The 44422 LOCOMOTIVE FUND was
formed to purchase, operate and maintain 44422. The working locomotive
provides for future generations to appreciate steam traction
and witness the sights and sounds of an active L.M.S. 0-6-0 goods
engine from the 1920's period.
After over 10 years of intense
service throughout mainland Britain, in 1999 44422 reached the
end of the operating time allowed by its certificate of insurance.
This meant a boiler lift for retubing and a comprehensive mechanical
overhaul which was completed in 2005 at a cost of over £120,000.
The overhaul was completed with
the aid of a substantial loan.
It is the intention
of the Fund Committee to hire the locomotive to heritage railways
to clear the existing loan before accumulating sufficient funds
to finance the next heavy overhaul circa 2015. |