THE team behind the team building one of Britain's most powerful express passenger steam locomotive has announced a new £450,000 appeal.

The money will be used by the A1 Steam Locomotive Trust to fund the manufacture the tender for new Gresley class P2 No. 2007 Prince of Wales.

The Trust is also announced that the order to manufacture the tender tank has been placed with North View Engineering Solutions of Darlington.

Mark Allatt, P2 Project Director and Trustee, The A1 Steam Locomotive Trust, said: “We are delighted with the level of support that the project to build Britain’s most powerful steam locomotive has received since its launch. Thanks to our supporters’ continued generosity, over £3.2m has now been donated or pledged.

“I would encourage all steam enthusiasts who haven’t yet contributed to this exciting project to help us to meet these deadlines by becoming a member of The Tender Club or a monthly ‘P2 for the price of a pint of beer a week’ Covenantor.

"It’s time to get on board. This year will see further major announcements as the construction of new Gresley class P2 No. 2007 Prince of Wales gathers pace.”

The Gresley class P2 2-8-2 ‘Mikados’ were the most powerful express passenger locomotives to operate in the UK. They were designed by Sir Nigel Gresley in the 1930s to haul 600 ton trains on the arduous Edinburgh to Aberdeen route.

To show your support and become a member of The Tender Club, email enquiries@p2steam.com, call 01325-460163 or visit www.p2steam.com for more information.