After 44 years of inactivity, the restored steam locomotive “Carmyllie Pilot” is back on the tracks. Led by Iain Smith from Aviemore in the Scottish Highlands, a dedicated team of volunteers spent 25 years painstakingly restoring the Ivatt Class 2 2-6-0 engine. This locomotive, once a vital part of Scottish rail transport, now gleams as it did in its prime.
By August Roberts
The Legacy of Carmyllie Pilot
Built 75 years ago, the “Carmyllie Pilot” primarily served passenger routes between Angus and Fife. For 14 years, it was a familiar sight on these tracks, transporting both passengers and freight. However, in 1966, it was retired from service, marking the end of its operational life. Its long service history made it an iconic part of Scotland’s railway heritage.
The Restoration Journey Begins
The revival of the locomotive started when Ian Fraser, a former London North Eastern Railway engineer, acquired it. He had developed a friendship with one of the former drivers and decided to add the engine to his railway museum in Dundee. Later, it was moved to the Strathspey Railway in Aviemore. A technical issue sidelined the locomotive in 1989, and it returned to Fraser’s ownership.
Volunteer Efforts and Restoration
Following Fraser’s death in 2000, a group of volunteers formed the Carmyllie Pilot Company Ltd with the goal of fully restoring the locomotive. Extensive work was carried out at the Strathspey Railway, alongside other historical locomotives. Custom-made parts were essential due to the rarity of original replacements, and the locomotive received an authentic paint job, bringing it back to its former glory.
An Emotional Milestone
For Iain Smith and his team, seeing the “Carmyllie Pilot” steam down the tracks again was a deeply emotional experience. “It was like a giant Meccano set at our site,” Smith told the BBC, comparing the restoration to a popular construction toy. The successful return of the locomotive to operational status is a testament to the team’s dedication and passion for preserving railway history.
The revival of the “Carmyllie Pilot” is a remarkable achievement, demonstrating the power of commitment and teamwork. This locomotive stands as a technical marvel and a symbol of historical preservation.
Based on content from www.goodnewsnetwork.org