No.3 2nd Air Division USAAF | Bure Valley Railway

Diesel Locomotive - No.3 "2nd Air Division USAAF"

Diesel Locomotive No.3 “2nd Air Division USAAF” is one of the most distinctive and hard-working engines in the Bure Valley Railway fleet. Designed and built especially for the railway, this Golden Ochre-painted locomotive not only plays an important operational role on the line but also stands as a lasting tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of the United States Army Air Forces who served in Norfolk during the Second World War.

No. 3's Origins & Build

The locomotive was designed and constructed in 1988 by John Edwards of Great Yarmouth specifically for the Bure Valley Railway. Before entering service, it underwent testing at the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway in early 1989, ensuring its strength and reliability ahead of delivery. In May 1989, the locomotive arrived in Norfolk to assist with the construction of the Bure Valley Railway, even before passenger services began.

Built as a diesel-hydraulic with a single cab, the locomotive’s design was inspired by the British Rail Hymec Class. It originally carried the name “Buxton Mill”, under which it worked during the early years of the railway’s development and operation.

2nd Air Division USAAF

In autumn 1998, after completing a major refit, the locomotive was renamed “2nd Air Division USAAF”. The official naming ceremony took place on Saturday 7th November 1998, led by Earl Wassom, President of the 2nd Air Division USAAF Association, and attended by members of the Association’s Executive Committee. The new name was chosen as a heartfelt tribute to the men of the 2nd Air Division, who flew B-24 Liberator bombers from fourteen airfields across East Anglia during World War II. More than 6,700 young Americans lost their lives in the defence of freedom, and this locomotive serves as a proud and enduring reminder of their courage.

Technical details

Gauge: 15 inches
Length: 22 foot, 6 inches
Width: 4 foot
Working Weight: 4 tons
Wheel Arrangement: Bo-Bo
Driving Wheel Diameter: 14 inches
Transmission: Hydraulic
Engine: Bedford 330, 6 cylinder, 105 BHP
Livery: The loco is painted 'Golden Ochre'

Still Hard at Work on the Railway

Today, No.3 “2nd Air Division USAAF” continues to play an important role in the day-to-day operation of the Bure Valley Railway. It is used throughout the season on passenger services, as well as for permanent way and maintenance trains, route learning, and driver training duties. During the festive period, the locomotive often takes on a special seasonal role, hauling Santa’s Sleigh into Aylsham as part of the railway’s popular Christmas events.