Another £15k needed to complete new Grange
MEMBERS of the 6880 Betton Grange Society attending its annual general meeting at Tyseley Locomotive Works were able to view their locomotive for the first time in more than a year.
Not yet sufficiently advanced to steam under its own power – that may happen this summer, what members saw was a locomotive that looks all but complete, as engineers from the Tyseley team have made great progress over recent months with lubrication and steam pipework, and fitting out the locomotive’s cab.
The main outstanding area of work is around the smokebox, where delays due to Covid-19 at the supplier has meant that fittings for the main outside steam pipes have not yet been delivered. Similarly, it has not been possible to complete the rest of the smokebox furniture and permanently fix the chimney in place, thus completing the locomotive’s ‘face’.
“It has been frustrating,” said 6880 director David Huntbatch. “Suppliers of specialist components are few and far between, so we must be patient.”
The society’s working parties have been limited to working outside over the past 18 months, which has largely meant tidying up its other locomotive, No. 5952 Cogan Hall, so it is suitable for display during Tyseley open days, and overhauling and making components for the Grange offsite and at members’ own homes.
“We are nearly there,’” said publicity director Paul Appleton, “but increases in material and transport costs have left us with a £15,000 shortfall.” An appeal has been made to members and supporters. Work will include a professional paint finish in lined BR Brunswick green and late crests.
Meanwhile, the on-loan tender from GWR 2-8-0 No. 3814 was due to be delivered to Tyseley from Northern Steam Engineering Services.
“We also need to fund new draw gear that wasn’t in the original budget,” Paul said. The society is also raising funds for its replica Collett 3500-gallon tender.
➜ For more details on how to support the society, visit www.6880.co.uk