2020 season to protect volunteers and the public. Work will progress however on trackwork and activities on site by volunteers.

“A fund has been set up to raise €9,000; as of now over €6,500 has been raised. We would greatly appreciate any contributions to close the balance.”