Proving itself to be a reliable, versatile and economical locomotive, 3850 ran no less than 7928 miles between returning to the WSR in May and the end of the year.

The WSR has extended its hire agreement for the locomotive to the end of 2007 and we can expect that 3850 will cover a similar number of miles over the year.

3850 has followed 7820's tracks onto the small screen. Our locomotive was used in shots taken between Blue Anchor and Minehead for the BBC tv programme, 'Comedy Map of Britain' featuring the locations used for comedy programmes, among which was included the Beatles' film 'Hard Days Night'. In 1996 Dinmore Manor was used in a recording of the BBC's 'Antiques Roadshow' within twelve months of returning to steam.

The coal space of 3850's own tender has been cleared of the fittings that had been stored there. Most of these will be used as patterns for new parts. The tank itself will be removed soon and, like the fittings, be used as a pattern for a replacement. This will allow clear access to the frames and the wheels, which were restored at Minehead some years ago, but are to receive some maintenance before the rebuilding begins.

Work has started to restore parts of the tender, above the frames, that will be reused on the new tank.

A detailed inspection of 3850's boiler and firebox has revealed that the crown stays will probably need replacing in a year or two. The same job on 7820 cost £17,000 five years ago. Our treasurer already has a contingency plan in place.

Meanwhile, 7820 is not being neglected. Working parties of WSR volunteers have been carrying out cleaning, oiling and greasing jobs to ensure that the locomotive does not deteriorate while it is in storage.

Working parties are being held at Honeybourne, usually on the last Saturday of each month, where 3850’s tender is currently under restoration. Please check with us before travelling.

We hope as many shareholders, together with their families and friends will be able to join us for this event. An application form for tickets is enclosed with this newsletter.

The train arrives at Minehead at 12.45 and the return run departs at 17.35, so there is plenty of time to take in the attractions of the seaside town, or, by special arrangement with the West Somerset Railway, ‘Shareholder Special’ tickets will be valid as ‘Rover’ tickets on WSR trains during the afternoon.

A raffle will be held on the train with prizes of footplate rides, 3850/7820 sweatshirts and DVD’s.

Just a couple of places are still available on our 'DRIVE 3850' footplate experience courses, one on May 8^th and one on May 10^th. The cost, to drive for half the length of the twenty miles of the West Somerset Railway and fire half the length is £200. Contact us as soon as possible to book your place.

In his report to the company's annual general meeting, held in November, chairman Robin George thanked all of those involved with the completion of the project to return 3850 to steam. He particularly mentioned those shareholders whose contributions and loans had made the whole project possible and the West Somerset Railway staff and DMLL members whose efforts early in the year completed the task of ensuring that 3850 was ready for revenue earning service after its delivery from Tyseley.

Robin described 3850's service on the line as "a resounding success". He also looked forward to the projects in hand, the completion of 3850's tender and the overhaul of 7820, announcing the launch of an appeal for £100,000 to make this happen.

Full minutes of the meeting have been sent out to shareholders.

Don’t forget to let us know when you change address, by writing to Dinmore Manor Locomotive Ltd, 48 Tinkers Drove, Wisbech, PE13 3PQ or telephone 01945 587892