LSG’S Deltic D9000 gets closer to completion

THE OVERHAUL of Class 55 Deltic D9000 Royal Scots Grey reached a significant milestone in mid-may when the second overhauled engine and generator were fitted at Locomotive Services Group’s Crewe Diesel Depot, as work progresses to complete the overhaul in time for a main line charter in late August. D9000 is one of two Deltics that LSG bought from former owner Martin Walker in late 2017, with D9016 Gordon Highlander also acquired by the company.

At the time of its purchase, D9000 – then painted in BR blue and carrying the identity of long-scrapped classmate 55018 Ballymoss – had suffered failures to both of its Napier Deltic engines, rendering it unserviceable. Since moving to Crewe, it has been overhauled and two engines have been completely rebuilt. It is expected that the locomotive will be repainted into BR green before returning to main line action.

The first charter to be operated by the rejuvenated locomotive is the fully-booked ‘Deltic Delight’ from Wolverhampton to Newcastle on August 26.

More tours

It is also due to work two other charters for the Locomotive Services subsidiary Intercity later in the year: the ‘Severn Valley Deltic’ operating from Newcastle to Bridgnorth on October 12, and the ‘Deltic Deviation’ from Finsbury Park to Newcastle on October 29. At the time of writing, places remain available on the two October tours.

D9016 has had a full bodywork overhaul and repaint into BR green, but has not returned to operational use and has moved to Locomotive Services One:one Collection site at Margate.

This site is due to open as a museum for locomotives and stock belonging to LSG awaiting overhaul or for static display. No details have been announced as to when the new museum facility might be opened to the public.

It is currently unknown if LSG intends to return D9016 to serviceable condition or whether it will remain as a static exhibit.

Further details of the Intercity charters due to be worked by the D9000 and how to book can be found at www.inter-city.co.uk

See From The Front Coach on pages 36-38.