Ivatt trIo for Cranmore and the Isle of WIght?
Consecutively numbered Ivatt ‘2MT’ 2‑6‑2Ts Nos. 41312 and 41313 are to run together at the East Somerset Railway for one day only on September 16. The opportunity is being seized to bring No. 41312 from the Mid‑Hants Railway before its classmate moves to its new home at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway in early October. Outshopped at Cranmore in June following a two‑ year contract restoration, September 16 will be No. 41313’s last steaming before heading across the Solent. It is hoped that a third Ivatt ‑ 2‑6‑0 No. 46447, on long‑term loan to Cranmore from the IoWSR ‑ will also be in steam for the event. An Ivatt trio could also be in prospect on the Isle of Wight next spring, if a proposed visit by No. 46447 goes ahead. The IoWSR is considering an approach to the ESR about the possibility of the ‘Mogul’ starring in Havenstreet’s steam gala in May 2018 ‑ it would make history as the first tender locomotive ever to run on the island, joining the IoWSR’s 2‑6‑2Ts Nos. 41298 and 41313. The event is likely to be the first time the tank engines run together, as No. 41313 will not enter service until next year. A new inspection pit has been built at Havenstreet, allowing both 2‑6‑2Ts to be serviced simultaneously.