50030 Repulse

50030 Repulse worked its last train in February 1992 and was withdrawn in April 1992 due to main generator damage, thereby becoming the 45th Class 50 locomotive to be withdrawn after over 23 years of active service. Its engine hours stood at 7,684.

Two years after its withdrawal, 50030 was finally moved to the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway by Operation Collingwood where it then sat outside for a number of years. In July 2002 the Renown Repulse Restoration Group purchased both 50030 and 50029 Renown to prevent their scrapping following the demise of Operation Collingwood. They were both subsequently moved to Rowsley at Peak Rail, where they now both reside.

50030 has been cosmetically restored to British Rail large logo livery to make it look more presentable to visitors, a condition of its acceptance at the railway. During 2007 the top end of the power unit in 50030 was completely stripped and all 16 cylinder heads removed. A spare power unit ex-50008 Thunderer was also purchased and work started on its overhaul. Much has been achieved internally with the electrical cubicle rebuild progressing well together with the rebuilding of the cabs.

Dates: 2005-2012