B17 Trust B17 Trust

Brian Hall

It is with great sadness that we have to inform you that our Chairman, Brian Hall, passed away peacefully on March 22nd, after a short illness. His wife and children were with him as he faded away with any pain or distress.

Brian's passing very clearly marks the end of an era for the B17 Steam Locomotive Trust, which he founded and lead for more than a decade.

The Trust is unwavering in its determination to press ahead with the project and to bring it to fruition in Brian's memory, as he himself would have wished.

Currently, LNER B12 and B1 locomotives are operational in preservation, but none of the B17s survived the cutter's torch. The B17 is the only 4-6-0 locomotive designed by Sir Nigel Gresley that is missing from our heritage.

Help fulfill the project aim to construct a new B17, to recreate again those exhilarating sights and sounds of a ‘Sandringham’ hard at work on the mainline at the head of its train and re-introduce something of our past heritage, for greater public benefit in years to come.

Almost 65 years without a B17. Help us ensure that we can recreate this wonder within the next 10 years.

🚂 The Cab Appeal

Having reached its target, this appeal is now closed. Look here very soon for a new appeal for the financing of the Footplate/running boards and Splashers. Help us complete this next vital stage of construction.

Donate to The Cab Appeal

2025 Raffle & Updates

See the results of our latest fundraising efforts.

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Construction Progress & Video Updates

The Face of Spirit of Sandringham is taking shape.
Watch our latest updates from Tom Ingall, featuring the machining of our six driving wheels and an interview with Daniela Filova on the Smokebox Door fittings.