Progress
HELPING HANDS FOR HAGLEY HALL BY SVR JUNIOR CLUB
27th June 2014
At one of their regular Saturday meetings, older members of the SVR Junior Club gained some hands-on experience when they helped volunteers on the 4930 Hagley Hall project. As the overhaul starts to make progress, all the cab fittings and non-ferrous pipework have been removed. During this work session, Junior Club members were able to see, at first hand, the layout of the locomotive cab, and assisted, under supervision, with the removal of some of the components. The Friends of Locomotive 4930 Hagley Hall are pleased to see such interest being shown by the SVR Junior Club, and will welcome their assistance with other suitable tasks as the overhaul proceeds
GROUP FUNDRAISING NOW TOPS £80,000
25th June 2014
The Friends of Locomotive 4930 Hagley Hall are delighted to announce that their fund-raising efforts in support of the restoration of the locomotive, have now topped £80,000. The fund, which started nearly twenty years ago, maintains its efforts through its sales stand and online sales, and through the continuing support of its dedicated followers.
The Group welcome further financial support and donations, as the overhaul and restoration gets under way.
March 2014
4930 “Double Take”
Visitors to the Severn Valley Railway Spring Steam Gala last Saturday can be forgiven for the “double take” at the GWR “Hall” Class locomotive at the event. One or two were actually surprised that the restoration of 4930 “Hagley Hall” had taken place so quickly!
In truth, the smokebox numberplate on 4936 “Kinlet Hall” was changed to 4930 with the permission of the owning group, recreating “Hagley Hall” when viewed head-on. During the day, “4930” was also re-united with “The Inter-City” headboard, which 4930 “Hagley Hall” carried on its first mainline trip in preservation, from Hereford to Chester on 22 September 1979. The attached photographs, courtesy of Paul Dorney, recall the 1979 event, and also look forward to the scene we can expect in the future, when 4930 re-enters traffic following its current major overhaul.
February 2014
25th February 2014
The Friends of Locomotive 4930 Hagley Hall are delighted to confirm that the Heritage Lottery Fund have awarded £95,000 to the Severn Valley Railway Charitable Trust, to use for the restoration of locomotive 4930. This news provides an incredible boost to the funds available for the overhaul, and will allow work to start soon on the long task of returning the locomotive to operational condition.
Our thanks go to the Heritage Lottery Fund for making this grant, which will enable a successful conclusion to our long-held ambitions. Also, thanks to the SVR Charitable Trust, and in particular, to Shelagh Paterson, for all the hard work involved in formulating the HLF bid. Thanks are also due to Duncan Ballard and Ian Walker of SVR Engineering Services for the provision of detailed information in support of the application.
This award in no way diminishes the amazing work of our loyal band of supporters who have donated to the restoration fund over several years, and whose contribution and dedication to the scheme has been recognised by the HLF as one of the major factors in making such a large award.
We will now be consulting with partners in the restoration to finalise the practical ways forward. More information will appear here in due course.
Whilst we are now well on the way to achieving our long-held goal, we still have some way to go along the final furlong, and we hope that our supporters will continue to support us as the restoration progresses.
For more information, go to: www.svrtrust.org.uk and www.svrlive.com
January 2014
14th January 2014
Following the euphoria surrounding the removal of 4930 “Hagley Hall” from The Engine House, Highley on 6th October last year, our supporters and followers may be forgiven for thinking that overhaul progress has been slow.
The past three months have been busy behind the scenes, although tangible results on the locomotive and tender are not immediately evident at present.
Our colleagues in Severn Valley Engineering Services at Bridgnorth have been incredibly industrious in increasing the available space within the workshops, by the removal of the shipping containers previously housed within the building as stores units. The newly cleared area now has a relaid concrete floor, and in the coming months will provide space for 4930 “Hagley Hall”, as the restoration moves into top gear.
Meanwhile, volunteers assisted and advised by staff have been carrying out some exploratory work on the Collett tender, including removal of brake rigging and pipework, in order to assess the chassis condition in more detail. The removal of parts has focused our attention on storage facilities for these components prior to cleaning, restoration, and refitting. We are now actively photographing, labelling and indexing each component, and a storage wagon has been sourced to ensure that the parts remain together.
Even more importantly, the Severn Valley Railway Charitable Trust and the 4930 Friends Committee have been hard at work preparing a Heritage Lottery Fund Application for submission. It is sincerely hoped that a successful bid would greatly assist our aims to return the locomotive to steam without delay. The HLF Application is currently under consideration, and it is believed that a result is imminent.
December 2013
24 December 2013
The Friends of Locomotive 4930 Hagley Hall were again in action on the annual Hot Chestnut Stall at Santa’s Grotto at Arley Station. As well as providing enjoyment and seasonal cheer for many of our travellers, our attendance made a significant addition to the restoration funds for the locomotive. Even the unmistakeable figure of Father Christmas popped by to sample our fare.
October 2013
15th October 2013
In what will probably be its final photo line-up prior to its forthcoming major overhaul, 4930 "Hagley Hall" was posed today alongside visiting classmate 4936 "Kinlet Hall", and 5164 (which incidentally arrived from Barry Scrapyard in the same convoy as 4930 on 6th January 1973). Carrying "The Inter-City" headboard which recalls the first main-line trip by 4930 on 22th Sept 1979, following its primary restoration by the Severn Valley Railway, the scene resembles a Western Region running shed yard from 60 years ago.
12th October 2013
Another milestone was passed today, as the restoration of 4930 Hagley Hall finally commenced at Bridgnorth Works. No time has been wasted, as volunteers have begun removing components from the newly acquired Collett 4000 gallon tender, now under cover inside the Works. Regular work parties will now increase as the tender "de-construction" gets under way.
8th October 2013
To round off a memorable few days, today has been tender swop day. We have said goodbye to our existing Hawksworth Tender, which has been transported to Tyseley, and welcomed our "new" Collett Tender, which has joined us at Bridgnorth. Here are the photographs of today's move.
7th October
Following 4930's journey to Bridgnorth yesterday, no time was lost in splitting the locomotive from its Hawksworth tender, prior to tomorrow's tender exchange operation.
7th October
YouTube video by Bernard Strutt, of the Hagley Hall group meeting and subsequent removal of Hagley Hall from the engine house to Bridgenorth MPD, with speeches by Nick Paul & Roger Scanton. 6th October 2013.
6th October
4930's move went successfully today as the folowing photos show!
5th October
4930 Hagley Hall Group members have spent the day oiling and preparing 4930 for tomorrow's big move. For 27 years, it's been "Not to be Moved".
Now, it's………..
Watch for tomorrow's grand finale!
September 2013
29th September 2013
Less than a week to go, before 4930 departs from The Engine House, Highley, on its journey to Bridgnorth and eventual restoration to running condition.
During this week, preparatory lubrication will take place to ensure that the locomotive's journey to Bridgnorth is completed without incident.
Time now, to reflect on 4930's "workhorse" days in British Railways' service, in this superb photograph by renowned photographer Dick Blenkinsop, which shows 4930 between Reading West and Southcote Junction on a westbound express on 5th July 1952. On this date, 4930 was a Bristol (St. Philip's Marsh) based locomotive.
The Engine House, Highley, will be open to the public on Sunday 6th October, although certain areas will have restricted access during the event, and locomotive movements. Viewing of the locomotive movements will be possible in the Highley Station area. Visitors are asked to park in the Country Park carpark, as parking facilities in the station area will be severely restricted.
22nd September 2013
Today marks the 34th Anniversary of 4930's first venture onto the national network, on 22nd Sept 1979, following its first restoration from "Barry Scrapyard condition" at the Severn Valley Railway. Together with LMS 5000, 4930 made the return trip from Hereford to Chester, seen on the northbound run at Church Stretton in this photograph by Brian Tromans.
11 September 2013
25 DAYS TO GO…
As we reach the 25 day stage in the coundown to 4930's move from The Engine House, Highley, this recently unearthed photo shows 4930 with a Collett tender at Bewdley on 1st March 1986. Following its forthcoming overhaul, the locomotive will again be reunited with this earlier style of tender, which will be more appropriate to its age.
The Friends of Locomotive 4930 Hagley Hall will have their Sales Stand at Kidderminster Town Station during the Autumn Steam Gala (Fri 20th - Sun 22nd Sept). Now that Summer has finally departed, why not call and view our wide selection of Winter clothing and woolly hats, ideal for linesiding in the months ahead. We'll also be pleased to update you with the latest news about 4930 Hagley Hall, as the long-awaited move to restoration finally gets under way.
June 2013
28th June 2013
100 DAYS TO GO
Saturday 29th June marks the start of the 100 day countdown to the move of 4930 “Hagley Hall” from The Engine House at Highley, its home for the past five years.
At the recent Shareholders’ Meeting, it was announced that the locomotive will be moved from Highley to Bridgnorth Works on Sunday 6th October. This will symbolise the start of a complete mechanical overhaul which will culminate in 4930’s return to steam in due course.
4930 “Hagley Hall” is now 84 years old, having been constructed at Swindon Works in May 1929. It completed nearly 1.3 million miles before finally being dumped at Barry Scrapyard in April 1964, at the end of 35 years of Great Western & British Railways service. Subsequently, after restoration to main line standards by the Severn Valley Railway, it ran for a further 7 years between 1979 and 1986. This makes a total of 42 years, exactly half of the locomotive’s life!
The Friends of Locomotive 4930 Hagley Hall will be providing financial assistance in the forthcoming overhaul and restoration, and would welcome further support and donations in order to help see this project through to a successful conclusion.
27th June 2013
4930 now on Facebook and Twitter
We are pleased to announce that the Friends of Locomotive 4930 Hagley Hall are now on Facebook and Twitter. Follow the links for the latest news.
May 2013
16th May 2013
'PHOENIX' HALL
A long-withdrawn Great Western Railway “Hall” Class locomotive was briefly resurrected by the Friends of Locomotive 4930 Hagley Hall Group on 14 May 2013… but for one day only.
Two Committee Members of the Group, who are also volunteers at the National Trust property Hanbury Hall and Gardens, near Droitwich Spa, Worcestershire, became aware that an original name and numberplate from sister locomotive 4931 Hanbury Hall, which are displayed at the property, were to be temporarily removed whilst redecoration takes place.
Following negotiations with National Trust, 4931’s name and numberplate were brought to the Severn Valley Railway’s Engine House Visitor and Education Centre at Highley, the current home of 4930 'Hagley Hall'. Members of the 4930 Hagley Hall Group then transformed the locomotive from 4930 to 4931 'Hanbury Hall', which was the next locomotive off the production line at the Great Western Railway’s Swindon Works in May 1929.
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A small group of National Trust staff and supporters were present to witness the reincarnation of 'their' locomotive, the nameplate of which attracts the regular attention of visitors to Hanbury Hall.
The event also brought together both original nameplates from 4931 'Hanbury Hall', as the second plate is already on display in The Engine House.
4931 'Hanbury Hall' was withdrawn from service on 9th Jul 1962, and subsequently broken up at the R.S.Hayes scrapyard at Tremains, Bridgend, Glamorgan.
'Heelis', the National Trust Central Office in Swindon is located on the site of the former Great Western Railway Works, where both locomotives were built. Indeed, it is only a few metres from the temporary home of 4930 'Hagley Hall', which was on public display within the McArthur Glen Designer Shopping Centre, also part of the Works site, between 1999 and 2007.
4930 'Hagley Hall', inactive since late 1986, is now scheduled for a future return to service as a core feature of the SVR 2012 Share Issue, which remains open to subscription until 30th Sep 2013. It is expected that 4930 will leave The Engine House in Autumn 2013 for Bridgnorth Works, where a full overhaul and restoration will take place.
April 2013
22 Apr 2013
The Friends of Locomotive 4930 Hagley Hall are pleased to announce that the Boards of Severn Valley Railway (Holdings) plc, and Severn Valley Railway (Guarantee), have agreed to a proposed exchange of locomotive tenders relating to GWR 4930 Hagley Hall, which is owned by Severn Valley Railway (Holdings).
This decision will allow the exchange of the Hawksworth straight-sided 4000 gallon tender currently paired with 4930 Hagley Hall at The Engine House, Highley, and its replacement with a Collett fluted 4000 gallon tender which will be historically correct for the 1929-built locomotive.
The exchange has been made possible following negotiations with The David Clarke Railway Trust, custodians of 6990 Witherslack Hall, based on the Great Central Railway, the current owners of the replacement Collett tender, who wished to source a later Hawksworth tender which would be more in keeping with their 1948 Hawksworth-designed Modified Hall locomotive. The arrangement is therefore mutually beneficial to both groups.
The Collett tender, currently located at Tyseley Locomotive Works, has been professionally examined and assessed by Severn Valley Railway staff, and successful ultrasonic testing has been completed on the axles. Upon completion of administrative and legal agreements, arrangements will be put in hand to transfer the Collett tender by road to Bridgnorth.
Whilst the Group fully appreciates the challenges which lie ahead to return 4930 Hagley Hall to steam on the Severn Valley Railway, we will continue to work tirelessly with the Severn Valley Railway, the Severn Valley Railway Charitable Trust, and Severn Valley Railway Engineering Services, in raising funds to assist with the locomotive restoration, optimising the programming of component recovery and overhaul, and with more practical help as the restoration gets under way.
The project to overhaul 4930 “Hagley Hall”, which has been out of traffic for nearly 27 years, is a core objective of the 2012 Severn Valley Railway Share Issue, which remains open to subscription until 30 Sep 2013.
The Friends are also delighted that, during the SVR Members & Shareholders’ Weekend Open Meetings, held at The Engine House, Highley, on 20th/21st April, SVR Chairman Nick Paul announced the intention to move 4930 “Hagley Hall” from The Engine House, Highley, to Bridgnorth Workshops in the Autumn, in order that a full overhaul can begin.
12th April 2013
The Friends of Locomotive 4930 Hagley Hall are pleased to announce that one of the original nameplates from the locomotive, recently placed on permanent loan to the Severn Valley Railway by Lord Cobham, has now been presented to The Engine House, Highley, where it will be placed on display to visitors.
March 2013
25th March 2013
The Friends of Locomotive 4930 “Hagley Hall” are delighted to announce that Lord Cobham, the Patron of our Group, has very kindly agreed to place an original nameplate from the locomotive on permanent loan to the Severn Valley Railway, for public display.
The nameplate was presented to the 10th Viscount Cobham, by British Railways Western Region when the locomotive was withdrawn from service in December 1963, since when it has been kept at the family estate at Hagley Hall.
The nameplate was handed over to The Friends of Locomotive 4930 Hagley Hall Group by Lord Cobham at Hagley Hall, and it will soon be on display at a suitable location on the Severn Valley Railway.
19 March 2013
The Friends of Locomotive 4930 Hagley Hall are starting the new season with their fund-raising Sales Stand at Kidderminster Town Station during the Spring Steam Gala. We will be open for business on all three days - 22nd, 23rd, 24th March, so why not call and see us when you are visiting the Gala.
January 2013
6th January 2013
Exactly 40 years to the day since its arrival on the Severn Valley Railway from the Barry Scrapyard, 4930 stands on display at The Engine House, Highley, suitably adorned with Train Reporting Number "040", and appropriate balloons to mark this milestone anniversary.
4th Jan 2013
Forty Years Ago...
Sunday, 6th January 2013 marks the fortieth anniversary of the arrival of 4930 “Hagley Hall” on the Severn Valley Railway.
It was on the same date in 1973 that “The Barry Convoy”, consisting of 4930 “Hagley Hall”, 7819 “Hinton Manor”, 5164, and 4141, together with a “Black 5” tender, made the journey from the famous Barry Scrapyard to their new home on the expanding Severn Valley Railway. A fifth loco, 73129, was also part of the same convoy, being detached at Kidderminster for forwarding to Derby. The journey by rail took place overnight, with the engines, all of which had lain rusting for around eight years after withdrawal from service, being towed by a diesel locomotive.
The Severn Valley News edition for Spring 1973 recalls the event. “On Saturday, January 6th just after midnight, four ex-GWR locos commenced their journey from the now famous Barry scrapyard to Kidderminster, arrival being in the early morning…..Motive power for the cavalcade from Barry to Kidderminster consisted of a Type 4 diesel. Many enthusiasts were out to see the special, particularly at Gloucester, where many thronged the platforms, even at 0500 hrs, following local press coverage the previous day……A BR Sulzer Type 2 diesel propelled the locos, and some further coaching stock, from Kidderminster to Bewdley on the same day”.
A group of Severn Valley Railway members travelled with the convoy. Paul Fathers recalls “Probably the coldest night of my life, and certainly one of the most memorable!”, whilst Columb Howell remembers “ The first few yards provided the biggest concern, as the diesel loco struggled with five steam locomotives over the points leaving the yard at Barry. From that time, we just kept a watch for potential hot axleboxes, but all went well. Cold, but I enjoyed every minute of it”.
November 2012
28th November
The
4930 Group stand at the Warley National Model Railway
Exhibition last weekend proved successful, with many visitors and
much
interest being shown.
The
Friends of Locomotive 4930 Hagley Hall Group are
delighted to announce that Viscount Cobham of Hagley Hall has kindly
accepted
the invitation to become our Patron. This announcement comes at a
key time in
the history of the locomotive, and we look forward to welcoming Lord
Cobham at
our future events.
November 2012
9th November
Planning a trip to the Warley National Model Railway Exhibition ?
The annual Warley National Model Railway Exhibition takes place at Birmingham’s National Exhibition Centre on Saturday 24th November and Sunday 25th November. The Friends of Locomotive 4930 Hagley Hall will be attending with our sales stand, now including many new items. Visitors to the exhibition, in Hall 5 at the NEC, can find us on Stand D08, where we will be able to update you with the latest news about the locomotive, and perhaps interest you with some early Christmas presents from our new extended sales range.
October 2012
15th October 2012
The presentations held during Shareholders & Members Weekend on 13/14 October reiterated the intention of the Severn Valley Railway to proceed with the overhaul and restoration of 4930 Hagley Hall, together with the overhaul and refurbishment of the “Great Western Set” of complimentary coaching stock.
The Friends were present with our Sales Stands at both
Kidderminster and The Engine House, Highley, and were pleased by
the level of interest and support for the project which we
received from the many visitors during the weekend.
Unfortunately, it was not ultimately possible to bring 4930 Hagley Hall down to Kidderminster for display during the weekend. In the event, 4930 formed the centrepiece of the 2012 Share Issue Presentation at The Engine House, Highley, where visits to the footplate of the locomotive were available and proved very popular.
9th October 2012
New items have now been added to our updated Sales
Page. Take a look at our
new extended range, for those early Christmas present ideas.
4th October
4930 HAGLEY HALL - LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL!
The Group are pleased to announce that the restoration to working
order of 4930“Hagley Hall” has
been included in the 2012 Severn Valley Railway Share Offer, and
that the start of an overhaul is
now on the horizon.
At the forthcoming Shareholders
and Members Weekend on 13th/14th October 2012, the locomotive
will be on display at Kidderminster Town Station, and will be
available for your inspection. The
Group will be on hand to meet you, and to answer any questions you
may have.
August 2012
The latest Newsletter from the Friends of Locomotive 4930 Hagley Hall is available to download as a PDF File.
April 2012
On Monday 23rd April Hagley Hall was moved outside the engine house at Highley while they moved around the other exhibits. Here are a few photos of the day taken by Matthew Freeman. The loco is now on the far road of the engine house near to the door ready for its intended move to Bridgnorth in the near future.
February 2010
2009 was a year of few tangible results despite all our efforts.
4930 Hagley Hall has now been in the Engine House for almost 2 years, and has been a big hit with all the visitors. The loco is the first engine you see as you walk through the door and this helps to raise its profile. The Friends undertake cleaning and polishing visits, complemented by escorted footplate visits for the public (by kind permission of the Engine House management) on certain Bank Holiday and Gala weekends. Donations from visitors are gratefully received and added to the coffers.
Royal Visit
HRH The Duke of Gloucester visited the Engine House in October 2009, after the earlier date for the formal opening had to be postponed. He travelled by train from Bridgnorth, hauled by 7812 Erlestoke Manor, and took in all of the exhibits, including 4930 Hagley Hall.
Fundraising News
Our current balance, as at mid February 2010, is approximately £50,500. We also have a generous pledge for a further sum in due course which will considerably enhance this balance, subject to final agreement with the SVR management.
Our Friends deserve a very special “thank you”- the ‘Friends’ membership scheme contributions have collectively raised over £25,000 to date, a balance which is healthily added to each month. If you are interested in joining the ‘Friends’ please download a form from our membership section.
We are still getting the sales stand out at Galas and special events, selling our quality range of clothes, footplate equipment and souvenirs. We are also pleased to announce that in future, we will be selling railway books from the high quality Wild Swan publication list with profits going towards the restoration. Thanks go to the Wild Swan team for their support. The stand will be out this year starting with the Saturday and Sunday of the March Gala – keep a look out and come and have a chat with us, maybe even buy something perhaps?
We are still collecting used mobile phones and certain ink cartridges for recycling – if you have any to donate please ask us for an envelope or drop them off at our sales stand if you are visiting over the Gala weekend.
Finally, thanks go to all those who support us in any and every way, it is very much appreciated.
Committee News
As mentioned in the last news letter Duncan Ballard has stepped down as Chairman and at the following meeting, the committee elected existing member Mark Hathaway as the new Chairman. Mark as you will know looks after the membership portfolio and he will continue with this. Duncan is still on the committee but will focus his expert skills towards planning the restoration and overhaul of the locomotive. We also have three new committee members, Ross Cooper, Andrew Christie and James Cooper. Ross has been a volunteer on the SVR for many years and is now a member of the Boiler shop staff at Bridgnorth. Andrew is a long standing member of the SVR and a main line driver to boot. He has been assisting us with our charters over the last few years and will continue this function as a member of the committee. James is a younger member of the SVR MPD and has just qualified as a fireman.
Unfortunately the group has lost 2 of its committee members, Angela Hall and Chris Baines. Angela Hall managed our merchandise with assistance from her father and 4930 engineering consultant, Keith. Chris Baines was our marketing and publicity man for several years. Both Angela and Chris will be missed and the committee thanks them both for the contributions made during their service to the group.
The future
"When’s ‘Hagley Hall’ going to get done?" The question we are asked more than any other and no wonder. Members memories of 4930 in traffic are now somewhat faded and are getting more distant with every passing year. Indeed, we now have footplate crew who have never seen the locomotive in steam and wonder if she will ever run again. When we think back to its heady days as the SVR flagship locomotive... heading the official opening train from Kidderminster Station... regular turns on the Severn Valley Limited... the exhilarating main line runs... it is sobering to realise (and remember!) that it is 23 years since 4930 last turned a wheel in anger... I mean steam.
But Severn Valley supporters are a passionate and faithful bunch and, since the “Friends” group was launched, have helped to raise over £50,000 towards our ultimate fund raising goal of £100,000. Why this amount? Because it represents around half of the net amount required to complete the overhaul. To enable 4930 to join the workshop queue, we have to show SVR(H) that we are serious in our commitment to assist with the funding. The Holdings Company has many calls on its limited budget and coupled with existing commitments to other locomotive owning groups, the result has been work on 4930 postponed. Without additional external assistance 4930 may be mothballed for many more years.
We are now in serious discussion with the SVR management over the future of “Hagley Hall” and the direction and structure that a collective of all interested parties will take. This will lead to a formal agreement over the funding and volunteer support with the overhaul and an agreed timescale for the work to be undertaken at Bridgnorth Locomotive Works.
Of course, the success of these plans will hinge on the continued support of you, our Friends and supporters and on the ability of the Friends committee to attract and raise further funds to the cause. Please spread the word and if you become aware of anyone who can assist us, whether physically or financially then please direct them to our web site at www.4930hagleyhall.org.uk or by post to The Friends of Locomotive 4930 Hagley Hall, Severn Valley Railway, The Railway Station, Bewdley, Worcs DY12 1BG.
April 2009
Sales stand
Please note that we were unable to hold our usual sales stand at the recent SVR 'Festival of Steam' and Members weekends. We hope to be able to resume the sales stand at the next SVR Gala weekend, but if you wish to purchase shovels, framed prints, etc, before then, please get in touch with us.
We are still working hard behind the scenes to try to facilitate a return to service for 4930 as soon as possible.
Many thanks for your continued support!
The Friends Committee
2008 - Summary
The early part of the year was very exciting, the re-opening of the SVR was in sight after months of working the emergency timetables. All our effort was focused on making sure that 4930 “Hagley Hall” was fit for the journey to Highley, and assisting where possible in preparing the other locos for their journeys to ‘The Engine House’. As previously mentioned, 4930 Hagley Hall showed the others how it’s done, and effortlessly rolled round the tight curves and in to her new, but temporary, home.
Unfortunately due to the close proximity of visitors in The Engine House, no work can be carried out on the loco. Visits are made to maintain the image of the locomotive, but removal of any parts/tubes will not be possible.
With the loco safely on display, attention was turned to fund raising activities. A photographic charter was planned for the autumn, using GWR Prairie 5526 and the carmine and cream auto coach This was very successful, and some photos from the day can be seen in our gallery section.
At the last count, the account balance was in excess of £42,700. The balance was boosted by a gala sales stand raising £500 towards the final figure. Our membership scheme has steadily raised over a third of the total figure in manageable monthly bites. All donors in the scheme receive rewards at different levels of donation. For more details please see our membership page.
This has been a busy year for the Friends of locomotive 4930 ‘Hagley Hall’, despite the outward appearance. Behind the scenes work has progressed well, and could result in some very exciting news being released in the new year.
March 2008
After many long months being stored out of sight 4930 was to see daylight again for the first time since September 2007.
Saturday 15th March
"Hagley Hall" and the other inmates were shunted from storage into 3 trains ready for the trip to Highley the following day. Train 1 consisted of Midland Compound 1000, TPO coach, and GWR mogul 7325, Train 2 was simply WD 600 "Gordon" and Train 3 consisted of STD 4T 80079, a BSK, and 4930 "Hagley Hall".
Once the trains had been formed they were hidden away again out of the rain to wait for the time to come to depart.
Sunday 16th March
The Friends of Locomotive 4930 "Hagley Hall" committee arrived at Kidderminster at 07:20 to prep the engine for the trip. 4930 was oiled up and oil poured down the blast pipe to lubricate the cylinders (as we have removed most of the items in the smokebox this task was easy and the oil distributed evenly). Two members of the group also assisted in the preparation of WD600 Gordon, which has its smokebox as it was when it left traffic. This meant a trip to the top of the smokebox was required to pour the oil where it was required.
From 08:00 onwards the trains were shunted out by the Class 11 diesel shunter, and the locomotives pulling the Highley-bound trains were attached to the front of the trains.
Our train (train 3) left Kidderminster at 09:50 (approx). Stops were planned at Bewdley and Arley for a check of the axle boxes and rod bearings. I am happy to say that no bearings ran warm.
During our stop at Arley, the train was split so 4930 could be posed for photographs, see the gallery section.
At Highley, the train was brought to a stand behind WD600 Gordon and the Class 73 ED at the Down Home signal. 7325 was just being inserted into the Engine House and the queue had built up meaning we were held outside.
Road 2 in the engine house was populated first, 7325 was split from her tender and a platform was added to allow disabled access to the footplate. The Compound and a TPO were put in front of 7325, then attention turned to Road 1.
47383 and the short freight were already on this road (going into the shed a few days before), next in line was WD600 Gordon then 4930 “Hagley Hall” . A few difficulties were experienced getting Gordon into the Engine House, but it was 4930 that had been labelled as the most likely engine to be difficult. Members of the committee watched the loco like hawks, as she was shunted into the Engine House. To everyone's amazement 4930 went in without any problems. 4930 was one of the few South facing locos in the shed so she went in chimney first. This way round, the bogie did exactly what it was supposed to do and guided the loco round the tight curves that exist on the site.
4930 was re-homed and back in a pleasant environment for everyone to enjoy.
4930 "Hagley Hall" will be on display in the Engine House at Highley for at least 1 year. It is hoped more news on the overhaul date will be confirmed now the SVR is getting back on its feet after the devastating floods of June and July 2007.
Please come along and support the SVR, The Engine House, and 4930 "Hagley Hall".
August & early September 2007
The locomotive is still stored in a secure location on the SVR awaiting movement to Highley for the opening of the 'Engine House'.
Her outing in late July in the rain left a few streaks down the paintwork. This lead to a polishing session to return 4930 Hagley Hall to pristine condition.
The firebox has received further TLC with more willing volunteers brushing the firebox plate work.
Work in the smokebox has also continued. All parts that can be removed at this stage have been removed and are in storage.
4930 Hagley Hall is due to make an appearance at the SVR's Autumn Gala event. It is hoped she will be on display at Kidderminster for the event and our sales stand will not be far away.
July 2007
Friday 20th July
Members of the committee and 'friends' of the loco met up to prepare 4930 for her trip to Bewdley. The loco was oiled and polished before being shunted for easy access on Saturday.
Saturday 21st July
The loco began its first journey on the SVR for 9 years. Unfortunately, the previous days rain had caused a tree to fall across the line near the Kidderminster portal of Bewdley Tunnel. This caused the arrival of 4930 Hagley Hall and 7325 at Bewdley to be delayed by over 3 hours, while the obstruction was removed.
Once the locomotives had arrived at Bewdley, the sales stand (which had been partially erected) was fully completed, and visitors were allowed onto the footplate of the two engines. The event was a success for the SVR, and for the Friends of Locomotive 4930 "Hagley Hall", and we hope that similar opportunities will become available in the near future. Photos from the day are in the Galleries section.
Sunday 22nd July
4930 Hagley Hall was returned to Kidderminster and her temporary home after spending a night at Bewdley. During Sunday afternoon the cab received a polish while the external parts were allowed to dry off.
Sunday 29th July
Work in the smokebox and firebox of 4930 continued. Within the Smokebox, some more of the baked on soot/rust was removed and various nuts/screws were doused with penetrating oil again, in an attempt to make life easier in the future. In the firebox, wire brushing the fireman's side plate continued to remove the deposits of soot or clinker still remaining after 21 years out of traffic. The now dry external parts of the engine were polished to remove the water staining.
Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th July
The locomotive received a clean and polish for next weekend's appearance at Bewdley Station Gala.
4930 has not been seen by her 'adoring' public since early June. This will be one of only a few chances to see 4930 Hagley Hall before she is put on display in The Engine House. Photo of the now glistening backhead added to Boiler Images page.
Saturday 7th July
Cleaning work continued in the smokebox. The corroded layers of steel were chipped away and removed along with the soot that remained in the remoter areas of the smokebox.
Sunday 8th July
Two willing volunteers were sent into the firebox to continue wire brushing the sides of the firebox. The driver’s side plate and the door plate received attention.
The nameplates were polished in preparation for the locomotive’s 'day out' at the Bewdley Station Gala on the 21st of July.
June 2007
Thursday 7th June
The majority of the committee travelled to Swindon to oversee the removal of 4930 'Hagley Hall' from the Mc Arthur Glen Designer Outlet. The loco was oiled up and banners attached to the loco hand rails advertising The Engine House at Highley. We assisted Alleley’s Transport staff where possible to load the Locomotive and Tender onto the wagons for transportation to the SVR. 4930 committee members also oversaw the installation of 7819 'Hinton Manor' into the position where 4930 Hagley Hall had previously stood. At approximately 16:00 Hagley Hall's tender was unloaded at the SVR.
Friday 8th June
Two committee members prepared for the arrival of 4930 at the SVR by helping Alleley’s transport and SVR paid staff to unload 7325 and its tender which had been released from STEAM museum in Swindon shortly after Hinton Manor had been installed in the Mc Arthur Glen Designer Outlet. While all this was going on, 4930 was on its way to Hagley Hall for a rare opportunity (and possibly a first) for an engine to visit the stately home after which it had been named. Our thanks go out to Lord and Lady Cobham for allowing us this opportunity. Following the photo shoot at Hagley Hall, 4930 ran with a class A headlamp code (albeit on the trailer) to the SVR. After 8 long years away, 4930 Hagley Hall finally returned to SVR metals at approx 17:30. As the trailing driving wheels (the last ones off the wagon) touched down on the rails a cheer went up from the crowd who had gathered to witness this momentous occasion. The locomotive and tender were reunited around 18:00 and shunted away for the night.
Locomotive 4930 "Hagley Hall" was back where she belongs. Some photos from the two days are in the gallery section.
Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th June 2007
While the committee (and assistants) have the chance, some minor works were carried out. The firebox and ashpan were swept clean, an inspection of the running gear was undertaken with some cleaning taking place. The loco and tender drag boxes were cleaned and painted ready for display and the brake gear was inspected and cleaned. Thanks to all who turned up to assist with the works - there will be plenty more to do over the coming weeks.
Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th June 2007
Work continued on the locomotive during the weekend. Unfortunately due to poor lighting and access, the work on the underside of the locomotive was unable to take place this weekend.
Most of the work carried out took place in the cab and firebox. The regulator and lubrication linkage was removed for cleaning and burnishing, this also improved the access to the stuffing gland and backhead behind the regulator. The reverser, and reverser housing were rubbed down ready for re painting. The reverser received one coat of GWR green replacing the BR red that the reverser and regulator were previously painted. The sanding gear operating levers were also re-painted in the same shade of green as the reverser. The reversing rod was polished where rod and the support interact. The handles of the sanding gear and fire-hole door operating handle were polished and protected. In the firebox the remaining dust from the last fire in 4930 was brushed off the sides and the tube plates. The front tubeplate plus about 30% of the fireman's side of the firebox was wire brushed to remove most of the loose material.
Our thanks go out to all those who assisted this weekend.
Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th June
The now burnished regulator handle and lubrication linkage was refitted and coated in petroleum jelly to prevent any further corrosion. The smokebox door handles, one of which was painted black, were also burnished and coated with petroleum jelly. Further cosmetic work was carried out in the cab.
Saturday 30th June and Sunday 1st July
Work commenced in the smokebox. The internal metalwork was scraped, and any deposits of soot were chipped away from the various components to which they had adhered. The resulting waste material was swept up and removed.
May 2007
After almost a decade indoors, 4930 Hagley Hall will be turning wheels and braving the elements for her journey home in what we hope will be a nice sunny day in the early weeks of June.
The committee are understandably excited about the return of 4930 Hagley Hall to the Severn Valley Railway, but we cannot forget the help and support we have received from our friends from Swindon who kept her looking immaculate throughout her residence in the McArthur Glen Designer Outlet Village.
As many of you will know, 4930 Hagley Hall is returning to the SVR to take her place in The Engine House display building currently being constructed near Highley Station. The Engine House is not due to open until August and in the intervening weeks when 4930 Hagley Hall will be out of the public eye, it is hoped some minor work will be carried out to those areas not touched by the cosmetic restoration prior to her leaving to go on display at Swindon in 1999.
During February 2007 the group ran a successful photo charter using then newly restored locomotive 4566 with 2 Great Western coaches and a van. Although the weather was not the best, the charter appeared to be successful with some nice shots appearing on the web and in magazines. Please see our Gallery to view a few photos taken on that day.
September 2006
2005/2006 has been an exceptionally good time for the friends of locomotive 4930 'Hagley Hall'. In November 2005, the group celebrated achieving £22,000 in the bank. 7802 'Bradley Manor' was the train engine and dressed suitably with GWR style reporting numbers showing '22K' with the Group's Headboard and red loco lamps - see the Charters Gallery section.
However in August 2006 the passing of £30,000 was celebrated in more modest style with 8F 48773 carrying the '30K' reporting numbers to celebrate this.
During June a footplate ride charter was run using Ex Great Western King class 6024 'King Edward I'. The charter was very successful with more people than ever booking to ride on the footplate of a King. Some pictures of the day are available in the gallery section.
Unfortunately, while the Engine is still in the McArthur Glen Designer Outlet centre in Swindon, no major repair work can be carried out. Our Friends in Swindon still keep 4930 looking immaculate. An inspection of the locomotive and boiler has been carried out while 4930 “Hagley Hall” has been in the shopping centre. The inspection was unable to determine the extent of any corrosion or wear as we were unable to remove any parts, but from what was reported, we feel the locomotive is in better condition than people think. A list of smaller components either missing or known to be scrap has been drawn up and new components will be made to speed up the overhaul when 4930 Hagley Hall is put through the works.
4930 'Hagley Hall' will be returning to the Severn Valley soon, a place in The Engine House has been reserved. It is expected to return the Severn Valley Railway during the spring/summer 2007.
April 2005
The last year has seen a big step forward in progress for 4930 Hagley Hall. This time last year, the group had just over £10,000 in the bank. At the last count, we had over £17,000.
The fund increases are thanks to monthly subscriptions, sales of merchandise, donations, photo charters and our annual football match.
Merchandise sales are continuous through SVR working Members but we hold sales stands at most SVR events (our next one being 16th April 2005 Members and Shareholders Day). We are there to meet and greet anyone with an interest in 4930 Hagley Hall and of course, you could buy some of our wares !
In the last few months, we have run two photo charters. The first one was in November using 5164 on a passenger train and the second was in March using 1638, when we ran some freight around Bewdley, then on a passenger train between Bridgnorth and Bewdley. Both charters were very successful with all involved having a good time. Please keep an eye on the site for our next charter.
The Football match is an annual event where the committee split and organise two teams that do battle on the field of play. Last year it was held at Bridgnorth and the Bewdley team won 6-2 against the Bridgnorth team. The match was followed by a buffet on the station. The game is not taken too seriously but it’s always played to win on both sides. It was fun, and as usual, all had a great time. We hope to hold this year’s match in Kidderminster, but a venue is yet to be decided. It will be held around the August Bank holiday weekend.
Our biggest contributor is the Monthly subscription scheme; this is a much-appreciated source of finance. Anyone who donates to the scheme receives a gift at given stages in his/her donation level, and a quarterly newsletter informing people of progress on the project. For more details, please follow to the link on the home page. Things behind the scenes are picking up pace and the changes should soon become more evident in coming months.
March 2004
It has been a long time since our last update, but be assured that the group are still hard at work.
In the 2 years since our last progress report we have made significant progress with our merchandise. The Friends of 4930 Hagley Hall shovels are now available, and can be personalised with your name or organisation name at no extra charge to you. Work is also going ahead on a full product catalogue, which we hope to be producing very soon.
Some work has been carried out on the locomotive while it has been on display in the McArthur Glen Designer Outlet Centre in Swindon. The STEAM Museum’s “Tuesday Gang” have been busy repainting the wheels of 4930 Hagley Hall as well as keeping it looking absolutely pristine.
January 2002
Work on fundraising has continued over the past few months with an extremely successful photographic charter using LMS Black Five 45110 and the Severn Valley's rake of Traveling Post Office vehicles (See Gallery for photographs). Planning is now underway for our next charter using ex-GWR Pannier Tank 5764 on typical 1930's branch line trains.
The Group have launched a limited edition print of 4930 Hagley Hall crossing Borle Viaduct with a rake of Great Western coaches, sales are going well so why not order one for yourself? Click Here for more details.
March 2001
Due to the outbreak of Foot & Mouth Disease the photographic charter booked for Friday 23rd March was cancelled. Further charters are being planned for later in the year.
February 2001
Fund raising efforts continue with another photographic charter booked for 23rd March 2001.
Cylinder Drain Cock castings have been obtained & these will be machined shortly, six new castings are required as the originals have been used on other locomotives in the Severn Valley Fleet.
Drain Cock Castings at Bewdley, 22nd January 2001. Photo Duncan Ballard.