We purchased Hudswell Clarke HC1776 and have it at our new workshops near Horwich. The engine has been
derelict since the NCB finished with it in October 1970. It was sold to Jose K Holt in Chequerbent near Bolton who are scrap
merchants. Although they had scrapped several Walkden locos they kept Harry although it only ever got a coat of red lead.
It went to the Shropshire Collection and was offered for sale in April 2000. Unfortunately the entire collection was sold
to one purchaser. However we heard on the grapevine in 2001 that it was for sale again and this time we were successful
in obtaining the loco.
Recently we removed the tank and cab from the engine and took out the old tubes. We were amazed to find the boiler in
much better condition than was feared. We thought the boiler could have had water in it as the dome cover was left off. However
the barrel is fine with one rivet head missing. The crown stays will require replacement as they are in very poor condition
and a new tubeplate will be made. Due to 33 years corrosion through outside storeage new side patches on the outer firebox
are required.The inner firebox is very good. We are now progressing the boiler repairs with the intention of fitting
the boiler to HE3776 to get this running. Harry has the tank, wheels and motion from Allen another Astley Green locomotive.
Mechanically the engine is extremely worn with a very thorough overhaul being required, similar to HE2414.
