Coulsdon’s Class 207 ‘Thumper’ is on the comeback trail
Class 207 ‘Thumper’ diesel-electric multiple unit 1305 (207202), which moved to a private site in Oxfordshire earlier this year after being disposed of by the East Lancashire Railway, took a major step forward in September when it moved again under its own power for the first time in a decade. Now in the care of the Coulsdon Old Vehicle & Engineering Society, spokesman Matthew Baxter told Railways Illustrated: “So far, since acquiring the unit, the power unit and electrical machines have been extensively checked over, which led to the renewal of the turbo. In addition to this, the fluids have been changed and the unit has been successfully started up.
“Work is beginning to start on the bodywork, with one side receiving blue undercoat, substantially improving the appearance. Interior fixtures and fittings are also being removed to facilitate this, as well as for repair and refurbishment prior to refitting.”
The ‘Thumper’ arrived in Oxfordshire in March after being declared surplus to requirements by the ELR. The unit required a full bodywork and mechanical overhaul, having last been used on the line in 2011.
It was originally preserved after being taken off lease with Connex in summer 2004 and was one of a number of units that were offered to preservationists by Porterbrook.