T3 class No. 563 returns to action on Swanage Railway after restoration

A Victorian steam locomotive that has escaped being scrapped twice is back in action and pulling carriages for the first time in 75 years.

The 1893 London and South Western Railway T3 class No. 563 was donated to Swanage Railway in Dorset in 2017.

It has taken its first passengers on the heritage line following a six-year restoration effort costing £650,000.

12 October 2023