The so-called Beast from the Baltic has arrived and the SdR route is already under a modest layer of fresh snow. But more appears to be on the way.

Work has now begun in Low End Works on the design and construction of brand new battery locomotive No.6, which is provisionally to be named DOT.

Battery-electric mining locomotive No.5 JACKY has now completed rebuild in Low End Works and returned to service on the SdR. Modifications completed are:

SdR engine No.2 BOY ROGER has been pressed into weekday service temporarily while electric loco No.5 JACKY is in Low End Works for rebuild and modifications.

Loco No.5 JACKY is now ready for paint shop having had new battery box and associated mountings fitted along with modified bodywork covering the electrical equipment control cubicle in front of the cab.

New battery box mountings have been designed and manufactured for No.5 being rebuilt and also for No.6 which will soon  be under construction as a new-build locomotive.

SADMC battery mining loco No.5 JACKY is now in the workshops at Low End for another rebuilding project. This time it has been decided to remove the cooling fan motor from the control cubicle as it is not really needed and uses a lot of battery power.

No.2 Boy Roger has now returned to traffic following a major rebuilding project. This consisted of the following completed works:

A new copper fuel line was supplied by Forest Classics and this was fitted into the existing Bix butane burner assembly in the firebox.

No.2 Boy Roger continues to undergo major rebuilding in Low End Works. Recent work included making and fitting cab access steps.

These required holes to be drilled in the cab floor to take the fixings.