News
WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 26 was a watershed day for ‘Merchant Navy’ No. 35005 Canadian Pacific, with the Bulleid 4 6 2 moving under its own steam for the first time since 2008 as its £1.5 million, lottery-supported overhaul comes to an end.
The 1941-built locomotive was due to be launched into traffic at its Mid-Hants Railway home on March 19, followed by four days of initial public services on March 20-23. ‘CanPac’s’ revival gives Britain four working ‘Merchant Navies’ for the first time in the preservation era, alongside Nos. 35006 Peninsular & Oriental S.N. Co., 35018 British India Line and 35028 Clan Line.
Withdrawn in 2008, work overhaul Canadian Pacific started in September 2011 when it was moved to Eastleigh Works. The overhaul was supported by a £1,254,000 grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and involved replacing the inner firebox, among other significant repairs. MHR volunteers have spent over 10,000 hours overhauling not only No. 35005 but also a pair of 1947-built Bulleid carriages – Third Open No. 1456 and semi-open Brake Third No. 4211.
MHR CEO Rebecca Dalley said: “This fantastic restoration of the historic locomotive Canadian Pacific is a testament to the dedication of our volunteers and the unwavering support of our partners. Canadian Pacific is not just a locomotive; she represents the rich heritage of British engineering and the enduring spirit of our railway community.”
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