Cylinder block casting issue halts Welsh Guardsman

RSH ‘Austerity’ 0-6-0ST Welsh Guardsman (7170/1944) has been withdrawn from traffic at the Severn Valley Railway (SVR). An investigation of a steam blow at the front end found that the cylinder block casting has failed, with a number of holes having been discovered in the live steam passages. The SVR said the cause is simply down to age, erosion and corrosion. Examination shows the cylinder block is beyond repair. Fortunately, assistance with the way forward is being provided by the Mid-Hants Railway, which has recently been sourcing a new cylinder block for its similar ‘Austerity’ 0-6-0ST.