The Class 56 Group welcomes recent news of an attempt to preserve long term Barrow Hill resident 56006.

The parties involved include respected individuals from both Barrow Hill and the Class 56 Group, but the Class 56 Group is not directly involved with the project other than to help wherever possible.

The funds necessary have almost been raised and a final sum of less than £10,000 is required to secure the loco from EMR who purchased the loco from the recent DBS tender list.

The loco would be based at Barrow Hill where it has been based for many years following its retirement from EWS service in the EWS Heritage pool. 56006 was the first Class 56 to enter traffic and many people felt she deserved a place in the National collection. The class 56 Group has offered to act as a collection and forwarding agent for any individuals wishing to contribute to the purchase of 56006.

Of course if any individual (or group of individuals ) wants to chip in a significant amount and become part owners of the loco the C56G can always put them in direct touch with the right people.

C56G is unable to join in the project as we have enough on our plate with 56301 to look after but we encourage all Class 56 enthusiasts to donate to the project and we hope it is sucessful in securing 56006.

As the C56G currently has an existing appeal for funds for its own loco 56301 can we ask anyone sending a donation to mark it very clearly for either 56301 or 56006. Donations should be sent to The C56G Treasurer, 61 Tyersal Park, Bradford , West Yorkshire BD4 8EY and Cheques made payable to Class 56 Group.

Of course EMR won’t wait for ever before calling 56006 to Kingsbury or Attercliffe so don’t delay if you feel you can help.

Best Regards

Keith Bulmer

Chairman ,Class 56 Group