Volunteers make components for Corris Railway’s new locomotive

Volunteers are making some components for Corris Railway’s new Falcon steam locomotive which is progressing after a temporary pause in January while more money was raised for the new build project.
 
Ross-on-Wye based engineering company Alan Keef Ltd has made sections of the footplate for locomotive number 10 which are being fitted prior to the mounting of the smokebox.
 
The handbrake screw has also been machined and connected up to the rest of the mechanism to complete that part of the brake assembly and mountings are being made for the air brake cylinder.
 
Volunteers have made the firebox doors and the opening mechanism and a wooden ashpan for trial fitting before the steel one is produced.
 
The new locomotive will be the second to enter service on the revived section of the oldest narrow gauge railway in Mid Wales, situated in the beautiful Dulas Valley between Machynlleth and Dolgellau.
 
The Falcon is a 21st century evocation of a trio of engines built in 1878 at the Falcon Works in Loughborough. One of these is now Sir Haydn on Talyllyn Railway.
 
The new build will differ from the originals in some respects, most visibly a higher cab to accommodate drivers and firemen who are taller than their Victorian predecessors.
 
Subject to continued fundraising support, the first steaming of the locomotive is scheduled for September 24 as the centrepiece of a charity open day at Alan Keef Ltd’s workshops.
 
Further work, including painting, will follow with a further target of entry into service at Corris early next year.
 
Donations for the new engine, which are needed to help the railway meet its targets, can be made online at www.corris.co.uk or cheques, payable to Corris Railway, can be sent to Peter Guest, 38 Underwood Close, Callow Hill, Redditch, B97 5YS. 
 
Picture caption:
 
Corris Railway’s new locomotive number 10 under construction at Alan Keef Ltd.