The Erlestoke Manor Fund

To keep 7812 Erlestoke Manor well maintained, promptly carrying out any repairs that may be required to ensure a high level of availability for service.
To maintain 7802 Bradley Manor following its return to service, ensuring it remains available for operation for many years to come.
To continue improving and maintaining the tender associated with 7802 Bradley Manor to support reliable operation.
To progress work towards the future overhaul and return to service of Large Prairie 5164.

PRIME OBJECTIVE

For the benefit of the community, to advance education and learning in relation to heritage steam locomotives, in particular by restoring, preserving, maintaining and operating the former Great Western Railway “Manor” class 4-6-0 locomotives 7812 Erlestoke Manor and 7802 Bradley Manor, together with the 5101 class 2-6-2T Large Prairie 5164, in authentic liveries and in full working order for as long as possible.

SUPPORTING OBJECTIVE

To organise and run special events for Erlestoke Manor Fund stakeholders – our shareholders, volunteers and supporters – to encourage their ongoing commitment to the aims of the Fund.

OUR ORGANISATION:

Founded in 1973, the Erlestoke Manor Fund has, since 2018, been incorporated as a charitable Community Benefit Society governed by a constitution designed to safeguard the long-term future of the locomotives.

As the Fund is registered as a charity for tax purposes, Gift Aid may be claimed on contributions from UK taxpayers, increasing the value of support from shareholders and supporters.

The Fund is supported by several hundred like-minded shareholders who are determined that these locomotives should have an active and useful future for as long as practically possible. This has been achieved without significant external subsidy or reliance on any single large shareholding.

Active support is essential for the long-term future of the locomotives, and the Fund benefits from this in many areas including fundraising, locomotive overhaul and maintenance, and administration.

These activities provide a wide range of opportunities for involvement and association with the locomotives. Importantly, supporting the Fund also provides opportunities to pass on heritage engineering skills and gain valuable experience. There is also a strong social aspect to the Fund through regular working parties, visits to other railways (sometimes with our locomotives), and special events.