New funding for DFR’s first locomotive

THE DEAN Forest Railway’s first public steaming in October 1971 was brake van rides behind Peckett 0-4-0ST Uskmouth 1, built in 1952 to run at its namesake power station near Newport, Gwent. It was out of traffic for many years, but plans are underway for an overhaul. Funds have been boosted by £10,000 from West Dean Parish Council’s ‘Yorkley Solar Farm Section 106 Grant Scheme’, and £5,000 from Gloucestershire County Council’s ‘Growing our Communities Fund’. A return to steam later this year is planned, to mark the 50th anniversary.