Boiler Progress for

A MAJOR milestone has been reached in the restoration of GWR 4-6-0 4930 Hagley Hall, with the boiler having been successfully steam tested at Northern Steam Engineering for the first time since it was withdrawn almost 35 years ago in October 1986. It means there is “an increasing probability” that Hagley Hall will move under its own steam this year, according to Paul Hobson, Chairman of the Friends of Locomotive 4930 Hagley Hall.

In January, the boiler of the Severn Valley Railway-owned loco was transferred from Stocktonon-Tees to Bridgnorth where the frames have been overhauled. The engineering firm has also built a new tender tank for 4930. Although coronavirus caused slight delays, the boiler was delivered on target and to budget. Major work saw the inner firebox removed from the boiler and stripped, while 75% of the outer firebox was replaced and a new front tubeplate fitted. All the firebox stays are new, having been made at Bridgnorth by the SVR’s engineering team.

Shortly after its arrival at Bridgnorth’s boiler works, 4930’s overhauled boiler has been lifted from the road lorry. (SVR)