8981 - 20/28HP

This locomotive was supplied new to the Midhurst Whites Brick Company in 1946 and spent its working life at their Midhurst works. Originally MR.8981 was built for 2 foot 6 inch gauge track.

MR.8981 was unusual as it was built with a reversed seating position, gear levers either side of the driver and a low height cab. It is thought to be the only 20/28 Motor Rail ordered to this specification.

The locomotive was purchased in 1986 from the company and has subsequently been overhauled and regauged to 2 foot gauge. The reversed seating position and low height cab were removed in a previous rebuild, but it is hoped to reinstate this unique driving position in the future.