Steam Engine That Inspired Thomas' Oliver set for Long Awaited Return to the Tracks

A steam locomotive that inspired one of the best-loved characters in The Railway Series and Thomas & Friends is moving ever closer to a long-awaited return to service at the South Devon Railway.

Great Western Railway tank engine No. 1420, widely recognised as one of the inspirations behind Oliver the Great Western Engine, has entered the final stages of an extensive overhaul following almost two decades out of traffic.

Built in the 1930s and based at the South Devon Railway since 1969, the much-loved locomotive has become a favourite with generations of enthusiasts and families alike. Now, after years of painstaking restoration, the finish line is finally coming into sight.

Painting is progressing as the weather allows, with topcoats now being applied ahead of lining, transfers and varnishing.

Elsewhere, the smokebox is almost fully assembled, with only a handful of final components still to be fitted, while engineers have also manufactured a brand-new vacuum reservoir as part of the rebuild.

The locomotive has benefited from an entirely new set of side tanks and complete new cladding, while work continues inside the cab fitting pipework, rebuilding the combined brake valve and installing a host of components that will eventually return the engine to working order.

Ernest Elsworth-Wilson, General Manager of the South Devon Railway, said: “No. 1420 has a very special place in the history of both the South Devon Railway and Britain's railway preservation movement.

“For many people it is instantly recognisable as one of the locomotives that inspired Oliver from The Railway Series, while for others it is simply a much-loved engine they remember from visits to the railway over many decades.

“Seeing it taking shape again after such a comprehensive overhaul is incredibly rewarding. It has required thousands of hours of dedication from our volunteers, staff and specialist contractors, whose skills are helping preserve an important piece of railway heritage for future generations,” he added.

The overhaul has involved rebuilding or replacing major sections of the locomotive, with engineers carefully balancing traditional craftsmanship with modern engineering techniques to ensure No. 1420 is ready for many more years of service.

The restoration has also received valuable support from the Rev. W. Awdry Charitable Trust, recognising the locomotive's place in the story of one of Britain's most celebrated railway authors and the enduring legacy of The Railway Series.

During its early preservation years at the South Devon Railway, the locomotive also became affectionately known as Bulliver, a name adopted by the former Dart Valley Railway as a tribute to a much-loved local train and one that remains fondly remembered by many long-time visitors.

The South Devon Railway hopes No. 1420 will return to steam before the end of 2026, with enthusiasts already eagerly anticipating its public debut during the railway's Winter Steam Gala in early 2027.

Visitors can watch progress for themselves from the South Devon Railway's workshop viewing gallery, where No. 1420 is being restored alongside a number of other historic railway vehicles.

“One of the joys of visiting the South Devon Railway is being able to see restoration work taking place first hand,” said Ernest.

“Our viewing gallery offers a fascinating insight into the remarkable craftsmanship involved in bringing these historic locomotives back to life,” he added.