‘Duke’ takes shape

THE overhaul for main line operation of No. 71000 Duke of Gloucester by the BR Class 8 Steam Locomotive Trust continues at Tyseley Locomotive Works. All the axles are now at Tyseley and have had their tyres turned. Furthermore, all three cylinders are now in position and complete and are ready for connection to the connecting rods as soon as the axles are in position in the frames. The electrics are making good progress – with the fitting of the cable tubing almost complete. Meanwhile, the batteries which are needed for Mk.1 support coach No. 17015 are on order and are due to be delivered by mid-October. The support coach has been signed off as ready for main line use once the controlled emission toilet is fitted in November.