SVR pannier back in steam

GWR ‘57XX’ 0-6-0PT No. 7714 has moved under its own steam for the first time in seven years as its lengthy overhaul draws to a close at the Severn Valley Railway.



‘57XX’ 0-6-0PT No. 7714 moves under its own steam for the first time in seven years at Bridgnorth station on the Severn Valley Railway on November 18. SVR


It had been hoped that the Collett-designed locomotive would be ready in time to attend the SVR’s ‘End of Season Finale Gala’, in order to line up alongside fellow GWR resident, ex-Port Talbot Railway 0-6-0ST No. 813, itself recently returning to traffic after overhaul.

Owned by the SVR Pannier Tank Fund along with classmate No. 5764, No. 7714 made its first moves on the 16-mile railway on November 18, where it will undertake running-in trials before a full return to service for the 2017 season.

BR withdrew No. 7714 in 1959, when it entered service with the National Coal Board at their Penallta Colliery near Rhymney in South Wales. Arriving at the SVR in 1973, it wouldn’t be until 1992 that the pannier tank first steamed in preservation.

Outshopped in BR unlined black with the ‘ferret-and-dartboard’ crest, No. 7714 will line up alongside the SVR’s extensive resident GWR fleet.

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