A week on from "Strictly Bulleid II" at the Swanage Railway, it would be the turn of the Bluebell Railway for a Bulleid celebration, with the rededication ceremony of 34059 "Sir Archibald Sinclair".
Rebuilt 'Battle of Britain' Class - 34059 "Sir Archibald Sinclair" was the 108th locomotive to be rescued from Woodhams Scrapyard in south Wales. Owned by the Bulleid Society, 34059 first returned to service following its restoration in 2009, but would be withdrawn in 2011 due to issues with its firebox; this would spiral into a full overhaul with the construction of a new firebox. 34059 raised steam again in late 2023, devoid of nameplates and with unfinished paintwork, subsequently featuring in the 'New Year's Day Steam Up' at the start of 2024. After this brief appearance, the Bulleid pacific would enter the paint shop at Horsted Keynes for completion.
The rededication ceremony marks the full return to service for the Bulleid pacific, and the welcome return of the Bulleid bark back to Sussex. The ceremony would feature speeches from Roy Watts - Bluebell Railway chairman, and Tim Dunn - TV presenter & historian. The nameplate would be unveiled by Mr & Mrs Roger Cruse - Chairman of the Bulleid Society.
Locomotives:
Ex-SR Rebuilt 'Battle of Britain' Class - 34059 "Sir Archibald Sinclair"
BR Standard Class 5MT - 73082 "Camelot"
SE&CR O1 Class - 65
LB&SCR A1X 'Terrier' Class - 72 "Fenchurch" would also be in service during the day. However, the 'Terrier' would fail before the cameras could catch it.
00:00 - 34059 On shed at Sheffield Park
00:32 - 34059 arrives into Sheffield Park station
01:39 - Speech - Roy Watts
03:13 - Speech - Tim Dunn
05:08 - Unveiling the nameplate
07:06 - 34059 Sheffield Park
07:27 - 34059 Sharpthorne Tunnel
08:37 - 34059 Imberhorne
09:30 - 73082 Sharpthorne Tunnel
10:30 - 65 Horsted Keynes footpath
12:20 - 34059 Freshfield Bank
Footnote
Following the unsuccessful trial of a new tripod head, another new one has been sourced of a different model. This day would serve as trial for the component; taking the opportunity to test configurations.
All footage filmed on Saturday the 15th of June 2024.
