Epping Ongar Railway’s first steam locomotive, newly restored Hawthorn Leslie No. 3437 “Isabel” was back in service on September 29th 2017, for the first time since 2014 when it was decided to take her out of service for a complete overhaul. Now back with a new 10 year ticket we put her to good use hauling our brake van rides at our Autumn Steam Gala.

Isabel at North Weald during our Autumn Steam Gala, September 2017

The overhaul was led by Tony Goulding, our Rolling Stock Manager, along with much needed support from the Railway’s volunteers. This is the first time that the EOR has undertaken an overhaul ‘in-house’ and although Isabel was modest it certainly shows the much-needed skills that we’re developing as the Railway continues to grow.

It is expected that the little locomotive will work some of our low season services and at some special events.