Recent progress on the cab has seen the flat chunk of metal for the roof rolled to put in the curve - thanks to Tyseley Locomotive Works, Mike Solloway and Mark Young for their efforts.
The original hoop provided the correct radius. Next task was to position the roof on the cab and ensure it is correctly fitted before a few bolts provide a temporary fix - then get the cab positioned on the frames.
It is great to see things "coming together"! There is some way to go yet before the cab can be permanently fixed - not least lots more holes to drill in the roof and the whole structure rivetted together.
We plan to raise funds in December this year to purchase a new smokebox (the old one was long past recovery!). We have been able to borrow a new one to help with the design and fitting ready for when we get our own - and to take some publicity shots to encourage donations.
Our fundraising will be through The Big Give Christmas Challenge - a national campaign that raises funds for hundreds of charities.
The big benefit of this scheme is that donations are worth double the amount for us - we have secured £1250 in pledges from supporters and a "champion" has been found by the Big Give who also pledge £1250 - this money will match fund the direct donations in the week of giving (30th November to 7th December). So if we can raise £2500 in donations in the week we will actually receive £5000 (plus an additional 25% Gift Aid on qualifying donations. With your help we will be able to see our own new smokebox installed on the loco next year.
Watch this space for more information on how you can donate.
