Jonathan Jones-Pratt has announced that GWR Pannier No. 9466 has been withdrawn from service for the foreseeable future.
The withdrawal has come due to issues with the cylinder block.
After various repairs were completed to the locomotive, the decision to withdraw the locomotive from traffic early has been taken.
9466 was due to be withdrawn from overhaul in November 2025 and was due to appear on other railways over the winter period.
Focus now turns to complete 4936 Kinlet Hall, which will be returning to the WSR for completion, which will then allow 9466 to be dismantled and repaired as needed.
It’s been a fun engine to own and operate, I know she’s been a loved engine at the WsR and I am personally very sorry for those who we have let down, she was booked to support other Railways this winter and it’s just been against us.
Going to miss you
Jonathan Jones Pratt
Responses
What’s wrong with no. 9466? Cracked cylinder (s)? Or something else?
How long and how much to repair?
The late Denis Howell’s pride and joy
Always a lovely engine
Did great work on Steam on the Met
A little more detail, pretty please with honey? New cylinder blocks have been manufactured in recent times, not least that stonking great monoblock for P2 No.2007 and certain ‘Terriers’ have received far more than just new cylinders.
Can’t claim I find the 94xx one of the most attractive locos ever (and I like the no nonsense lines of Mr. Bulleid’s Q1 !!), but this beastie seems pretty much ideal for heritage operations.