25th Anniversary of 2968’s return to public service in preservation
25 years ago today on the 13th April 1991, 2968 hauled her first passenger-carrying train since 1966. This was an SMF Members special, allowing those who had worked and contributed towards the engine’s resurrection to have the chance to savour her first outing.
Three round trips on the Severn Valley Railway for 96 miles of running, with 481 happy SMF members onboard, departed right time from Kidderminster station with nine coaches for 287 tons.
“So, at 9.45am on 13/4/91, she set out with her first passenger train in preservation. Apart from developing a blown gasket on the fireman’s side snifting valve, she settled down to give a faultless performance all day.”
Images: Richard Greaves