The Dean Forest Railway Society is delighted to announce a major funding boost to its ongoing project to restore the DFR's first ever locomotive. Uskmouth 1 has been out of service for many years, but much work has been ongoing recently to restore her to steam, led by the experienced 'Thursday Gang' with guidance from Ed Freeman.
Uskmouth 1, Peckett works no. 2147, was originally built in 1952 for the CEGB's Uskmouth Power Station, and moved to the DFR in time to provide Brake Van rides at the first Parkend Steam Day in 1971. Whilst the global pandemic may have delayed things somewhat, it would be wonderful to have her back in steam for the 50th anniversary of our first trains!
The Society already holds some funds for the locomotive's restoration, raised via Annual Draws. However, in order to see the project through to completion, and to ensure that we are able to continue to offer volunteer opportunities on this heritage engineering project, more funds were required. We are pleased to announce that we have received a funding boost of £15,000 for the project, from two grants. These are £10,000 from West Dean Parish Council's 'Yorkley Solar Farm Section 106 Grant Scheme', and £5,000 from Gloucestershire County Council's 'Growing our Communities Fund'. Our sincere thanks to both funders for their generosity!
As well as ensuring the activities of our volunteers restoring the locomotive can continue, and that new volunteers of all ages can develop their heritage engineering skills, the funding will also allow us to engage specialist contractors for boiler repairs.
Further updates on the locomotive's restoration will be provided in the Dean Forest Railway Magazine, provided to all members each quarter. For more information on the benefits of membership, please click here.