Owned and restored by Gary Boyd-Hope from Barwell, Leics.
This 1941 loco is the sole-surviving example of Peckett & Sons 'Yorktown' class, and as part of its overhaul the owner is looking to return it to 'as built' condition.
When first restored in 2007 the previous owners outshopped a loco that was functional and fit for purpose, but not historically accurate. The current owners goal is to return it to the condition it was delivered to the Ministry of Supply in 1941 by carrying out a number of cosmetic changes and restoring original features (inc. buffers, cab, sandboxes, paintwork) that have been lost during preservation.
The loco was one of six 'Yorktown' 0-4-0STs built for the Ministry of Supply in 1941. Peckett & Sons only built 11 of the class in total between 1911 and 1943, and this is the last surviving example. It spent its working career at the Royal Ordnance Factories at Poole (Creekmoor) and Cardiff (Llanishen).The loco gained a modicum of fame in the 1970s when it was bought by the Reverend E R 'Teddy' Boston, who completed its first restoration, and later displayed it at his famous Cadeby Light Railway in Leicestershire.
Practical work has largely been confined to what can be done at home as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. The bulk of the work will take place in the first few months of 2021. It is planned to have the loco complete in time to mark its 80th anniversary late next year.
This loco is unique in preservation, being one of the smallest standard gauge engines ever built. It served the War Effort in its working career, and in preservation serves as a living memorial to the famous 'steam cleric' - the Rev. Teddy Boston - after who it is named. Its small size has made it very popular with the younger generation, providing a friendly and accessible way for children to enjoy steam and heritage railways.