When it comes to preserving Britain's engineering heritage, authenticity matters. That's exactly why Teamac was proud to support the restoration of one of the Lincolnshire Coast Light Railway's most treasured locomotives, helping return a 100-year-old engine to its original appearance using the very colour it first wore decades ago.
A Locomotive with 100 Years of History
Built in 1926 by the Motor Rail Company of Bedford, the locomotive was originally designed to a War Department specification developed during the First World War. It later found work on the famed "Potato Railway" at Nocton Fen before being purchased by the Lincolnshire Coast Light Railway in 1960.
Following its arrival at the railway, the locomotive received a new metal body, manufactured by sheet metal workers based on Grimsby Docks, and was finished in Seine Net Blue. Over the decades, the distinctive blue became synonymous with the locomotive, making it instantly recognisable to generations of visitors.
As the locomotive reached its 100th anniversary, the restoration team set out to preserve not only its mechanical condition but also its historic appearance.
Bringing the Original Finish Back to Life
Rather than choosing a modern colour scheme, the restoration focused on remaining faithful to the locomotive's history.
The bodywork was carefully repaired and straightened after more than six decades of service, before being prepared for repainting using Teamac Metalcote Undercoat. The finishing coats were applied using Teamac Metalcote Plant Enamel, professionally tinted to match the locomotive's original shade of Seine Net Blue.
The result is a vibrant finish that not only protects the restored bodywork but also recreates the same striking appearance that railway enthusiasts would have recognised many years ago.
Its bold blue colour stands out from a distance, just as it always has, proving that some colours never go out of style.
Restoring History with![]()
Confidence
Despite the age of the locomotive and the condition of parts of the bodywork, the restoration team found the products straightforward to use throughout the project.
Stuart, who led the restoration, said:
"We used Teamac Metalcote Plant Enamel Seine Net Blue on our 100 year old railway loco and despite the age and condition of some of bodywork the paint applied well, even without much prior painting experience and the finished colour is stunning. It was great to find the same paint that was likely used in 1960 when the loco first arrived at our railway."
Built for Tough Environments
At Teamac, our marine coatings and agricultural coatings are developed to perform in demanding conditions. From protecting working boats and heavy machinery to supporting heritage restoration projects like this, our coatings are built to deliver long-lasting durability and a professional finish.
