Across town in Shildon are the premises of Rail Restorations North East, situated in part of the old works. A partnership between Dave Foxton and Dr Mike Wood, it has established a name for itself in carriage and wagon work on a commercial basis and has undertaken work for Nick Dodson, Beamish Museum, Bowes Railway and North Bay Railway amongst others.
On Saturday 17th, the company held an open day for visitors to see some of the present and future projects, complemented by model railway and trade stand displays. The Friends of the NRM North East were represented by Nick & Vicky Biggs who did a good job of flying the NRM flag (and keeping my No.2 daughter supplied with cake!) and the WRLPG also had a layout and stand, raising funds for the restoration of their RSH tank loco “Norwood”, seen in the photo below. Also in the picture are a NER snow plough under restoration for a private owner and the Shildon Model Railway Club’s N gauge model of Shildon station itself.
Another project well under way is the G5 Project’s support coach for the new-build locomotive project, this being an LMS BG which was in appalling condition before RRNE worked their magic on it. This will look fantastic once coachpainted and lined out, the work is first class!
And here is the boiler for the G5, freshly delivered from Great Northern Steam in Darlington, and forming part of the display on the project with leading light Dr Mike Wood alongside.
All in all, a very pleasant hour or so taking in a commercial enterprise, albeit one run by enthusiasts! They are looking to make this an annual occurrence; who knows what next year will bring? Already two new bays to the workshop are under construction!
