BSK 34675 built in 1955 at Wolverton Works has been fully restored and entered service (running on the 1500 and 1600 services) on the Ribble Steam Railway on Sunday 3rd May. It has had full body overhaul, interior revovation and full repaint in to British Railways lined maroon.

The propelling front has a modern electric tail / headlamp unit fitted.

The coach finished its working life on the Eastern Region before being allocated to Departmental use. Two coats of maroon and one of varnish now make it the best looking coach in the fleet. One of the coach crests is of 1988 manufacture obtained in 1991 from Collectors Corner and the other one of 1964 vintage was obtained with four others on E-Bay!

Boiler work continues on Barclay 2261

The new tubeplate is in place, together with replacement longitudinal stays - and currently, the tubes are in the process of being expanded.

It is hoped that the boiler will be filled with water in the next few weeks to begin hydraulic testing, in readiness for later steam testing & then full reassembly of the loco.

It's hoped that No.6 will be completed in time to take part in the 2009 Steam Gala Event.

DISCUSSIONS ABOUT NEW WORKSHOP & MUSEUM

The Furness Railway Trust and Ribble Steam Railway are to enter into detailed discussions about the possibility of locating a new FRT workshop and small museum at RSR in Preston.

The FRT has a long standing need for its own restoration facilities as it develops its role as a provider of locomotives and rolling stock for the heritage railway sector.

Dave Watkins, Chairman of RSR, said “We were more than happy to offer the FRT any help we could, and we're delighted to be working closely with them moving forward. Both parties are now actively engaged in planning an appropriate building on our land to house a suitable workshop & museum for the FRT.”

Tim Owen, FRT Chairman, said “We want to achieve a partnership that will be appropriate, and beneficial, to both bodies. The RSR offer is undoubtedly attractive, including access to the considerable engineering and lifting facilities already at Preston and the railway to test newly restored items.”

For more information on the Furness Railway Trust Visit their website