Project Aims
The LMS-Patriot Project will be the first new build LMS locomotive. Other new build and conversion projects such as the newly completed A1 'Tornado', BR Standard Pacific 'Hengist', GWR 'Saint', GWR 'Grange', SR 'Beachy Head' and LNER G5 are well under way, but now is the time to build a new LMS locomotive.
Why a Patriot ?
The understandable failure to preserve a Patriot leaves a massive gap in the story of LMS express power. A Patriot would provide the link between the Royal Scot and Jubilee classes and would clearly enhance the UK steam collection. The class was in many ways the only link between Derby and Crewe until the advent of William Stanier.
Can it be done?
Categorically yes! The engineering skills and facilities necessary to produce a new steam locomotive in the UK are in place and proven with other new build projects and restorations. Many original LMS drawings from have been obtained for this project and with all the steam engineering expertise around the UK this project is possible.
We propose to use the axle boxes from unrestored ex Barry 8F number 48518. The boiler from this locomotive has already been removed from this locomotive at Llangollen and taken to Didcot for the 'County' project and the 8F is a good source for other parts that can be reused including the leading bogie wheelset.
The new Patriot locomotive will be assembled by the team led by Dave Owen, Chief Mechanical Engineer at the Llangollen Railway Works. A Fowler tender exists that is proposed to be used with the new Patriot. The frames and wheelsets from this will be restored at the Barry Railway Centre, South Wales, and a brand new tender body will be built.
Creating a Permanent Memorial
The new locomotive will serve as a permanent memorial to all those who fought and died in the First World War and all subsequent wars. This was the original intention of the L. & N. W. R. Claughton memorial engine and later LMS 'Patriot' number 5500, after which the class took the name.
The new 'Patriot' will be named 'The Unknown Warrior' in keeping with the tradition of war memorial engines. The Patriot Project aims to continue this tradition in memory of all those brave men and women who courageously served their country.
Mainline Running
A feasibility study is being carried out to determine the business case and extra costs of going mainline. A high profile engine such as the Patriot in its role as a memorial engine would be be a huge attraction. However, mainline running would require the locomotive to be built to a height of 13', 2½” less than the original design. The design of the chimney, dome and cab would be affected by the reduced height requirements and additional items that are required for mainline running including TPWS, OTMR and possibly air braking also need to be considered. It is the intention to go for mainline running, although no final decisions have been made at this stage. However, we are working closely with the Vehicle Acceptance Body (VAB) with the early planning of the project.
What is required and what will it cost?
Frames:
Manufactured to the original drawings, utilising as much existing material as can be acquired.
Cost: Approximately £48,000
Cylinders:
Three separate castings 18”X 26”. Patterns estimated at circa £30,000 with each casting costing around £6000 plus machining at £2000 per cylinder.
Cost: Approximately £48,000
Driving Wheelsets:
Three 6’9” wheelsets hopefully utilising the existing pattern from Tyseley Locomotive Works that was made for ex-Barry Jubilee 'Galatea'.
Cost: Approximately £150,000
Bogie:
New bogie plus one 3’3 ½” bogie wheelset (the other is available from 48518).
Cost: Approximately £20,000
Motion:
Entirely new.
Cost: Approximately: £150,000
Boiler:
Entirely new.
Cost: Approximately £350,000
Tender:
Existing at Barry.
Cost: Refurbishment and new body £25,000
Sundries Cost: approximately £24,000
ESTIMATED TOTAL COST: £815,000
(not including costs for mainline running)
How the Project Will be Financed
The Patriot Project will raise money through:
- Public donations and regular contributions
- Commercial sponsorship
- Grant applications
Who is behind it?
The LMS Patriot Project was launched by David Bradshaw - a key member of Didcot's Great Western Society 'County' project. Other Directors are Andrew Laws and Richard Sant. The Treasurer is John Buxton.
How to get involved
A Limited Company has been set up - The LMS-Patriot Company Ltd. - and a Charitable Trust has been formed. If you would like to set up a Banker's Order to make regular monthly payments, we would love to hear from you. If you are a UK taxpayer, we will be able to claim Gift Aid from the Government.
To see how you can help this exciting new project please [click here]
