A locomotive from the Isle of Wight Steam Railway is set for a renovation.
The tank locomotive, Number 4313, boarded the Wrightlink ferry crossing for the short hop across The Solent to start a two-year project which aims to give the vintage train a new lease of life. Once on the mainland it will be taken to Somerset where it will be restored by member of the East Somerset Railway, Isle of Wight County Press reports.
It is just the latest major renovation undertaken for East Somerset Railway on behalf of its Isle of Wight counterparts. The Number 46447 is currently in the West Country where it is on loan for ten years while work is carried out to bring it back to its former glory. Once completed, the 4313 will return to the Isle of Wight where it will continue to haul passengers.
The railway company on the island is planning to pair the 4313 up with fellow Ivatt tank locomotive Number 41298. The two were part of a trio of locomotives which were given to Isle of Wight Steam Railway by the Ivatt Trust in 2009. Since then the 41298 has undergone renovation on the island.
Renovating these iconic engines is a key part of the everyday working of the railway company. They provide a major draw for tourists visiting the Isle of Wight and are a major coup for the small railway which stretches between Smallbrook and Wootton, passing through the likes of Ashey and Havenstreet.
The company has a host of exciting events already lined up for the rest of the year with the first being of ghost hunt at Havenstreet on February 21st. It also has special goings on for the likes of Mothers Day and the upcoming Grand National.