Ruston & Hornsby No. 382824
Hector
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Our reliable runner, 'Hector' is always there to fill in when other engines falter. While a small loco, it has a mighty heart.
INFORMATION
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Hector shunting in Spring Village Yard |
HISTORY
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Small but Mighty
This 0-4-0 diesel mechanical loco was built in 1955 as works number 382824. It was then delivered to F.H. Lloyd and Co Birmingham, who were a prominent manufacture of steel products.
The 88DS class first emerged from the Ruston works in 1942 and proved to be a versitile design, especially in view of the removable ballast that attach to the side frames and a chassis design adaptable to no less that eight gauge variants from 3' to 5'6". 254 examples were built in weights of 17 tons and 20 tons, 382824 being a 20 ton example. During serivce it picked up the nickname 'Ivor'. It was purchased privately from F.H. Lloyd and Co. Birmingham in 1981. |
Hector on arrival at TSR |
Hector's first run to Lawley Halt |
Early workhorseIt arrived at TSR in 1981 and was immediately used as the works shunter. It worked to relay the running line and complete the major infrastructure works for the line to re-open to passengers.
The loco was renamed Hector after the owners dog, and was repainted into a fictitious BR green livery. The loco was eventually parked up as more powerful locos arrived on the line, and was sold to a new owner at TSR. Hector has recently had a thorough overhaul from her new owner, including a repaint into its original blue livery. It is used primary on works trains but also hauls brake van rides for passengers during some of our special events. |
CURRENT STATUSHector is one of the most regular performers at TSR. As our line doesn't have any operational run around loops, two locos are often required when shunting to organise trains. Hector has carried on the role it was built for by being an essential asset to keep the railway running.
While the engine doesn't operate passenger services, it can be seen out on brake van rides and at the Diesel Gala. |
Hector's on brake van rides |
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Brake Van RidesRuston & Hornsby Class 88DS No. 382824 “Hector” will be providing brake van rides within Spring Village station limits throughout the day.
You can experience what its like to be a guard, travelling in an authentic brake van with the wind blowing through your hair. 2026 Dates : 14th June & 23rd August |
