76 years since a steam railmotor last ran under its own power in the UK
Following a 13 year restoration, involving the manufacture of a new vertical boiler and power bogie (truck), Steam Railmotor No 93 is to be officially launched on Saturday 28 May 2011 by Adrian Shooter, CBE, Chairman of Chiltern Trains.
Also being officially opened, one hour later, will be the new dedicated steam railmotor shed. This shed, a copy of the railmotor shed at Southall, was specifically built by the legacy from Charles Whetmath, and his aunt, Mrs Joyce Hancock will officially open the shed.
The steam railmotor is an example of the first generation of trains that were self-propelled, and could be driven from either end. Built in 1908, No 93 was withdrawn in 1934 and converted to an auto-trailer for push-pull working with a separate locomotive. Condemned in 1956, it was subsequently converted into a mobile office.
The Great Western Society acquired the vehicle in the early 1970s with the hope that one day it would be restored to its original condition. Work started in the early 1990s to build a new power bogie to the original design and rebuild and restore the coach. Resplendent in 1912 crimson lake livery, every detail of the period interior has been faithfully recreated including exquisite fabric roller blinds, seating moquette to the original pattern and gas lighting.
On the public launch day there will be a line-up featuring: the steam railmotor, a push-pull auto train, GWR Diesel railcar 22, and three or four modernday diesel multiple units (courtesy of Chiltern Trains and First Great Western). Railmotor 93 will then take its part in the regular operating days at the Didcot centre.