A Major Boost for the BKR

We are delighted to share some exciting news from the Museum of Scottish Railways and the Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway. Thanks to a generous £15,000 donation from the Railway Employees & Public Transport Association (REPTA), the next phase of conservation work on Barclay No. 2068 (WPR 20) can now begin.

This locomotive—powerful, economical, and exceptionally well suited to our line—has long been one of our priority restoration projects. As our proposal noted, the engine is currently dismantled and at risk of deterioration without timely intervention: “inspection work has identified significant repairs required to the boiler and frames”. REPTA’s support allows us to move from assessment to action.

Why This Locomotive Matters

Barclay No. 2068 is more than a machine. It represents a living thread of Scotland’s steam‑era heritage. As we outlined in the project case, restoring it will “support the training and skills that sustain Scotland’s living steam tradition” and help ensure that the knowledge carried by generations of railwaymen continues to be passed on. 

Once returned to service, the locomotive will:

• Strengthen our operational capacity;
• Provide hands‑on training opportunities for new footplate crew;
• Enhance the visitor experience with more frequent and immersive steam services;
• Reduce pressure on more fragile historic locomotives in the collection.

What Happens Next

With funding secured, specialist conservation work can now proceed to stabilise the locomotive and protect its operational heritage value. This includes essential boiler and frame repairs, careful management of dismantled components, and preparatory work that will eventually lead to a full return to steam.  It is a long journey—but one that is now firmly underway.

Our Thanks

We extend our sincere gratitude to REPTA for their generosity and for recognising the importance of keeping Scotland’s steam heritage alive, not just on static display but in operation, on the rails, and in the hands of skilled volunteers.  Their support ensures that Barclay No. 2068—and the knowledge it represents—will continue to inspire future generations.