Locomotives
Detailed here are the current & past members of the Woodrow Light Railway fleet, encompassing mainly steam and battery powered engines.
Accucraft Ruby 0-4-0T No. 1 'Ruby'
This diminutive 0-4-0T was purchased at Stoneleigh in 2002, and gained the No. 1 due to the number on the tank side (No. 4 was previously due to be No. 1). It’s power capabilities aren’t sufficient for our line, and the small gas tank & boiler hugely limit its steaming time. It has seen only sporadic use over the years and there are no plans to rectify the issues at present, although it makes occasional gala outings, as seen here, double heading a mixed train into Woodrow with No. 6.
Mamod 0-4-0T No. 2 'Dorothy'
No. 2 was actually the first locomotive acquired, almost 20 years before any of the other locomotives for the line, as part of a Mamod 'box set'. It saw occasional use as a 32mm loco on a circuit of track constructed on the back of two doors but, following the decision to build a garden railway, it was modified in 2003. This included conversion to 45mm gauge, replacement of the Mamod cylinders, a new higher-pressure safety valve, and replacing the meths tablets firing system with a more conventional butane system, in common with the other locos on the line. It has only been used very sparingly on the WLR due to its small size.
No. 2 was actually the first locomotive acquired, almost 20 years before any of the other locomotives for the line, as part of a Mamod 'box set'. It saw occasional use as a 32mm loco on a circuit of track constructed on the back of two doors but, following the decision to build a garden railway, it was modified in 2003. This included conversion to 45mm gauge, replacement of the Mamod cylinders, a new higher-pressure safety valve, and replacing the meths tablets firing system with a more conventional butane system, in common with the other locos on the line. It has only been used very sparingly on the WLR due to its small size.
Roundhouse Millie 0-4-0T No. 3 'Jonathan'
The first engine bought for the line, in December 2001, this sturdy engine has been a workhorse since. Since arrival, a number of modifications have been made, including the addition of the water top-up kit that allows the locomotive to be kept in steam for extended periods. A second body has also been purchased, with one in WLR Maroon and the other in black – which has seen the loco run in plain, BR and latterly GWR black. It carries either No. 3 or 8903, depending on its guise.The engine has visited the Misbourne Valley Railway on a number of one-day trips, as well as two longer term visits. No. 3 was returned to WLR maroon in 2013 to mark the 10th anniversary of the completion of the line.
The first engine bought for the line, in December 2001, this sturdy engine has been a workhorse since. Since arrival, a number of modifications have been made, including the addition of the water top-up kit that allows the locomotive to be kept in steam for extended periods. A second body has also been purchased, with one in WLR Maroon and the other in black – which has seen the loco run in plain, BR and latterly GWR black. It carries either No. 3 or 8903, depending on its guise.The engine has visited the Misbourne Valley Railway on a number of one-day trips, as well as two longer term visits. No. 3 was returned to WLR maroon in 2013 to mark the 10th anniversary of the completion of the line.
Scratchbuilt 4wD No. 4 'Earl of Radnor'
This small diesel is based around a small chassis from IP Engineering, with a scratchbuilt body. Construction started in December 2001 and was complete early in 2002. The chassis drives to the rear axle from a small motor, and as such the locomotive has limited haulage capabilities on the gradients of the WLR. It has, however, seen use on shorter trains and on the branch line, and has spent two extended hire periods at our friends the Misbourne Valley Railway, and is seen there in early 2005. No. 4 sees only very occasional WLR use.
Merlin Major Mk. 1 0-6-T No. 5 'Judith'
A vintage locomotive from long-passed manufacturer Merlin, ‘Judith’ came to the railway in 2002 as a second hand purchase from GRS. The engine, works number 329, became the first radio controlled locomotive here on arrival, and also the first that was regaugable. It has paid visits to Brambleton, the Misbourne Valley and Chess Valley Railway’s, and another line in Beaconsfield. Despite its age, the locomotive is capable of taking the shorter WLR services, and looks just at home on a typical Mixed train. It is also fitted with a chuff-pipe and whistle, which are always enjoyable!
A vintage locomotive from long-passed manufacturer Merlin, ‘Judith’ came to the railway in 2002 as a second hand purchase from GRS. The engine, works number 329, became the first radio controlled locomotive here on arrival, and also the first that was regaugable. It has paid visits to Brambleton, the Misbourne Valley and Chess Valley Railway’s, and another line in Beaconsfield. Despite its age, the locomotive is capable of taking the shorter WLR services, and looks just at home on a typical Mixed train. It is also fitted with a chuff-pipe and whistle, which are always enjoyable!
Roundhouse Fowler 0-6-2 No. 6 'William'
The largest locomotive on the line, No. 6 is a Roundhouse Fowler that was purchased second hand in 2002. It is believed to have been built in 1998, but was in practically as-new condition, with a brand new Radio Control system, when purchased. It’s a very capable performer and has given many hours of trouble-free service since arrival (after initial niggles with a problematic reverser servo), including triple-heading a 70-axle train and working the lines first 7-coach train. It has paid visits to Brambleton, the Misbourne Valley and Chess Valley Railway’s, and another line in Beaconsfield, and is a frequent WLR performer.
The largest locomotive on the line, No. 6 is a Roundhouse Fowler that was purchased second hand in 2002. It is believed to have been built in 1998, but was in practically as-new condition, with a brand new Radio Control system, when purchased. It’s a very capable performer and has given many hours of trouble-free service since arrival (after initial niggles with a problematic reverser servo), including triple-heading a 70-axle train and working the lines first 7-coach train. It has paid visits to Brambleton, the Misbourne Valley and Chess Valley Railway’s, and another line in Beaconsfield, and is a frequent WLR performer.
Rebuilt Aristocraft 4wD No. 7 'Powis Castle'
No. 7 is a large battery-powered diesel-outlined locomotive modified from a commercially available model, in true narrow gauge fashion, the most major modification to its appearance being a brand new cab. However, the biggest alteration is to the power supply – it has been converted to allow both track pick up and battery power, which is drawn from a large lithium iron battery carried around in a specially-built van. This power supply gives a lengthy and reliable source, and the loco is more than a match to any of the WLR sets.
No. 7 is a large battery-powered diesel-outlined locomotive modified from a commercially available model, in true narrow gauge fashion, the most major modification to its appearance being a brand new cab. However, the biggest alteration is to the power supply – it has been converted to allow both track pick up and battery power, which is drawn from a large lithium iron battery carried around in a specially-built van. This power supply gives a lengthy and reliable source, and the loco is more than a match to any of the WLR sets.
IP Engineering Jessie 4wD No. 8 'Coity Castle'
‘Coity Castle’ is a typical IP Engineering Jessie, with the IPE detailing pack. Purchased at Stoneleigh in April 2002, it was complete and painted within 5 days. A reliable performer, it is a popular member of the WLR fleet, capable of handling most of the lines workings. Since completion, its visited three lines, including an extended hire period at the Misbourne Valley Railway prior to the completion of their first battery-powered loco.
Roundhouse 0-6-0T No. 9 'Cleeve Abbey'
No. 9 is an example of Roundhouse’s ever-popular ‘Lady Anne’ model, and had been kit built by its previous owner, and sold on after just one steaming. After arrival, on May 16th 2004, it was expected the locomotive would be converted into a large Irish style tender locomotive, but this never happened, and it has stayed in the same condition since. The engine has been a reliable performer except from a major valve gear overhaul that was necessary after failing during one of our galas shortly after arrival. It has visited the Misbourne Valley Railway on a number of occasions.
No. 9 is an example of Roundhouse’s ever-popular ‘Lady Anne’ model, and had been kit built by its previous owner, and sold on after just one steaming. After arrival, on May 16th 2004, it was expected the locomotive would be converted into a large Irish style tender locomotive, but this never happened, and it has stayed in the same condition since. The engine has been a reliable performer except from a major valve gear overhaul that was necessary after failing during one of our galas shortly after arrival. It has visited the Misbourne Valley Railway on a number of occasions.
WLR 0-4-0T No. 10 'Helvellyn'
'Helvellyn' was a scheme to build a new, high quality and high powered, locomotive based on the Mamod/Jane design. It grew to a complete rolling chassis, with smokebox and combustion chamber, before the purchase of No. 12 in 2007. On the arrival of No. 12, some of the new parts of No. 10 were combined with No. 12 to create what is now running as 'Rhys'. A collection of left over parts remains, but there are no plans to turn these into a new locomotive.
'Helvellyn' was a scheme to build a new, high quality and high powered, locomotive based on the Mamod/Jane design. It grew to a complete rolling chassis, with smokebox and combustion chamber, before the purchase of No. 12 in 2007. On the arrival of No. 12, some of the new parts of No. 10 were combined with No. 12 to create what is now running as 'Rhys'. A collection of left over parts remains, but there are no plans to turn these into a new locomotive.
LGB Zillertalbahn 0-6-2T No. 11
This track powered 0-6-2T was acquired to give a steam outline locomotive which could be used at short notice. After arrival, the loco entered the works for conversion to be used with the battery van constructed for use with No. 7. This allows the locomotive to be driven by remote control, and, like No. 7, it also retains the ability to run powered by the track. Despite some initial niggles, the loco has proven reliable when called upon, although its use is uncommon, especially as it can't be used at the same time as No. 7, and the latter has been a popular performer in recent years. It's seen here in the snow in March 2013 at Amersham.
This track powered 0-6-2T was acquired to give a steam outline locomotive which could be used at short notice. After arrival, the loco entered the works for conversion to be used with the battery van constructed for use with No. 7. This allows the locomotive to be driven by remote control, and, like No. 7, it also retains the ability to run powered by the track. Despite some initial niggles, the loco has proven reliable when called upon, although its use is uncommon, especially as it can't be used at the same time as No. 7, and the latter has been a popular performer in recent years. It's seen here in the snow in March 2013 at Amersham.
IP Engineering Jane 0-4-0T+T No. 12 'Rhys'
No. 12 ‘Rhys’ was purchased at Stoneleigh in 2007, a 32mm IP Engineering Jane in red livery, with a number of detailing parts. This loco was then stripped down and combined, using parts from No. 10, to create a 45mm Jane with a brand new bottom end. At the same show, a 45mm tender was purchased and, following trials without the superstructure, the locomotive was painted and lined to match. Following initial running in & a few issues which followed, the locomotive has seen occasional use at galas, but is capable of working four of the Bachmann bogie coaches. It has seen use both with and, as pictured, without its tender.
No. 12 ‘Rhys’ was purchased at Stoneleigh in 2007, a 32mm IP Engineering Jane in red livery, with a number of detailing parts. This loco was then stripped down and combined, using parts from No. 10, to create a 45mm Jane with a brand new bottom end. At the same show, a 45mm tender was purchased and, following trials without the superstructure, the locomotive was painted and lined to match. Following initial running in & a few issues which followed, the locomotive has seen occasional use at galas, but is capable of working four of the Bachmann bogie coaches. It has seen use both with and, as pictured, without its tender.
Accucraft Edrig 0-4-0T No. 14
No. 14 was purchased second hand at a Mertsham Model Railway exhibition in 2008. Being an Accucraft Edrig, it is a chunky, strong and reliable performer. The major distinguishing feature of this example is the scorched smokebox door, which the engine arrived with and has never been rectified. Since arrival, it’s proved capable of hauling anything on the WLR and has been a regular performer, as well as visiting the Misbourne Valley Railway on a number of occasions.
No. 14 was sold in late 2011 to fund some rolling stock, and its presence has since been missed.
No. 14 was purchased second hand at a Mertsham Model Railway exhibition in 2008. Being an Accucraft Edrig, it is a chunky, strong and reliable performer. The major distinguishing feature of this example is the scorched smokebox door, which the engine arrived with and has never been rectified. Since arrival, it’s proved capable of hauling anything on the WLR and has been a regular performer, as well as visiting the Misbourne Valley Railway on a number of occasions.
No. 14 was sold in late 2011 to fund some rolling stock, and its presence has since been missed.
Accucraft Countess 0-6-0T No. 15 'The Earl'
After a large clearing of OO gauge stock, No. 15 was purchased in early 2013, becoming the first loco arrival in the best part of five years. Finished in black livery, and equiped with radio control, this large tank engine has proven itself a capable performer, easily handling any of the standard sets operated by the WLR. The loco becomes representative of the line in the 1930's and 1940's, freeing up No. 3 to return to original maroon livery while retaining an engine ideally matched to the GWR mixed sets. In 2016 No. 15 was fitted with a DJB whistle.
After a large clearing of OO gauge stock, No. 15 was purchased in early 2013, becoming the first loco arrival in the best part of five years. Finished in black livery, and equiped with radio control, this large tank engine has proven itself a capable performer, easily handling any of the standard sets operated by the WLR. The loco becomes representative of the line in the 1930's and 1940's, freeing up No. 3 to return to original maroon livery while retaining an engine ideally matched to the GWR mixed sets. In 2016 No. 15 was fitted with a DJB whistle.
Roundhouse L&M 2-6-4T No. 16
No. 16 is a Roundhouse Leek & Manifold Tank, purchased second hand in 2015. In addition to the standard features, the loco has had lining applied and is R/C fitted. Dwarfing the other tank engines on the line, it is a capable performer and is a welcome addition to the fleet. Unlike other recent purchases, No. 16 does not represent a period in the WLR's fictitious history, but instead represents a new loco ideally suited to the heavy summer service trains.
At present No. 16 carries 'J.B. Earle' nameplates as per the prototype. It is intended that these will be replaced and a new name added prior to next season.
No. 16 is a Roundhouse Leek & Manifold Tank, purchased second hand in 2015. In addition to the standard features, the loco has had lining applied and is R/C fitted. Dwarfing the other tank engines on the line, it is a capable performer and is a welcome addition to the fleet. Unlike other recent purchases, No. 16 does not represent a period in the WLR's fictitious history, but instead represents a new loco ideally suited to the heavy summer service trains.
At present No. 16 carries 'J.B. Earle' nameplates as per the prototype. It is intended that these will be replaced and a new name added prior to next season.
Roundhouse Stanley 0-4-0 Tram 'Parrot'
Built in 1995, 'Parrot' is a member of Roundhouse's Stanley class of tram locos. Underpinned by the same solid engineering as its larger cousins, 'Parrot' is capable of handling full length service trains with comparative ease. As it has been purchased with a view to the move to a new railway, 'Parrot' has not taken a WLR operating number and does not represent any part in the WLR's fictitious history. |
Roundhouse VOR 2-6-2T 'Prince of Wales'
An example of Roundhouse's hugely popular Vale of Rheidol class, 'Prince of Wales' is another arrival pending the move to a new railway and therefore does not have a WLR running number. Fitted with a whistle and drain cocks, 'Prince of Wales' is a solid performer and will supplement the regular WLR fleet throughout 2016. |
Regular Visitors
Roundhouse 2-6-2T 'Russell'
‘Russell’ comes from the Misbourne Valley Railway, friends of the WLR. Since 2003, this reliable engine has visited the WLR on many occasions, often coming with a range of MVR stock. Memorable visits include one where it triple-headed a 70-axle train around the whole circuit, and a visit where it double headed with ‘Rhys’ on the latters first full-line trains. Mostly as standard, the locomotive received a bit of a ‘spruce-up’ by its owner to celebrate its 10th anniversary in 2011, and is a welcome visitor to WLR events.
‘Russell’ comes from the Misbourne Valley Railway, friends of the WLR. Since 2003, this reliable engine has visited the WLR on many occasions, often coming with a range of MVR stock. Memorable visits include one where it triple-headed a 70-axle train around the whole circuit, and a visit where it double headed with ‘Rhys’ on the latters first full-line trains. Mostly as standard, the locomotive received a bit of a ‘spruce-up’ by its owner to celebrate its 10th anniversary in 2011, and is a welcome visitor to WLR events.
IP/WLR 4wD 'Blackbird'
‘Blackbird’ is a diesel outline locomotive from the Misbourne Valley Railway. The engine started life in 2005 when its owner purchased the chassis (the same basic chassis as is under ‘Coity Castle’) at the Stoneleigh show. The body was built in the WLR workshops during 2006, with the engine being trialled on the WLR in July prior to entering MVR service in August of that year. It has proved a reliable performer and has been seen on the WLR working trains both solo and double headed, and is seen here on the branchline on Woodrow Girder Bridge in 2011.
‘Blackbird’ is a diesel outline locomotive from the Misbourne Valley Railway. The engine started life in 2005 when its owner purchased the chassis (the same basic chassis as is under ‘Coity Castle’) at the Stoneleigh show. The body was built in the WLR workshops during 2006, with the engine being trialled on the WLR in July prior to entering MVR service in August of that year. It has proved a reliable performer and has been seen on the WLR working trains both solo and double headed, and is seen here on the branchline on Woodrow Girder Bridge in 2011.