'DOROTHEA', a narrow gauge steam locomotive of a type built by Hunslet of Leeds for use in the slate quarries of Wales has just celebrated her 110th birthday by being steamed as a complete locomotive for the first time since her restoration from near scrap condition.

The locomotive is owned by Kay Bowman, of the Launceston Steam Railway, who has spent the last twenty-two years carrying out a painstaking restoration of the locomotive that was regarded by many as the 'mission impossible' of narrow gauge projects.

Acquired from the late Dave Walker in 1989 as a kit of parts — albeit with a number missing — work had reached a stage in 2001 enabling Dorothea to celebrate her centenary by steaming with a boiler and saddle tank borrowed from sister locomotive 'Covertcoat'.

Continued work has seen her own boiler restored and passed for service, and her saddle tank repaired, as well as a number of parts either being acquired or made.

Kay's aim throughout has been to use as much of the original locomotive as possible, to retain Dorothea's history and character, and this has led to the restoration taking much more time than otherwise would have been the case.

For the full report, and a round up of the latest news and sport, please see this week's edition of the 'Post'.