'Banned' locomotive finally arrives in Swanage

A 1940s steam locomotive has arrived in Swanage, Dorset, 46 years after it was banned from travelling along the route because of its bulk.

In 1966, Clan Line, which weighed 150 tonnes, was prevented from travelling past Wareham as it was too heavy for the single branch line to Swanage, according to the British Railways weight restriction policy of the time.

Bridges were strengthened during the early 1990s to allow Merchant Navy class steam locomotives to use the tracks.

Crowds of enthusiasts gathered at Swanage station to welcome the engine to the town.