A new locomotive has joined the Isle of Wight Steam Railway fleet, 1953-built Hunslet 'Austerity' 0-6-0ST Army No.92 'Waggoner'. The engine spent most of its working life on the Longmoor Military Railway in Hampshire. Following closure of the Longmoor system 'Waggoner' was moved to MOD sites at Marchwood in 1972 and Shoeburyness in 1979. In 1984 it was transferred to the Museum of Army Transport at Beverley, East Yorkshire, where it remained on static display until finacial difficulties forced it to close during 2003.

Following arrival by road, 'Waggoner' is eased down the ramp onto IWSR metals at Havenstreet - 26th February 2005.

'Waggoner' has been placed on loan to the Isle of Wight Steam Railway by the National Army Musuem, arriving at Havenstreet Station on Saturday, 26th February 2005.. It joins sister engine WD198 'Royal Engineer' and, once returned to working order, is set to become a useful addition to the Isle of Wight Steam Railway's operational fleet . A survey of the locomotive is now to take place to determine the work that will be required before 'Waggoner' can steam again.

D2059 hauls 'Waggoner' away from the unloading ramp.

The Isle of Wight Steam Railway's 2005 operating season commences on 20th March with a special train service providing access to the Ashey Scurry horse racing event, taking place alongside Ashey Station. The season proper gets underway on 24th March. For details of all 2005 events and train services visit the Timetable and Special Events pages.

'Waggoner' in the Goosefield Sidings.

'Waggoner' stands outside the C&W Workshop.