This photo is kindly provided by Chris Stratton and shows SMR27 shunting at the Hexham Coal Washery on 23 January 1984.

This locomotive was built by Beyer Peacock & Co as their builder's number 6137 of 1923, becoming No.27 of the South Maitland Railway Pty Ltd's very successful "10-class" 2-8-2T locomotives. ^a  No.27 was one of a number of repeat orders by the SMR for additional 10-class locomotives, which eventually numbered 14 examples. ^c

The majority of the 10-class locomotives became surplus to requirements following cessation of steam haulage on the South Maitland Railway system in 1983, although four of the class remained in operation at Hexham until closure of the Stockrington Colliery line in 1987. ^c  Fortunately the 10-class locomotives and the South Maitland Railway running shed were classified by the National Trust and the entire class passed into preservation.

SMR 27 is now owned privately and stored at the Rothbury Riot Railway, Branxton, together with sisters SMR 17, 20, 23, 26, 28 and 31.  This locomotive was reported in 2004 as being in black livery and under restoration.

Unfortunately the Rothbury Riot Railway site at Branxton is not open to the public, so further information or updates about this restoration project would be appreciated.

Page updated:  2 February 2013