Britannia and Sir Nigel Gresley for Severn Valley Railway test runs

AS WE closed for press, BR Standard Pacific No. 70000 Britannia was in the final stages of assembly at Locomotive Services Limited at its 1951 Crewe birthplace and preparing to be steam tested.

A fire was due to be lit in the completed locomotive during the second week of January, followed by further tests that, once completed successfully, will see No. 70000 transported by road to Kidderminster for testing on the Severn Valley Railway.

Most locomotives arrive at Bridgnorth but due to the current shed roof works there (feature, issue 287) and the rebuilding of Sterns, the arrival will be at Kidderminster through the Network Rail car park.

Its arrival was planned for the end of January, when it was to commence light engine tests between Kidderminster and Highley. In early February, loaded test runs were due in preparation for another period of main line running.

Line possession for the replacement footbridge at Kidderminster was to be lifted in time for its arrival, however these plans are being amended due to the delays of the bridge lift, and the closure of Sterns will stop it running further north (see separate story).

The test stock is likely to be Crewe’s own Mk.3 sleepers that have been sitting alongside the carriage shed for up to 18 months and will need a fitness-to-run exam before use. The crews will be LNWR staff who are Severn Valley-competent, highlighting close co-operation between the two organisations.

Also at Crewe, the overhaul of LNER A4 No. 60007 Sir Nigel Gresley has been progressing steadily. On target for completion at the end of January, it may also go to the SVR for testing.