Fife Heritage Railway (FHR) has safeguarded the future of a historically important test train in an agreement with Network Rail.

FHR, based in Leven, acquired the Class 313 test train recently, after the rail operator took it out of service. It had been working in support of testing and validation for railway projects and in support of the deployment of digital signalling using the European Train Control System (ETCS).

Earlier in 2023, the Rail Heritage Designation Advisory Board awarded the train ‘heritage status’, as its original seats have remained intact and are of historical interest.

FHR will site the test train on a track within its compound at Kirkland Yard, parallel to the new Levenmouth Rail Link. Work began on the Link last year and it is due to be completed in 2024.

It will be on display, and can be seen by both FHR visitors and passengers travelling on the new line in and out of Leven, when it opens next year. They are certain to notice it as they go past, as it is being kept in its current bright yellow livery.

FHR is considering various options for the longer term. One idea is to use it to educate people about the work that is done behind the scenes to keep the railway running.

David Thomas, senior portfolio manager at Network Rail, said: “We’re pleased that the train, which has been a crucial part of our research, development, testing and validation process, is being given a new lease of life by Fife Heritage Railway.

“The work the charity does is so important in protecting items of unique or historical significance, and we couldn’t be happier that the test train falls into that category.

“Our thanks go to Fife Heritage Railway.”

Jim Rankin, a trustee at Fife Heritage Railway said: “We are very grateful to Network Rail for the transfer of this Class 313 test train, which will give us a wonderful opportunity to preserve a unique slice of railway infrastructure normally unseen by the public.

“We are delighted to be entrusted with the train, which has added something very special to our collection.”