In less than 12 months, the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway has welcomed back both of its 'North American' pacifics to steam from overhauls, as No9 "Winston Churchill" made a return to service on the Kent coast.
Built in 1931 by the Yorkshire Engine Company, No9 is one of two 'North American' outline pacifics built for the RH&DR. When built, No9 carried the name "Doctor Syn", while No10 was "Black Prince". In 1948, No9 went to North America for an exhibition in Toronto, which saw the locomotive renamed "Winston Churchill" in a gesture of patriotism. Captain J.E.P. Howey would pass the name "Doctor Syn" on to No10, with the name "Black Prince" being unused until 1976.
No9 was withdrawn from service in the autumn of 2022, due to the expiry of its boiler ticket. On the completion of its overhaul, No9's relaunch into service coincided with the visit of the RH&DR Supporters Association to the line, which included a 'Members Special' being hauled by No9. While No9 was busy with its duties, ordinary passenger services would be handled by No11 "Black Prince" and No6 "Samson".
In this recent overhaul, No9's red livery has received some alterations and updates. The most striking of which is the wheels - previously painted black, they are now red with yellow lining; matching the rest of the locomotive. A numberplate now adorns the smokebox, while the number on the buffer beam has changed font. The cabsides, previously bare, now also have the number painted on.
Locomotives:
RH&DR 'North American' Pacific Class - No9 "Winston Churchill"
RH&DR Krupp Pacific Class - No11 "Black Prince"
RH&DR Mountain Class - No6 "Samson"
00:00 - No9 on shed at New Romney
01:27 - No9 Jenner's Way
02:49 - No9 Botolph's Bridge
03:56 - No11 Merritt Road foot crossing
05:07 - No6 Lade Fort
06:30 - No9 Kerton Road
07:55 - No9 New Romney
09:21 - No9 Palmarsh
10:56 - No9 Romney Warren
All footage filmed on Sunday the 17th of March 2024.