Narrow Gauge engine 'Welsh Pony'

Now here's an engine with history. Presently at the Ffestiniog Railway

Welsh Pony has been cosmetically restored for the Ffestiniog Railway's Steam 150 event (May 2013) and it has been decided in June 2013 to restore the locomotive to full working order. Welsh Pony will celebrate her 150th birthday in 2017.

 

 

This is the 5th locomotive built for the FR and the first of the 'Large Englands'. Welsh Pony (works number 234) was built and delivered in 1867. She entered service in June 1867.

Following an initiative from FRCo. GM Paul Lewin in Steam Railway magazine in 2010, much interest was raised in restoring the sole surviving Large England loco to working order.
The first step was to draw up and agree a conservation plan for the locomotive prior to carrying out an in-depth look at the loco to ascertain exactly what can be reused and to estimate the cost of its restoration. In 2013 the FRCo. has agreed this report and to the restoration of the locomotive to working order (involving the building of a new tender).Dismantling of the locomotive for assessment and restoration started on 4th May 2014.
A dedicated microsite has been provided at http://festrail.co.uk/welshpony. Donations can be made via the Ffestiniog Railway Society charity at http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/charity-web/charity/finalCharityHomepage.action?charityId=1003330
The current cylinder dimensions are: 8.5" dia x 12" stroke and the wheels are 2ft 2ins diameter.