About Templates
Reviving the Past Together
The Little Loco Group was formally formed in 2017 from former members of the Wainwright Villas Gang and supported by the Fenchurch Fund in the effort to fund & support the overhaul & restoration of the Bluebell Railway’s historic fleet of smaller engines and the railway’s collection of pre-grouping engines & projects representing this era of locomotive history. In line with these aims and those of the Bluebell Railways Locomotive policy the group aims to help keep an example of one of our two LBSCR A1X terriers as well as one of the three SECR P tanks in an operational condition at all times.
Since 2001 the Fenchurch Fund has been raising funds towards the restoration of SECR No.27 Primrose after successfully fundraising towards the restoration of LBSCR No.72 Fenchurch. With the completion of Captain Baxter’s restoration in 2010 some of the former members of the villas gang, with the aid of the Fenchurch Fund, have taken on the task of seeing the forgotten P No.27 Primrose’s return once again to steam.
Reviving the Glory of Steam
Welcome to our journey of restoring steam trains! Here, we share our passion for preserving the rich history of these magnificent machines. Join us as we transform relics of the past into vibrant pieces of history while educating our community about their significance.
Honoring Our Journey Through Time
Our history is filled with dedicated efforts and countless achievements. From the restoration of our first steam engine to our ongoing projects, every milestone reflects our passion for preserving heritage. Join us as we celebrate our journey, bringing the charm of steam engines back to life on the Bluebell Railway, making memories for generations to come.
Our Journey Through Time
Founded in the heart of our community, we started our mission to restore steam trains with a vision to preserve history and connect generations. Over the years, our dedicated team’s hard work has turned lost stories into vibrant experiences, celebrating the craftsmanship of steam engineering.
We’ve faced numerous challenges, but our passion fuels our progress, leading us to spectacular successes that we proudly share. Join us as we honor the past while stepping towards the future.
Milestones in Restoration
From the initial rescue of our first steam locomotive to the latest restoration projects, each achievement marks a significant step forward in our journey. Our volunteers are the heartbeat of this project, each contributing valuable skills and insights to breathe life into these magnificent engines.
Every restored train tells a story, reminding us all of the rich history of rail travel. As we continue to gather resources and support, we’re excited to keep sharing our progress with you.
Our Mission & Values
We are dedicated to reviving the charm of steam trains, preserving their history, and creating educational experiences for everyone. Our goal is to restore each locomotive to its former glory while engaging with our community and educating visitors about the journey of these incredible machines.
Through our passionate efforts, we offer unique insights into steam train restoration, inviting enthusiasts of all ages to be part of our mission. Join us as we work together to foster a love for railway heritage and bring these masterpieces back to life!
Meet Our Passionate Team
Emily Johnson
Project Manager
Markus Lee
Engineer
Sofia Patel
Restoration Specialist
James Carter
Community Coordinator
Reviving History
What Our Supporters Say
What Our Supporters Say
People value our mission—check out their thoughts!
Help Us Revive History Together
Join our mission to restore historic steam engines and keep the spirit of the Bluebell Railway alive. Every effort counts, whether you’re donating, volunteering, or simply staying informed.
Help Us Restore a Piece of History
Your support makes a big difference in restoring steam trains and keeping their stories alive. Join us in our mission to preserve this iconic piece of history for future generations. Every little bit helps!
Blog Templates
Reviving Steam Engines Together
Welcome to our blog dedicated to restoring steam engines on the Bluebell Railway. Join us as we share updates on our projects, insights into engineering, and stories of heritage preservation. Together, we can keep the wheels of history turning!
Latest Stories and Updates
Explore our latest articles on steam engine restoration and the joy of heritage preservation.
Project 27: Early January Winter Update 2024
With the start of the new year and the frames sheeted over, to protect them from the elements, the team has started to move forwards on two fronts
323 Bluebell: Overhaul Announcement 2023
323 Bluebell is planned to go into the workshop at Sheffield Park in early 2024 giving us an exciting prospect of seeing our flagship locomotive once again in steam…
Fenchurch 150: Released to Traffic January 2023
Since the boiler test, and initial testing and fettling was completed, the finishing touches have been put to the locomotive, as seen in Andy Kelly’s photo from the 27th…
Join our adventure to preserve history
Reviving History
Key Milestones in Our Restoration Journey
Follow us as we breathe new life into these magnificent steam trains. Each milestone marks a step forward in preserving these beautiful machines for future generations. From initial assessments to the big reveal, our journey reflects dedication and passion. Stay updated on our progress and get a behind-the-scenes look at the restoration process!
01/03/2024 - Project Kickoff
We officially began the restoration with an assessment of the current condition of the train.
15/03/2024 - Initial Repairs
The first repairs have begun with essential maintenance to restore structural integrity.
30/03/2024 - New Components Arrive
We received new parts and components designed to fit the historic specifications of the train.
15/04/2024 - Progress Update
Check out the latest updates as we complete another stage of restoration ahead of schedule.
Reviving the Classics
Our Impact at a Glance
Key Achievements
Since we began our journey, we’ve made remarkable progress in restoring steam trains. These numbers reflect not just our hard work, but the incredible support from our community. Understanding this impact helps keep the momentum going in our mission to preserve these historical treasures.
Funds Raised
The funds raised are crucial for acquiring parts and restoring trains. Every dollar brings us closer to our goal of having these engines back in operation. We appreciate every contribution as it fuels our passion for this important work.
Volunteer Hours Logged
Our dedicated volunteers have logged countless hours, showcasing their commitment to our cause. Their hard work is what truly drives our projects forward. Every hour spent in restoration not only helps us preserve history but also fosters community involvement.
Heritage in Motion
Our Work
Reviving History
What Our Supporters Are Saying
Join Us in Preserving History
Donations Templates
All Aboard!
Join us as we revive the beauty of steam trains.
Preserving Our Past
Join Us in Honoring Engineering Heritage
Every steam engine tells a story, and with your help, we can keep these stories alive. Join us in restoring classic locomotives and preserving the rich heritage of engineering. Your support makes a difference!
Your Contributions Make a Difference
Your donations help us breathe life back into these majestic steam trains. Each contribution plays a vital role in restoration efforts. It’s not just about preserving history; it’s about giving future generations the chance to experience these wonders. Your support ensures we can repair, maintain, and showcase these amazing pieces of our railway heritage.
Help Preserve Our Steam Legacy
Every donation makes a difference in our journey to restore and preserve steam engines for future generations. Your contributions help maintain these incredible machines that once fueled progress and innovation. Join us in keeping the spirit of steam alive, ensuring that these pieces of history continue to inspire and educate.
Support Our Restoration Efforts
Our Projects
Support Our Restoration Efforts
Explore the fascinating journeys of our steam engine restorations, bringing history back to life for everyone.
Old No. 101 Restoration
This project focuses on restoring the Old No. 101 steam engine, ensuring its legacy runs strong on the Bluebell Railway.
The Revival of 1925
This initiative aims to bring the classic 1925 steam engine back to operational status, enriching our railway’s heritage.
Locomotive 47 Rehabilitation
Our goal with Locomotive 47 is to restore its condition and functionality so it can once again delight visitors.
What Donors Are Saying
Donor feedback is essential to our mission's success.
What Our Donors Say
Help us bring history back to life
Your support makes a difference in restoring steam engines.
Reviving History
We're Proud of Our Progress on Restoring Steam Trains!
Thanks to your support, we’ve completed several restorations and raised a significant amount toward our goal. Every contribution helps us breathe new life into these beautiful machines, and we can’t wait to achieve even more together!
Total Funds Raised to Date
Projects Completed
Upcoming Restorations
Join Our Crew
Stay Informed
Get Involved
Home Templates
Reviving History
Bringing Steam Engines Back to Life
Join us on our mission to restore steam engines for the Bluebell Railway. Through dedication and passion, we’re not just preserving machines; we’re celebrating a piece of history. Follow our journey and see how you can be part of something truly special.
Our Mission
Project Updates
Stay in the loop with our latest steam engine projects. We provide regular updates on progress and plans, so you never miss a beat.
Engineering Insights
Explore the technical know-how behind our heritage projects. We share expert insights into the engineering processes that bring history back to life.
Heritage Preservation
Our commitment includes preserving the rich history of steam engines. Learn how we honor the past while educating future generations.
Support Our Restoration Journey
what people say
Explore Our Gallery
Discover stunning images of our restored steam engines and the exciting projects underway. Each picture tells a story of engineering excellence and heritage preservation.
Stay Connected with Little Loco Group
Subscribe to our newsletter to receive updates about our steam engine restoration projects. Join our community of enthusiasts and stay informed about developments, events, and ways you can get involved. Together, let’s keep the spirit of heritage alive!
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