We really need your help: The N2 Overhaul Completion Club
Two years ago, we had to appeal to you, our fellow members, for help with the cost of overhauling the N2. Regrettably, again we need your financial support if our Gresley class N2 is to run again.
You will read in the current edition of the Gresley Observer about the issues that we have faced with the overhaul of No. 1744 and the true scale of the financial challenges we now face has become abundantly clear.
Almost every locomotive overhaul will identify additional items of work, as problems often only become apparent during dismantling, but the number that emerged in 2021 were exceptional, hence our earlier appeal. We subsequently discovered that a new fire-box wrapper was required together with associated backhead work – apparently as a result of defective attention many years ago, and thus well outside our ability to obtain financial redress.
Based on the estimate received, when the overhaul commenced, we believed the budget was sufficient, including a contingency for unplanned work that would inevitably arise. However, this and the funds raised from our last appeal are now exhausted.
At a recent meeting with the overhauling contractor, Northern Steam Engineering, we agreed a plan of work which will see the boiler steam tested and then the locomotive moved to the North Norfolk Railway for the completion of the remaining work. We have signed a 25-year operating agreement with the NNR and are working with them to get No. 1744 back into traffic for the start of the 2025 season next Easter.
The stark truth is that we now face a huge financial shortfall. So, we are launching a fresh appeal to raise £100,000 by the end of 2025 to complete the work and meet our financial obligations – The N2 Overhaul Completion Club.
Special benefits for those supporting the club include:
- Certificate signed by our President and Chairman
- Exclusive opportunity to visit No. 1744 under overhaul at the NNR
- Opportunity to buy a ticket (seat already reserved) on one of the first trains hauled by No. 1744
- Exclusive Limited Edition print (100) of No. 1744 in GNR livery by Matthew Cousins (GRA)
- One year’s free membership of The Gresley Society Trust
No 1744 is the oldest Gresley locomotive still in existence and belongs to all of us. She may have missed out on her centenary year, however, with your help at last she will steam again next year, and for many more years to come.
Please help if you can by joining The N2 Overhaul Completion Club and together let’s get our locomotive back on the rails where she belongs – thank you!
