1952 Train Swindon-built locomotive “E V Cooper Engineer” 46512, an Ivatt Class 2 2-6-0 vintage Steam Train, Speyside Railway, Aviemore, Scotland, UK
This completely restored, 1952 Swindon-built locomotive, which was retired from BR service in 1967 and sent to Woodham’s scrapyard in South Wales for cutting up. Fortunately, the yard owner had other priorities which meant that this and other locomotives were placed on sidings awaiting their fate. In March 1973, the recently established Strathspey Railway Company (SRC) was looking for suitable steam locos for its Aviemore to Boat of Garten line and this one was purchased and stored initially at the Severn Valley Railway where restoration began before being taken up to Aviemore in 1982. Founding Director, Mr Eric Cooper, was particularly responsible for her acquisition and return to service in Aviemore. After full restoration, and appropriate naming as “E V Cooper Engineer”, the locomotive ran on the Strathspey line from 2000 until 2005 when boiler tube and bearing problems prompted her withdrawal. Since then she has awaited funding for a further restoration to service condition. The works cost a total of £142,800 with the Heritage Lottery Fund contributing £50,000. While much of the work was done by SRC engineers and volunteers at Aviemore shed, certain specialist contractors were needed for work on the boiler, wheels, axle boxes and springs.
Size: 3986px × 2657px
Location: Aviemore, Scotland, UK
Photo credit: © MediaWorldImages / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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