Holden F5 tank now has cylinders fitted

THE Holden F5 Steam Locomotive Trust has passed a major milestone is its bid to recreate GER 2-4-2T No. 789 with the fitting of the cylinders to the frames, seven years after the project moved from Essex to Tyseley Locomotive Works.

The frames entered the Tyseley workshop for final assembly during late October. All castings were removed from storage and prepared for fitting to the frames assembly.

Meanwhile, the trust has received a substantial legacy that will enable Tyseley to complete all that is necessary to cater for No. 789’s rolling chassis.

The trust’s original plan was to reconstruct BR No. 67218 as its was withdrawn from service on the Epping to Ongar branch, where steam ended on November 16, 1957.

However, in 2013, it was agreed that the striking GER livery would make the locomotive visually more attractive, standing out from the many BR livery locomotives currently operating in the heritage sector.

DENIS CHICK The cylinders fitted to the frames of GER James Holden 2-4-2T No. 789 inside Tyseley Locomotive Works, marking a watershed with construction.