Peter Beevers has sent RailAdvent an update on the construction of steam locomotive Y Sgwar, a 7.25″ Double Fairlie locomotive.

Towards the end of Peter’s previous project, a 7.25″ single Fairlie, Aneirin – his thoughts turned to what his next project could be.

In the end, and after a little persuasion from Ffestiniog Railway drivers, he decided to have a go at a Double Fairlie.

Peter has basic engineering skills and says he doesn’t build models. However, he told RailAdvent he can manage full-sized ride lin locomotives where comfort and ease of driving are crucial. After these considerations, Peter says you can either build a locomotive (an approach taken by the Moors Valley Railway, for example) or you can build something that looks recognisable.

The imminent withdrawal of Earl of Merioneth at the Ffestiniog Railway made his choice easy – his decision helped by his childhood memories.

The locomotive features twin-powered bogies, regulators and chimneys – all as per the ‘big cousin’ Double Fairlies.

One difference between Y Sgwar and Earl of Merioneth is the boiler – a double Fairlie is relatively cramped and hot, but at 7.25″ gauge size, this would be impractical. Peter has, therefore, made the decision to have a boiler at the top end, and a dummy water tank at the bottom where the other half of the boiler should be – this also frees up the cab so that the locomotive is more comfortable to drive.

Construction has proceeded well, using laser cutting for the flat parts of the locomotive for accuracy, and using commercial items, such as motion work, roller bearings and ball valves, where possible. By using this method, time to build the locomotive is reduced, and maintenance will be simpler.

The boiler is currently being constructed externally and is expected to be delivered in June – though, with the current pandemic restrictions, this is subject to change.

The name, Y Sgwar, comes from her bigger cousin as, due to her angular looks, Earl of Merioneth was known as ‘The Square’ – and Double Fairlies traditionally have the Welsh name on one side, hence ‘Y Sgwar’ (English: The Square’).

Y Sgwar will be painted in the same green as Earl of Merioneth, and it is hoped that Y Sgwar will steam later in 2020.

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