Crowle Peatland Railway had got an additional loco for its heritage track in North Lincolnshire with the acquisition of a piece of Irish peat railway history, the Bord na Mona locomotive LM336.
It is a classic example of the Wagonmaster design, powerful 0-4-0 locomotives built by the Leeds-based Hunslet Engine Company from the early 1960s for the Irish Peat Commission (Bord na Mona). These locomotives played a vital role in transporting peat across Ireland for many years.
Crowle Peatland Railway trustee Will Coleman was responsible for acquisition of the loco. He said: “We are incredibly excited to welcome LM336 to the Crowle Peatland Railway. These Wagonmaster locomotives are not only powerful and functional but also represent an important chapter in Irish industrial history. LM336 will be a fantastic addition to our fleet and we look forward to sharing it with our visitors. The purchase of this locomotive was only possible after generous donations from our members.”
LM336 is currently undergoing a comprehensive inspection to ensure it operates safely and reliably on the Crowle Peatland Railway. Once operational, visitors will have the opportunity to ride behind this historic locomotive and experience a unique piece of Irish peat-railway history.
The railway’s next open weekend at its site on Dole Road in Crowle will be on July 13th & 14th.
