An appeal continues to chug along to put a beloved steam locomotive back on track after delays held up the project.

Wells and Walsingham Railway, a heritage railway that runs from Wells-next-the-Sea to Walsingham, is still appealing for funds to continue work that will see one of its locomotives running once again after nearly a year out of service. 

The locomotive, named Norfolk Hero after Lord Horatio Nelson, is a Garratt locomotive that was taken off the tracks when an annual inspection said its boiler did not have much longer left. 

Norfolk Hero was named after Lord Horatio Nelson.Norfolk Hero was named after Lord Horatio Nelson. (Image: Wells and Walsingham Railway) READ MORE: Pride and joy Triumph is sold after nearly 50 years of ownership

An appeal began shortly after to raise the funds needed for the boiler's replacement with hopes the locomotive would be running by the summer.

However, due to manufacturing delays, Wells and Walsingham Railway only received the new boiler last week.

The locomotive needed its boiler replacing but last week the group was pleased to share the new one arrived. The new boiler for Norfolk Hero arrived last week. (Image: Wells and Walsingham Railway) READ MORE: Bid to convert old church rooms into a home approved

And, although the operator is chuffed to at last have the new boiler, there is still more work required to install it and other ancillaries before the locomotive is passenger-ready. 

More than £10,000 has been raised so far for the project, which is almost halfway to the operator's goal of £25,000.

Nick Champion, managing director for the heritage railway, said: "The boiler is the heart of the locomotive so we are really relieved to have the new one and we're looking forward to getting work on this under way.

"At the moment, we have a sister loco still in use but she is taking the brunt of the wear and tear while Norfolk Hero is out of service.

Nick Champion, managing director, said he was grateful for the donations that have been sent so far.Nick Champion, managing director, said he was grateful for the donations that have been sent so far. (Image: Wells and Walsingham Railway) "We're very grateful for all the donations we've received so far and to Smiths Model Railways in Sheringham who have also helped raise awareness about our appeal.

He said: "The appeal continues to get our beloved locomotive back on track for our heritage railway.

You can donate to the railway here: https://shorturl.at/Ea5mX