Taff Vale strip

THE return to steam of the last surviving Welsh-built standard gauge steam loco took a step forward on October 23 when dismantling of Taff Vale

No. 28 commenced at the Gwili Railway. As previously reported, the first £32,000 has been raised towards the National Collectionowned 0-6-2T’s overhaul.

When the steam dome cover was removed blue paint was found – a reminder from when it was fitted to Hunslet 0-6-0ST Jessie (1873/1937) during its time as Thomas the tank engine at Llangollen.

The cladding that was fitted during the cosmetic restoration at Llangollen has been stripped off, and some of the crinolines removed and stored.

Newly purchased material has also now been delivered to the workshop ready to make a start at manufacturing new pins for the expansion links.

Further dismantling was carried out on November 20 – including the removal of the cast sand boxes. The boiler is now ready to be lifted from the frames.