Full-Size Steam

Offered for sale on behalf of the owner from our premises in Devon, ‘Old Bertie’ is a characterful BSD-type Compound, Slide Valve in need of a replacement boiler barrel.

Accompanying No. 6970 is an extensive folder which details, through invoicing and documents, much of ‘Old Bertie’s’ life in preservation. Of particular note is a letter dated 1974 from Aveling-Barford Ltd detailing some earlier history. It is listed as a 5hp, 12-ton compound roller with a Belpaire boiler and was dispatched from Rochester to Taunton Borough on 17th February 1910 – it was registered new to Taunton Borough Council as YA 893. A further letter from Hertfordshire County Council dated 1973 suggests Taunton didn’t register 6970 until 1921.

Its actual built weight, according to the letter from Aveling-Barford, was 12t. 19c. 0q. Interestingly, the history sheet at this time suggests that a replacement boiler with tubes and firebox was supplied for this roller in November 1923 – 13 years into its working life. Furthermore, in June 1924, a Price 2-tine scarifier was dispatched to the same. The office in 1974 also suggests that, in around 1927, the water pump, not originally fitted, was added.

Following on from its time in Taunton, we understand 6970 later went to work for W. J. King of Bishops Lydeard for a time before entering preservation. It is fitted with a W. W. Buncombes style canopy which was fitted by preservation owner, Mr B Krywald. A handful of letters are amongst the paperwork in Buncombes distinctive, original letterhead; however, this was purely correspondence with a preservation owner seeking to purchase parts and not referencing working day ownership.

We presume 6970 underwent some major works during preservation. For instance, we have a number of quotes from the mid-1980s for a replacement tender which was presumably undertaken. Generally speaking, the engine presents well. There is the usual wear on first gear however second is in good order, as is the motion work and general state of the engine. It has no differential however benefits from being the compound, slide-valve layout. Despite being photographed in a stripped-down condition for boiler inspection, all parts are present and complete ready for reassembly.

In terms of the boiler condition, the firebox was replaced by H. Maskell & Son Ltd in 2012/13 with a welded replacement. The reports suggest this is faring well being a relatively new firebox. The reason 6970 is currently out of service is due to a deterioration in the condition of the barrel – the price of the engine has been discounted sufficiently to give a possible buyer plenty of scope to conduct the required works without it exceeding the value of the completed roller. As with any traction engine or locomotive purchase, we always encourage prospective buyers seek the services of an independent inspector to review the boiler to satisfy themselves of the condition prior to purchase.

Overall, ‘Old Bertie’ is an impressive steam roller with plenty to offer for the prospective buyer. It is currently stored at our premises near Exeter, Devon and is available for viewings.

Asking Price – £36,000

We always encourage prospective buyers to view vehicles and steam engines in person prior to purchase. This engine is advertised for sale by Berrybrook Steam & Classics on behalf of the owner and seller.

For the sake of viewing logistics, this engine is currently stored at our premises near Exeter, Devon. We recommend that all viewings are booked in advance by giving us a call on 01392 833301. 

Delivery can be arranged to anywhere in the UK, and beyond, at buyer’s expense.

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The Company (Berrybrook Steam & Classics, trading name of Berrybrook Motors Ltd) offers the above details of this vehicle in good faith but cannot guarantee the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vehicle. A buyer should instruct their agents, surveyors or inspectors to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated.