Having racked up sufficient miles working light test runs, "Eddystone" worked its first loaded test runs on the Swanage Railway since its return from overhaul.
The light pacific, owned by Southern Locomotives Ltd, only recently returned to the railway following an extensive overhaul in Herston Works. After being assessed and weighed, and subsequent static steamings and light test runs, the 'West Country' Class made its next step in returning to passenger service.
34028 worked two return trips through the Isle of Purbeck, working between Swanage and Norden, with Class 33 - 33111 in tow. The presence of the diesel was for insurance purposes, should a problem arise with "Eddystone" - while also providing dead weight when not needed, increasing the load for the Bulleid pacific.
With 5 coaches in the consist, and the idle Class 33, the load was in excess of 250 tons on the drawbar. After the days' workings, 34028 shunted the coaching stock into Platform 1 at Swanage, before retiring onto the Goods Shed road.
"Eddystone" stands as testement to all those at Southern Locomotives Ltd, volunteers and paid staff alike, for their demonstration of dedication and devotion in carrying out the overhaul. This video is therefore dedicated to the memory of the members of Southern Locomotives Ltd, who are unfortunately no longer with us; having passed before they could see the fruits of their hard work.
Locomotives:
Ex-SR Rebuilt 'West Country' Class - 34028 "Eddystone"
BR Class 33 - 33111
All footage filmed on Tuesday the 18th of May 2021.
