For the first time in preservation, a Bulleid pacific hauled public services on the Spa Valley Railway, as the new resident of the line; 34053 "Sir Keith Park", made its debut.
Owned by Southern Locomotives Ltd, 34053 received attention to its axle-boxes at Tyseley early in the year, and was ready to be returned to its then-base at the Swanage Railway. But before any movement could take place, the Covid-19 Lockdown came into effect, with the Swanage Railway advising SLL to not bring the locomotive back - leaving the locomotive stranded. With 34053 in need of under-cover shelter for the winter months ahead, Southern Locomotives made enquiries, and received an invitation from the Spa Valley to make a home for 34053 - further developing into a full running agreement. "Sir Keith Park" is now permanently based on the Spa Valley Railway, at least until its next overhaul, with the boiler ticket due to run out in late 2021.
With a large amount of SLL's supporters being based in the South-East, the move rewards their dedication to SLL's cause, by bring one of the locomotives closer to home for them to enjoy. To further the reward, another locomotive owned by SLL is due to join the Spa Valley fleet, in the shape of Austerity Saddle Tank - 75050 "Norman", upon the completion of its current overhaul.
34053's entry into service on the Spa Valley saw the locomotive work top-and-tail with resident Class 33 - 33063 "R. J. Mitchell Designer of the Spitfire" - an obvious link to the 'Battle of Britain' Class. The pair making 5 return trips over the line between Tunbridge Wells West to Eridge. The pair would go on to haul a 'Fish & Chip' dinning special the same evening.
This video is dedicated to the memory of Ronald Bennett F.B.H, Southern Locomotive Ltd volunteer, who passed away earlier this year. He was responsible for painting "Sir Keith Park" among other locomotives in the SLL fleet. It's always a pleasure to see his handiwork glinting in the sunlight.
Locomotives:
Ex-SR Rebuilt 'Battle of Britain' Class - 34053 "Sir Keith Park"
BR Class 33 - 33063 "R. J. Mitchell Designer of the Spitfire"
All footage filmed on Saturday the 12th of September 2020.