Thirteen years ago, a group of six dedicated volunteers from the Bluebell Railway Locomotive Department came together to purchase a Class 09 locomotive, D4106. Their goal was simple: to provide a reliable diesel and ease the workload on the steam fleet. Since then, D4106 has performed faultlessly, becoming an invaluable part of day-to-day operations.

Today, however, we face a new challenge. After years of dependable service, D4106 has had to be withdrawn due to issues with its power unit. At the same time, our group has also taken on the restoration of Class 33 locomotive D6570 — a project that promises to bring another important asset to the Bluebell Railway.

With both locomotives now in need of attention, we’re launching this fundraising appeal to help us first return D4106 to service, and then complete the restoration of D6570. Every contribution, no matter the size, will help preserve and power the future of these historic locomotives for generations to come.