Watercress wagons on a roll
Operational fleet on course to receive welcome additions.
THE Mid-Hants Railway’s (MHR) demonstration freight train is set to be boosted by the addition of two wagons – subject to them passing their Fitness To Run (FTR) examinations.
“After many years not running, we hope that our Presflo and Tube wagons will pass their FTR, allowing them to rejoin our freight rake shortly,” said Chris Le Corney, MHR Wagon Group leader.
In addition to a partial repaint, Blue Circle Cement Presflo No. PF 29 has recently had part of the ply sheet side advertising boards on both sides replaced.
BR Tube wagon No. B 730821 has benefited from a jet wash to remove years of green mould, and a quick repaint.
A new door has been constructed for LMS van No. M 520771 and will be placed on the van shortly.
Another LMS van, No. M 517317 has been stripped down and is undergoing a major overhaul, including steelwork replacement and repairs, plus some new timbers and a repaint.
SR PMV van No. S 1995 is in the final weeks of completion after an extensive overhaul, including the replacement of some tongue and groove timbers and a repaint.
SR Pillbox No. S 56506 has received a quick overhaul and repaint. The brake van went to the Epping Ongar Railway for a short hire period at the end of May.
Another brake van, SR Dance Hall No. S 55506 is now encased in overall sheeting, which allowed the roof tongue and groove timbers to be removed working from platforms inside the van. Preparations are being made to install the replacement wood.
Meanwhile, BR AF insulated container No. 65558 B has had some plywood sheeting repairs and a repaint.
Le Corney said: “Some difficulty was found in getting a clear varnish to actually do what it said on the tin, and dry clear, but the final finish gives a more realistic weather-worn look! It is now waiting to be craned back onto one of the Conflat A wagons.”