The 563 Locomotive Group has reported further progress after completing the boiler stays during the latter part of 2022 which in turn has enabled the boiler to be test fitted in the frames.  Further work is also underway for the lining of the engine.

The Flour Mill team has been hard at work and sees the T3 with brand new front tube plates fitted up against the new angle ring along with the new smokebox. The tubes are on site and will be installed shortly which will see the boiler ready for its hydraulic test after which a steam test will take place.

Work on the tender chassis is also making excellent headway at Swanage Railway’s workshop in Herston and also the tenders tank which is with contractors at Badminton.

The group has also revealed that this year will be focused heavily on fundraising and has been able to reduce its £100,000 target from 2022 to £70,000 thanks to a legacy and ongoing donations. It has become apparent that a further £15,000 is now needed due to the requirement of new tender springs which were thought would be refurbished however they will need to be replaced. The replacement of the springs will make 563 reliable when she returns to operations.

Looking into the future, the 563 team are looking for exciting opportunities for showcasing Swanage Railways’ star locomotive after her overhaul is finished all of which are reliant on being able to get her back in steam ahead of the summer season.

The locomotive group are asking for any support in achieving the £85,000 needed to continue their incredible work to see 563 back in action for summer – if you are able to support, there are a number of ways that donations can be made:

• Make a payment directly from your bank to the 563 account at the Swanage Railway Trust (account number 93757269, sort code 20-68-79) with your name as the reference.
• Make a payment online via the Swanage Railway Trust’s website at https://www.swanagerailwaytrust.org/t3-appeal.
• Send a cheque to 563 Locomotive Group, Swanage Railway Trust, Station House, Swanage, DORSET, BH19 1HB. Cheques should be made payable to the Swanage Railway Trust and endorsed ‘563 Locomotive Group’ on the back.

The locomotive trust appreciates that these are difficult times and any help will be appreciated enormously and will go a long way to supporting their vision to see 563 back in action for the first time in 75 years in the very near future.

The T3 can be seen at the Flour Mill until the locomotives return to the Swanage Railway on Friday the 17th of March. The next visit is set to be very special as 563 was built during March 1893 making it her 130th birthday!

Visits are limited and as usual are on a first come first served basis – if you would like to visit please get in touch by email at [email protected] or by calling  07864647513.