The North Yorkshire Moors Railway has announced that they have sold BR Standard 4MT No. 76079, and the locomotive is moving to a new home.

76079 has been purchased by The Strathspey Railway and will move to its new home in the Scottish Highlands.

The locomotive will undergo a full overhaul at its new home and will return to steam.

The 4MT is the only member of its class to be mainline registered and was a popular sight hauling trains between Grosmont and Whitby.

The North Yorkshire Moors Railway says that after the locomotive’s boiler certificate expired, it was decided that its long-term future would be better elsewhere with a new custodian.

The sale of 76079 is part of the railway’s ongoing fleet strategy, which the railway says ensures the line’s resources are focused on the locomotives that are best matched to its requirements.

“No. 76079 has given outstanding service over many seasons and has earned a special place in the affections of our staff, volunteers and visitors alike. While it is naturally a moment of reflection to see her leave Pickering, we are delighted that she is going to a railway that shares our values and is genuinely committed to her restoration. The Strathspey Railway will provide a fitting new home, and we wish them every success with the project ahead.”

Laura Strangeway, Chief Executive of the North Yorkshire Moors Railway

“We are thrilled to welcome No. 76079 to the Strathspey. She is a locomotive with real character and main line pedigree, and we look forward to undertaking the work needed to return her to steam for the enjoyment of visitors to the Highlands for many years to come.”

Gordon Kirk, Managing Director at the Strathspey Railway