The Merchant Navy Locomotive Preservation Society has announced that they have withdrawn 35028 Clan Line from service for the rest of 2022.
Work is currently being completed to repair the thermic syphons found on Clan Line at Stewarts Lane.
It has become clear though that more work is needed on the locomotive, and as a result, have withdrawn the locomotive from hauling any more tours in 2022.
Work will be completed away from Stewarts Lane and the locomotive will be transported to external contracts for the work.
Whist away, a retube and superheater elements will be fitted, and once these tasks have been completed and a hydraulic test and checks complete, Clan Line will return to Stewarts Lane.
In their statement, a spokesperson for the MNLPS said “Following work currently being undertaken with 35028 to repair the thermic syphons at Stewarts Lane, it has, unfortunately, become apparent that further work is needed on the engine. As a result, we will require more time to work on the locomotive. We have, therefore, taken the difficult decision to withdraw the locomotive from service for the remainder of the 2022 programme. We have also taken the decision to continue the work away from Stewarts Lane.”
“This has not been an easy decision to make but we feel it is necessary given the current circumstances. The MNLPS always strive to be professional and keep the best interests of the society, its members, and the locomotive at heart. We are confident that once this work has been completed, we will be able to return to mainline duties in 2023 and get back to doing what we do best.”
“We would like to take this opportunity in thanking you for your continued support and would welcome any further support that you can offer, however big or small. As our focus is on returning Clan Line to service, we are unable to comment on any specific operation for which the locomotive was scheduled to run.”
Why not take on long-term responsibility for a second Merchant Navy to fulfill contracts while Clan Line is undergoing future repairs? This could either be a restored example, such as Canadian Pacific, or an unrestored example, such as Blue Star or Holland America Line.
A wise decision. This loco should run far better for such repairs.
This is sad news, but obviously the right decision. As one of the best-maintained and most reliable preserved steam locos running on the main line, Clan Line has a reputation to uphold.