Hunslet Hastings fails in KESR running-in trials

A RETURN to service was just in sight for Hunslet 0-6-0ST No. 15 Hastings – until a piston rod and crosshead coupling rod joint failure led to serious damage to the front cylinder cover and piston.

Hastings had been undergoing running-in trials with both a rake of Mk.1 and vintage carriages on the Kent & East Sussex Railway following its arrival there in late May.

However, during a final trial run on May 31, the locomotive came to a stand on the return run to Tenterden.

Repairs

A decision was therefore made to return Hastings to Statfold Engineering Ltd as the most expeditious means of getting the repairs done.

It is hoped that No. 15 will return to the KESR once repairs have been completed.