A significant moment has been achieved in the overhaul of London & North Eastern Railway N2 Class 0-6-2 tank locomotive No. 1744 when its critical Part 2 Steam Examination Test was successful.

No. 1744 is the oldest surviving locomotive designed by Sir Nigel Gresley, and is being overhauled at the North Norfolk Railway’s workshops at Weybourne, Norfolk.

On Tuesday, 12th May, it passed several steaming and light engine movements, followed by its Steam Examination Test on Wednesday, 20th May, which was observed and passed by Andy Wright, the Nominated Body for the boiler from BTIS; it passed its first steam test last September.

The Gresley Society, owners of 1744, are planning to complete the overhaul in time for it to return to service in its distinctive Great Northern Railway green livery on the North Norfolk Railway in July this year. Before then, the remaining final assembly work, including fitting the brick arch to the firebox, must be completed, and the locomotive painted, lined, and lettered.

No. 1744 was withdrawn from service for overhaul in 2018, since when the extensive mechanical and boiler work has cost nearly £800,000. The North Norfolk Railway agreed to complete the overhaul in return for being allowed to use the locomotive on its services.

The Gresley Society was founded in 1963 to honour the life and works of one of Britain’s greatest steam locomotive designers.

“Passing the steam examination test marks yet another major step forward in returning No. 1744 to traffic for the first time since 2018. With The N2 Overhaul Completion Club now well over halfway to its target, we urge LNER enthusiasts to join us so that this unique Gresley tank engine can once again haul trains – including the Midland & Great Northern Society’s Gresley Quad-Art carriages – on the North Norfolk Railway in Sir Nigel Gresley’s 150th anniversary year. We remain grateful to the North Norfolk Railway and all those supporting the project.”

Philip Benham MBE, Chairman, The Gresley Society