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However... In recent days another narrow gauge locomotive has arrived with us, of sublime quality and incomparable technical interest (he tells us), even rarer than a Penrhyn Hunslet. Since retiring last year he's only allowed one engine at a time (the rest we make him pay for) so "Linda" has - with some reluctance it must be said - been returned to the works, leaving him to sit and admire his new acquisition.

A 3 1/2 inch narrow gauge Penrhyn Class Hunslet 0-4-0ST "Linda", modelled in the condition as it ran in preservation on the Ffestiniog Railway in the 1960s.

The work of an experienced model engineer, the Hunslet was built over a period of 12 years, from 1968 to 1980.

Based on a combination of works drawings and visits to Porthmadog to measure and photograph the original engine, it vividly captures the look of the engine at that time, with tender and Garraway-era livery.

Although it was run at his club when first built, the engine subsequently spent many years in a glass case in the builder's entrance hall - it remains in good condition throughout.

Since arriving with us the engine has been recommissioned for use, with new clack valves, water gauge glasses and seals. The original safety valves open reliably but occasionally require encouragement to close - normally we'd simply replace with modern valves, however given the authenticity of design we've decided to leave these on and put with giving them a gentle tap to close if required!

The engine steams well and runs beautifully, with well-defined exhaust beats in either direction - there's some video of it on the rolling road here.

Complete with a glass display case and stand - long enough for the locomotive, the owner kept the tender in his workshop.