Jack Owen

Sadly we have to report that Jack passed away on 16 February 2014.

As many will already know, Jack was the leading light in the locomotive department right from the arrival of our first locomotive in May 1960, becoming our senior locomotive inspector. He was unsurpassed in his skills and expertise on how to maintain, rebuild and drive steam locomotives, his experience at Three Bridges Shed standing the Bluebell in good stead. Jack taught many of today's drivers their trade, and his passing further reduces the ranks of those who were involved in the original formation of the Bluebell.

Brian Humber writes: "Jack was the one who kindled my long-lasting enthusiasm for the Bluebell in the early '70s when I helped him midweek with the painting of locos. He was a fair, kind but firm man in all regards and had very high standards - with the paintbrush as well as with the drivers and firemen. He always insisted I had a footplate ride once during my leaves from the Merchant Navy during those years, which I will never forget."

Jack and Shirley kept in contact with the Bluebell after his retirement to Shropshire, and came down to the Railway to attend quite a few of our events. We believe there will be a small private family funeral at their Shropshire home. We offer Shirley and the Owen family our most sincere condolences on such a sad loss.