Project to improve railway rewarded

A RAIL preservation society with strong Malvern links has been named the best heritage railway project of 2012.

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Society triumphed over 15 other high-quality entries to win the award sponsored by Steam Railway Magazine.

Receiving the award at a ceremony in London was the society’s engineering director David Mead of Geraldine Road, Malvern.

The award recognizes the Society’s work in improving the reliability and performance of the famous B-Class steam locomotives on the railway in India.

The work was done following a request for help was made by Indian Railways in early 2011. Between mid-2011 and early 2012 Mr Mead and steam engineer Mike Weedon made three trips to the railway’s Tindharia Works.

With the willing assistance of local staff they were able to achieve significant improvements in the efficiency of two locomotives, as well as assisting with skills training and a review of workshop procedures.

Mr Mead said: “We are delighted to receive such a huge vote of confidence in our efforts to help the DHR keep its British-built steam locomotives in good order for many years to come. With the full support of Indian Railways we look forward to continuing this vital work.”

The award ceremony took place at the Union Jack Club, London, at the AGM dinner of the Heritage Railway Association. As well as Mr Mead, other senior members of the society live in the Malvern area, and the society has a high profile locally.