Ruston & Hornsby No. 203031, built 1942, is one of Ruston's 44/48 class of locomotive, the predecessor of the 48DL class. This machine used to work at RAF Fauld, Staffordshire. The base was an underground bomb and ammunition store housed in former gypsum workings. A narrow gauge railway connected the underground stores dug into the hillside with the trans-shipment sidings alongside the Derby to Stoke railway line and served various workshops around the site.
In 1981, after the closure of the depot, the narrow gauge railway equipment was sold by tender. The Welsh Highland Railway managed to acquire a batch of Hudson bogie wagons, the mines rescue vehicle and a collection of spare parts for Ruston locomotives. We failed to purchase the two Rustons, although some of us had an enjoyable time driving one of them on the days that the depot was open for viewing the equipment.
Both locomotives were purchased by Rheilffordd Llyn Padarn Cyf (the Llanberis Lake Railway). No. 203031 became No. 10 in the Llanberis locomotive fleet and given the name 'Braich'. In recent years it has been out of use and various parts, including its original engine, have been removed for use on other locomotives. When No. 203031 was offered for sale by Rheilffordd Llyn Padarn Cyf we were pleased to be given the opportunity to purchase a source of valuable spare parts. The wheels and transfer box are likely to end up on Ruston & Hornsby No. 3. Although it had lost its original engine, a replacement one came with the locomotive. This happens to be one of the Ruston 4VRH engines modified for underground use and, depending on its condition is likely to be fitted to the ex-National Coal Board Ruston 48DLG locomotive that is currently under renovation.
The locomotive is now a static exhibit in the display yard. It is boarded to make it easy for children to climb in and out safely. The cab has been fitted with lights and sound effects to appeal to children under 90.