Steam loco returns after 20 years

A vintage steam locomotive has returned to Telford for the first time in almost 20 years.

Former Great Western Railway tank locomotive number 5619, which was built in 1925, has arrived back at Telford Steam Railway, ahead of the attraction's steam gala on Sunday and Monday.

The locomotive returned to the site in Bridge Road, Horsehay, on the back of a lorry yesterday.

It spent time at several different railways before being withdrawn from service in 1991 for a major overhaul.

Initially funded by a lottery grant, the overhaul began at Telford before being completed at the Forest of Dean Flour Mill workshops.

People in the area wanting to see 5619 in action are urged to attend this weekend as the locomotive will shortly be moving on to spend time at other railways during the summer.

For Telford Steam Railway's gala weekend a special timetable will operate, using 5619 and other steam and heritage diesel motive power on both passenger and freight workings.

There will also be guided tours of the site of the extension at Lawley.

Organisers say this is an ideal opportunity to view the recently-completed earthworks and progress towards the railway's new station.

Other attractions will include a narrow gauge steam tram, originally built almost 30 years ago for use in Telford Town Park, an extensive miniature railway featuring scale replicas of steam and diesel engines and a vast model railway occupying more than 300 sq feet.

For details visit www.telfordsteamrailway.co.uk

By Lisa Rowley