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The B17 Steam locomotive Trust
Build a Locomotive. Build a Legacy.
The B17 Steam Locomotive Trust is on a mission to bring No. 61673 Spirit of Sandringham to life — reviving a lost icon of British railway heritage for a new generation to experience, learn from and be inspired by.
We are building a new LNER Class B17 4-6-0 express passenger locomotive, designed in compliance with Railway Group Standards for operation on both the mainline network and heritage railways. Carefully considered enhancements to the original design will improve performance, reliability and ease of maintenance, while remaining true to its historic character.
Keeping the spirit alive – the B17 is more than just a locomotive, this is a living project with real purpose. Since its establishment in 2011, the Trust has been committed to advancing education and practical skills through hands-on involvement in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
By preserving traditional craftsmanship and combining it with modern engineering expertise, the project is helping to train future engineers while keeping Britain’s industrial heritage alive.
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Our Mission
Our mission is to bring a lost B17 locomotive back to life, restoring the spirit of freedom and connection that steam travel once gave a nation and creating unforgettable experiences that will inspire generations to come.
Our brand values -past & present
Living Heritage
We bring history back into motion. By recreating a working B17 locomotive, we ensure the steam age is not only remembered, but experienced — through sight, sound and movement.
Authenticity
We honour the past with integrity. Every detail reflects our commitment to historical accuracy, craftsmanship and respect for the legacy of the LNER Class B17
Connecting Lives
We believe railways are about people. Just as steam once connected towns, cities, and communities, our project brings generations together through shared experiences and collective purpose.
Future-Proof
We are recreating the B17 design using 21st century engineering techniques and materials, combined with the latest technology to build a better more sustainable Locomotive for the future.
Our Trustees & Management Team
The B17 Steam Locomotive Trust (B17 SLT) was established as an organisation with
charitable status in 2011
Dr. Nick Illingworth
Chairman (also NE Area lead)
A Middle East specialist who later joined British Rail Computing, Nick delivered major projects in banks for a global software vendor. Nick’s passion for LNER steam stems from watching Gresley Pacifics and other steam locomotives on the East Coast Main Line in the 1960s. He joined the Board in 2023.
John Pearson
Vice Chairman (also Membership Secretary and IT lead)
John developed practical skills in computer programming, systems management and software before moving into software consulting and sales for a multinational computing company. He joined the Trust in 2017 through his shared interest in garden railways. An active B17 volunteer, John also assists with various Engineering aspects and is a board member of B17 Enterprises Ltd.
Alan Lusby
Chief Engineer & Quality Controller
Alan joined the Engineering Committee in 2023 and subsequently joined the board. He brings valuable experience from working on the new-build A1 Tornado as part of its Quality Control team. Alan became Chief Engineer in May 2026, and is supported by two other directors and a number of leading industry consultants.
Henry Mullens FCA
Treasurer
Henry is a practising chartered accountant and partner in a business specialising in farming and agricultural accountancy and tax management, covering Eastern England. Henry was appointed Treasurer in January 2012. He is responsible for the group's financial reporting and also that of B17 Enterprises Ltd
Alan Warren
Editor of the 'Spirit' & Publicity
A chartered surveyor since 1976, Alan worked for British Rail before specialising in NHS capital investment programmes. In parallel, Alan became a glider pilot and authored several railway books and articles whilst also editing house journals for the North Norfolk and Mid Norfolk Railways. Now based in Canada, Alan remains key to our grant applications.
Peter Wright
Project Historian
Alan Lusby
Chief Engineer
Henry Mullens FCA
Treasurer
Volunteers
Help build a legacy. We're always looking for support
The B17 Spirit of Sandringham is more than a locomotive restoration and construction project—it is an opportunity to create something that will inspire future generations for decades to come. We are looking for volunteers to join our engineering team and play a part in bringing this remarkable locomotive to life.
Whether you're a professional engineer, an apprentice, a retired trades person, a student, or simply someone who enjoys making and building things, we would love to hear from you. No previous railway experience is required. What matters most is a willingness to learn, contribute and be part of a dedicated team working towards a shared goal.
Our volunteers come from a wide range of backgrounds and skill levels. From machining, fabrication, welding and mechanical assembly to project support and practical workshop assistance, there are opportunities for everyone to get involved. Experienced members are always on hand to share their knowledge and help develop new skills.
By volunteering with the B17 Spirit of Sandringham project, you'll gain hands-on engineering experience, work alongside like-minded people and help preserve and advance Britain's engineering heritage.
Together, we're not just building a locomotive—we're creating a lasting legacy that future generations will be able to see, hear, and enjoy for years to come. If you have a passion for engineering, craftsmanship and being part of something truly special, we invite you to join us on this exciting journey.
In the first instance, please email your CV to Dr. Nick Illingworth, B17 Trust Chairman.
Email address: nickjillingworth@gmail.com