On 19th May 2004 the Isle of Wight Steam Railway launched an appeal to finance major boiler repairs to it's flagship locomotive W24 'Calbourne', the sole remaining example of William Adams' 02 class. She was built in 1891 at the Nine Elms works of the London and South-Western Railway and came to the Isle of Wight in 1925. From this time on, the 02's were to provide the core of the motive power for the Island's railways until the end of steam in 1966.

During the summer of 2000 W24 'Calbourne' lifts a 5 coach train of SECR and LBSCR stock out of Havenstreet Station.

The appeal was launched in the Carriage and Wagon Workshop, immediately following the official opening of the new building by Her Majesty The Queen. Appeal Director Simon Futcher told the assembled crowd of railway staff, volunteers and supporters "It was the saving for preservation of 'Calbourne' in 1967 which led directly to the formation of the Isle of Wight Steam Railway we see today. 'Calbourne's boiler now needs major repairs which preliminary investigations suggest will cost around £60,000. Sadly, the Railway is unlikely to be in a position to finance this for the forseeable future, the success of this appeal is vital if we are to see her hauling trains again soon".

Simon Futcher launches the W24 Boiler Appeal.

The Railway is actively seeking a grant from the Heritage Lottery fund for the major cost of the repairs but, even if this is successful, a minimum of £15,000 matched funding must be raised.

Please help us by giving what you can so that we can once again see 'Calbourne' hauling trains on the Island as she has done for almost 80 years. Details of where to send your donations, together with a printable Gift Aid form can be found by clicking Here.

W24 'Calbourne' seen in the Mechanical Engineering Workshop at Havenstreet on 23rd May 2004.

For more information about W24 'Calbourne' click HERE