BR Class 31, 31255, a long-term Mid Norfolk Railway resident, has had its future secured following its purchased by a number of MNR members for use on the railway.
The purchase of 31255 has been agreed with its previous owner, Harry Needle, and means that the locomotive will be restored to be used on the railway.
Restoration work has begun on the locomotive following its arrival at Dereham from long term storage at Hardingham Station sidings on the Mid Norfolk Railway.
The first step of the overhaul is a thorough exam and assessment. A plan of work needed will then be drawn up to see what systems need to be restored first, before the restoration will be completed by deciding which livery the locomotive will carry.
The immediate aim is to have the engine restored so that it can enter service in 2021, however, a full restoration will be a long term project.
Charlie Robinson the Chairman of the MNR Trust said, “This is yet another important and exciting development for the railway in this our 25th Anniversary. The railway trust and the membership are extremely pleased that some members have secured this locomotive for long term use on the railway and it will make an important addition to our mission of celebrating the railway heritage of East Anglia.”
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A working 31 is an asset to any heritage railway, I wish the group every success in the restoration.
Wow, the Mid-Norfolk Railway (along with it’s own volunteers, members and crews) have well done it once again… Officially taking on an ex-British Rail Class 31 Diesel Loco as part of their MNR Fleet…
Especially for Potential Restoration before being put to Good Use for Roaming the Well-Restored Rails of it’s own Well-Preserved ex-Cross Country Railway line through the Heart of Norfolk.
A Jolly Well Done to the ”Eagerly-Must-Visit” Mid-Norfolk Railway on this Highlight within UK Preservation.