Please see the latest news from the Vera Team.

Tender Update from Ian Riley’s Works (contractors assigned to the overhaul of the tender):

Following removal of the tank, all the wheels have been re-profiled and journals polished where required. The drag box, which provides the means of coupling engine and tender, can now be accessed so Riley’s have been going through the design and checking things before talking to potential material suppliers. The next move is to drop the drag box out and progress materials for its replacement, and the new tank. Whilst this is going on they will be making a start on the running gear. This will all take place over the summer with a view to completion of the overhaul towards the end of the year.

Above is a photo taken in April 1973 of Vera’s boiler being overhauled in Piraeus Works, Athens. Although the quality is not brilliant I think its historic importance makes up for it - Ian Foot.

Locomotive Unit

Component working parties will re-start in later this month at Grosmont Motive Power Department. This will involve all the items being removed from the locomotive, from lubricating pipe runs to reverser.

The MPD Team hope to have the chassis in the main workshop this Autumn, by which time No. 44806 should be re-wheeled and mobile, allowing Vera to take her place.

Paul Middleton (aka Piglet) has compiled a complete list of all the individual items requiring work on the chassis and boiler. It is now the intention to start talking to potential boiler overhaul contractors.

Fund Raising

Firstly, a sincere thank you to all those who have contributed so far.

The total raised as of 03/03/22 is £210K. We need to press on with our efforts as the invoices for the tender work are starting to arrive! More news on progress in the not-to-distant future.

Why not book tickets to visit the railway now that the services have started again for the season.

Ian Foot and the Vera Team.
Main Images Courtesy: Ian Riley.

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