News update

The National Wagon Preservation Group (NWPG) and the Telford Steam Railway (TSR) are very pleased to announce the homing of pioneer Coalfish MHA 394001. The coalfish is synonymous with the engineering trains of the last 27 years and have proved their flexibility in moving fresh or spoiled ballast and sand across the UK.

At the Telford's 2024 Annual General Meeting, Will Snook was introduced to TSR members and gave a small background on the wagon's history and relevance for being based at the TSR.

Mark Paynter, TSR's Director of Training & Development said "We are so excited to work alongside the NWPG to offer this wagon a home and see it put to use with our engineering trains for many years to come".

Will (Co-Chair NWPG) said "After the purchase, I knew exactly who to call, Mark and I have worked closely together in the past and have had many conversations regarding Telford's need for some appropriate rolling stock. We are humbled to be working alongside such amazing people at the TSR".

The underframe was donated to this particular wagon from HAA 365673 (Lot 3997, Shildon 1981) and was converted in 1997 into its current guise at RFS, Doncaster. The intention will be to restore the wagon to as-converted state in 1997 over the coming years whilst it provides more years of valuable service in preservation.

Andrew Davies, Director of Traction & Rolling Stock at the TSR said "We hope that both teams can learn from each other and strengthen their knowledge for the betterment of heritage. This wagon will prove a useful asset for our air-braked engineering train".

Chris Thorn, Social Media Manager of the NWPG, said "The coalfish is the final piece of the story in the MGR history, yet this wagon also stands on its own merits as a stalwart of engineering in the privatisation era. The response from our followers has been phenomenal, were so glad this wagon has been preserved for generations to come".

The wagon will soon be delivered to the TSR at Horsehay and will be given a full inspection to ensure it is safe and functional for use. The wagon will then be put into action to earn its keep.

The NWPG is currently raising funds via their Facebook page selling hidden gems and railwayana to help pay for the move. If you wish to become a member or contribute to the costs of wagon, please head on over to their website at www.nwpg.co.uk

The Telford Steam Railway is always on the lookout for volunteers and donations and their website is https://www.telfordsteamrailway.co.uk/

The picture below shows Will Snook (NWPG) (second from right) and Mark Paynter (TSR) (second from left) with the signed agreement for the basing of Coalfish MHA 394001 along with fellow Directors Chris Whitehead and Rich Owen.