North East ‘unsung hero’ steam locomotive recreated

While text records of No. 68029 exist, Tanfield Railway said there are no known photos of the locomotive, making its recreation “more complicated”. The recreation is based on historical records and an identical surviving locomotive, Robert, based at the Great Central Railway in Leicestershire.

“We’ve been using some modern techniques like laser cutting to create the details needed for a convincing look,” Watchman said.

“I’m sure the scrapmen who cut up the real No. 68029 would never have imagined that we’d be trying to undo their work a whole 63 years later.”

The No. 68029 recreation will be part of Tanfield Railway’s Run It gala on Saturday and Sunday, along with seven other engines. The recreation will also mark the 200th anniversary of one of the region’s most influential railways.

“I can’t wait to see No. 68029 at work in the region for the first time since 1963, even if it is only temporary,” Watchman added. “Recreating No. 68029 is an exciting way of bringing a different aspect of North East railway history to life.

Passenger and demonstration freight trains will run throughout the gala event, which start at 9:00 on both days. Tickets can be purchased on the day or via the Tanfield Railway website.

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