The North Norfolk Railway (NNR) has today confirmed that ex-BR Standard Class 4MT tank engine No. 80080 will become the newest addition to its operational steam fleet from late May 2025.
The much-travelled locomotive will be based at the heritage railway—affectionately known as the Poppy Line—as part of a new partnership between the Princess Royal Class Locomotive Trust (PRCLT) and NNR, with an initial five-year agreement now in place.
A Locomotive with a Colourful Past
Built at Brighton Works in 1954, 80080 initially worked on commuter services out of London on the Tilbury and Southend line of the Eastern Region. Later transferred to Wrexham in North Wales, the locomotive saw less than 12 years in service before being withdrawn in 1965.
After withdrawal, 80080 languished in Barry scrapyard for 14 years, where it was stripped for parts and subjected to the ravages of weather and metal theft. A full-scale restoration began in 1980, and by 1987, the locomotive had returned to steam, including mainline duties.
In the years since, 80080 became a familiar sight on various railtours and specials, including:
- London Underground steam events
- Services on the Folkestone Harbour branch
- Stopping services on the Settle & Carlisle line
Since 2010, 80080 has spent time working at several heritage railways, earning a reputation as a reliable and popular locomotive.
A Perfect Fit for the Poppy Line
Graham Hukins, General Manager at NNR, said:
“We are looking forward to welcoming 80080 to Norfolk. The Class is probably the ideal heritage railway locomotive, and I am sure the engine will be well suited to our day-to-day services, dining trains and special events such as the Norfolk Lights Express.
“Classmates of 80080 have visited before and always proved popular with crews, photographers and passengers alike. This locomotive will be an extremely useful and versatile addition to our fleet.”
A Strategic Partnership with PRCLT
Chris Powell, Chairman of the Princess Royal Class Locomotive Trust, commented:
“We are very pleased to be working with the North Norfolk Railway. There is a strong synergy between our two organisations—we want to see 80080 in regular service, and the NNR offers just the right kind of operations for a locomotive like this.”
2025 Season Details
The arrival of 80080 coincides with a busy 2025 operating season for the North Norfolk Railway, which runs from 5 April to 2 November. The railway is open most days during this period, with a packed calendar of steam and diesel-hauled services, dining trains, and special events.
Advance booking is strongly recommended, and passengers booking online can enjoy a 15% discount on standard fares.
For timetables, tickets, and events, visit 👉 www.nnrailway.co.uk
