9681 - Pannier Tank Engine   The loco noticeably differs from the 57xx and 77xx Series by virtue of a higher pitched roof and square spectacle windows to the cab. Route availability ‘C’ or Yellow in B.R. days.   Built at Swindon in 1949, 9681 spent the majority of its BR service in Wales working at various locations including Tondu, Aberbeeg, Barry and Cardiff from where it was withdrawn in July 1965. It travelled under its own steam to Woodhams Bros. scrapyard in Barry where it languished for the next 10 years. 9681 was rescued from the breakers in October 1975 and transported to Norchard where in September 1984 it moved under its own steam for the first time in nineteen years.     News Heavily used on the DFR since it returned to service in 2005 it was withdrawn from service in November 2007 to have new tyres fitted and other essential work carried out. It returned to service in August 2008. In May 2009 the locomotive celebrates the 60th anniversary since it was built at Swindon in 1949.The History of 9681 in BR and DFR days is to be found in a recently published book available from Norchard Bookshop.

Technical Details Boiler Pressure 200lb p.s.i. Cylinders 17.5 x 24ins Coal Capacity 3 tons 6 cwt Water Capacity 1200 gallons Driving Wheels 4ft, 7.5ins Tractive Effort 22,515lbs Length 31ft, 2ins Weight 49 tons     Since 1984 pannier 9681 has been in virtually continuous service, mainly on the DFR but has made appearances on other preserved lines.   9681 was withdrawn from service in August 2001 and dismantled for major overhaul.   Restoration progressed well on the frames and motion whilst the boiler was overhauled at the workshops of Activeforce at the Old Flour Mill, Bream near Lydney.