Number 10 is nearly finished!

It has taken a long time, and we have missed another summer's open days, but only a few more days' work will see Number 10 ready for its steam test. At the time of writing, the refurbished boiler has been installed and the tank, chimney and cab put back in position. Steam pipes and blast pipe have been fitted, as have most of the backhead fittings, firebars etc.

Tasks still to be done include patching the hole in the chimney with a liner and fireclay, and sealing the base of the smokebox (also with fireclay); replacing and testing the mechanical lubricator; re-installing the vacuum ejector system; putting back the ashpan.

It is hoped that the locomotive will be in steam by the end of October. New pictures in the gallery show the work in progress.