05/06/2026
That photograph tells a story.
A young Austerity 2766 — nearly lost to a coal truck on a mountainside — somehow survived. Decades later, she's still here. And right now, she needs us.
We're in the final stretch of overhauling Austerity 2766, soon to carry the name Cador — "Warrior" in Cornish. Fitting, given everything she's been through.
The work has progressed brilliantly, but costs have risen — raw materials, copper for the boiler stays, specialist steels — all affected by global pressures impacting us all. We know times are tight but every contribution, however big or small, makes a real difference and will help us complete Cador. £8.50 covers a rivet, £33 covers a boiler tube - and of course, many parts are made in our workshop as they're no longer available to buy.
A second locomotive isn't a luxury — it's what lets the railway keep running when our beloved 5552 needs her scheduled boiler washouts or maintenance. Without Cador, a single mechanical issue could mean a season without trains. That's not something we can afford.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has already donated, we are extremely grateful and hope to share Cador with you very soon.
To make a donation: https://bit.ly/4ucXqYx
Overhaul photo: Chris Mills
