Friends of Royal Oak 50017

03/08/2026

With thanks to our friends at Dorlec, the failed traction motor from 50017 has been repaired and overhauled to an exceptional standard. We aim to have the motor reunited with the loco within the coming days to prepare for fitment.

Help support 50017 by donating what you can to the fundraiser, all funds are used on the loco there will be more updates to follow.

https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/qr/vn97Yk3l?utm_campaign=sharemodal&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=shortlink

04/07/2026

Play your part towards the return of 50017 with repairs now underway all donations go towards getting her back working.

Fund the works required to return 50017 “Royal Oak” to service

04/07/2026

An update regarding the ongoing repairs of 50017

The A2 piston and liner have been removed and are expected to be fitted with new rings and lower liner seal this coming week. All other liners have been inspected and show no sign of leaks but will be checked again once there is coolant back in the loco.

Before coolant goes back in the loco we have some AMOT switches lined up to be fitted which will eventually lead to an improved fan control system.

The defective motor has been sent away for assessment and a quote for repair.

Connor

12/06/2026

Just a week to go until our Crowdfunder closes! The interest shown in the previous post was fantastic and hopefully it shows that progress is being made and where the donated money has gone.

We have just 2 remaining cab rides available for an exclusive Running Day to celebrate the loco's return (Date TBC). Get them while you can to secure your place in the cab between Loughborough and Leicester or Leicester to Loughborough!

Tickets also remain available for the running day - an opportunity to rack up the miles on a loco YOU have helped bring back into service.

Thanks to everyone who has donated thus far. If you would like to donate, please follow this link: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/50017

Any amount is greatly appreciated!

Photo Credit: Malcolm Beard.

10/06/2026

Work has been progessing well at UKRL's Loughborough facilities, to whom we are very grateful, allowing for some unique views of the loco! As you can see, the loco has been lifted, allowing for work to be done on the traction motors.

Just over a week remains to donate the 17's Repair Crowdfunder with some great perks available for certain donations. Any donation is greatly received.

Many thanks to those who have already donated and contributed to the continued effort to get the loco back into traffic! www.crowdfunder.co.uk/50017

14/05/2026

September 2024 and 50017 is running round the DMU at Loughborough before working back to Rothley Brook.

There's still time to donate to 50017's Crowdfunder to help bring the loco back into working order. Every donation is much appreciated. Follow this link: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/50017

Many thanks to everyone who has supported us so far.

20/04/2026

The Spring Diesel Gala is nearly here. Unfortunately, 50017 won’t be attending as it’s still away for repairs.

To help raise funds, we’ve had some new 50017 merchandise made. All profits will go directly towards getting the loco back in action.

The Heavy Tractor Group have kindly agreed to host a table for our products next to their stand so stop by and help support the return of 50017.

05/04/2026

50017 is seen at Loughborough Central before taking a service to Rothley Brook.

Wouldn't it be nice to have sights like this again? There's still time to donate to "The Return of Royal Oak" Crowdfunder: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/50017

All donations are gratefully recieved with some great perks on offer! Many thanks to everyone who has contributed so far.

Photo Credit: Charlie Dent.

30/03/2026

017 sat at qourn, a photo full of atmosphere

30/03/2026

Thankyou for all your support so far! In under 24 hours we have raised over 5% of our target! Could you help us get Royal Oak back in service?

Fund the works required to return 50017 “Royal Oak” to service