4-TC progress at Swanage

THE 4-TC Group’s latest vehicle, Driving Trailer 76322, was delivered to the Swanage Railway on March 31. It had undergone extensive restoration at the premises of Rampart Engineering in Derby. The arrival of this vehicle means that the group has, for the first time, a complete set of restored coaches, although for the moment only three of these are available rather than the four that will eventually form the complete unit. For the moment the set will be a static exhibit as electrical and mechanical refurbishment has yet to be carried out.

The 4-TC sets were unpowered four-car units that could work in multiple with either EMUs or locos and originally worked from London to Weymouth. Converted from Mk 1 coaches they lasted in service until ousted from their duties by the Class 442s, following completion of electrification to Weymouth. Several vehicles then passed to London Underground for special workings, with a total of five later being obtained for use at Swanage. Once restoration has been completed the unit will be ideal for the proposed Wareham to Swanage link service, working with the line’s Class 33/1.