East Midlands Railway (EMR) have auctioned off a decommissioned 1970’s goods wagon raising £700 for the Railway Children Charity.
The OBA wagon was built in 1977 and was used to transport material such as scrap and general merchandise until the early nineties.
The wagon was won by Kieran Fallows from the National Wagon Preservation Group (NWPG).
The aim of the NWPG is to preserve and exhibit various wagons built since the formation of British Rail in 1948.
Mr Fallows, Project: Railfreight Manager at the NWPG explained how the wagon will be presented in future exhibitions.
Mr Fallows said: “It’s fantastic to have secured this wagon and at the same time help raise money for such a vital charity.
“Wagons such as the OBA are an important part of our railway heritage.
“Typically wagons have a shorter lifespan than locomotives and passenger stock and are often scrapped en masse.
“This vehicle will be part of our Project: Railfreight initiative, which aims to recreate the sight of a typical 1980’s Railfreight service as operated by British Rail under its Speedlink operations.
“I was delighted when EMR allowed us to bid on the wagon and I’m looking forward to displaying it for others to enjoy.”
Neil Bamford, Fleet Director at EMR spoke on how EMR are eager to raise money for charities through supporting rail heritage groups.
Mr Bamford said: “Auctioning off the wagon was a good opportunity to raise money for a great charity while also securing a piece of railway history for others to enjoy.
“We are delighted that the NWPG won the item and that another piece of rail history has been saved from the scrapyard.”
