60103 on Steam Dreams Hampshire day out

60103 running through Eastleigh with steam to spare on 1Z72 Paddington to Southampton via Reading for Steam Dreams. Plenty of spectators out so FS still can draw the crowds! Any idea as to the significance of the 'stuffed badger' on the buffer beam? I didn't notice until I edited the shot!

 

I was told that "Badger" was the nickname of a member of crew who lived locally and recently passed away suddenly. It was placed there in his memory and was to be presented to his family after the tour.

 

Thanks so much for the explanation; what a lovely gesture. Andy

 

Shaggy was almost right, it was a work colleague of mine who sadly passed away a short while ago and lived local to Southampton so it was in tribute to him. He is now in the possession of his widow and young daughter and thankfully not too dirty either!

He's resin as well btw, not stuffed lol