1918 built Andrew Barclay 'Bahan' Class' 0-6-0 T 'Ajax' (Works No.1605, IWSR No.W38) could be seen hauling Isle of Wight Steam Railway passenger services on the 28th and 29th September 2005.

'Ajax' prepares to depart from Havenstreet - 28th September 2005.

Following a thorough restoration including the fitting of a new steel inner firebox 'Ajax' was steamed at Havenstreet in December 2003. Since then work has progressed towards the locomotives entry into passenger service. This process has been protracted due to a number of difficulties which have had to be overcome, mainly related to the driving axle bearings and lubrication systems. Modifications have now taken place which, following further trial steamings earlier in the month, have allowed 'Ajax' to start getting some passenger service miles under its belt.

In the headshunt at Wootton - 29th September 2005.

Further details of the history of 'Ajax' and the other historic locomotives of the Isle of Wight Steam Railway's fleet can be found HERE

For more information on the restoration and maintenance of the Isle of Wight Steam Railway's locomotives and carriages visit Mechanical Times, the newsletter of the Mechanical Engineering Department.

Running around the train at Wootton - 29th September 2005.