English enthusiast, David Bott, visited South Africa in 1977 and captured this picture of number 155 at Izingolweni on the 1st April 1997. David also sent us a short story to accompany the picture.
Here is the picture of 155 hauling a train from Harding to Port Shepstone,
taken near Izingolweni on 1st April 1977. I remember that day very well indeed; we waited in the pub
at Harding until the shed master arrived for his lunch, then bunked the shed! Such happy days in
your beautiful country – 6 visits in all, travelling mostly by camper mobile. I was last there in 1999 & 2000
for the festivals of steam at George. It’s so sad that the Knysna line has not been repaired; I’m now 75,
and my best days are now on film. I wish you well with your ongoing restorations, for the enjoyment of the next generation.
Thank you David for the picture and the kind wishes! Number 155 will be one of the featured locos at the upcoming Easter Steam event at Sandstone.
