Stirling Single GNR1

Another contender for the least use of a loco after restoration must be the MR "Spinner" No.673. I'm unsure when it was steamed at Butterley but I believe it was only just before Rainhill. It returned to Butterley after that show. On Sun 5th Oct '80 it was at the Barrow Hill Open Day in steam and that evening proceeded light engine to York, arriving at about 11pm. It has never steamed since.

Peter James

 

It wasn't restored though, in the sense of a major strip and rebuild. More patched up for short term running. No.1 was done similarly.

 

I was privileged to see and ride behind GNR No1 at Loughborough on the 8th May 1982 - I've just been re-looking at the slides, and it was in magnificent condition.
Also I can remeber seeing the Midland Single when it was at Butterley in the late 70's. It looked so serene moving up and down the yard, due no doubt to having no external valve gear.
Sad to think we won't see them in steam again.

Kevin

 

The nearest I will get to seeing No. 1 run is the model I have on pre-order...

 

Just checked my photos - I was there the same day! I guess you got some good pictures. Mine certainly are. It was a sunny day but not too hot. Agree with you about both No. 1 and the Spinner - it's a shame that there seems little chance of ever seeing a single driver in steam again. Still, never say never. I doubt if 12 months ago anyone ever thought the L&SWR T3 would turn a wheel in anger again.

 

The 18" gauge Bagnall Stirling single is still on the market. If it finds a buyer prepared to restore it then it may be the biggest working one we'll ever see.

http://prestonservices.co.uk/item/bagnall-stirling-loco/

 

I suspect part of the reason why it has struggled to find a buyer is that there are so few 18" gauge railways where it could run! I do hope it finds a fairy godmother eventually though, it is a lovely engine and worthy of restoration.