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LMS 20 ton Brakevan 732444

 
Above: LMS 20 ton Brakevan 732444 as first repainted in NCB blue livery

A typical late LMS 20 ton brakevan, 732444 was built to diagram D2068 at Derby around the time of the nationalisation of the railways in 1948. It has characteristic wide-type "duckets" for the guard, which offered a good view down the side of a train. Most similar brakevans had handbrakes only but 732444 was one of 75 equipped with vacuum brakes from new and would therefore have always carried BR bauxite livery. 

Above: This picture of an identical vacuum fitted Brake shows how 732444 looked when built

After at least 20 years on fast freight duties it ended its BR service in departmental stock as DM732444, being purchased from March Motive Power Depot and delivered to Foxfield on 15 June 1993. Within days of arrival it had been totally repainted in an attractive blue NCB with yellow lettering, and does not currently carry a number. It has seen extensive use, being a favourite on demonstration freight trains and photographic charters, and its livery ensures that it continues to appear in the railway press very frequently. It is currently undergoing restoration including repairs to the verandahs and exterior timber.

Below: The LMS diagram D2068 to which 732444 was built in 1948


For more information on the Foxfield Steam Railway, its passenger services and special events please see the official website at http://www.foxfieldrailway.co.uk.