A CROWDFUNDING appeal that featured in the Times has allowed railway enthusiasts to 'bring steam home' to West Fife.

'Project 29' was launched to return to the Kingdom a locomotive, National Coal Board No. 29, restore it to working order and operate it at the M90 Commerce Park at Lathalmond, near Kelty.

And, helped by our readers, the Shed 47 Railway Restoration Group are claiming success after it rolled onto the tracks at their site next to the Scottish Vintage Bus Museum.

Group secretary Grant Robertson explained: "The locomotive was delivered new to the Fife Coal Company at the Mary pit in Lochore, and also worked at Lindsay Colliery in Kelty, Cowdenbeath Central Workshops, Bogside Mine and Frances Colliery in Dysart.

"Phase 1 involves transporting the 27-tonnes loco to Lathalmond, carrying out a boiler inspection to ascertain what work is required to bring it back to working order and begin the dismantling and repair of components.

"After a successful crowdfunding campaign the locomotive has now arrived home to Fife at our site at Lathalmond, partial dismantling and jacking up the boiler is complete and ready for a boiler inspection to be carried out.

"That will give an indication of the scope of works and cost of the next stage in the restoration of this steam loco to working order."

He added; "Any donations towards this next stage will be very gratefully received, as are any offers of assistance, while new volunteers are always welcome."

The Shed 47 enthusiasts previously carried out cosmetic restoration and repainting of another No.29, the much-loved loco that sits proudly in Pittencrieff Park in Dunfermline.

Mr Robertson said their latest project would "build on the valuable experience the group gained" with the Glen's attraction.

Visitors are welcome to come and see their existing railway and ride on the diesel train on their open days, which will be run next year in conjunction with the Scottish Vintage Bus Museum.

You can find out more information at shed47.org or find them on Facebook.