In another important step forwards for the West Somerset Railway Association’s locomotive restoration programme, the chassis for BR Standard 4 loco 80064 has today been sent from the WSR to the East Somerset Railway’s Locomotive Workshops. The overhaul of the chassis will be done there by their dedicated volunteer team. 

Work on the chassis is scheduled for completion at the ESR to coincide with the completion of work on the boiler for the loco, which is now at Riley and Son. It is hoped that boiler and chassis will be reunited and restoration will be complete in time for 80064 to be ready for service on the WSR during the summer season of 2028, after a brief running in period on the ESR. 

Steve Masters from the East Somerset Railway said “The ESR is very excited to have been given the opportunity to overhaul 80064 for the WSRA. Work will start as soon as Ivatt Class 2 No.46447 is finished and has vacated the workshop. This is expected to be by the end of May. 

Since 2012, the ESR’s workshops have overhauled or restored seven locomotives, either to provide motive power for the line, or on a contract basis which generates much needed income for the railway in exchange for the efforts of our hard working, enthusiastic volunteers. 

Visitors to the ESR will be able to watch the progress of 80064’s overhaul as well as having the opportunity to ride behind the loco throughout the running in period.