Hawthorn Leslie "Met"

Hi all,

We currently have a small information pack in pdf format for parties who are interested in buying the engine. Please feel free to message me to request one be sent to you.

Thanks

David

 

I'm a bit surprised at the expected price quoted by Steam Railway. Is that journalistic licence, I wonder? Anyone paying that much must want it badly. Little 0-4-0t's in need of overhaul generally go for a good bit less than that.

 

What use would it be to a preserved line? Not much I would think. Not as good as a class 08 diesel for shunting. Not powerful enough or fast enough for passenger trains. Could be ideal for a museum with display space limitations. But beyond that...?

 

Depends on your line. Not big enough for the Moors, maybe, but for the guys at Helston? Or Rutland? Or the Derwent Valley? I am afraid we all fall into the trap of thinking of the big preserved lines, forgetting that some groups really don't need big engines. Personally, I hope Met finds a good home, with a group that can actually use it.

 

There's a similar sized loco (10" x 16") just taken up residence on the NYMR and, when overhauled will be used on galas, other special occasions and for steam heating so, as they say, size doesn't matter; it's what you do with it.

 

Yeah I get it. Everyone wants to own a loco and say "that's mine" - even if it's only a little one. Or not working. It's why there are so many diesels sitting around preserved lines not doing much except at diesel galas. One can't criticise these people for contributing time/money to the cause though.

 

BIB: That's not what @Fireline or @Steve said at all.

Keith