Iconic engine designed by Doncaster's Sir Nigel Gresley undergoes key test during restoration
The overhaul started back in 2019 but faced delays due to the Covid-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine.
The oldest surviving locomotive designed by Sir Nigel Gresley, a rail pioneer from Doncaster, has successfully passed a vital test following years of extensive restoration work.
Gresley class N2 GNR No.1744 underwent the crucial test at the North Norfolk Railway (NNR) workshops in Weybourne in mid-August 2025, bringing it closer to a planned return to the rails next year.
The overhaul started back in 2019 but faced delays due to the Covid-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine.
The project has involved significant mechanical and boiler work, with the cost of the restoration now standing at around £650,000.
The engine will now be put back together in time for next spring, with mechanics attempting to identify the correct type of paint to use in the restoration.
Sir Nigel Gresley, originally from Doncaster, is celebrated as one of the country’s most iconic locomotive designers.
Philip Benham MBE, Chairman of The Gresley Society, commented:
“The Gresley Society was created to preserve a working Gresley locomotive, and we owe it to our founders, and for the benefit and education of today’s generation, to maintain that vision."
"The progress on No. 1744’s overhaul at the North Norfolk Railway is one more step towards the return of Sir Nigel Gresley’s oldest surviving locomotive to traffic in spring 2026 resplendent in its distinctive Great Northern Railway livery.
“However, The Gresley Society is not yet out of the woods financially and launched a major £100,000 financial appeal with The N2 Overhaul Completion Club to fund No. 1744’s return to traffic which has already raised over £35,000.
"I’d encourage all LNER lovers who want to see the class N2 paired once again with the Midland & Great Northern Society’s unique set of Quad-Art carriages on the North Norfolk Railway to get on board with our appeal!”