1925 Pride of Somerset returns to steam
Posted by Chris Graham on 16th November 2023
We report as Pride of Somerset returns to steam, and the other progress being made with this fine, 1925 Burrell double-crank road roller.
Pride of Somerset: James Allison takes the engine for a road test, showing the later Burrell headstock in the process. (Pic: Reuben Carter)
Back in steam during early August 2023 was 1925 Burrell double-crank compound No. 4004 Pride of Somerset which worked for WJ King at Bishops Lydeard, near Taunton, in Somerset. It was rallied by the late Arthur Bridge and his son Richard, who is the custodian of the engine now, and has been part of the Cheshire/Shropshire circuit since the 1970s.
Seen in working times with that lovely roof. (Pic: Mark Hughes Collection)
The engine has just had its 10-year test and re-tube with Allison Engineering, and is now back with the very busy Richard who has to re-lag the engine and give it a full repaint. Pride of Somerset worked with a canopy for WJ King and was, at one time, with Tom Varley. It still carried the roof in preservation for some decades, which suited it well, although the structure was removed later on.
Richard Bridge on the injector at Astle Park, back in August 1988. (Pic: Bob Moorman)
Looking good; No. 4004 on its steam test for the inspector in early August. (Pic: Reuben Carter)
James checks things out on No. 4004, which will be finished off over the winter we are sure. (Pic: Reuben Carter)
This news item comes from a recent issue of Old Glory, and you can get a money-saving subscription to this magazine simply by clicking HERE
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