The Belfast & County Down Railway Museum Trust has agreed terms for the purchase of two steam locomotives that are to be named ‘Hero’ and ‘Remembrance’ as a means of paying special tribute to British and Allied forces.
To be able to confirm the purchase of the engines the group is currently seeking ‘Pledges’ of support from members of the public, from rail enthusiasts, and from commercial interests across the UK, as well as from members of the Armed Forces and their families who may be interested in providing tributes to their colleagues and military veterans.
This is a unique opportunity that will allow everyone to get involved in a very special tribute that will provide permanent reminders of the sacrifices that have been made in the various conflicts over the years, including the two World Wars, the Korean War, the conflict in Northern Ireland, the Gulf Wars, the Falklands War, Iraq, and Afghanistan.
The Trust has been given only a limited time to raise the funds to purchase the two engines, and so is appealing to everyone who would like to make a small gesture of appreciation for the role that our Armed Forces, and the forces of our allies, have played, to please respond as quickly as possible.
£100,000 is needed to purchase the engines and to restore them to full working order.
When sufficient pledges have been received, everyone who has responded will be invited to honour their pledge, and, following the restoration, naming, and dedication of the engines, all contributors will receive a special certificate in recognition of their contribution.
The Trust welcomes support from major business organisations towards this appeal; any individual or organisation contributing £500 or more will receive an invitation to the naming and dedication ceremony, and a register of all contributors will be maintained for inspection at the Trust’s museum.
Following restoration the two engines will be operated by the B.& C.D.R. Museum Trust on the only British standard gauge Heritage Steam Railway in Northern Ireland.
