Fenchurch is one of the "Terrier" tank engines built by the LB&SCR. She ran for many years at the Bluebell, before being withdrawn needing major repairs. These were eventually managed by the Villa Team, who took the opportunity to convert her from her latter-day A1X rebuilt condition to a likeness of her original A1 state. Some things could not be changed, such as her boiler, and the condensing pipes from smokebox to sidetanks are dummies, but the effect is very convincing. Compare these pictures to those of Stepney to see the differences.
Out of use in the back of the shed in A1X condition and her BR number and livery. 19.12.93.
Ex-works in A1 guise and LBSCR livery, November 2000.
Even the white of the tool box is still spotless!
Just arrived at Sheffield Park.
Double-heading a train north to Horsted Keynes with 8 'Freshwater'.
Over the pit at the end of the day.
Having her chimney polished prior to Giants of Steam. 23.10.01.
At Kingscote in L B & S C R lettering for the Branchline Weekend, 22nd February 2003.
Running down one of the sidings at Horsted Keynes on a footplate experience
turn. 27th April 2003.
Out of use for the day at Sheffield Park, 11th May 2003.
Fenchurch at Sheffield Park on a Footplate Days & Ways course, 16th
June 2003.
Hurrying through the station later that day, with my dad at the controls!
The rake of Metropolitan Railway carriages in Sheffield Park station,
14th November 2004.
Fenchurch at the head of the train, prior to departure.
Fenchurch pulls the Mets north to Horsted Keynes.