Great Central memories are rekindled at Finmere station

by

BRIAN Stabler named his 88DS class 4wD No. 46 (Ruston & Hornsby 242868 of 1946) Heather, in honour of his wife, on October 15.

He bought the loco in 2015 and moved it from the Chinnor & Princes Risborough Railway to the private site at Finmere station (ex-GCR), Oxfordshire, in 2016, following completion of restoration.

Owner Brian Stabler reveals the name Heather on his Ruston & Hornsby at Finmere station on October 15, but his wife was unable to be present as she was in a nursing home. Sadly, she passed away in early November. PHIL MARSH

It now has a solar panel on the cab roof to keep the battery charged, and is dual-braked. It sees use shunting the growing amount of stock at the Finmere site.

Article continues below…
Advert

Enjoy more Railway reading in the monthly magazine.
Click here to subscribe & save.

Previously, the loco had been based at the Northampton Ironstone Railway Trust, Hunsbury, and on the Isle of Wight Steam Railway. It was delivered new to the Gas Light & Coke Co, Southall from Ruston’s Boultham Works on November 1, 1946.

Read more in December’s issue of The RM – on sale now!


Advert
Subscribe to The Railway Magazine
Enjoy more of The Railway Magazine reading every month. Click here to subscribe.

Railway Reads

From the history of steam through to 21st century rail transport news, we have titles that cater for all rail enthusiasts. Covering diesels, modelling, steam and modern railways, check out our range of magazines and fantastic subscription offers.


Article Tags:

About the Author