The restoration appeal
What it will take to steam her again.
When the WSRA bought 7821, an examination showed she needed extensive boiler and chassis work. Current estimates put a full return to steam at £1.5 million to £2 million, and rising costs could take it higher.
The six stages of restoration
Each stage will have its own target, so supporters can see what their money is doing. Detailed costs will be published once a full engineering survey is complete.
1
Survey and strip-down
Move her to a workshop, dismantle her and carry out a full engineering survey. This sets the real cost of every stage that follows.
2
Boiler and firebox
The largest single job: a full boiler overhaul including firebox repairs, new tubes and stays, then hydraulic and steam tests.
3
Frames, wheels and axleboxes
Repairs to the main frames, wheelsets turned or renewed, and axleboxes and springs overhauled.
4
Cylinders and motion
Cylinders and valves examined and repaired; rods, bearings and valve gear overhauled.
5
Tender
The tender’s tank, frames, wheels and brakes restored so she can carry coal and water again.
6
Reassembly and return to steam
Rebuilt, repainted, tested and certified to run on the West Somerset Railway.
Make a donation
Your gift goes into the West Somerset Railway Association’s restricted fund for 7821 and can only be spent on her restoration.
If you pay UK tax, add Gift Aid and HMRC adds 25p to every £1 you give, at no cost to you.
Our promise to supporters
- Restricted fund: money given for 7821 is spent only on 7821.
- Open reporting: progress and the total raised will be published on this site.
- Regulated: the WSRA is a registered charity (1041901) and registered with the Fundraising Regulator.
Leave a gift in your will
A legacy, however large or small, could fund a whole stage of the work. Gifts to charity are free of Inheritance Tax.
Business and grant partners
Sponsor a stage, match-fund a campaign or support engineering skills and apprenticeships. We will tailor recognition to your organisation.
Questions
How long will the restoration take?
Several years, depending on how quickly funds are raised and what the engineering survey finds. We will publish a timetable once the survey is done.
Where will the work be done?
The workshop will be confirmed when the survey stage is funded. Progress reports will be published on the News page.
What happens to her display in Swindon?
She stays on display at the Swindon outlet until restoration begins.
Who owns Ditcheat Manor?
The West Somerset Railway Association, registered charity 1041901, which supports the West Somerset Railway in Somerset.