With both 7802 Bradley Manor and 7812 Erlestoke Manor returning to traffic in the near future, the Erlestoke Manor Fund (EMF) is raising funds to overhaul ex-GWR Large Prairie No. 5164.

In 2021, EMF shareholders approved proposals to restore ex-GWR Large Prairie No. 5164 to steam after its acquisition from the 5164 Preservation Group.

Restoring 5164 to service will provide an exciting and appropriate project for the coming years and, importantly, a locomotive that could be expected to be in traffic providing valuable steaming income during the mid-2030s period when both 7812 and 7802 will fall due for overhaul in quick succession.

5164 is currently in store under cover in Barrow Hill Roundhouse, near Chesterfield. Overhauling it will further the development of skills and experience within the volunteer team, particularly for the younger volunteers. This project will be a major factor in maintaining our industrial heritage.

In order to bring 5164 back to service on the Severn Valley Railway by the mid-2020s, now is the time to commence funding of the project, which at today’s prices is expected to cost £ 400,000. To help finance the full project, EMF is seeking support through various fundraising channels:

Donations can be made via the Website at www.erlestokemanorfund.co.uk/want-to-help/donate

As a thank you to all those who donate to the fund, it is proposed to run a special charter train on the Severn Valley Railway from Kidderminster to Bridgnorth and return behind 5164 once its overhaul is complete.

In return for a donation of at least £125, EMF will provide a travel ticket for the event, and for a donation in excess of £250 two tickets. Please ensure that we have your contact details to enable us to register you for your tickets. Every donation over £50 will be recognised, upon completion of the Appeal, in a form to be determined.