Nene Valley Railway have launched an appeal to help restore Standard Class 5 No. 73050, ‘City of Peterborough’.
Constructed in 1954 as a British Rail Standard Class 5, the locomotive was acquired directly from British Rail in 1968 by the Peterborough Railway Society (later becoming the Nene Valley Railway) at the close of the mainline steam era.
In 1973, Rev. Richard Paten formally donated the engine to the city, giving it the name ‘City of Peterborough’. Over the decades, 73050 has evolved into the railway’s flagship locomotive, playing a role in many of the most significant milestones in the Nene Valley Railway’s history.
Thanks to generous contributions from private individuals and the Peterborough City Council, the overhaul of 73050 has progressed well. However, the lasting effects of the Covid-19 pandemic have had an impact on costs, progress, and funding.
The total completion cost is marked in excess of £500,000, with current funds standing near the halfway mark.
Nene Valley Railway have opened several options for those wishing to donate. This includes: COP Crusaders £50 a month donation with a supporters package, COP Champions No fixed amount donation with an enhanced supporters package, or by making a one-off donation via their website.
Responses
Great to see this iconic engine at N.V.R. going under restoration. But it opens the often voiced question why not go for main line restoration. Realise this would cost a lot more money but the opportunity to organise and run the companies tours. the railway is connected to the E.C.M.L.with accessSOUTH,NORTH,EAST& WEST. It also opens the access for other companies to run tours in and out.