The Group own two GWR locomotives - no 2859 and 5532.  Both of these locomotives are undergoing restoration at Llangollen led by Engineering Manager Nigel Lightbown, who played a major part in the restoration of GWR Pannier Tank 7754 at Llangollen.

2859, with a tractive effort of 35,380 lbs. will be by far the most powerful resident locomotive at Llangollen and is also Llangollen's only pregrouping locomotive, being built in May 1918.

2859 was the last locomotive to have received an overhaul at Wolverhampton (Stafford Road) works, leaving the works on February 11st 1964.  The 28xx class 2-8-0s were graded 8F and were extensively used on the GWR system usually on long distance freight, but occasionally on passenger services and a number were shedded at Croes Newydd (Wrexham), Shrewsbury, Birkenhead and Chester.  2859 was briefly based at Croes Newydd during the 1940s and also worked Iron Ore trains to Brymbo (Wrexham).

5532 was built in June 1928 and is a 4575 2-6-2 Prairie Tank engine.  5532 was allocated for a short period from November 1953 at Oswestry.  The 4575 Prairie Tanks, a 4 mixed traffic design, were often used on the Pwllheli portion of the Cambrian Coast Express, while others operated around Chester, Oswestry, Wrexham and many rural Great Western lines across the GWR network.  In October 1941, 5532 hauled the Royal train to Monmouth and Ross on Wye.

You can assist the continuing restoration of these 2 GWR locomotices.  You can help by making a one off contribution of as little as £25 serling.  You will then become a permanent member of the group.,  Your contribution will help fund restoration and maintenance of both engines and a certificate will acknowledge your permanent contribution.  Alternatively or additionally, why not join our 100 club monthly prize draw, giving you the chance to win cash prizes.  We are also interested in hearing from anybody who would like to lend their spare time towards the project.   The group welcomes anybody who can help by volunteering to assist in the restoration or sales work.  Membership can by given as a gift to a relative / friend at Christmas / birthday or any other occasion.

Help us to re-create the golden age of the Great Western Railway era.