Charles Wytock Steams!

Newly arrived Bagnall 4-4-0T, CHARLES WYTOCK was successfully steam tested for the boiler inspector on Friday 30th May and for the first time in about 50 years has a current boiler certificate.

The engine has already undergone much remedial work but modifications to the couplings and the fitting of vacuum and steam braking equipment will be necessary before it will be available for passenger service. This work is hoped to be completed before the end of the summer season.

The loco is Bagnall's works number 2819 and was ordered by the Tongaat Sugar Corporation in 1944, but due to wartime materials shortages it was not delivered until March 1946. However it is plated as a 1945 build, constructed at the same time as sister engine ISIBUTU now resident at the Statfold Barn Railway.

Photos and text John Heys