Progress continues on the boiler overhaul of IWSR flagship locomotive, 1891-built London & South Western Railway 02 Class No.W24 'Calbourne', the sole survivor of it's class. The boiler has been at the London & North Western Railway works, Crewe since July 2005 for extensive repairs to be carried out. Following a detailed survey it has been decided necessary to renew the boiler barrel in its entirety, manufacture new copper firebox door plate, tubeplate and two new inner firebox half sides. IWSR CME Len Pullinger, accompanied by the railway's boiler inspector Ian Farrance, visited Crewe Works on 25th September 2007 to review the work carried out, the pictures on this page were taken by Len during their visit.

'Calbourne's Outer firebox with throat plate insert welded in.

A successful application to the Heritage lottery fund and previous fund-raising means that some £90,000 has already been raised towards the final estimated cost of the work - £150,000. The additional work required has brought extra costs, resulting in the decision to re-launch the 'Calbourne Boiler Appeal', full details can be found HERE.

The new boiler barrel riveted to the angle ring

Boiler Inspector Ian Farrance examines the firebox back plate, the new half side can be seen welded into position.

A view of the new outer firebox half side. The door plate former, to be used to make the new copper door plate, is in the foreground.