The East Somerset Railway, founded by the late wildlife artist David Shepherd in 1974, is gearing up for its grand 50th-anniversary celebration, marking a significant milestone for the heritage line.
A star attraction of this momentous event will be the debut journey of Britain’s newest steam engine, 6880 Betton Grange, set to embark on its maiden voyage after a painstaking 21-year rebuild project.
A resurrected steam engine salvaged from scraps
The initiative to resurrect the ‘Grange‘ class locomotives began in 1998 with the formation of the 6880 Society, comprising passionate steam enthusiasts determined to bring back these iconic engines that faced extinction after the Beeching rail cuts of the 1960s.
Through relentless fundraising efforts, the society raised an impressive £1.1 million ($1.3 million), utilizing components salvaged from scrapped locomotives to rebuild Betton Grange.
The majority of the reconstruction work took place at the Tyseley Locomotive Works in Birmingham, where volunteers dedicated countless hours to meticulously restore the locomotive to its former glory.
Once a common sight thundering down the Great Western Railway line in Somerset, Grange locomotives played a vital role in transporting freight and passengers to destinations in Devon and Cornwall.
Expressing delight at the impending debut, a spokesperson for the Betton Grange Society stated, “We’re delighted that No. 6880 Betton Grange will be making its debut at the East Somerset Railway’s 50th Anniversary event in March.”
Simon Bending, Business Manager at the East Somerset Railway, echoed this sentiment to BBC, expressing thrill at the prospect of witnessing the first GWR Grange to run since 1965 on GWR metals.
Preparations are in full swing at the railway as volunteers diligently work on maintenance tasks to ensure the line is pristine for the new season. Phil Wilson, one of the youngest volunteers, emphasized the significant challenges faced, including the substantial cost of upkeep, with each 60-feet (18-meter) length of steel rail costing £1,200 ($1,500) and concrete sleepers around £32 ($40).
In addition to the debut journey of Betton Grange, infrastructure upgrades are underway at the railway, with the signaling and telegraph team working on enhancements to allow trains to utilize both sets of tracks and platforms simultaneously. A heritage center dedicated to David Shepherd has also been established on-site, adding to the historical significance of the railway.
As anticipation builds for the 50th-anniversary celebration and the eagerly awaited debut of Betton Grange, the East Somerset Railway stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of steam locomotion, honoring its rich heritage and captivating the imaginations of railway enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Betton Grange’s significance extends beyond its mechanical prowess; it symbolizes resilience, community spirit, and a profound connection to the past. Each rivet and piston tells a story of determination and passion, reflecting the dedication of countless individuals who refused to let history fade into obscurity.
With its sleek silhouette and billowing steam, Betton Grange represents more than just a mode of transportation; it embodies the spirit of adventure and discovery, inviting passengers to embark on a journey through time.
As the locomotive chugs along the East Somerset Railway, it carries the hopes and dreams of generations past and present, a living testament to the enduring allure of steam-powered travel.
The 50th-anniversary celebration promises to be a momentous occasion, a triumphant tribute to the therailway’ss rich legacy and the remarkable journey that brought Betton Grange back to life. As visitors gather to witness history in the making, they will be reminded of the power of perseverance and the timeless appeal of Britain’s railway heritage.
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