The 5199 Project has launched a Go Fund Me page to raise some of the funds needed to overhaul GWR Large Prairie No. 5199.

5199’s boiler ticket expires in 2023 and will then need a full strip-down and overhaul before it hauls passenger trains once again.

It is expected that the overhaul will cost in the region of £300,000, so all donations are appreciated.

Unfortunately, due to the Coronavirus pandemic, 5199 has only run for one day out of the planned 100 steaming days in 2020 – missing out on vital income for The 5199 Project.

As announced yesterday, 5199 will be spending the 2021 season at the West Somerset Railway after an agreement was made between The 5199 Project and The West Somerset Railway PLC.

You can donate to the appeal by visiting the Go Fund Me Page.

Elizabeth McGuiness, from The 5199 Group, told RailAdvent: “5199 is due for her 10-year overhaul in 3 years, like lots of locos she hasn’t run this year which will mean we are going to be short of funds. We are trying to raise some extra funds.”

Richard Pumphrey, Chairman at the 5199 Group, said: “5199 like us all has been a victim of the Covid 19 virus and has only run for one day in 2020. She should have run for around 100 days this year and earned good money towards the next major overhaul which will cost circa £300,000. To make up for this huge shortfall, all we ask is that you can donate to this appeal to help make up some of the lost monies. No amount is too small and no amount too large. All monies will be put towards her 10 year overhaul which is fast approaching. We are extremely grateful for anything you can spare.”

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