Hundreds visit steam engine convention (From The Northern Echo)

Hundreds visit steam engine convention

7:43pm Sunday 21st October 2007

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HUNDREDS of people supporting the construction of the first new mainline steam engine in Britain for almost 50 years were in Darlington this weekend.

The regular donors were at the A1 Steam Locomotive Trusts annual convention - the last before the engine is due to steam early next year.

The Trust has raised £2.56million to build the Tornado, with money coming from donors, sponsorship, and a bonds issue.

On Saturday, donors heard a series of presentations on the projects financial and engineering status.

They also visited the trusts Darlington Locomotive Works, on Hopetown Lane, to see the engine - almost complete - for themselves.

Once the Tornado is complete, it will be used for charter trains operating on Network Rail. Viewing is available to the public on the second Saturday of every month, from 11am to 4pm.

The main sponsor is William Cook Cast Products Ltd, with other backing from Corus, ID Howitt, Total, MH Spencer Ltd, and Darlington Borough Council.

For more information, visit www.a1steam.com

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