MAIN LINE PRESERVATION GROUP

President: The Right Hon, the Earl of Lanesborough, T.D., D.L., J.P.

        Many main-line steam locomotives have recently been saved by the efforts of dedicated and generous enthusiasts. There is, nonetheless, a serious danger that these engines may become museum pieces or historical relics, because of the increasing difficulties in finding adequate facilities for some of them to operate in authentic conditions. This state of affairs is now such that only one main-line steam locomotive is allowed to run on B.R. tracks.
        The Main Line Preservation Group has been formed with the object of bringing together everyone who is interested in the operation of main-line steam locomotives on a length of main line, either owned or leased for the purpose. The need for a suitable line has often been expressed in the railway enthusiast press and elsewhere. The Group exists to fulfil this need by acquiring, or assisting in the acquisition of, some part of a main line.
        At present the Group is considering part of the former Great Central Railway line from Leicester Central Station or Abbey Lane Sidings to Loughborough or Ruddington near Nottingham. Support, local and otherwise, has already been forthcoming for this project. The Earl of Lanesborough, through whose land the line runs, has kindly accepted the Presidency of the Group and other interest has been shown not only by private and public bodies, but also by owners of several large locomotives, who have been in contact with the Group.
        Membership of the Group is obtained upon payment of a subscription of ten shillings per annum. This low amount has been fixed so as not to deter any interested person from declaring his support; and thus fulfilling the Group’s general object.
        The success of any specific project, however, such as the acquisition of the line mentioned above, will undoubtedly require an amount substantially greater than that which could be raised by subscription alone. Donations, no matter how small, will be of upmost importance if the Group’s aims are to be achieved. All members will be given the opportunity, according to their abilities, to take part in the upkeep and operation of any line acquired by the Group. Meanwhile, I would ask you to show your own individual support for the Main Line Preservation Group by completing the attached subscription form and returning it to the treasurer at the address given.

S. W. Smith

© 2001-2025   Text and photographs copyright Nigel Tout, unless otherwise indicated.