6th June, 2026
The Lynton & Barnstaple Railway is genuinely humbled to announce that it has taken into its care 0-4-0 tender tank locomotive No. 9 ‘Jean’ from the Estate of the late Dr. Alan ‘Chalky’ White, an accomplished career engineer, in accordance with his final wishes.
In his early career at de Haviland ‘Chalky’ developed a widespread and incredible knowledge of anything engineering, working on everything from jet engines to helicopters with time also spent in the stress office, drawing office, and various machine shops. He then joined Middlesex Polytechnic as a lab technician which led to various promotions and ultimately, Assistant Dean. But it was steam engineering that was his biggest love, on rails and road.
Named after Dr. White’s late wife, No. 9 was hand-built by ‘Chalky’ at their home before being completed in the Gartell Light Railways’ (GLR) workshop in Templecombe, Somerset and then entering service in 1998.
‘Jean’ will provide the L&BR with a unique, beautifully built and carefully maintained engine which will provide further flexibility for special events, driver experiences and learning activities for its new youth volunteer programme.
Giles Perkins, Chair of the L&BR Trust, said, “We are hugely grateful to the family of ‘Chalky’ White for putting their faith in us to take care of No. 9 ‘Jean’. We will ensure that our volunteers and visitors alike understand the importance of this extremely generous donation and the legacy of its truly remarkable builder. We will put this unique engine to good use flying the flag for British narrow-gauge steam engineering at Woody Bay and further afield”.
No. 9 ‘Jean’ will be transported to Woody Bay after the end of the GLR’s 2026 season. The engine will continue to be in traffic on the GLR at their events throughout the Summer and Autumn of 2026.