Barclay 2343/1953

Barclay 2343A very sad picture of Barlay 0-4-0ST 2343/1953 also known as British Gypsum No. 4.

Barclay 2343

Found another pic, no better but the engine’s still in one piece!

This Barclay engine, similar to ‘Colin McAndrew’, was purchased with the intention of being used, in the first instance, to complete the restoring to working condition of Colin McAndrew by donating its boiler, having a 10 year certificate.

Perhaps, in the fullness of time, British Gypsum No. 4 will be restored in its own right.

Its boiler was repaired and passed its hydraulic test at West Coast Railway’s Carnforth workshops.

Whether or not it will be restored, I don’t know, but I would hope we could manage a coat of paint!

7 responses to “Barclay 2343/1953

  1. Very sad to see No 4 in that state . I last saw it in 1974 when Carnforth was run as Steamtown and it was immaculate then but it would seem it hasnt seen a paintbrush since as its the same livery now as then.
    The engine achieved some fame by being taken on a lowloader to the Traction Engine Rally at Kendal and taking part in the Kendal Torchlight Procession around the towns narrow streets the night before.

  2. I have posted a picture on Flickr of British Gypsum No.4 at Steamtown in immaculate condition
    Dave Wilcock.

  3. Yes,you can use it with pleasure.

  4. I thought I would give a brief up date. She arrived safely at Ribble Steam Railway back in July. I have managed to do a small amount on her but I will be able to get stuck in better when my new shift pattern kicks in at work. If anyone has any photos or memories of her at all I would dearly love to hear from you as I would like to get as much info as possible on her. She is a lovely little thing and I hope to do the best for her and the intention is back to running order. Much to do to get there!!

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